Artist Claims Wokeism Is 'Killing' Country Music

Benny Johnson and John Rich

Country singer John Rich, known for his work with Big & Rich and as a solo artist, has publicly discussed what he perceives as troubling aspects of the music industry, particularly in Nashville’s country music scene. His comments focus on issues like ideological pressures, censorship, and exploitative practices.

Rich has argued that the country music industry, traditionally seen as conservative-leaning, has been overtaken by liberal ideologies and "wokeism." 

In a 2022 interview with PragerU, he claimed that artists are pressured by publicists, managers, and record labels to avoid expressing conservative views or criticizing progressive ideologies. He stated, “These artists are being told… ‘Don’t even think about putting out a post that pushes against that… No, you cannot record that song because it says this.’”

He suggested that this pressure creates a “threat of cancellation,” discouraging conservative artists from speaking out to maintain their careers, such as securing radio play or award show invitations. Rich emphasized that this dynamic is deeper than cancel culture, as artists self-censor to avoid repercussions.
In 2024, he reiterated that “wokeness” is “killing” country music, claiming iconic figures like Johnny Cash or Loretta Lynn would struggle to succeed in today’s industry due to their unfiltered, authentic voices clashing with current industry norms.

In an interview with X Media influencer Benny Johnson, Rich alluded to manipulative practices in the broader music industry, specifically referencing the case of Sean “Diddy” Combs. He claimed that powerful industry figures “blackmail big talent” to control their actions, stating, “I know people who have been [to those events]… they walked in and ran out. Dark situation.”

John Rich exposes the dark side of the music industry. pic.twitter.com/ld0haEggDC

— Thomas Sowell Quotes (@ThomasSowell) April 25, 2025Rich suggested that such coercive tactics are systemic, with artists pressured into compromising situations to maintain their status. He positioned himself as an outsider to these circles, noting, “I didn’t get invited” to such events, implying his independence from industry gatekeepers.

Nashville’s music industry is dominated by major labels (e.g., Universal Music Group, Sony Music), radio conglomerates, and award show gatekeepers. These entities prioritize commercial viability, which can lead to pressure on artists to conform to market-friendly themes or avoid controversial stances. Rich’s claims about censorship align with this, but his assertion of a liberal bias is debated, as the industry often caters to its predominantly conservative audience.

The music industry’s history of exploitative contracts, predatory agents, and gatekeeping (e.g., payola scandals, artist blacklisting) aligns with Rich’s broader “dark side” narrative.