Chase Rice Addresses Backlash over past Show in Tennessee Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

Over the weekend country musician, Chase Rice caused some controversy when he hosted a live concert in Tennessee amid the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease.

Rice, 34, had fans packed at his Petros, Tennessee concert despite the fact that there is a worldwide pandemic. Some of the concert-goers were seen not wearing face masks and not social distancing as they enjoyed the artist’s music.

The country star actually shared a video of his live concert at Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary to his Instagram. However, on Monday, the star took to the same platform to address the backlash he received.

ADDRESSING PEOPLE’S CONCERNS

In a short clip, the "Eyes on You" musician addressed his concert acknowledging that some critics "had a big problem with how the show looked." He confessed that he understood why people had different opinions about his show.

Rice's next concert will be a drive-in.

Rice also admitted that people also had varying opinions about COVID-19 and how they should interact because of it. He promised that his concern was his fans.

SAFETY IS A PRIORITY

The star continued: "You guys are everything to me, so your safety is a huge, huge priority." He then revealed that he was going to do things differently at his next show.

On Friday, Rice is set to host a "drive-in show" at Paramount Arts Center in Ashland, Kentucky. He encouraged his fans to practice social distancing by coming in their vehicles.

RICE’S DRIVE-IN SHOW

The country star told his fans that they could get out of their vehicles and sing along to his music but urged them to “stay in your own space and the people you came with." He noted that it was best to practice safety so that normal live shows can be brought back.

FOLLOWING COVID-19 GUIDELINES

Rice encouraged his fans to follow COVID-19 guidelines throughout this time so things can go back to normal. He concluded his recording by sharing his love with his fans.

SINGERS CRITICIZE CHASE

Fellow country stars like Kelsea Ballerini and Mickey Guyton criticized Rice for not adhering to social distancing rules and hosting a live show. The vice president of the venue, Brian May, released a statement saying:

"All local requirements were abided by for the recent concert, and numerous precautions were taken."

VENUE FOLLOWED GUIDELINES

May also revealed that less than 1,000 people attended the event which was lower than the 50% guideline for the 4,000 maximum capacity the venue had accommodated. He also added: "All guests were given temperature checks prior to entering the venue and free hand sanitizer was provided to everyone at entry."

Rice’s recent show was his first one in several months.