Country singer Oliver Anthony, whose song "Rich Men North of Richmond" has skyrocketed to the top of the Billboard singles chart, expressed his disapproval of Republicans and conservative outlets for co-opting his song. In a YouTube video released on Friday, Anthony shared his thoughts on his song being brought up in the Republican presidential debate. He found it amusing that the candidates had to sit and listen to his song, considering he wrote it about powerful people like them. Anthony clarified that his song is not about Joe Biden, but rather a critique of the people in positions of power. He expressed disappointment in seeing his song being wrapped up in politics and being used to characterize him as one of their own by conservatives. Despite the controversy surrounding the song, "Rich Men North of Richmond" has gained immense popularity, with over 41 million views on YouTube and becoming the first song by an artist with no chart history to top the Billboard Hot 100.

During the debate, Fox News host Martha MacCallum mentioned Anthony's song and asked Florida Governor Ron DeSantis why it struck a chord with so many Americans. DeSantis responded by saying that the country is in decline and that they need to send Joe Biden back to his basement to reverse American decline. However, Anthony clarified that his song is not specifically about Joe Biden and is a much broader commentary on the state of the country. He expressed frustration at the politicization of his song and the attempts by both the right and the left to use it for their own agendas.

The song "Rich Men North of Richmond" has become a polarizing anthem, with right-leaning figures embracing its lyrics despite Anthony's centrist views. The song's lyrics touch on issues of alienation, frustration with the government, and the struggles faced by working-class Americans. It references hungry people in the street, citizens milking welfare, and high suicide rates among young men. While some conservative figures have endorsed the song as an authentic expression of working-class life, it has also faced criticism from the left, with some calling the lyrics racist.

Despite the controversies surrounding his song, Anthony hopes that his music will inspire listeners to stop relying on the government to solve their problems. He believes that the real solution lies in people coming together and supporting each other. He emphasized that nobody in Washington, DC, or the federal government is coming to save them. Anthony released a new song titled "I Want To Go Home" on Wednesday, which further reflects his desire for people to take action and not rely on distant politicians.

Throughout the video, Anthony expressed frustration with the weaponization of his music by both the right and the left. He feels that his message has been misinterpreted and used to further divide people. Despite the controversies, Anthony believes that his music has united people from all walks of life and has sparked a global response. He emphasized that his music is not a Republican or Democrat thing, but rather a call for change and unity.

Anthony's rise to fame has been unexpected, with "Rich Men North of Richmond" gaining millions of views overnight and reaching the top of the charts. Before his breakout success, he was an unknown songwriter. Despite the attention he has received, Anthony remains grounded and focused on his music. He wants to continue writing songs that resonate with people and serve as a voice for those who are frustrated and tired of the current state of the country.

In conclusion, Oliver Anthony, the singer behind the chart-topping song "Rich Men North of Richmond," has expressed his disapproval of his song being used as a conservative anthem in the Republican presidential debate. He clarified that his song is not specifically about Joe Biden but is a broader critique of those in power. Anthony expressed frustration with the politicization of his music and the attempts by both the right and the left to use it for their own agendas. Nevertheless, his song has gained immense popularity, with millions of views on YouTube and reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Anthony hopes that his music will inspire people to come together and stop relying on the government to solve their problems. He believes that change can only come from the unity and support of the people.