Garth Brooks Now Faces the Threat of a Boycott by Bud Light

The country singer, Garth Brooks, is facing a boycott related to LGBTQ+ issues following his plans to open the Friends in Low Places Bar & Honky Tonk in Nashville’s South Broadway district. In an interview with Billboard last week, Brooks stated, “If you’re an a-hole, there are plenty of other places on lower Broadway.” He also expressed his desire for his bar to be a safe and welcoming space where people respect one another, regardless of their background. Brooks emphasized that his bar would serve every brand of beer, stating that it is not their decision to make as patrons should feel loved and accepted once they enter the establishment. However, other Nashville bar owners, including John Rich and Kid Rock, have removed Bud Light from their menus due to its partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney, leading Rich to suggest that people might boycott Brooks’ bar if they sell Bud Light as well.

As reported by USA Today, there are individuals who are not only calling for a boycott of Brooks’ bar but also his music. However, this is not the first time Brooks has faced backlash related to LGBTQ+ issues. In 1992, he released the song “We Shall Be Free,” which advocated for the elimination of homophobia and racism. Addressing the controversy surrounding his beer comments on his weekly streaming show, Brooks affirmed his commitment to inclusivity and diversity. He stated, “Inclusiveness is always going to be me. I think diversity is the answer to the problems that are here and the problems that are coming. So I love diversity. All-inclusive, so all are welcome.” Brooks acknowledged that not everyone shares his views but encouraged individuals to enter his bar with love, tolerance, patience, and an open mind. Interestingly, Brooks compared his bar to “the Chick-fil-A of honky-tonks.”