Jason Aldean’s latest single, “Try That in a Small Town,” has claimed the top spot on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase country chart, a significant achievement for the country artist. Aldean took to social media on October 24 to express his gratitude to fans and radio for making the song a hit. He also hinted at the impending release of his new album, “Highway Desperado,” scheduled to drop on November 3.
This success comes on the heels of “Try That in a Small Town” previously reaching No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Aldean’s first appearance at the top of that prestigious list.
However, this chart-topping journey has not been without its share of turbulence. The controversy erupted after the release of the song’s music video in July. Critics accused the song of containing racist undertones and promoting the concept of “sundown towns.” Furthermore, they voiced concerns about the perceived endorsement of gun-based vigilante justice in the song’s lyrics and imagery.
In response to the controversy, CMT decided to pull the music video from its rotation. Despite the backlash, passionate fans rallied in defense of the song. Aldean, too, issued a statement, vehemently denying the accusations and branding them as “not only meritless but dangerous.”
While the political controversy undoubtedly bolstered sales, it also incited protests outside one of Aldean’s concerts in Chicago. “Try That in a Small Town” continues to dominate the charts and ignite discussions within the country music community, leaving no doubt that it has made a lasting impact.
