Maren Morris Fully Embraces Musical Independence: A Bold Departure from Country Music?
Maren Morris clarifies her stance on leaving country music, stating it's an exaggeration but acknowledges her inability to fully engage in certain aspects
Maren Morris is addressing rumors about her departure from country music, clarifying that it's an exaggeration to suggest she's abandoning the entire genre. Speaking on The New York Times' "Popcast" podcast on Wednesday, October 4, the 33-year-old singer-songwriter explained that while she no longer wishes to be involved in the negative aspects of the industry, it is incorrect to claim she is completely leaving country music.
"I can't really participate in much of it," Morris stated. "I'm content with pursuing my own path. Join me if you'd like; everyone is invited."
Morris recently debuted The Bridge EP, featuring tracks like "The Tree" and "Get the Hell Out of Here," which seemingly signifies her departure from the realm of country music. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, she openly expressed feeling disconnected from the genre.
"I had initially contemplated the idea of completely annihilating it and commencing anew," she disclosed at that moment. "Nevertheless, it appears to be self-destructing even without my intervention."
Nonetheless, Morris utilized the "Popcast" podcast as an opportunity to clarify her true intentions, divulging that she will refrain from taking part in accolades ceremonies centered around country music.
“I requested that my music not be submitted. … I am uncertain if this is a permanent decision,” she clarified. “I am not excluding fans of country music, nor is that my intention. I simply need to step away from certain aspects of the music industry."
In 2020, Maren Morris expressed her main concern with the country music "institution," particularly in relation to the Black Lives Matter movement and the cancellation of concerts during COVID-19 outbreaks.
"I reached a breaking point with the circus-like atmosphere surrounding me, where I constantly had to endure and justify other people's inappropriate actions and brush them off with laughter," she expressed. "Transformations occurred within me during that year, altering many aspects of who I am."
Although 2020 marked a significant shift in her life, Morris acknowledged that she had been facing criticism within the country music industry for several years.
Morris spoke about the backlash she faced after the release of her tracks "My Church" and "80s Mercedes" in 2016. She shared how people would often tell her that she didn't belong in the industry. According to Morris, this was a clear sign of what lay ahead for her. Reflecting on the situation, she realized that things were worsening for those who were marginalized, particularly women. She emphasized that the situation had not improved or even stabilized, but continued to deteriorate over time.
Despite gaining fame, Morris has consistently voiced her opinions on social issues within the country music community. Notably, she stirred controversy by engaging in a public feud with Jason Aldean and his wife, Brittany Aldean, regarding gender-affirming care for youth. Although she may be distancing herself from the traditional norms of country music, Morris remains an active presence in the industry.
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