Garth Brooks, one of the most successful and influential artists in country music, has opened up about his views on inclusivity and equality in the genre.
In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Tonight, Brooks said he decided to speak out after receiving transphobic hate online for wearing a shirt that said ‘Be Kind’ during his performance at the Kennedy Center Honors in December.
‘I just thought, you know what, this is a great opportunity to say something,’ he said. ‘Because I think everybody has a right to be who they are, and I think everybody has a right to love who they love.’
Brooks, who has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights for years, said he hopes his message will resonate with his fans and fellow country artists.
‘I think country music is a big family, and I think we should embrace everybody,’ he said. ‘And I think we should be proud of our diversity and our differences, because that’s what makes us stronger.’
Brooks also revealed that he will be opening his own bar in Nashville, called Garth’s Place, where he plans to offer ‘every brand of beer’ and welcome people from all walks of life.
‘I want it to be a place where everybody feels comfortable, where everybody feels welcome, where everybody feels like they belong,’ he said. ‘And I want it to be a place where we can have fun and celebrate music and celebrate life.’
