Why Is John Rich of Big And Rich So Ticked Off?

By kncitom on May 16, 2018

John Rich of Big and Rich is upset at many of his fellow Nashville bar owners

CMA Fest is coming to Nashville June 7^th through 10^th… a huge citywide celebration of all things country music featuring the genres biggest stars…but some bar owners are striking the wrong chord with fellow bar owner John Rich of Big and Rich.

For the first time ever…several establishments are CHARGING up and coming artists to play their venues during the four day event.

Bar owners say it’s fair—if a relatively unknown artist wants exposure they or their record label should be willing to pony up, esp during an event that guarantees playing before large audiences

But John Rich says UH UH… he tweeted a link to the story and says he finds this behavior “disgusting”…adding that “all artists that play MY bar are treated with respect and we cover any expenses that may arise”.

I find this to be disgusting behavior! All artists that play MY bar @rnrbarnash are treated with respect and WE cover any expenses that might arise, not them! I invite all artists to come play at my place cause WE LOVE YOU! #DrinkAmerican @RedneckRiviera https://t.co/ytar6zuAoP

— John Rich (@johnrich) May 15, 2018

As for CMA Fest organizers? They’ve have distanced themselves from the controversy, saying the pay to play stages are not affiliated with their event in any way.