The Blues Foundation has recalled Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s nomination for the Blues Music Awards for 2021 as best blues / rock artist. According to a statement from the organization, the decision was made on the flag images of the confederation displayed on Shepherd’s The Dukes of Hazzard ‘General replica’ motor replica, and on ‘guitars and elsewhere.’
The lifting of the organization is in line with the statement of the Blues Foundation against racism, which reads in part: “The Blues Foundation unequivocally condemns all forms and expressions of racism, including all symbols associated with white supremacy and the deterioration of colored people. We will hold ourselves as well as all blues musicians, fans, organizations and members of the music industry responsible for racist actions and encourage concrete commitments to acknowledge and correct the resulting pain. ”
In a statement to Rolling clip, Shepherd acknowledged the offensiveness of the flag on his car and said he had covered it permanently a while ago.
‘We were informed that this decision was made because in the last few days concerns have been expressed about one of the cars in my collection of muscle cars. The car was built 17 years ago as a replica and tribute to the iconic car in the television series, The Dukes of Hazzard. That CBS program was one of the most acclaimed and popular programs of its era and like millions of others, I watched it every week, ‘said Shepherd. ‘In the show, one of the central’ characters’ was a muscle car that displayed a Confederate flag on the roof. Years ago I put the car in permanent storage and a while ago I decided to cover the flag on my car permanently because it was completely against my values and insulting to the African American community who love the music I love so much created apologizing to someone for hurting me unintentionally.
‘I want to make something very clear and unambiguous; I condemn and stand in all opposition to all forms of racism and oppression and have always done so. ”
In addition to founding the repeal of Shepherd’s nomination, the organization asked Shepherd’s father, Ken Shepherd, to resign as a member of the board of directors. Ken Shepherd declined to comment on being asked to retire.