Steve ‘Lips’ Kudlow, the frontman of the Canadian heavy metal band Anvil, has always been known for his candidness and straightforward approach to life and music. However, when it comes to politics, Kudlow has made it clear that he prefers to keep his opinions to himself. In a recent interview, Kudlow emphasized his stance on staying away from political discourse, stating, “I will not and do not voice my opinion on actual politics.”
Kudlow’s decision to remain apolitical is rooted in his belief that music should be a unifying force rather than a divisive one. He feels that by keeping his political views private, he can ensure that Anvil’s music remains accessible to all fans, regardless of their personal beliefs. This approach has allowed the band to maintain a broad and diverse fan base over the years.
Anvil, which was formed in 1978, has had a storied career, marked by both highs and lows. The band’s fortunes took a significant turn for the better with the release of the 2008 documentary “Anvil! The Story of Anvil.” Directed by Sacha Gervasi, the film chronicled the band’s struggles and perseverance, earning them a newfound recognition and a resurgence in popularity. Despite the renewed attention, Kudlow has remained grounded and focused on what he loves most: making music.
The band recently completed recording their 20th studio album, which Kudlow describes as a “bookend” to their career. He explained that the new album brings their journey full circle, capturing the essence of their early work while also showcasing their growth as musicians. “What we recorded is probably going to be as accessible, if not more accessible, than ‘Metal on Metal,'” Kudlow said, referring to their iconic 1982 album.
As Anvil prepares for their upcoming Canadian tour, Kudlow is also mindful of his health. At 67, he has been dealing with heart issues, specifically atrial fibrillation. He is scheduled to undergo a procedure to address the condition later this year. Despite these challenges, Kudlow remains optimistic and is already thinking about the band’s next project. “By the time we go out on tour for the newest album that I just finished, I will have another new album already written,” he said.
Kudlow’s dedication to his craft is evident in his meticulous preparation for recording sessions. He shared that he was so well-prepared for the latest album that he finished recording ahead of schedule. “I finished everything within probably two weeks. We booked five weeks, and I was done in three,” he said. This level of commitment has been a hallmark of Anvil’s career, contributing to their longevity in the music industry.
While Kudlow is passionate about his music, he is equally passionate about keeping his political views private. In an era where many artists use their platforms to voice political opinions, Kudlow’s stance is somewhat of an anomaly. He believes that by staying out of political debates, he can focus on what truly matters to him: creating music that resonates with fans across the spectrum.
Kudlow’s approach to politics and music is a reflection of his broader philosophy on life. He understands that life is finite and that everyone has a beginning, middle, and end. This perspective has shaped his outlook on both his career and his personal life. “I’m 67, dude. I got heart problems. I don’t know how much longer I got, you know what I mean?” he said candidly.
As Anvil continues to tour and create new music, Kudlow’s commitment to staying apolitical ensures that the band’s legacy remains focused on their contributions to the world of heavy metal. His decision to keep his political views private allows fans to connect with the music on their own terms, free from the influence of external opinions.
In a world where political discourse can often be polarizing, Kudlow’s stance is a reminder that sometimes, the best way to bring people together is through the universal language of music. By choosing to remain apolitical, Kudlow ensures that Anvil’s music remains a unifying force, bringing fans together in their shared love for heavy metal.
