Pro-gun lyrics are apparently no longer permissible in American popular music. That, at least, is the implication behind the attempt to cancel Jason Aldean, the country music star, for his new music video: “Try That in a Small Town.” Aldean’s video features news footage of looters and rioters, which looks similar to the violent scenes that erupted during the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, though it is not explicit. Later, images appear idealizing life in small, conservative towns: family, community, gun ownership. After critics accused the video of being “pro-gun violence” and “pro-lynching”—including fellow country star Sheryl Crow, who
“Got a gun that my granddad gave me / They say one day they’re gonna round up / Well, that shit might fly in the city, good luck / Try that in a small town.”
These are not "pro-gun lyrics." They're threatening but, more to the point, they're anti-gun control culture-war fodder. I'm surprised to see Mr. Hughes being so disingenuous.
Jason Aldean Isn't "Pro-Lynching." And His Critics Know It.
“Got a gun that my granddad gave me / They say one day they’re gonna round up / Well, that shit might fly in the city, good luck / Try that in a small town.”
These are not "pro-gun lyrics." They're threatening but, more to the point, they're anti-gun control culture-war fodder. I'm surprised to see Mr. Hughes being so disingenuous.