A Polarizing Anthem

Jason Aldean’s 2023 single Try That in a Small Town landed with a thud that resonated far beyond the dusty backroads it name-checks. The bravado-laden anthem about small-town justice sparked a firestorm of debate, dividing fans and igniting discussions about gun rights, community, and the undercurrents of modern country music.

The Lyrics and Video That Stirred the Pot

The song’s lyrics paint a gritty picture of criminal acts like assault, carjacking, and disrespecting law enforcement, followed by a warning: “Try that in a small town / See how far ya make it down the road / ‘Round here, we take care of our own.”

The music video, directed by Brian Lazzaro, features visuals of protestors clashing with law enforcement, culminating in a jarring scene where a protester’s face is superimposed over a burning structure. The choice of the Maury County Courthouse as the filming location added a layer of historical significance, given its past as the site of a brutal lynching in 1927, further intensifying the controversy surrounding the video’s imagery and message.

A Celebration of Small-Town Solidarity

On the surface, Try That in a Small Town reads as a paean to small-town values. The lyrics depict a community where neighbours watch out for each other, and disrespect—from sucker punching someone to disrespecting authority—is swiftly met with consequences. Aldean sings of a place with a strong sense of self-reliance where residents are prepared to defend themselves and their way of life (“Got a gun that my granddad gave me“).

This portrayal struck a chord with many, propelling the song to significant commercial success, debuting at #2 and then reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Jason Aldean’s highest peaking single and his first chart-topper on the Hot 100.

Second Look, Second Thoughts

However, a closer look reveals complexities. The defiant tone and emphasis on physical retaliation raise questions. Critics argue that the lyrics might implicitly support vigilantism, especially when combined with the aggressive musical arrangement. This glorification of a “might-makes-right” mentality feels at odds with the idealised image of small-town communities often presented in country music. Amidst backlash, CMT pulled the music video from the air, reflecting the industry’s cautious stance on the controversy.

Racial Undertones and the Right-Wing Embrace

Further complicating the song’s message are accusations of racial bias. The music video, featuring Jason Aldean facing off against a stereotypical antagonist, fueled these discussions. Some critics saw the video as reinforcing negative stereotypes about urban crime and inner-city residents. This aligned with a broader trend where some perceive country music as increasingly appealing to a right-wing demographic.

A Nuanced Examination

While the controversy rages on, a more nuanced examination of Try That in a Small Town reveals a complex interplay of themes and perspectives. Jason Aldean himself has denied any racist undertones, asserting that the song is a commentary on the breakdown of societal values and the erosion of respect for law and order.

Unpacking the Layers

Unpacking the layers of meaning within the song requires a deep dive into the cultural divide between urban and rural America. The lyrics seemingly tap into a sense of alienation felt by many in small-town communities, where traditional values and ways of life are perceived as under threat from the encroachment of urban culture.

A Catalyst for Dialogue

Regardless of one’s stance on the issue, Try That in a Small Town has undoubtedly ignited a crucial dialogue on the polarisation of American society. Whether viewed as a provocative work of art or a dangerous dog whistle, the song has sparked conversations on the complexities of modern America, where the gap between urban and rural experiences continues to widen.

A Call for Understanding

As the dust settles on this latest controversy, perhaps the greatest lesson lies in the need for empathy and understanding. Rather than dismissing opposing viewpoints, a willingness to engage in respectful discourse may be the key to bridging the divides that threaten to tear the nation apart.

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Jason Aldean Try That In A Small Town Lyrics

Verse 1
Sucker punch somebody on a sidewalk
Carjack an old lady at a red light
Pull a gun on the owner of a liquor store
Ya think it’s cool, well, act a fool if ya like
Cuss out a cop, spit in his face
Stomp on the flag and light it up
Yeah, ya think you’re tough

Chorus
Well, try that in a small town
See how far ya make it down the road
‘Round here, we take care of our own
You cross that line, it won’t take long
For you to find out, I recommend you don’t
Try that in a small town

Verse 2
Got a gun that my granddad gave me
They say one day they’re gonna round up
Well, that shit might fly in the city, good luck

Chorus
Try that in a small town
See how far ya make it down the road
‘Round here, we take care of our own
You cross that line, it won’t take long
For you to find out, I recommend you don’t
Try that in a small town

Bridge
Full of good ol’ boys, raised up right
If you’re looking for a fight
Try that in a small town
Try that in a small town

Chorus
Try that in a small town
(See how far ya make it down the road)
‘Round here, we take care of our own
You cross that line, it won’t take long
For you to find out, I recommend you don’t
Try that in a small town
Try that in a small town, mm-mm

Outro
Try that in a small town