Country music has long been associated with America’s pro-gun lobby, but following the mass shooting at a Texas school, several stars have distanced themselves from the NRA.
At least five country musicians, including Lee Greenwood, the singer of “God Bless the USA,” have withdrawn from the NRA’s annual convention in Texas, which began on Friday. Don McLean, the singer-songwriter behind “American Pie,” has also withdrawn.
After 19 students and two teachers were killed at an elementary school in the small town of Uvalde, McLean, 76, said it would be “disrespectful and hurtful” to perform at the convention’s “Grand Ole Night of Freedom” concert on Saturday.
Following the singer of “American Pie,” has withdrawn from the annual National Rifle Association convention, Larry Gatlin said he couldn’t perform “in good conscience,” as well as “God Bless the USA” performer Lee Greenwood.
Greenwood, whose patriotic signature song is frequently heard at Donald Trump rallies, said he had canceled “out of respect” for those who were grieving. On Friday, the “God Bless the USA” singer appeared on “Fox & Friends” in response to his decision to cancel his appearance at the event in Houston.
Greenwood cited the timing of the Texas shooting as the reason for his decision to withdraw from the NRA convention. He claimed that he and other artists had signed contracts to perform at the event, which had been canceled for 2020 and 2021.
“The unfortunate shooting in Texas took place at a very bad time. And for me to go and play at the NRA just days after the shooting would be an endorsement. And people would then deem that as, I like this weapon. And obviously, that weapon killed kids. And I just couldn’t go,” Greenwood told Fox & Friends host.
“During this Memorial Day Weekend, we should also remember the servicemen and women, and first responders who’ve given their lives to protect our great country,” Greenwood added.
Sources: Dailywire, Billboard, Globalcirculate
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