Artists around the world are itching to get back on stage, but amidst the ongoing pandemic, they’ve had to adapt to the current environment by utilizing live streams and the latest trend, drive-in concerts.
Country star Chase Rice didn’t seem to think the social distancing rules applied to him when he performed for 1,000 unmasked, shoulder-to-shoulder fans in Tennessee on Saturday night (June 27th).
Petros’ Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary usually holds 10,000 people, but its capacity was reduced to 4,000 in an effort to social distance. Even though only 1,000 fans turned up, it’s clear the rules were a mere ‘suggestion’ by the looks of the media from the show.
This did not sit well with country singer Kelsea Ballerini, who called out Rice on Twitter the following night (June 28th).
“Imagine being selfish enough to put thousands of people’s health at risk, not to mention the potential ripple effect, and play a NORMAL country concert right now. @ChaseRiceMusic, We all want (and need) to tour. We just care about our fans and their families enough to wait,” wrote the fed-up singer.
Fellow country singer Cassadee Pope chimed in, responding, “Wait, Is this real? I’m so confused as to how this many people got approved by a venue to gather during a pandemic. Wtf?”
Mickey Guyton, another big name in country music re-posted a video from the show stating, “This is happening in Tennessee where cases are spiking y’all. Jesus help us.”
This is happening in Tennessee where cases are spiking y’all. Jesus help us. https://t.co/f5i34rz4gW
— Mickey Guyton (@MickeyGuyton) June 28, 2020
Brian May, VP of the Brushy Mountain Group made a statement to Billboard stating, “All local requirements were abided by for the recent concert, and numerous precautions were taken.”
Ashley Iasimone from Billboard noted, “He indicated that everyone’s temperature was checked before they were allowed entry, and hand sanitizer was given to attendees.”
Although it was not enforced, May noted “Vendors and staff were advised to wear masks and gloves.”
May ensures they are “implementing further safety measures” and looking into solutions including “converting the space to drive-in style concerts” and postponing shows.
On a positive note, The Nashville Board of Health implemented a mandate for the use of face masks which went into effect on June 28th. Let’s hope this helps to slow the spread of the virus.
With everyone’s cooperation, we can fight this thing together. The quicker we beat the virus, the sooner we can get back our shows the way they’re supposed to be– loud, live, and SAFE!
