Country artist Jason Aldean has found himself in the midst of a heated controversy surrounding his new song and music video. The song titled “Try That in a Small Town” has faced accusations of racism and being pro-lynching. In response to the backlash, Aldean has finally spoken out.
Following allegations of racism and pro-lynching, CMT made the decision to remove the music video for Aldean’s song “Try That in a Small Town.” However, Aldean himself is not sitting idle and is addressing the accusations made against him.
Taking to social media, Aldean expressed his thoughts on the accusations, stating, “In the past 24 hours, I have been accused of publishing a pro-lynching song (a tune that has been out since May), and was subject to the comparison that I (direct quote) was not too pleased with the statewide BLM rallies. These references are not only worthless, but dangerous.”
CMT, in their decision to take down the music video, has failed to provide any reasons for their action. This lack of transparency has left many people questioning the motivations behind the video’s removal.
The controversial music video was filmed at the Maury County Courthouse in Columbia, Tennessee, which holds historical significance as the place where an African-American man named Henry Choate was lynched in the 1920s. Although not explicitly stated in the video, the inclusion of imagery like protesters, clashes with the police, and burning American flags has heightened the controversy.
Aldean has come to the defense of his song, asserting that it represents the strong sense of community he experienced while growing up in a small town. He emphasizes that the lyrics do not reference race, and all the video footage used is actual news footage. Despite political differences, Aldean believes in the importance of coming together for a sense of normalcy.
It is worth mentioning that this is not the first time Aldean has faced criticism. In 2021, his wife, Brittany Aldean, made transphobic remarks that led to the severing of ties between Aldean and his public relations company. Aldean has also faced backlash for his response to his wife’s comments.
Adding to the challenges he is currently facing, Aldean has recently dealt with health issues. He was hospitalized for heatstroke on the second day of his Highway Desperado tour, causing a delay in his upcoming performance. The concert venue has assured fans that the show will be rescheduled.
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