Mae Estes has figured out one way to maximize social media engagement… and she’s not sure she loves it.
The “Mr. Fix It” singer recently joined the Whiskey Riff Raff podcast to discuss her latest project – The 90’s Called – and how she feels about other artists dipping into the sound of the “Golden Era of Country.” The country singer also explained the financial realities of making music and touring, talked about how much Dolly Parton meant to her as an artist (and inspired her to move to Nashville), and even touched on how she strives to be her authentic self even in the midst of occasional criticism.
It might seem obvious to say this, but I’ll say it anyways: Criticism is running rampant online.
Estes has had a front row seat to seeing how social media can be quite the toxic place as she’s risen up the country music ranks, and though she doesn’t see it as ideal, she’s starting to think that outrage is the only way to grab people’s attention:
“I’m kind of convinced that, strategically, you have to about piss somebody off to get their attention on social’s these days. That can be as simple as, ‘This is the best George Strait song ever.’ And whatever song I play, you are triggered to say, ‘No this is.’ It feels like you have to start a conflict.”
There’s some unfortunate truth to that.
And even when Estes – and other country artists – aren’t trying to stir things up, those online still find a way to get fired up. A recent example she provided? Rolling out tour dates for her upcoming supporting gig with Little Big Town:
“Even tour announcements, we just announced I’m getting to go out with Little Big Town this fall, which is so exciting and I’m a collaborator on the post so I get all of the notifications on the comments. Half of them are, ‘No love for Texas’ or ‘No love for so-and-so.’
Even the opening act, people are like, ‘Ashley Monroe hates this state.’ She’s the opening act on this tour and you think the opening acts specifically target (states)? It’s just so funny. You almost have to lean into that, I think.”
Estes did clarify that she’s trying to find ways to lean into the social media firestorm in a more innocent ways, because after all… she doesn’t want to constantly be in the middle of controversy in today’s hypersensitive climate.
You can hear about all of that and a whole lot more from Mae Estes by checking out the interview on YouTube or making sure to download the podcast on Apple Podcasts by searching “Whiskey Riff Raff.”
We’re also available on Spotify and wherever else you can listen to podcasts.
Cheers, y’all.
