I’m not going to sugarcoat it—writing a newsletter “normally” feels daunting these days. Just look out my window: Nashville is frozen. A lot of the city is without power, and folks are trying to stay warm in temperatures around four degrees. Trees wrapped in ice block roads and cover homes. It’s strange how something so beautiful can also be dangerous.
I can’t help but worry about my city and my country. Recently, we witnessed the tragic killing of Alex Pretti, a nurse who dedicated his life to caring for veterans. He was shot by federal agents while exercising his rights in Minneapolis. Sadly, this isn’t an isolated incident. Just weeks before, another innocent person lost their life in similar circumstances. Last fall, Santos Edilberto Banegas Reyes died in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody within 24 hours of his arrest. In fact, 32 people died in ICE custody last year alone.
It’s hard to ignore the moral implications of these events. Country music, a genre often proud of its relationship with the military, has been surprisingly quiet. Pretti spent five years in the Intensive Care Unit at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, providing essential care to veterans. Yet, we’ve seen little from major country artists, who usually claim to honor veterans.
Artists like John Rich and Kid Rock have made veterans a central part of their messages, often highlighting their struggles and sacrifices. Country music has a rich history of songs that reflect on war’s impact, from Loretta Lynn’s “Dear Uncle Sam” to the Chicks’ “Travelin’ Soldier.” Given this backdrop, why aren’t these artists speaking out about Pretti?
Perhaps it’s not so surprising that they remain silent. While social media activism can raise awareness, it often doesn’t translate to real change. Many artists are busy promoting personal brands rather than addressing pressing social issues. For instance, since Pretti’s death, John Rich has shared photos of frozen trees instead of expressing his condolences or raising funds for Pretti’s family.
Interestingly, public reactions reveal a disconnect. Many people expected vocal support and action, especially from those who often talk about patriotism. Social media trends indicate fans are looking for accountability. They want these artists to show they genuinely care, particularly when it comes to the lives of those who served.
This issue isn’t just about politics—it’s a matter of humanity. Pretti was a legal gun owner exercising his rights. Yet, where is the conversation around this when lives are lost in such tragic ways? It’s vital for artists to put their actions where their words are. If the country music community truly values veterans, they should step up now, not when it’s politically convenient.
What happened to Alex Pretti is a wake-up call. The country music community has an opportunity to lead and educate listeners. By speaking out, they could show that their devotion to veterans is more than just a brand—it’s a commitment to justice.
Let’s hope for a future where these conversations happen not just behind closed doors but publicly, where they can lead to real change.
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Alex Pretti,Country Music
