Jason Aldean‘s musical career has been marked by both successes and controversies. With 10 successful country albums and 27 No. 1 singles, he has proven his popularity in the marketplace. Some of his songs, like “Hicktown,” “Dirt Road Anthem,” and “Fly Over States,” showcase his affection for rural America and his roots in Macon, Georgia.
His latest song, “Try That In a Small Town,” released from his upcoming 11th album, reflects the sentiments of Americans who are fed up with crime, riots, and attacks on the Second Amendment. The song defends small-town values and gun rights, with lyrics that have been met with mixed reviews.
Critics argue that the song’s lyrics and accompanying video celebrate vigilantism and violence against blacks, pointing to the courthouse filming location in Columbia, Tennessee, which has a history of lynching. However, the production company denies any sinister motive and clarifies that the location was chosen for practical reasons, not to promote violence.
Country music channel CMT faced pressure from detractors and decided to pull the video after two months of airing. In response, Aldean defended his song, stating that there is no reference to race in the lyrics and that the theme is about the feeling of community and taking care of neighbors, regardless of differences.
Despite his explanation, criticism continued from fellow artists like Sheryl Crow, who expressed her disagreement with the song’s message. Aldean, however, has experienced violence firsthand, having been on stage during the tragic Las Vegas shooting in 2017, which left many dead and wounded.
In the face of controversy, Aldean remains firm in his stance, defending the song’s intentions and maintaining that it speaks to the desire for a sense of normalcy and community. The song has sparked debates about its message, with some identifying with its themes while others see it as promoting violence.
Despite the controversies surrounding “Try That In a Small Town,” Jason Aldean stands by the song’s message and refuses to back down. He acknowledges that violence is a real issue, having experienced the horror of the Las Vegas shooting, but he believes the song reflects a desire for a return to a sense of normalcy and community.
The song has sparked discussions not only about its lyrics but also about the role of music and art in society. Some argue that music should not promote violence or vigilantism, while others defend Aldean’s right to express his perspective and experiences through his art.
In the midst of the backlash, Aldean’s fanbase remains loyal, with many identifying with the themes of small-town values, community, and the defense of Second Amendment rights. As with any controversial piece of art, opinions are divided, and the song has become a lightning rod for larger debates about gun control, race, and societal issues.
As an artist with a substantial platform, Aldean’s song has sparked important conversations and reflections on the current state of the nation. Whether one agrees with the song’s message or not, it serves as a reminder that music has the power to evoke strong emotions and opinions, often challenging societal norms and prompting critical thinking.
As the discussion around “Try That In a Small Town” continues, it remains to be seen how the song’s reception will impact Aldean’s career and the larger conversations about art, freedom of expression, and the role of artists in addressing societal issues. For now, Aldean stands firm in his belief that his song speaks to the longing for unity and understanding in a divided world.
