Surname 1

Name:

Instructor:

Course:

Date:

Jason Aldean's "Try That In a Small Town" positional paper

Introduction

Music censorship has constantly been an issue because of the contradiction with a

freedom of artistic expression. There were angry debates around censorship, this time

surrounding country music artist Jason Aldean’s song “Try That In a Small Town” and video that

were pulled by CMT. As a result, it leads to a reassessment of its appropriateness for publication

in view of the still existing conflict between freedom of art and decency. In this essay, I will

focus on the censorship of Jason Aldean’s music video that was pulled down by CMT explaining

my position which is firmly against the censorship as I believe it infringes upon the fundamental

principles of free speech and artistic expression.

Thesis Statement

It has been contended that “Try that in a small town” must not be canceled from CMT

since it symbolizes artists’ freedom to articulate concerns about the society at large irrespective

of the fact that such concerns do not support murderous acts at face value.

Affirmation - Artistic Expression and Social Commentary

“Try That In a Small Town” is an art and a keen social observation. The lyrics are the

result of skillful pens of Kelly Lovelace, Neil Thrasher, Tully Kennedy, and Kurt Michael
 Surname 2

Allison who paint pictures of social issues with their words. The song is a plea to reflection,

asking people to think about the consequences of certain actions in a particular community

setting in a small town (CBC). The music’s nuances in narratives allow people to talk about how

communities work and what is one person supposed to do.

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos - Emotional and Logical Appeal

Incorporation of ethos, logos, and pathos renders more weight to the story. Critics claim

that it is violent but Aldean argues that there are no racist lyrics in it and that the video has real

news footage. While some controversial scenes are intentionally added to provoke emotions so

as to get people reflect on the unsettling realities or not to encourage violent behavior. The

deliberate agitation creates room for serious debates about what meaning is embedded into art as

opposed to being uncomfortable at first perception.

Concession - Acknowledging Opposing Views

Responding to criticisms is very important. Though the songs and videos might have

made viewers uncomfortable, it hardly gives room for people to associate it with advocating for

violence or racism(GVS). However, it is important to take different points of view about the text

and speak with each other instead of censorship.

Refutation/Rebuttal - Flaws in the Case for Censorship

Opponents rise against the plea for censorship, particularly in view of Aldean’s

declaration that the lyrics do not advance violence and racisim. Forbidding free creative

expression sets an ominous example in a democratic community that values freedom of speech.

Video debates shouldn’t just be about a debate; they must lead to meaningful discussions instead

of censorship. Accepting difference opinions and debating on the subtle connection between art,
 Surname 3

cultural beliefs, and individual perception are important (Murray). Through this, society will be

able to deal with complications associated with free expression, while preserving values upon

which artistic freedom is built.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to get “Try That in a Small Town” off air raises concerns on

the intricate tension between creative expression and community sentiments. The song’s content

is likely to be discomfiting for many, but deleting it from CMT stifles important dialogue on

social matters. It is necessary that artists, including those, who lived through such traumatic

events as in case with Aldean, were allowed to speak out also when their works challenged social

norms. Essentially, creating a conducive platform for discussion and analysis is vital for any

form of growth within society.

 Surname 4

Works Cited

CBC. "Country Star Jason Aldean Defends Song After Video Pulled by U.S.

Broadcaster." CBC, 19 July 2023, www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/jason-aldean-try-

that-in-a-small-town-video-1.6910815. Accessed 20 Nov. 2023.

GVS. "Jason Aldean Defends Song After Video Removal by U.S. Broadcaster | GVS

News." GVS CANADA, 19 July 2023, www.globalvillagespace.com/canada/jason-

aldean-defends-song-after-video-removal-by-u-s-broadcaster-gvs-news/. Accessed

20 Nov. 2023.

Murray, Tom. "Jason Aldean Hits Back at Criticism over Controversial Song." The

Independent, 19 Oct. 2023,

www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/jason-aldean-try-that-small-

town-b2432663.html. Accessed 20 Nov. 2023.