Mormons turn to Killers singer to improve image
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Facing a sceptical public that still has questions about whether their faith is a religion or a cult, the Mormon Church is turning to one of its least stereotypical adherents to win them over: Brandon Flowers, the lead singer of the rock band The Killers.
A four-minute video clip distributed online via YouTube is a reminder of the public relations struggle The Church of of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints feels it faces overcoming negative perceptions among many Americans. Among them is the misconception that it tolerates plural marriages, a practice it disavowed a century ago.
"There are lots of connotations that come along with popular music or rock music, and it's usually very sex-driven or money-driven, and I realised early on that that wasn't the road for me," Flowers says in the clip which shows him and his band recording.
"Maybe because of the foundations laid for me in my life by my mom taking me to church. I wanted to take a different road."
The church, based in Salt Lake City, feels vulnerable to the publicity generated by the conviction on child sex charges of Warren Jeffs, the leader of a splinter Mormon group that still pursues a polygamist lifestyle.
Meanwhile, a pastor in Texas, and fan of Republican presidential contender Rick Perry – whose main rival is Mitt Romney, a Mormon – caused offence when he called the religion a cult.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments