Controversial Song by Jason Aldean Sparks Criticism and Divide
Country music star Jason Aldean has found himself at the center of a heated debate after releasing a new song and video titled “Try That in a Small Town.” The song features lyrics that some perceive as threatening violence against police protesters, leading to widespread criticism and the removal of the video from Country Music Television (CMT).
The lyrics of “Try That in a Small Town” include lines such as “Cuss out a cop, spit in his face / Stomp on the flag and light it up / Yeah, you think you’re tough / Well, try that in a small town / See how far you make it down the road / Around here, we take care of our own.” These explicit references to violent acts have sparked outrage among many, who argue that promoting violence goes against the values of small-town America.
Furthermore, Aldean makes a passing reference to a conspiracy theory about the US government’s intention to round up its citizens. He sings, “Got a gun that my granddad gave me / They say one day they’re gonna round up / Well, that shit might fly in the city, good luck.” Critics argue that these lyrics perpetuate baseless conspiracy theories and further contribute to the current divided climate in the country.
The video for “Try That in a Small Town” also features footage of protesters, some of whom engage in violent acts, facing off against the police. This juxtaposition has added fuel to the fire, as it draws attention to the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and protesters across the nation. Additionally, the video was filmed at the Maury County courthouse in Columbia, Tennessee, a place with a dark history of racial violence, including the lynching of a Black man in 1927.
Country Music Television has decided to remove the video from its channel, although no official statement has been made regarding their decision. However, the video remains on YouTube, where it has garnered over 800,000 views and continues to spark debate and division.
While Aldean has received support from right-wing commentators, he has faced significant criticism from fellow musicians and the general public. Sheryl Crow, a musician known for her activism and strong opinions, took to Twitter to express her disappointment, stating, “I’m from a small town. Even people in small towns are sick of violence. There’s nothing small-town or American about promoting violence. You should know that better than anyone, having survived a mass shooting. This is not American or small-town-like. It’s just lame.”
Crow’s reference to a mass shooting relates to the tragic incident in Las Vegas in 2017, where Aldean was performing at the Route 91 Harvest festival. Although Aldean and his band escaped unharmed, the shooting claimed the lives of 60 people and left 867 injured. This connection only intensifies the controversy surrounding Aldean’s new release.
In response to the criticism, Aldean took to Twitter to defend his song, denying any connection to the Black Lives Matter protest movement and refuting claims that it promotes violence or alludes to racial tension. He wrote, “These references are not only meritless but dangerous. There is not a single lyric in the song that references race or points to it.”
According to Aldean, “Try That in a Small Town” is a celebration of community, referencing the strong bond and support he experienced while growing up. He claims that the song is a reflection of his desire for a sense of normalcy and unity amid the current state of the country. However, critics argue that regardless of Aldean’s intentions, the song’s lyrics and imagery send a dangerous message and contribute to an already divided society.
Despite the backlash, it is important to note Aldean’s impressive success in the country music industry. With four consecutive US No 1 albums and a total of 24 No 1 singles on the country charts, Aldean has established himself as one of the genre’s biggest stars. His crossover success into the pop charts with hits like “Dirt Road Anthem” and “Big Green Tractor” further solidifies his influence in both realms of music.
As the controversy surrounding “Try That in a Small Town” continues, it remains to be seen how this will impact Aldean’s career and his relationship with fans. The debate around the song serves as a reminder of the power that music holds in shaping public opinion and stirring discourse in society.