Country music artist Brantley Gilbert has voiced his support for the alternative halftime performance organized by Turning Point USA, asserting that his involvement is not meant to create division. He points to the notable lack of country artists featured in the official Super Bowl halftime show for over two decades as a key reason for his participation. Gilbert frames his decision as a personal one, driven by the desire for his children to witness his performance during such a significant American event, and he upholds a belief in national unity.
Gilbert's statement, shared across his social media platforms, addresses the controversy surrounding his performance at the TPUSA-backed event. Many interpret this alternative show as a statement against the NFL's selection of Bad Bunny, who performs primarily in Spanish, for the main halftime slot. Gilbert, however, insists his motivation stems from a different place, primarily the opportunity to perform on a grand stage and the broader issue of country music's underrepresentation at the Super Bowl.
He highlights a statistic that resonates deeply within the country music community: it has been more than 20 years since a country artist headlined or was a significant part of the Super Bowl halftime show. Historically, country artists have only been featured twice in this capacity: in 2003 with Shania Twain alongside No Doubt, and in 1993 with a 'Rockin' Country Sunday' lineup including The Judds, Clint Black, Tanya Tucker, and Travis Tritt. While country artists have frequently performed the national anthem at the Super Bowl in recent years, including Reba McEntire, Chris Stapleton, Mickey Guyton, and Eric Church, their exclusion from the main halftime spectacle remains a point of contention for many.
Despite the backlash and critical comments on social media, accusing the alternative show of being a protest against diversity and promoting division, Gilbert maintains his stance. He acknowledges differing perspectives but reiterates that his primary goal is not to divide but to fulfill a long-held dream and to set an example for his family. He emphasizes his belief in unity, stating, "united we stand, divided we fall," and expresses his hope for national solidarity.
Gilbert is joined by fellow country artists Gabby Barrett and Lee Brice, along with the often-controversial Kid Rock, in performing at the TPUSA event. This conservative organization, founded by Charlie Kirk and now led by Erika Kirk, has a clear political alignment, which further fuels the debate around the alternative halftime show. Gilbert, who is also known for his advocacy for gun rights and his prominent Second Amendment tattoo, openly shares his personal journey as a recovering addict and a devoted family man, aiming to inspire others through his music and life choices.
In summary, Brantley Gilbert's defense of his participation in the Turning Point USA alternative Super Bowl halftime show centers on the lack of country music representation in the main event and his personal aspirations. He aims to demonstrate unity, despite the perceived divisive nature of the alternative show, and hopes to inspire his children through his performance. His involvement underscores a broader discussion about genre diversity and political statements within major cultural events.