Flaming Lips Song Controversy

The Flaming Lips were recently chosen as providing the official state song for Oklahoma, a decision that has been dogged by controversy.

The Flaming Lips first released 'Do You Realize' on their 2002 album 'Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots'. Since then it has gained a life of its own as a universal anthem for appreciating the little things in life. Hugely uplifting, it has become a firm favourite with fans and was recently named as the State Song For Oklahoma.

The song won through an internet poll, and was up against some strong competition from the likes of Elvis Presley. It is a tradition for each state in the USA to adopt emblems, with Oklahoma already having an official state mascot, flower and stone.

However the decision to award the honour to Flaming Lips has been met by no little controversy in Oklahoma. The states' House Of Representatives' voted 48 - 39 to reject the song, causing severe problems for Oklahoma's ruling bodies.

Named as 'Senate Joint Resolution 24' it will now be passed by Oklahoma governor Brad Henry, who declared yesterday (April 23rd) that he will sign an executive order over ruling the decision of the house.

Members of the house objected to the group gaining the honour as they have a reputation for "using obscene language" and selling "offensive" t-shirts.

The Flaming Lips responded in a Myspace blog:

"As many people around the world know, the Flaming Lips are proud to be from Oklahoma. We want everyone to understand that only a minority of the representatives voted against this law. The facts are that 'Do You Realize' won over 50% of the popular vote in the original poll, passed unanimously in the Senate, and won over a majority of the Representatives in the House (48 were for the law passing, 39 against – 14 were absent from the vote – you need 51 to pass the law)."

"Regardless of what the minority in the House of Representatives wish, the Flaming Lips remain proud ambassadors of the state. We are honoured that the majority of the people who voted, hoped to have 'Do You Realize' be the Oklahoma State Rock Song. Perhaps there is still a way it can be."

Governor Henry commented on the row by saying:

“For more than 20 years ago, Oklahoma’s own Flaming Lips have produced creative, fun and provocative rock music".

“The music of the Flaming Lips has earned Grammys, glowing critical acclaim and fans all over the world. A truly iconic rock ‘n’ roll band, they are proud ambassadors of their home state. They were clearly the people’s choice, and I intend to honour that vote.”