A State Department spokesperson has announced that singer-songwriter, entrepeneur, and all-around embodiment of sprezzatura Andrew W.K. will not represent the United States as a cultural ambassador to Bahrain.
Spokesperson Noel Clay said the planned trip was “a mistake and not appropriate.” The Department has rescinded the invitation.
A.W.K., born Andrew Wilkes-Krier, was reportedly invited by the State Department to visit the Islamic kingdom to act as an example of “American culture and spirit.”
Critics trashed the move as a frivolous use of public funds. Other have said the expedition legitimizes Bahrain’s government, which is accused of violently suppressing demonstrations against the prison sentences of activists convicted of plotting to overthrow the monarchy. The rocker’s message has always centered on peace and self-determination among individuals.
Wilkes-Krier took to Twitter to respond to the news. He revealed the government had been planning the trip with him for a year, and his invitation was rescinded because he is “too party.” He concluded:
THE POWER OF POSITIVE PARTYING WILL NEVER DIE.
— ANDREW WK (@AndrewWK) November 26, 2012
Photo: Ashley Eberbach
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