Despite the increase of artists of color in the country music genre, racism is still very much alive and well both in country music and outside of it — and up-and-coming star Breland has seen its effects firsthand.
The singer says he’s “definitely” dealt with racism during his time in the genre, including receiving “nasty” messages — even some telling him to hurt himself. Ultimately, though, the singer says he’s able to shrug off the hate and focus on his growing, devoted fanbase.
“Ultimately, I know the place those messages come from, and that’s not the place that I create from,” Breland explains during a recent interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1.
“I operate from a place of love and acceptance and inclusion,” he continues. “I try to respond to everything with love and positive energy for the things that merit a response.”
Furthermore, he says, keeping that mindset helps him surround himself with supportive people in the industry.
“And I will also say that I tend to get the energy that I put out back,” he continues, adding that he hopes creating positive momentum can help create change in the country genre as a whole.
“I would love to see a country music genre that is as representative of different cultures and perspectives and beliefs and skin colors as the world,” Breland concludes.
The singer’s new album, Cross Country, arrives September 9.
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