During an electrifying performance on Saturday at New York’s Hammerstein Ballroom, W.A.S.P. transformed their concert into a rallying cry for Donald Trump, with bandleader Blackie Lawless passionately defending the president-elect. Lawless made a stirring address, highlighting his support for Trump while banners featuring the president’s name adorned the stage, creating a politically charged atmosphere that resonated with many attendees.

For those interested, you can explore the complete text of Lawless’ speech and watch a video capturing this pivotal moment below.

Prior to launching into W.A.S.P.’s iconic track, “Blind in Texas,” Lawless set the tone by stating, “Tonight, we’re going to do something a little different. We are in the appropriate city to do this.” He referenced Shakespeare, saying, “Some are born to greatness. Some have greatness thrust upon them,” and echoed the sentiments of Greek historian Herodotus regarding the influence of circumstances on our lives.

The frontman drew parallels between his speech and his historic clash with the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC) back in 1985, which branded W.A.S.P.’s controversial song “Animal (Fuck Like a Beast)” as one of its “Filthy Fifteen.” He recalled, “Frank Zappa and I stood on a stage just around the corner here and discussed the impending dangers of censorship.” Lawless emphasized that censorship is a formidable threat, impacting not only music but all facets of life.

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Lawless passionately defended the First Amendment, which protects the right to free speech, lamenting the resurgence of censorship that has emerged over the past six to eight years. He noted that this modern-day censorship is particularly prevalent on the Internet, affecting each and every one of us in our daily lives.

Despite the challenges posed by censorship, Lawless asserted that those impacted by this suppression have a powerful advocate. He declared, “Tonight, you may not be aware, but right next door to us at the Madison Square Garden, there is a man who has faced numerous assassination attempts and has stood up for this country. He’s right next door right now at the Garden,” referring to Trump, who was attending a UFC event that evening.

Continuing his address, Lawless expressed his fervent belief in two core principles: freedom of speech and patriotism. “I don’t care if you’re a Republican, Democrat, or Independent — you must be a patriot of this country. I would gladly sacrifice everything for this nation because I believe in its core values. That man next door, he believes in it too,” he passionately proclaimed.

As Lawless wrapped up his speech, he declared, “I only have one more thing to say before we go, ‘Cause I’m blind in Texas!” This powerful declaration resonated through the venue as the crowd erupted in cheers.

Following his speech, W.A.S.P. crew members unveiled “Trump 2024” banners on either side of the stage, while the screens behind the band displayed images of Trump during a moment of political tension, specifically from the day of his attempted assassination.

The W.A.S.P. “Album One Alive” tour is set to continue on Tuesday in Cleveland, promising more electrifying performances and impassioned speeches.

Discover the Complete Text of Blackie Lawless’ Pro-Trump Address

“We are going to do something a little different tonight. We find ourselves in the appropriate city for this. Shakespeare wisely said, ‘Some are born to greatness. Some have greatness thrust upon them.’ The Greek historian Herodotus also stated that in matters of tragedy, we do not control circumstances; they control us.”

“Reflecting on my childhood on Staten Island, I never anticipated facing a situation beyond my control. It was nearly 40 years ago that the PMRC hearings took place in Washington, D.C. Just two days later, Frank Zappa and I stood on a stage nearby, discussing the impending dangers of censorship. Censorship is insidious and pervasive, impacting not just music but all aspects of life.”

“Down the street in lower Manhattan is St. Paul’s Chapel, known for its historical significance during 9/11. Before that, it served as the site where George Washington, after being sworn in as the first president, dedicated the United States of America to God Almighty.”

“The First Amendment of our constitution guarantees freedom of speech. Our founding fathers understood that controlling speech equates to controlling thought, a realization that has remained crucial over the centuries. Today, we find ourselves grappling with a resurgence of censorship over the last six to eight years, particularly on the Internet, which affects us all.”

“Tonight, you might not realize it, but there is a man next door at the Garden who has faced numerous assassination attempts and has consistently defended our country. He’s right next door, so let’s give him a round of applause!”

“I am passionate about two things: freedom of speech and patriotism. Regardless of your political affiliation—Republican, Democrat, or Independent—you must stand as a patriot for this country. I am prepared to give my life for this nation because I believe in it that profoundly, and that man next door shares that belief.”

“I have just one last thing to say before we go, ‘Cause I’m blind in Texas!”