Black LGBT activists and bloggers again rejoiced after claiming a role in action that led to a Hollywood nightspot canceling an upcoming concert featuring reggae artist Buju Banton, who has been criticized for singing anti-gay lyrics.
Highlands Nightclub announced that it had discontinued plans to host a concert featuring Banton. The event was scheduled for Oct. 3.
On her Web site, activist Jasmyne Cannick thanked those who contacted the club, but added that dancehall artist Beenie Man—who, activists claim, sings about murdering gays and lesbians—is slated to perform Oct. 22 at the Century Club in Los Angeles. She asked that people contact the club in an effort to get the general manager to cancel that show as well.
The activists/bloggers have enjoyed previous success. This summer, LIFEbeat, an AIDS organization that is connected with the music industry, cancelled its Reggae Beat Jumpoff, which was scheduled for July 18 at New York's Webster Hall. That show was also scheduled to feature Beenie Man.
Recently, more than 15 members of the Gay Liberation Network and Black LGBT & Allies for Equality protested outside Chicago's House of Blues on Sept. 13 as Banton performed inside the venue. In Indiana, local gay groups werre more successful, persuading the nightspot The Bluebird to cancel a Banton show slated for Sept. 14.
