Country singer Megan Moroney recently addressed the unexpected controversy that linked her to Carrie Underwood’s decision to perform at Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration.
Some fans, upset with Underwood’s choice, declared their intention to stop supporting her music and instead turn to Moroney. However, Moroney has made it clear that she does not support tearing down another female artist in the process.
Moroney’s Response to Fan Backlash
Speaking to Rolling Stone, Moroney expressed confusion over being pulled into the debate.
“I’m like, ‘Why am I getting brought into this?'” she said, referencing the social media buzz surrounding the situation. While she appreciates fans who relate to her music, she does not believe in pitting women against each other.
“I’m happy they relate to my music,” she continued. “… [but] I’m never happy tearing down another woman.”
How the Controversy Started
A Glamour article from January detailed how some Underwood fans felt betrayed by her decision to sing at Trump’s inauguration. One former Underwood fan, who previously ran a Carrie Underwood fan account, rebranded themselves to support Megan Moroney instead, calling her an “unproblematic, fresh, and authentic voice that country music needs.”
Underwood has a large LGBTQ+ following, many of whom connected deeply with her 2018 song “Love Wins”. Some of these fans felt let down by her inauguration performance, viewing it as contradictory to the message of inclusivity in her music.
Moroney’s Take on the Situation
Moroney acknowledges that fans have every right to feel how they do about the situation.
“It’s a valid feeling,” she said, referring to the disappointment some fans expressed over Underwood’s performance choice. However, she hopes her music reaches listeners of all political backgrounds.
“I come from a really big family, with each side of the [political] spectrum. And I’ve found that you can’t change anyone’s mind,” she explained. “The best thing I can do is love them. That’s what I want to give my fans, too. My music is there so hopefully, they can find comfort.”
Would Moroney Perform at a Presidential Inauguration?
When asked if she would make the same decision as Underwood and perform at a Trump inauguration, Moroney remained neutral.
“It’s hard to say,” she responded, leaving the question open-ended.