Country music star Jason Aldean finds himself at the center of controversy with the release of his latest hit song, “Try That in a Small Town.” The provocative track, characterized by its gun-toting lyrics and condemnation of left-wing activism, has ignited a heated debate among listeners.
In a video interlaced with footage of protests and city vandalism, Aldean opens the song with lyrics that challenge the actions of left-wing antagonists. “Cuss out a cop, spit in his face. Stomp on the flag and light it up. Yeah, ya think you’re tough? Try that in a small town.” The song continues with Aldean criticizing the riots that have caused significant damage and questioning the values instilled in those who engage in such behavior.
While some listeners interpret the song as a commentary on America’s deep divisions, others argue that the lyrics contain dog whistles intended to offend. The video, in particular, has faced backlash from those who believe it promotes insensitivity and divisiveness.
One line, in particular, drew sharp criticism from gun control advocates, as Aldean sings, “Got a gun that my grandad gave me, they say one day they’re gonna round up… well, that s*** might fly in the city, good luck.” This lyric, combined with Aldean’s personal connection to the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting, where he was on stage during the tragic incident, heightened sensitivity among some listeners.
In the song’s conclusion, Aldean pays tribute to Southern values and emphasizes the unity found in small towns. He sings, “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 try that in a small town.” Aldean took to Twitter to express his intentions, stating that the song was inspired by the unspoken rule of small towns, where community and respect are valued.
While conservative listeners have praised Aldean’s song for its emphasis on traditional values, critics argue that it crosses into far-right territory. Liberal listeners feel that Aldean’s promotion of Southern norms and his condemnation of riots veer into offensive territory.
As the controversy surrounding “Try That in a Small Town” continues to unfold, Aldean remains unapologetic. In a statement, he expressed his hope that the song would resonate with those who long for a return to a sense of community and respect.
‘It feels like somewhere along the way, that sense of community and respect has gotten lost. Deep down we are all ready to get back to that,’ he added.
‘I hope my new music video helps y’all know that u are not alone in feeling that way.’
Due to some backlash from his song, Aldean put out another tweet and stated, “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 BLM protests. These references are not only meritless, but dangerous. 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 own interpretation of a song with music- this one goes too far.”
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 BLM protests. These references are not only meritless, but dangerous.…
— Jason Aldean (@Jason_Aldean) July 18, 2023
Jason Aldean just released an absolutely epic music video for the song “Try That In a Small Town” that rips into the left-wing riots, soft on crime governance in cities, gun control, and other leftist degradation. pic.twitter.com/dUYzGbnvc6
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) July 17, 2023
