ST.Carrie Underwood Challenges Zach Bryan: “You Can’t Throw Away Your Country Values” Amid Controversy Over New Song
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.
The country music world is once again in the spotlight, divided over a new, provocative track by rising star Zach Bryan. His latest song, rumored to be titled “Land of the Freezing Hearts,” criticizes immigration policies and questions the direction of America’s values, sparking heated debate about what truly defines “country values.”
While many fans applaud Bryan for his courage and raw honesty, Carrie Underwood — one of country music’s most revered voices — has publicly voiced her concerns. In a recent interview, Underwood made it clear she feels Bryan’s song crosses a line.
“You can’t throw away your country values just to make noise,” Underwood stated firmly. “Country music has always been about love — love for your people, your land, your faith. Not about tearing it apart.”
Known for powerful anthems like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Something in the Water,” Underwood emphasized that country artists carry a special responsibility to their audience.
“Our fans come from small towns, from hardworking families who love this country,” she said. “They don’t need more division — they need hope.”
Bryan responded to the backlash with a heartfelt post on social media, explaining his intent behind the song:
“‘Land of the Freezing Hearts’ isn’t anti-American — it’s a love letter to a country that’s lost its warmth. If you love something, you have to care enough to challenge it.”
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid, haunting picture, with lines like “Kids behind fences can’t see the stars” and “Freedom don’t mean cold hearts.” Critics are split: some praise Bryan for bravely confronting uncomfortable issues, while others accuse him of straying from the traditional themes that built his career.
This controversy echoes past moments of division in country music — from the Dixie Chicks’ backlash in 2003 to Jason Aldean’s polarizing “Try That in a Small Town.”
Despite the tension, both Underwood and Bryan stand firm. Underwood clarifies, “I’m not against speaking truth, but there’s a way to do it with grace.” Bryan remains committed to using his music “to speak for the quiet and the hurting.”
As country fans grapple with themes of patriotism and protest, one thing is clear: the genre’s heart continues to beat strongly, even if to very different rhythms.
