In a candid and impassioned critique of the music industry, Oliver Anthony, the rising star behind “Rich Men North of Richmond,” took aim at the exploitative practices that dominate major labels and management firms. Speaking in a raw and unfiltered manner, Anthony described his disillusioning journey through the music business, which he said operates more as a soulless machine than an artistic haven.
Anthony painted a stark picture of how new artists are treated, likening them to oil wells: “They just want to see how much oil they can get out of you. And when they’re done, they spit you out.” He condemned the lack of authenticity in the industry, where artists are often pressured to abandon their vision and values in favor of profit-driven strategies.
For Anthony, music holds a deeply spiritual significance that is at odds with the industry's commodification. He argued that music's power lies in its ability to connect with people on a visceral level, much like a scent triggering a vivid memory. But instead of nurturing this connection, he said, the industry reduces music to a product designed to maximize profits.
“They know people are going to listen to music, so why wouldn’t they try to control it?” Anthony mused, pointing out that corporations manipulate the charts and even manufacture “moments” on social media to generate artificial buzz.
Anthony shared shocking anecdotes about the industry's attempts to mold his image, including being pressured to praise Beyoncé’s country album despite his disdain for it. “It makes me want to throw up,” he said, describing the album as “complete trash” and emblematic of society’s moral decline.
He also revealed the insidious tactics used by management teams, who sought to isolate him from trusted collaborators and impose a contrived persona. “They wanted to figure out how to make me cool,” Anthony said, underscoring how the industry prioritizes marketability over genuine artistry.
Anthony’s experiences ultimately led him to reclaim his independence and refocus on his faith and purpose. Rejecting the industry's hollow promises, he said, “I don’t need a bunch of nerds and coffee-drinking freaks in Nashville to tell me how to live my life.”
As he continues to chart his path outside the confines of the mainstream music machine, Anthony serves as a beacon for independent artists determined to stay true to their craft. His story is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who refuse to conform to an industry obsessed with profit at the expense of authenticity.
Oliver Anthony's unflinching honesty and commitment to his principles have resonated deeply with fans, cementing his place as a voice for a new generation of anti-establishment musicians.
