Country music star Jason Aldean has faced significant backlash for his new song, "Try That in a Small Town." Critics have described it as both the "song of the century" and an anthem promoting violence. The song, released in mid-May, addresses the current state of the world and the daily occurrence of bad events. Aldean defends the song, stating that it sheds light on the struggles many people are facing. However, in the second verse, he seemingly criticizes protestors and alludes to gun control measures.

The song faced renewed scrutiny after the release of its music video on Country Music Television (CMT). The video, which includes footage of protests against police brutality, has been accused of promoting violence and offensive messaging. CMT confirmed that the video is no longer in rotation. Aldean, who survived a mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017, has been accused of releasing a pro-lynching song and being unsupportive of the Black Lives Matter protests. He denies these claims, stating that there is no racial reference in the song and that the video includes real news footage.

Critics argue that the video portrays a negative image of small towns and promotes violence against outsiders. State Representative Justin Jones of Tennessee condemned the song, calling it a "heinous song calling for racist violence." Aldean, however, explains that the song is about the sense of community he experienced growing up, where neighbors took care of each other regardless of differences. He acknowledges that his political views have never been hidden and that people may interpret the song differently.

CMT's decision to pull the video has sparked a debate about its content and whether country radio will continue to support the song. While the song has been added to 125 radio stations, it remains to be seen if the controversy will affect its success. Aldean has faced backlash in the past for his conservative political beliefs and controversial statements. Despite the controversy, Aldean remains firm in his support of the song, emphasizing that it is about the desire for a sense of normalcy and the end of senseless headlines.