John Rich's Stand Against 'Woke Culture': How Bud Light's Fall from Grace Boosted His Bar

Created: JANUARY 24, 2025

Country music star John Rich, known for his hit "Save a Horse," shared his perspective on the Bud Light controversy and its impact on his Nashville bar, Redneck Riviera. Rich explained how the beer brand's partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney led to a customer revolt at his establishment.

Following the launch of the Bud Light campaign, Rich witnessed a complete rejection of the beer by his patrons. "I think people finally reached their limit with 'woke culture' being constantly shoved in their faces," Rich commented. He described how customers simply wanted a refreshing beer after a long day, not a cultural debate. This sentiment was echoed by his manager, who reported that customers wouldn't even touch the Bud Light.

John Rich holds whiskey glass in the air with guitar strung around his neck at Nashville bar

Instead of discarding the unsold Bud Light, Rich allowed his customers to decide its fate, which resulted in zero sales. He eventually had the distributor retrieve the untouched cases and kegs – a reversal of the usual delivery process.

John Rich sits at his Nashville bar with his Redneck Riviera whiskey

Remarkably, Rich's business hasn't suffered since removing Bud Light. He believes most Americans, regardless of political affiliation, share common values like family, respect for the military, and a love of freedom. He cited polls indicating widespread dissatisfaction with the current state of the country.

Rich questioned Bud Light's marketing strategy, suggesting that beer should be a unifying beverage rather than a divisive one. He lamented the politicization of a simple pleasure. Meanwhile, his own Redneck Riviera whiskey, marketed with a focus on "God, family, country," has seen significant success.

John Rich holds a guitar on stage during concert Country stars Big & Rich perform on stage at a concert

Rich also addressed Garth Brooks' decision to offer Bud Light at his own Nashville bar. While respecting Brooks' choice, Rich predicted that the beer might not sell well. He speculated that Brooks' decision stemmed from a desire to bridge the divide in the country.

Garth Brooks performs earing signature black hat and coat John Rich wears black cowboy hat and blazer on stage

Finally, Rich reminisced about his own experiences at CMA Fest, emphasizing the importance of the event for country music fans.

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