Morgan Wallen is undoubtedly a polarizing determine within the music trade, and it isn’t arduous to see why. With a historical past of controversies, together with a number of arrests and a extremely publicized incident involving a racial slur, he is been a lightning rod for criticism. His distinctive mix of pop, nation, and lure components has additionally been a degree of competition amongst followers and critics alike. Whereas he has a big quantity of assist from fellow artists, he is additionally confronted backlash from a number of performers, together with Jason Isbell, Maren Morris, Cassadee Pope, and Mickey Guyton.
Just lately, Hayley Williams, the lead singer of Paramore, took a jab at Wallen in her music “Ego Dying At A Bachelorette Celebration.” The title monitor options lyrics that reference a “racist nation singer’s bar,” and whereas she does not point out Wallen by identify, it is clear who she’s speaking about. In a current interview with the New York Occasions, Williams confirmed that the music is certainly about Wallen, stating, “I am at all times speaking about Morgan Wallen. I do not care.”
It is price noting that Wallen’s historical past with black artists and his numerous fanbase counsel that he is probably not the racist that many have made him out to be. Whereas his use of a racial slur was unacceptable, his collaborations and relationships with black artists through the years paint a extra nuanced image. It is also ironic that Williams would counsel that Paramore’s fanbase is numerous, when in actual fact, Wallen’s music has garnered an enormous and numerous following, together with many black followers.
Finally, it is clear that Wallen is a fancy determine who elicits sturdy opinions from folks. Whereas some could criticize his music or his previous habits, others see him as a gifted artist who’s pushing the boundaries of nation music. As Joe Coscarelli identified within the New York Occasions interview, Williams’ criticism of Wallen could also be associated to Paramore’s sturdy black fanbase, however it’s additionally necessary to think about the context and the info earlier than making judgments about somebody’s character. As Williams herself mentioned, “I am at all times speaking about Morgan Wallen. I do not care,” however it’s price contemplating the potential penalties of talking out towards somebody with out absolutely understanding the scenario.
