Peace, Love, and Understanding. Bob Vylan or Jesus: Who Wore It Best?
Bobby and Bobbie of Bob Vylan at the Rebellion Festivals-photo by ©dickslaughter.com
Although this article’s headline may just be clickbait, it may also be a fair fight between two very different entities who share a common goal: to bring attention to social injustices and give a voice to those who are often ignored. The comparison speaks to the power and influence of Bob Vylan's music and the political and social context in which they operate.
Like Jesus’ message, Bob Vylan's music resonates with many different communities, particularly the poor and working classes. And just as Jesus was a radical figure who challenged the establishment and spoke truth to power, the music of Bob Vylan does the same.
The Ministry of Bob Vylan
Bobby and Bobbie Vylan (collectively known as Bob Vylan) are a music duo from London whose music can be described however hell you want. They churn out a genre-jumping mix of grime, punk, hip hop, metal, reggae, and more.
With a heavy lean on political and social commentary within their lyrics, what you take away from Bob Vylan’s music and message is entirely up to you.
Bobby Vylan of Bob Vylan live at the Electric Ballroom in London - Photo by ©dickslaughter.com
This country's in dire need of a fucking spanking, mate
A good overhaul, get the fucking dinosaurs out
Yeah, and kill the fucking queen
She killed Diana, we don't love her anyway
Bob Vylan’s most recent album, “Bob Vylan Presents the Price of Life,” is a rollicking journey through the gritty realities of existence, with its raw energy, searing honesty, and unapologetic lyrics touching on themes of police brutality, racism, poverty, and inequality. But their music is not just about anger and protest. It's also a collection of songs about hope, resilience, and the belief that change is possible if we work together and fight for what's right. This message is especially important at a time when the world is facing inevitable challenges, from the rise of far-right extremism to the ongoing legacy of colonialism and systemic racism.
Bob Vylan’s message has become a force that brings people together across class lines and teaches tolerance and love above all.
Vylan’s music actively speaks to people of all races and backgrounds. Known for creating inclusive and welcoming spaces at their shows, they have made it clear that they’re willing to stand up for marginalized groups. The Bobs led the movement that nixed notoriously insensitive asshole rappers and alleged sex offenders Die Antwoord from the ALT+LND festival, tweeting:
I’m publicly asking for ALT+LDN to remove Die Antwoord from the bill, and if not, I and other acts I’m sure will protest their presence with our presence, and make it extremely fucking uncomfortable for them to be there, I can guarantee that. Peace.
Bobby Vylan live at the Rebellion Festivals 2022-Photo ©dickslaughter.com
And that’s maybe what I like best about Bob Vylan — that unlike that pacifist Jesus, The Bobs are willing to punch a motherfucker in the face if need be.
I'm not a pacifist, I'm smashing fists
At every single racist prick I meet
I'm not having it, there's no Kum Ba Yah
To be found 'round here, no groovy beat
No liberal lefty cunt
Is gonna tell me punching Nazis ain't the way
If you wanna hold hands and sing
Go do it over there while the big boys play, okay.
Of course, the comparison between Bob Vylan and Jesus may be blasphemous or inappropriate to some, but fuck those people. Bob Vylan is two guys willing to fight for what they believe in, not some made-up fairytale bullshit. So to answer my own question:
Bob Vylan is way better Than Jesus.
And unlike Jesus, you can stream their music on Spotify and check them out live on their upcoming North American tour, where the gentlemen will spread the gospel of Bob Vylan through the Bible Belt and beyond.
