Open Mic with Mike Thomas: Politics in Country Music
It’s Thursday and that means it’s time for another “Open Mic with Mike Thomas.” This week, Mike discusses what happens when artists mix music and their political beliefs…
When pressed, most country singers decline to comment on political issues. Perhaps they fear alienating their fans or maybe they are afraid of saying the wrong thing. In a format where fans have told the artists to “shut up and play their music,” as the political conversation has heated up in American over the past few years, some country stars have decided to take their private views public. Trace Adkins has written a book. John Rich was a frequent panelist on FOX News when his song “Shuttin’ Detroit Down” was on the charts. And we all remember the group that was banned from country radio after their comments about fellow Texan, President George W. Bush, during a performance in England: the Dixie Chicks.
There has been one artist, whether on or off stage, that isn’t afraid to share his political views – “no holds barred” – and that is Toby Keith. I have a tremendous amount of respect for Toby as an artist, songwriter, businessman, and as an American. What impresses me about Toby is that he is raw and real. In his songs you know exactly where he stands. Fans who come to his shows dress in Red, White, and Blue. Toby recently performed here in upstate New York at a show that was just days before the anniversary of 9/11. I still get goose bumps thinking about his fitting tribute marking that moment in our country’s history.
Recently Toby commented on the current ‘tax the rich’ debate that is circling our country. As you read on CountryMusicIsLove, when asked about rich folks paying more taxes, Toby said “I’m sure that everybody that has a patriotic cell in their system will say, ‘If it’s gotta be done, it’s gotta be done.’ I’d rather live here and not have as much money than live anywhere else and have twice as much.” This is coming from a guy who was just listed as the top earner in country music in 2010 earning $50 million. While other artists shy away from making comments about the issues that affect the rest of us, Toby talks about them like he’s running for office.
I appreciate the fact that he doesn’t try to wrap himself up in an issue like other performers who push you over the edge with their personal beliefs. Toby takes a stand. He gives you a reason and that’s where the conversation ends. Personally, if I had the chance to interview Toby, my questions would be focused less on his music or career and more on his thoughts on how he’d turn our country around. I’ve said it on my radio show countless times: if Toby Keith ran for office, I’d vote for him.
Is it too late for TK in 2012?
We want to hear your thoughts… what do you think when country music artists mix music and politics?
Mike Thomas is a country radio personality and has been entertaining listeners since his sophomore year of high school when his Mom had to drop him off at the radio station. Now he’s a successful morning show host and has met many of country’s biggest stars during his almost twenty years of broadcasting. He lives in upstate New York, enjoys football more than you can possibly imagine, and is currently rolling a 5-for-5 record against his wife for picking great movies to watch on the weekend.
Be sure to check back to CountryMusicIsLove each week for a new “Open Mic with Mike Thomas” column!
The opinions expressed are those of the author only. They do not necessarily represent the views of CountryMusicIsLove.
