Breland shares his opinion on Keith Urban performing at Mar-a-Lago

Keith Urban stirred conversation earlier this month when he gave a private show at Mar-a-Lago, the Palm Beach, Florida, resort owned by former President Donald Trump. While Trump attended, the event was actually hosted by Australian billionaire Anthony Pratt, a known Trump supporter. Urbans decision to perform at such a politically charged location left many country music fans, particularly liberals, uncertain about his intentions.

Breland, who has collaborated with Urban on songs from his 2020 album The Speed of Now Part 1, expressed mixed feelings about the performance. Speaking on Rolling Stones Nashville Now podcast, the songwriter admitted he hadnt yet discussed the event with Urban but noted that it seemed inconsistent with what he knows about him personally.

I dont love what that looks like as far as an endorsement, given other things hes publicly stated about his beliefs, Breland said. Im giving Keith the benefit of the doubt because I know him personally, and weve traveled and made music together, so I know his heart. But I also understand why people might form assumptions about his beliefs based on that performance.

Breland likened Urbans Mar-a-Lago appearance to Nellys January performance at the presidential inauguration. I feel the same about that as I did with Nelly make your money, as long as you understand the implications, he said. Keith is careful and thoughtful. I believe he weighed the pros and cons before deciding this was the right choice.

He also expressed interest in hearing Urbans perspective directly. I asked Nelly why he played at the Inauguration. He said it wasnt political, just him being a good American. I may not fully agree, but I respect his reasoning. I imagine Keith would have a perspective that clarifies his decision as well.

Breland acknowledged that, at first glance, Urbans performance might not have looked ideal. For artists like Jason Aldean or Cody Johnson, who are open about their political views, it would fit. Keith doesnt fall into that category, which is why it surprised people. Thats what made it newsworthy in the first place.

He concluded by emphasizing that the context and history of each artist matter: If Aldean played Mar-a-Lago, its different because of his public alignment with Trump. Each artist has their own situation.

Author: Ethan Caldwell