“You weren’t looking hard enough in the video is all I can tell you,” says James Aldean as his song “Try That in a Small Town” continues to rake criticism from the left and black rights activists.
The music video of the song has triggered debates. Aldean, a professed Republican, was slammed by Democrats accusing him of glorifying violence and racism.
One main point of contention was the music video’s setting: the Maury County Courthouse in Tennessee, a location known for its racial violence, including lynching in the 1920s. Aldean responded that such racial issues can also be found in many “small-town courthouses in the South.”
He further clapped back at critics, explaining the video’s theme is to “depict lawlessness, disrespect for law enforcement, and societal unrest” which was inspired by actual events, including his personal experiences like the tragic 2017 Rouse 91 Music Festival Shooting in Las Vegas.
Aldean sparked a fire in July when the music video for his song “Try That in a Small Town” was aired and topped the Billboard 100. It even went number one on iTunes.
During this same period, the Country Music Television “pulled the video” from rotation.
“In the past 24 hours, I have been accused of releasing a pro-lynching song (a song that has been out since May) and was subject to the comparison that I (direct quote) was not too pleased with the nationwide Black Lives Matter protests. These references are not only meritless but dangerous,” remarked Aldean.
He continued, “There is not a single lyric in the song that references race or points to it — and there isn’t a single video clip that isn’t real news footage — and while I can try and respect others to have their interpretation of a song with music — this one goes too far. As so many pointed out, I was present at Route 91 — where so many lost their lives — and our community recently suffered another heartbreaking tragedy. NO ONE, including me, wants to continue to see senseless headlines or families ripped apart.”
Republican presidential primary candidates defended Aldean, including former president Donald Trump.
“MAGA!!” cheered Trump on his post in Truth Social.
Ron DeSantis said, “[he] has nothing to apologize for.”
Social media influencer DC Draino also joined in the call for free speech.
“…it’s only a matter of time until they censor you too
It’s time to stand up for freedom of speech NOW”
Aldean’s Try That in a Small Town was included in Billboard Charts’ “Hot100 of 2023” which was posted on December 6. He is on the “Highway Desperado Tour” until 2024.
Haha! How is this “Breaking”? This is super old news!
It’s breaking cuz he finally answered his critics that’s why it’s breaking I can’t believe even after she even have to ask that question maybe you just don’t like Jason!