Key Takeaways
- Aaron Lewis believes political views have led to his exclusion from the music industry.
- He reflects on his long career and the upcoming album, “Give My Country Back.”
- Other artists, like Vanilla Ice, also face backlash for political affiliations.
Aaron Lewis Speaks Out
Aaron Lewis has opened up about his perception of being sidelined by the music industry due to his political beliefs. In a recent interview on the podcast “Pickin’ It Out with Andrew Pope,” the 54-year-old musician discussed his upcoming record and the reasons he feels the industry has turned against him.
Political Climate in Music
Lewis stated, “Everything’s too political now.” He noted that despite his history with the Grand Ole Opry, he no longer receives invitations to perform there. “All because I believe in this beautiful, amazing country that we’re so blessed to have,” he added.
Reflecting on a Career
Having gained fame as the lead vocalist of Staind, Lewis transitioned to a solo career in 2010. He expressed gratitude for being able to continue making music, especially as he approaches the 30-year mark since forming Staind. “It’s such a blessing to still be able to do this after doing it for almost 30 years,” he remarked.
Upcoming Album
His sixth studio album, titled “Give My Country Back,” is scheduled for release on July 17. Lewis and Pope expressed hope that listeners will actively seek out the album, as Lewis feels the industry has made it difficult for his work to be easily accessible. “The machine that is has no problem turning its back on me,” he explained.
Industry Backlash
Lewis is not alone in facing backlash due to political stances. Vanilla Ice recently encountered criticism after being announced as a performer at the Great American State Fair, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of America. Following the announcement, several artists withdrew from the lineup.
Vanilla Ice’s Perspective
In response to the backlash, Vanilla Ice stated that he sees himself as “just an entertainer” and believes it is unfair for performers to be drawn into political discussions. He emphasized the importance of music in uniting people, stating, “Music brings people together, and that’s what it’s all about.” While he chose to remain in the lineup, he acknowledged that other artists have their reasons for stepping back.