Kid Rock has revealed the track listing for his upcoming Christian album“Halfway to Jesus,”and the title track features country singer Jimmie Allen. Allen was found liable for sexual assault earlier this summer and ordered to pay nearly two million dollars in damages. He denied the allegations, called the case meritless, and ignored court orders and deadlines along the way. His label dropped him, and he has been releasing new music quietly since.
Kid Rock has defended the collaboration before anyone even asked, saying that as a god-fearing man and a Christian he has to believe in forgiveness, and that he is against cancel culture. The album also includes an appearance from Eminem, a full-circle moment for anyone who remembers their history. But the Allen feature is what has country and rock fans debating.
The real question underneath all of it: what is the difference between forgiveness and accountability? Grace can be given freely, and artists can collaborate with whoever they want. At the same time, listeners get to decide what a title-track guest spot says to them. Both things can be true, and that is exactly why this is the most talked-about album of the fall.
Where do you land: does forgiveness mean a clean slate, or does accountability have to come first? Tell us in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.