The divide between the elites of the music industry and the millions of everyday Americans has never been more apparent. As left-wing figures in the entertainment world continue to dismiss the “deplorables,” they reveal an arrogance that’s becoming harder to ignore. Now, a recent comment from former Hollywood Records exec Peter Paterno, who once led the now-defunct Disney-owned label, has sparked backlash and fueled further dissaproval from conservative voices.
LJ Fino, CEO of First Class Records and a leader in the conservative counterculture music scene, was quick to call out Paterno’s comments, offering a blunt yet powerful critique:
“Peter Paterno, the former music exec who ran @Disney-owned Hollywood Records into the ground, just insulted 77 million Americans, calling them ‘stupid hillbillies.’ Interesting take from a guy who couldn’t turn a profit during his time as President of @HollywoodRecs.”
Fino’s words point out the hypocrisy of an industry leader who failed in his own career yet finds it easy to look down on the very people who make up a significant portion of the American populace. This comment isn't just a slight at a specific group of voters—it’s part of a broader pattern in which the elites continue to mock, dismiss, and belittle conservative values, often under the guise of progressivism.
In addition to his disdain for those he considers beneath him, Paterno’s comments also signal a troubling attitude toward the future of the music industry itself. In the same conversation, he dismissed the ongoing relevance of music downloads, saying, “The stupid hillbilly still downloads, but that’s not going to last.” While Paterno’s tone is condescending, his statement highlights a key issue: the entertainment industry continues to overlook the demands and preferences of millions of music fans, alienating them with elitist attitudes.
LJ Fino, who is directly involved in shaping the future of conservative counterculture music, continues to stand as a voice for those sidelined by the mainstream industry. He represents the growing movement that’s challenging the status quo and pushing back against the woke narrative that dominates much of Hollywood and the broader entertainment sphere.
As Fino points out, the entertainment industry’s dismissive attitudes toward middle America aren’t just a political issue—they’re also a cultural one. By alienating such a large portion of the population, these industry elites are missing out on the opportunity to connect with real, everyday people who are tired of being marginalized by left-wing entertainment figures.
It’s clear that while the elite establishment continues to look down on "stupid hillbillies" and other so-called "deplorables," the conservative counterculture is rising—ready to challenge the cultural narrative and bring a fresh, inclusive approach to music, entertainment, and beyond.
