At a recent concert, country music icon Alan Jackson made waves when he silently got up and walked off stage as Beyoncé and the Dixie Chicks were about to take the stage. Witnesses said that Jackson seemed disinterested and said, “It’s not worth it,” before leaving the event.
Pop and country music fans debated the incident when it swiftly went viral. Given his reputation for traditional country music, some people theorize that Jackson would have objected to Beyoncé’s inclusion in the genre, which has historically been split between traditionalists and contemporary influences. Others think that the Dixie Chicks’ divisive political views, which have turned off numerous country fans over the years, were the reason for his departure.
Jackson has not formally addressed the matter, but it appears from his previous interviews that he favors traditional country music above genre crosses. He has already expressed worries about how country music has changed, saying it has strayed too far from its historical foundations.
In the meantime, opinions on Beyoncé’s entry into the country music scene have been divided. Some contend that country music should remain faithful to its original style, while others applaud her attempts to diversify the genre.
Fans are still debating whether Jackson’s silent departure was a personal protest or just a question of taste in music.
