An interview with Luke Bryan was posted on Hits Daily Double‘s website at the end of last week, sharing the ACM Entertainer of the Year’s thoughts on outlaw country. Luke chose some rather colorful words to define the sub-genre, incidentally offending many in the aftermath.
On the list of those who took Luke’s words to heart is Kathy Pinkerman Jennings, Waylon Jennings‘ Daughter-in-Law (married to son Buddy Jennings). Kathy took to her Facebook to write an open letter to Luke regarding his statements in his recent interview.
To Luke Bryan :
I hope your family members are proud of you for using your WORLDWIDE platform to take the time to disrespect my Father in Law. You have managed to PROVE to the world your true self.
Albeit that Waylon’s drug use is well documented and something he overcame, I assure you, he was never “laying in a gutter.” At the peak of his career and drug abuse, he was making history and setting records. He, single handedly paved the way for you and everyone else to make music the way the artist wanted to make it. I’m not willing to waste my time to debate your “music” and / or the fact you have zillions of fans – I will however, not sit back and be quiet when you have so blatantly disrespected Waylon.
I recall the time I was at the Grand Ole Opry to visit with Andy Griggs, you were making your debut appearance. My friend that was with us had just seen your video. As we stood at the side of the stage, Jeannie Seeley was talking to us and you walked over to introduce your self to her and told her how much you admired her, she in turn introduced you to myself and my husband. I almost got a cavity because of the sweetness of the words coming out of your mouth – you told us Waylon was one of your musical heroes. You went on and on and on.
This is not about music, Outlaw Country, whatever – it’s about DISRESPECT.
You are a platinum, disrespecting, no singing, whining, grasping for media attention, asshole. Use your platform for something good, instead of bashing the LEGENDS that came before you.
Luke, likewise, headed to social media to have his final word on the matter, explaining his feelings toward the legends Kathy alluded to in her post.
Once Luke stepped away from social media to perform to a sold-out crowd at Vanderbilt Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, Kathy Jennings took her thoughts to YouTube to challenge naysayers regarding the validity of her Facebook post. She also wanted to reiterate that she is speaking solely on behalf of herself and ensure that people understand that her views are not those of her family’s.
What do you think of the latest dispute in country music? Do you think Luke’s words were too harsh, or do you think Kathy Jennings is speaking out of turn? We would love to hear your thoughts.
