Public Enemy Takes on Politics, Encourages Downloading at Coachella

Public Enemy brought their chaos to the outdoor theater at Coachella on Sunday for a set that was sometimes awkwardly tailored to Flavor Flav's status as a reality TV star, but that didn't stop the militant rap collective from running through hits that have become firmly entrenched in the American music lexicon, including 'Public Enemy Number One,' 'Welcome to the Terrordome' and 'Don't Believe the Hype.' But fans did believe the hype alright, agreeing not to drop Flavor Flav through a series of stage dives as he leaped over the barricade to crowd surf for a few moments before Chuck D. commanded the audience to "bring him back." After his third leap, however, Chuck joked, "You can keep him."

Of course, it wouldn't be Public Enemy without, in addition to hype and braggadocio, political commentary as well. Chuck warned the audience to "pay attention" even with President Obama in office. "Pay attention, pay attention, pay attention -- that's the cheapest price we can pay in America."

The group also took a stance on the music business while introducing 'Can I Get a Witness?,' a song about them being taken to court for stealing a beat. "Who gives a f---?" asked Chuck. "The record industry is dead. Download all you want to!"

Well, that's one thing you don't need to tell this crowd twice.