Country music star Jason Aldean's latest music video for "Try That in a Small Town" has been removed from CMT's rotation. While the network hasn't publicly explained its decision, the move follows a wave of criticism directed at the song and its accompanying video.

Some critics have labeled the song as "pro-lynching," an interpretation Aldean strongly refutes. The video incorporates news footage from the 2020 social unrest, juxtaposed with lyrics about confronting law enforcement and disrespecting the American flag.

Despite the controversy, "Try That in a Small Town" has climbed to the top of the iTunes charts. Aldean's record label, BBR Music Group, and representatives for the singer have not yet commented on CMT's decision.

The video's production company, TackleBox, clarified that the filming location, the Maury County Courthouse in Columbia, Tennessee, is a frequently used site for various productions and was not chosen by Aldean himself. They emphasized that any suggestions otherwise are inaccurate. This specific location carries historical weight, as it was the site of a lynching in 1927.

Aldean took to social media to address the accusations, denying any racial undertones in the song and emphasizing the use of real news footage in the video. He reiterated his experience performing at the Route 91 Harvest music festival in Las Vegas during the 2017 mass shooting, highlighting his personal connection to the impact of violence. He also mentioned the recent Nashville school shooting, underscoring his aversion to senseless tragedies.

Aldean explained the song's intended meaning, stating it reflects the sense of community he experienced growing up, where neighbors supported each other regardless of their differences. He linked this sentiment to a broader desire for a return to normalcy in a world filled with troubling headlines.

Aldean's wife, Brittany, also defended him on social media, criticizing media narratives and advocating for speaking the truth.