Brantley Gilbert isn't shy to admit that he dislikes artists who pull out of performing at patriotic shows. The country singer's comments came during a recent appearance on the "Net Positive" podcast.
Videos by Wide Open Country
"It is aggravating seeing guys sign up and then back out," Gilbert said. "It's like, a lot of times, like we took a lot of heat for the Turning Point thing. My kids got to watch two quarters of football and then see their dad play. That's cool."
As the discussion continued, Gilbert shared his outlook on performing at patriotic shows. He noted that they're great business opportunities.
"We agreed to do it. Like, I'm a businessman at the same time I'm an entertainer," Gilbert said. "I didn't do it for free. We get paid to play music."
Unfortunately for Gilbert, the world is becoming increasingly divided by politics. As such, patriotic shows can come with their own set of backlash.
"I never once looked at it and was like, 'This is going to be divisive. This is going to be great,'" he continued. "It doesn't make any sense."
Brantly Gilbert Addresses Backlash for Turning Point's Halftime Show
Later in the discussion, Gilbert discussed the backlash he received for performing in the halftime show of Turning Point.
"I'm a songwriter who grew up, and still lives in Jackson County, Georgia, whose goal in the music business was to sell out the local theater a few miles from my house and somehow make my living writing songs," a statement he released at the time read, via Page Six. "I'm a recovering addict with the history of all the bad choices that come with it. I'm not proud of those choices, but I am proud of the choice I've made to live in another direction."
Gilbert then continued by noting that he shares his life story through his music, in the hope that it inspires others.
"I share my story through my music in hopes that it may help and inspire others in their darkest hour. I'm a Christian, and I love our country despite its flaws. I've dedicated part of my life to the men and women who fight for it and the families of those who gave their life for it. Above all, I'm a proud husband and father of three."
Clearly, Gilbert has no regrets about his decision to perform at Turning Point. However, in the moment, he likely got a closer look at the hurdles that come with performing on politically driven shows.
