Luke Combs Addresses Racism, Political Labels
Country music icon Luke Combs is challenging labels from both political sides, arguing that denouncing racism shouldn’t automatically categorize someone as a “liberal.”
In a conversation that spanned culture, politics, and country music’s evolution, Combs tackled the backlash he’s received, particularly after he spoke out during the Black Lives Matter movement and expressed regret about his previous use of Confederate flag imagery.
When asked if he wishes he had handled that backlash differently, he responded, “No regrets.” He finds it amusing that some people say things like, “I can’t believe I like Luke Combs, he’s a liberal.” He insists he never self-identified in that way, adding that years ago, it was those who claimed he wasn’t racist who labeled him as liberal. “I don’t get that,” he said, puzzled by the connection.
Combs elaborated on his political stance, stating, “I’ve been criticized for a lot of things. Honestly, I consider myself pretty moderate. I guess I’m not liberal enough for liberals and not conservative enough for conservatives, which is fine by me.” He appreciates having friends across the political spectrum, saying, “Why does it matter what others think politically?”
“There was a time when people were actively trying to get me canceled by saying things like, ‘Hey, this guy is, you know, a liberal or something…’ I never said that.”
Responding to the host’s observation about the unique dynamics in the industry, Combs acknowledged that it can be tricky. “Sure, there was a time when people tried to get me canceled by labeling me as liberal… I’ve never labeled myself. Why is it so hard to say you’re not a racist?”
Combs began his career with his EP, “The Way She Rides,” in 2014, followed by his debut album “This Ones For You” in 2017, which featured hits like “Hurricane.” His recent cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” has also garnered significant attention, with covers from the ’80s frequently charting well.
Outside of music, he’s married to Nicole Hocking. They tied the knot in Florida in August 2020 and now have three children: Tex, Beau, and Chet.
