Nashville Council Denies Morgan Wallen's Sign for Lower Broadway Bar Amid Controversy
ICARO Media Group
In a recent development, the Nashville council has voted overwhelmingly to deny country star Morgan Wallen a 20-foot sign bearing his name in the city's renowned Lower Broadway entertainment district. The proposed sign was set to hang from the bar over the sidewalk, adjacent to the venue's existing sign affixed to the top of the building.
The council's decision came after considering Wallen's questionable behavior in recent years. The country singer faced arrest and felony charges for a rooftop chair-throwing incident, which occurred just 600 feet away from his upcoming establishment, "Morgan Wallen's This Bar." Moreover, Wallen was caught using a racial slur on camera, further adding to the controversy.
During the council's hearing, members expressed strong opposition to the sign, citing Wallen's actions and comments. Council member Delishia Porterfield firmly voiced her objection, stating, "I don't want to see a billboard with the name of a person who's throwing chairs off balconies and who's saying racial slurs and using the n-word." Council member Jordan Huffman echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the harmful nature of Wallen's words and actions.
However, there was a minority of council members who voted in favor of the sign. Council member Jacob Kupin supported the establishment's managing team, TC Restaurant Group, highlighting their positive contributions to downtown Nashville. Nevertheless, even Kupin later expressed his concerns on Twitter, acknowledging that Wallen's behavior continued to put others at risk.
This incident is reminiscent of a similar situation in 2019 when the Nashville council had to decide on signage for Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk Rock N' Roll Steakhouse. Despite concerns over Kid Rock's controversial past and the unconventional guitar-shaped sign, it was approved by a 27-3 vote.
Despite the setback with the sign, Morgan Wallen's This Bar is still set to open this Memorial Day weekend. The establishment, operated by TC Restaurant Group, aims to contribute to Nashville's vibrant entertainment scene, alongside other branded bars by popular country artists like Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, and Miranda Lambert.
As controversy surrounds Morgan Wallen, the decision made by the Nashville council reflects their commitment to maintaining the image and values of the city's iconic Lower Broadway district.