In a series of tweets, Tom Morello told fans they were misinformed about Rage Against the Machine’s concert rules.
The guitarist said that RATM had played 19 shows in 13 years without requiring vaccinations. Then, one fan pointed out that guidelines might have been set by the United Center, while another said requiring a vaccine or negative test was reasonable. Morello clarified his words, saying:
“100% incorrect. When we booked the tour and sold the tickets it was pre-pandemic, so naturally no vax requirement. When venues opened during covid some had the below stipulations on concerts held during that period. We played ZERO shows during this time. Zero. In part because we wanted to protect our fans and their families.”
He added:
“When we eventually played these shows, including the United Center, ALL restrictions at ALL the venues we played had been lifted. While I am a big supporter of science, hear my words: NO Rage fan was EVER required to present anything other than a ticket to see the band. Read that again, Charlie.”
The Band Had To Stop Touring During The Pandemic
RATM regrouped in 2020 for the Public Service Announcement tour, but it was postponed due to the pandemic. The band said in a statement at the time:
“Due to the current outbreak and ban on public gatherings we are postponing the first part of our tour (March 26th-May 20th) with Run the Jewels. The safety and health of those who come to our shows is of utmost importance to us.”
Their tour continued in 2022. On July 11, 2022, during their second show in Chicago, Zack De la Rocha injured his leg while performing. He finished the show sitting on a speaker and remained seated for all the following North American shows.
On August 11, it was announced that the European part of the tour was canceled so he could rest and heal. Later, on October 4, De la Rocha announced on Instagram that they had to cancel all remaining shows.
You can see Morello’s tweet below.
100% incorrect. When we booked the tour and sold the tickets it was pre-pandemic, so naturally no vax requirement. When venues opened during covid some had the below stipulations on concerts held during that period. We played ZERO shows during this time. Zero. In part because we…
— Tom Morello (@tmorello) July 16, 2024