In the latest development surrounding country singer Morgan Wallen's upcoming bar opening in Nashville, the Metropolitan Council has rejected plans to display a 20-foot sign advertising the establishment on the downtown Nashville strip. The decision was made due to Wallen's past controversies, including his use of a racial slur and alleged chair-throwing incident.

The resolution, which would have permitted the bar's ownership group to hang a large, neon-lighted sign outside the venue, similar to other country stars' bars, was denied by a vote of 30-3. Council members expressed their concerns, denouncing Wallen's actions and stating their opposition to promoting someone with his track record.

Council member Delishia Porterfield voiced her disapproval, stating, "I don't want to see a billboard up with the name of a person who's throwing chairs off of balconies and who is saying racial slurs." District 24 Council member Brenda Gadd mentioned Wallen's history of receiving second chances, while District 14 Council member Jordan Huffman criticized Wallen's actions as harmful and hateful.

Antoinette Lee, another Council member, believed that actively speaking up against such behavior might make individuals reconsider engaging in harmful actions. Despite these concerns, a representative for Wallen has not responded to requests for comment.

This recent controversy follows Wallen's arrest in April, where he was charged with three felony counts after allegedly throwing a chair from the roof of a bar, narrowly missing two police officers below. Wallen's lawyer, Worrick Robinson, represented him in his first court hearing, explaining that the case would involve subpoenas and witnesses, leading to a reset court date on August 15.

Wallen released a statement on social media acknowledging his actions and expressing remorse. Three years prior, the singer was caught on camera using a racial slur, which resulted in his record label suspending him and radio stations pulling his music.

Despite the setback with the sign placement, some experts suggest Wallen's arrest could actually drive more business to his bar. Public relations expert Doug Eldridge mentioned that Wallen's image is associated with a rowdy, partying persona, which could attract more customers given the nature of bar marketing in Nashville. Ted Jenkin, president of Exit Stage Left Advisors, also believes that Wallen's loyal followers will likely show support during the grand opening.

Morgan Wallen's six-story bar, named Morgan Wallen's This Bar and Tennessee Kitchen, is set to feature six bars, a rooftop area, and three live music stages. The controversies surrounding Wallen may have impacted the bar's signage approval, but it remains to be seen how it will affect its overall success.