Why is “Try That in a Small Town” Controversial? Understanding the Backlash
Country music star Jason Aldean has found himself at the center of controversy with his recently released music video for “Try That in a Small Town.” The video, which was pulled from airing on CMT, has sparked criticism due to its tone, themes, and perceived stance on gun control and protests against police. In this blog post, we delve into the reasons behind the controversy surrounding the song and video.
The Tone and Lyrics:
Critics argue that “Try That in a Small Town” strikes a threatening tone while addressing sensitive subjects. The lyrics contain lines such as “Got a gun that my granddad gave me” and “Try that in a small town. See how far you make it down the road.” These lyrics are seen by some as confrontational and dismissive, presenting an “us vs. them” mentality between rural communities and urban areas.
Perceived Criticism of Gun Control and Protests:
The song has also faced backlash for its perceived critique of gun control and protests against police. The video juxtaposes images of fires, crimes, burning flags, and protest footage. Some argue that this combination perpetuates a negative narrative and fails to address the underlying issues at hand. Critics argue that the video’s portrayal of protests may be viewed as dismissive or antagonistic towards the Black Lives Matter movement.
Jason Aldean’s Response:
In response to the backlash, Jason Aldean took to social media to defend the song. He refuted claims that it was a “pro-lynching song” or critical of the Black Lives Matter movement. Aldean emphasized that the song was meant to convey the sense of community he experienced while growing up in a small town, without any racial connotations. He expressed his disappointment with the interpretations and stated that the video solely consists of real news footage.
The Controversial Nature:
The controversy surrounding “Try That in a Small Town” stems from the sensitive topics it addresses, the perceived tone, and the interpretation of its lyrics and visuals. As an artist with a significant following, Aldean’s work is subject to scrutiny and diverse opinions. The song has sparked discussions about the portrayal of rural vs. urban dynamics, gun control, protests, and the responsibility of artists when addressing sensitive issues.
“Try That in a Small Town” by Jason Aldean has faced controversy due to its perceived tone, lyrics, and portrayal of gun control and protests against police. The song has generated diverse interpretations and critiques, leading to its removal from CMT. The controversy highlights the importance of open dialogue and respectful discourse when discussing sensitive topics, and the role of artists in understanding and addressing societal issues within their work.
