Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes addresses backlash over Tampa onstage comments

What happened in Tampa

The Black Crowes controversy around Chris Robinson and his Tampa onstage comments has continued to generate debate in rock circles. During the band's May 31 show at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, part of their Southern Hospitality tour, a section of the crowd broke into chants of "U-S-A!" after the band performed "Soul Singing." The chants were reportedly triggered by an on-screen image of the Black Crowes mascot dressed in Uncle Sam attire.

Robinson responded from the stage: "Thanks for the geography lesson. I don't know what you're so proud of right now." He followed that with remarks aimed at those booing: "Some of us have real faith. For those of you booing us, some of us are not afraid. And we most assuredly are not ignorant." According to Billboard, numerous crowd members walked out on the show, with the exchange captured in a video shared on X.

Robinson's response

Speaking to Ultimate Classic Rock this week, Robinson said the incident was "blown out of context so people can get clicks and people can stir up the animosity." He was also firm in separating his views from any disrespect toward the military. "No matter what I ever would say or do or feel about things, there's no way I would disrespect our veterans," he said. "For the people who've put their lives on the line and made that sacrifice and dedication, I wouldn't do that. But I have to speak my mind."

The timing added to the scrutiny, with the performance taking place just days after Memorial Day. Robinson has previously told Mojo that he is "not interested in politics," describing himself as more drawn to "poetry and art and people and experience."

Tour and new music

The band released their new album A Pound of Feathers in March, around the same time they received a nomination for the 2026 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, though they were not ultimately selected for induction. The Southern Hospitality tour continues with upcoming dates in Augusta, Georgia, and Charlotte, North Carolina.