Zach Bryan, a chart-topping country music star, was arrested on Thursday, Sept. 7 for “obstructing an investigation” according to NBC.
Although he did issue a public apology on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Friday Sept. 8, this incident has sparked a bigger question concerning the artist’s true character.
Bryan is known for his songs in which he portrays himself as a sort of loner; a flawed, regretful man who has made many mistakes in his life. He describes a life full of hardship and escaping his current situation. Many of his songs, however, have positive messages in the end of redemption and achieved happiness.
Is this untrue for the star himself?
Thursday’s incident involved Bryan’s bodyguard getting stopped by Oklahoma Highway patrol. The singer, seeing the stop, pulled his truck over near the officer and asked what was taking so long. The officer instructed Bryan to get back in his truck, but he refused.
The officer informed Bryan that he would be arrested should his behavior continue, to which the Grammy nominated artist replied, “I’ll go to jail, let’s do it,” along with allegedly mentioning having beer in his truck.
This behavior does not necessarily oppose the man Bryan portrays in his music, especially considering “From a Lover’s Point of View,” the second song on Bryan’s 2020 album “Elizabeth.” In the song, Bryan describes himself from the perspective of his partner, saying that he has a “long climb ahead.” He also alludes to alcohol abuse and difficulty dealing with aggression; both issues that allegedly played roles in Bryan’s arrest.
Bryan’s music appeals to fans because he expresses that he wants to be better for his partner and will right his wrongs for whoever that is. The question facing him now is whether he will be better for his fans in the same way.
Friday, Sept. 8, Bryan posted a video to his X account explaining his perspective on the situation. In the video, the artist discusses his recent yet unrelated harassment at the hands of law enforcement, which he claims was a key contributor to his hostility toward the officer. The musician takes accountability for his actions, repeatedly dubbing them “immature” and “childish.”
In the days following the incident, Bryan has continually expressed his remorse over the situation, and fans have been quick to forgive this seemingly aggressive behavior. The country sensation is beloved by fans for the uplifting and inspiring messages he is able to share with them through his music. Despite the situation, fans have remained loyal to him through this tumultuous moment in his career.
Overall, the scandal seemed to prove that a person’s character is not defined by their mistakes; it is how they handle them that matters. Bryan acted in an “immature” manner, yet he handled the situation with maturity, accountability, and responsibility. It is not uncommon for stars to face doubts as well as lose sight of their humility during their rise to fame, but the “Something in the Orange” singer has shown his fans that he will attempt to reconcile his wrongs and be his best for them.