Controversy Surrounds Jason Aldean’s Song “Try That In a Small Town”
The never-ending culture war in America has once again emerged, with singer Jason Aldean at the center of a heated debate. Aldean released a song earlier this year titled “Try That In a Small Town,” which has recently gained mainstream attention due to a controversial video that accompanies it. The lyrics of the song have drawn criticism, with some accusing it of glorifying politically motivated violence and even promoting lynching.
The video for “Try That In a Small Town” was filmed at the Maury County Courthouse in Columbia, Tennessee, a location where an 18-year-old Black man was lynched in 1927. This connection has not gone unnoticed by critics, who argue that the video perpetuates a dark history of racial violence. Anti-gun violence activist Shannon Watts took to Twitter, condemning the song as “an ode to a sundown town, suggesting people be beaten or shot for expressing free speech.”
Singer Sheryl Crow joined the discussion on Tuesday, expressing her disappointment with Aldean’s song. Crow, who hails from a small town herself, tweeted that violence has no place in any community, regardless of its size. She also referenced a mass shooting that Aldean survived, arguing that promoting violence goes against the values of being American or small town-like.
Tennessee state Representative Justin Jones also weighed in, calling the song “heinous” and arguing that lawmakers have a responsibility to condemn it. Jones emphasized the need for common sense gun laws that protect all citizens, including children, from violence.
In response to the criticism, Aldean denies any racist or violent intent behind the song. He took to social media to address the controversy, expressing his frustration with the accusations. He stated that the song has been misinterpreted and that there is not a single lyric or video clip that references race. Aldean further emphasized his personal experience with tragedy, referencing the Route 91 shooting in Las Vegas in 2017, where he was performing onstage.
Aldean’s personal life has also been subject to controversy in the past. Last year, his wife, Brittany Aldean, was accused of making transphobic comments on social media, which led to a feud with singer Maren Morris. Despite the controversy surrounding the song, “Try That In a Small Town” has seen increased popularity, reaching number one on iTunes.
The debate surrounding Aldean’s song highlights the ongoing division in America over cultural and political issues. It raises questions about the responsibility of artists to consider the potential impact of their work, as well as the role of censorship and freedom of expression. As the culture war rages on, it remains to be seen how this particular skirmish will unfold and whether it will have lasting consequences for Jason Aldean’s career.
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