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John Rich Says Jelly Roll Knew Political Comments Could Alienate ‘Half or More’ of His Country Fans
Confirmed
In Short: Jelly Roll took a gamble with his fan base – and John Rich said the country star knew exactly what was at stake.
Jelly Roll took a gamble with his fan base – and John Rich said the country star knew exactly what was at stake.
For John Rich, the fact that Jelly Roll spoke openly despite the potential backlash was evidence that the singer meant what he said.
He also connected Jelly Roll’s decision to his own experiences speaking publicly about politics, which John Rich said had resulted in professional consequences for him.
As previously reported by Billboard, Jelly Roll served as a guest host on Jimmy Kimmel Live! last week.
Still, John Rich said Jelly Roll’s situation was distinct because some fans may have been caught off guard by what the singer had to say.
“Jelly Roll knew the same thing concerning his audience,” John Rich said.
“When you make statements that are that hardcore and, to a large extent, counteractive to the presentation you’ve been making, you do understand in country music that half or more of your audience may disown you,” John Rich said, adding that some listeners could “stop listening” altogether.
"It is funny that, before this week, everybody thought I was MAGA. And now they think I'm some sort of liberal snowflake," Jelly Roll said.
What's confirmed
What's still developing
- Further details were still being reported.