On a recent episode of Real Time with Bill Maher, the comedian drew inspiration from the evolving landscape of country music to call for greater unity and respect among Americans.
Maher noted the genre’s progress, highlighting its increasing inclusion and diversity. “Just look at the music. Maybe that’s the best analogy for where we are culturally,” he remarked. Reflecting on his past disdain for country music, he acknowledged its transformation: “It’s not some pickin’ and a-grinnin’ bumpkin in a rhinestone leisure suit vaguely longing for the return of segregation anymore… mostly.”
He pointed to collaborations like Shaboozey and Post Malone, along with Luke Combs’ recent duet with queer Black artist Tracy Chapman at the Grammy Awards, as signs of positive change within the genre. Maher emphasized, “The big hat people and the big hair people, they don’t hate each other. They like and respect each other. They want to work together. We can’t duplicate this on a grander scale in America?”
While Maher’s message of unity resonated, some country music fans remain divided, particularly following Beyoncé’s snub by the CMA Awards for her genre debut, Cowboy Carter.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Maher’s remarks come amid a politically charged atmosphere, with debates heating up between candidates including Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, alongside an upcoming vice presidential debate on CBS News featuring Tim Walz and J.D. Vance.
