Aaron Lewis Says Country Music Blacklisted Him Over Politics

Aaron Lewis just dropped a bomb: the country music establishment has completely frozen him out because of his political views. The Staind frontman-turned-country-artist claims the Grand Ole Opry, one of Nashville’s most prestigious stages, stopped inviting him after years of regular performances.

“I’ve played the [Grand Ole] Opry a whole bunch of times, and I don’t get invited to the Opry anymore,” Lewis said, making it clear this wasn’t some coincidence. He’s convinced his outspoken conservative politics are the reason Nashville’s doors have slammed shut in his face.

Lewis has never been shy about his political beliefs, and apparently that’s become a liability in Music City. The rocker-turned-country-performer has built a following in conservative circles, but claims the industry that once welcomed him is now treating him like a pariah.

It’s a dramatic accusation that cuts right to the heart of whether politics and music can ever really stay separate in modern America. Love his politics or hate them, Lewis seems certain his views cost him one of country music’s most coveted invitations.

Based on reporting from Page Six.