Country music icon Lee Greenwood recently came to the defense of fellow singer Jason Aldean against ongoing backlash surrounding his music video for “Try That In A Small Town.” Greenwood, best known for his inspiring anthem “God Bless the USA,” appeared on “Jesse Watters Primetime” to share his support for Aldean and address the accusations of racism.
“I am a big fan of Jason Aldean. He is the ultimate patriot, just like many of us. This has nothing to do with racism,” Greenwood expressed. “It’s about people trying to suppress freedom of expression. The song is great, and I wish I had written it. I admire Jason’s approach. He is a talented artist who always does the right thing.”
Aldean’s controversial music video features real news clips of riots and looting that occurred in 2020. The song’s message asserts that small towns would not tolerate the same level of lawlessness that some cities faced during that time. However, activists claimed the video was “racist and violent,” leading to its removal from circulation by CMT.
Drawing from his own experience growing up in a small town in California, Greenwood emphasized the importance of preserving individual freedoms. “In small towns, everyone knows each other, and that’s what represents the heart of America. It’s rural America,” he asserted.
Aldean’s song sends a powerful message to violent criminals and those who disrespect law enforcement and the American flag. With lyrics like “Yeah, ya think you’re tough? Well, try that in a small town, see how far ya make it down the road. Around here, we take care of our own, you cross that line, it won’t take long for you to find out, I recommend you don’t,” the song takes a firm stance on crime and supports the Second Amendment.
The song’s pro-gun message caused uproar among liberal critics online. However, Greenwood expressed his gratitude for Aldean’s portrayal of the importance of the Second Amendment. “When it comes to guns and having them for self-defense, it’s not about offensive weapons. It’s about hunting and the right to bear arms. It’s the people who misuse guns that are the problem,” Greenwood explained.
While critics branded Aldean’s song as contemptible and controversial, Greenwood urged the public to focus on the intended message. “Let’s not get caught up in debates about what the song implies. It’s simply about how people in small towns take care of each other, nothing more,” he emphasized.
Aldean himself took to social media to address the accusations and defend his song against claims of racism. He made it clear that the song does not mention race and uses only real news footage in the video. In a statement to his millions of followers, Aldean expressed disappointment in the misinterpretation of his song.
In the face of the backlash, Aldean’s hit climbed to the top of the iTunes charts, a testament to the support he received from fans who resonated with the song’s powerful message.
As the controversy continues to swirl, Greenwood’s unwavering support for Aldean showcases the importance of understanding the true meaning behind artistic expression. Regardless of political or cultural debates, it is essential to recognize the value of freedom and the unity found in small towns across America.
