Morgan Wallen has dominated the country music headlines this past week after he was virtually removed from the face of country music over his drunken n-bomb.
He was suspended by his label, dropped by his booking agent, and booted from country radio, although… his streams have never been better.
Artists including Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson and plenty of others spoke out, however when the news broke, his fellow CMA New Artist of the Year nominee, Jimmie Allen, took some time to process before he weighed in.
I take a few days to process before I reply or speak on anything. Logical thoughts for me takes time.
— Jimmie Allen (@JimmieAllen) February 5, 2021
And now that he has taken the time to gather his thoughts, his message was one of forgiveness.
Forgiveness is more powerful than abandonment. Our job as humans is to help each other be the best version of themselves. ✊🏽🙏🏽🤙🏽
— Jimmie Allen (@JimmieAllen) February 6, 2021
It’s not about what is easiest….it’s about what is right. In order to receive forgiveness, we must give forgiveness. ✊🏽
— Jimmie Allen (@JimmieAllen) February 6, 2021
Accountability is very important..we all must be held accountable for our actions. Looking over my life and my mistakes I remember the consequences I had to face, but I also remember the people that didnt give up me and were willing to help me DO better. Thankful for those people
— Jimmie Allen (@JimmieAllen) February 6, 2021
Country Music executive, Rakiyah Marshall, who is the owner of publishing and artist development company Back Blocks Music, has also spoke out with her take on the situation.
Her approach, much like Jimmie’s, was also a call not to abandon him all together:
“This guy has a heart. Maybe a little ignorant, for sure makes a lot of mistakes, may need a little extra love & care, has lost his fight with alcohol, but by no means is a racist.
Has a lot to learn about his missteps and it’s going to take a while. He is not perfect nor does he get a pass for his reckless behavior. But he does not deserve this and I’ll stand by that. I’m not giving up on him. Hope the world gets to see the person I know in that picture.”
Her post received positive comments from fellow artists, songwriters and other country music industry folks.
