Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
Maren Morris said that The Chicks have long tried to make the country music space more inclusive and safe for artists, though she noted that those efforts can sometimes be misunderstood or taken out of context.
Maren Morris has clarified that her past comments were not meant as criticism of country music itself, but rather of what she described as the industry’s “business machine.”
In a TikTok video, the Grammy-winning artist said she has repeatedly had to correct the idea that she “hates country music,” explaining that her remarks in a 2023 Los Angeles Times interview were aimed at the music business side of the genre, not the genre as a whole.
Morris said she remains deeply connected to country music, describing it as her home and a major influence since childhood in Texas. She reflected on learning guitar and songwriting early on and later moving to Nashville to pursue her career.
She also addressed long-running criticism of her genre-blending work, noting that some listeners have questioned whether her music fits within country at all since her breakout single “My Church.”
According to Morris, her concern has always been about how the industry operates, particularly the expectations placed on artists and the pressure to conform. She described it as a system where people are expected to “kiss the ring” and avoid speaking out in order to maintain acceptance.
While acknowledging that some industry professionals understand her perspective, she said parts of her career within traditional country structures—such as radio and awards categories—have shifted over time.
Morris emphasized that she continues to write and create music in Nashville and has no intention of stepping away from country music. She urged fans not to misinterpret her comments, saying she was speaking about the business side of the industry rather than the music itself.