Country music icon Garth Brooks is making headlines with his unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive space in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee. In an interview with Billboard, Brooks discussed his upcoming project, the Friends In Low Places Bar & Honky Tonk, emphasizing his desire for it to be a sanctuary where everyone feels safe and respected.
The decision comes amidst recent conservative backlash directed at Bud Light, following their partnership with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney earlier this year. Outrage from fragile conservatives erupted online, with some musicians even joining the extreme outbursts. Kid Rock, who owns a bar in the same area, stopped selling Bud Light in response to the right-wing uproar.
However, Brooks is taking a different approach. He intends to serve every brand of beer at his bar, symbolizing his commitment to inclusivity and unity. In his own words, he wants the venue to be a place where people “like one another” and show respect. Those who enter the bar must embrace love and reject negativity, as Brooks bluntly states, “if you’re an a**hole, there are plenty of other places to go.”
Bud Light’s collaboration with Dylan Mulvaney sparked widespread controversy, not only among celebrities but also within conservative bars and the general public. Some establishments vowed to stop selling the beer, and acts of vandalism were reported in stores. Distributors associated with Anheuser-Busch, Bud Light’s parent company, faced verbal abuse and derogatory remarks, labeled as “gay beer salesmen.”
Amidst the turmoil, Bud Light and Anheuser-Busch stood firm in their commitment to inclusivity. They announced a donation of $200,000 to the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, further cementing their dedication to supporting the LGBTQ+ community. This gesture serves as a reminder that unity and acceptance prevail, even in the face of backlash.
Garth Brooks’ decision to create an inclusive bar that embraces diversity in beer choices sends a powerful message to the world. As the Friends In Low Places Bar & Honky Tonk takes shape, it promises to be a haven where all individuals, regardless of their background or identity, can gather and enjoy a safe and welcoming environment. In a time when divisiveness seems rampant, Brooks’ initiative reminds us of the importance of unity, respect, and embracing love above all else.
