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Mumford and Sons Unable to Banjo Their Way Out of Jordan Peterson Questions

The band doesn’t think they’ll lose any fans for hanging out with the controversial Canadian professor.
Photo via Instagram User Jordan B. Peterson

Way back in May, infamous University of Toronto professor Jordan Peterson posted a picture with his favourite band (??) Mumford and Sons, leaving the internet shook.

Was the band that has made millions on old-timey banjos and dressing like dapper 1930s farmers also harboring 1930s values?

Today, the band finally addressed the story behind the picture in an interview on the CBC’s Q with host Tom Power.

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“I don't think that having a photograph with someone means you agree with everything they say,” guitarist Winston Marshall said.

Peterson is best known for his stance on not using proper pronouns, disturbing opinions on enforced monogamy and something about lobsters. When Powers asked singer Marcus Mumford and Marshall about potentially alienating trans, non-binary and feminist fans, Marshall replied that he wasn’t.

“Because then I wouldn't be able to have a photograph of anyone at risk of trying to offend anyone so I think I don't see the harm in engaging in conversation,” he said. (Yes, this is a real quote.)

Mumford said that while the band had an understanding of how controversial the professor is, they felt there was still “nuance” in the topics Peterson talks about.

“I think I don't see the harm in engaging in conversation. And as I said earlier, primarily I'm interested in his psychological stuff, which I find very interesting,” Marshall said.

The band is set to release a new album in November. And they totally drive around in a tour bus/locomotive listening to Jordan Peterson podcasts.

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