Crowded House frontman Neil Finn has responded to criticism about the effectiveness of the upcoming Live Earth concert series.
Writing to Melbourne newspaper 'The Sunday Age', Finn wrote that the "The point [of Live Earth] is to become aware of personal responsibility and to begin to effect change in our individual lives."He was responding to the article 'Live Earth: Useful As A Green Bracelet', penned by Michelle Griffin the week previous. In her article, Griffin argued that Live Earth was "a massive ego-boosting exercise that is not only redundant, but harmful." Her argument also cited research that estimated that London's Wembley concert alone would produce 3000 tonnes of carbon.
Finn's response was magnanimous, and whilst he described Griffin's view as "deeply cynical", he went on to claim it is "quite welcome among the mostly warm and fuzzy reporting of this event."
"All of us who take part should be prepared to stand up to scrutiny," Finn wrote. "However, I think close examination of the organisers' strategy and credentials will reveal far more thoughtful and pragmatic goals than she has given credit for.
"Yes, the music business has been indulgent and slow at improving its own practices," he continued. "I include myself in this. We have witnessed pop stars with lifestyles grotesque in their opulence, but there have also been inspiring people whose songs fill us with hope and motivation to live good lives."
