Aaron Lewis claims politics have led to music‑industry blacklisting

Country singer Aaron Lewis says the music industry has turned its back on him because of his political views. In an interview on the “Pickin’ It Out with Andrew Pope” podcast, Lewis, who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of Staind, alleged that executives consider “everything’s too political now,” noting that he is no longer invited to perform at the Grand Ole Opry. He announced his sixth solo album, Give My Country Back, scheduled for release on July 17, and warned listeners it may be difficult to find.

Lewis referenced other performers who have faced backlash for politically charged appearances, such as rapper Vanilla Ice, who was criticized for playing at a Trump‑backed state fair. Both cases illustrate growing tensions between artists and industry gatekeepers over political expression.