During a recent event, country music icon Alan Jackson made headlines when he silently got up and left right before Beyoncé and the Dixie Chicks took the stage.
Witnesses claim that Jackson seemed disinterested and said, “It’s not worth it,” before leaving the venue.
Pop and country music fans debated the incident after it swiftly went viral.
Given his reputation for traditional country music, some people theorize that Jackson might have objected to Beyoncé’s inclusion in the genre, which has historically been split between traditionalists and contemporary influences.
Others think that the Dixie Chicks’ divisive political views, which have turned off some country fans over the years, were the reason for his departure.
Jackson has not formally addressed the matter, but it appears from his previous interviews that he favors traditional country music over genre crossovers.
He has previously expressed worries about how country music has changed, saying it has strayed too far from its historical foundations.
In the meantime, opinions on Beyoncé’s entry into the country music scene have been divided. Some contend that country music should remain true to its original style, while others applaud her attempts to diversify the genre.
Fans are still debating whether Jackson’s silent departure was a sign of personal disapproval or just a question of taste in music.