I always thought Tobey Keith was kind of an ass. This wasn’t based on anything in particular, just an impression. I dig country music, I like some of Keith songs — but maybe it was his “bad boy” attitude that played out cheesy.

Anyways, after reading a recent Washington Post interview with the singer, let’s just say I’ve changed my tune. There’s a lot to munch on here, but let’s focus on the green. First off, back in July it was reported that Tobey Keith and the Dixie Chicks were close to shooting one of the WE campaign’s global warming ads. Neither group really liked each other much — but as was the theme of those ads, even polar opposites could agree that climate change was worth fighting. Unfortunately, due to scheduling issues (or animosity), the shoot never happened. Now, in this interview, Keith opens up on the issue:

“Al Gore called me about it. He heard what I said, that it’s ridiculous for the left and the right to be so agenda-driven. If we think there’s evidence that the planet is warming and it’s something we’re doing, don’t just sweep it under the rug. Don’t say Al Gore’s a dumbass for doing this, and don’t say he’s smart for doing it just because it fits your agenda. Go out and see if there’s enough evidence that polar bears are dying and the polar caps are melting because of emissions from cars. [Emphasis mine, good quote]

Now, I’m not promoting it; I have to educate myself. Al Gore said, “Would you do a commercial? I’d like you to do it with the Chicks.” I didn’t have anything against that. The Chicks [had] attacked me, and after a week of that, and I finally reared up and said, “[Expletive] you guys.” I’m a big-time songwriter. If Willie Nelson wants to tell me a song I write is stupid and ignorant, that’s one thing. But you have to be able to write a song first to critique one of mine. If somebody who can’t write a song does it? Barry Bonds doesn’t worry about a softball player critiquing his swing. They kept firing, and I kept firing back, and it blew up in my face. When I reared up, I became the bad guy. But in the long run, I didn’t get harmed nearly as bad as they did. And it’s no big deal. I never even think about it. And the Al Gore thing never came to be because of scheduling.

Hey, I give the guy props for agreeing to speak out on the issue. It’s too bad “scheduling” got in the way. Maybe these guys should kiss and make up at Live Earth India…

Check out the rest of the interview here…

Categories: Causes, Music
Tags: al gore, dixie chicks, tobey keith.

About Michael dEstries

Michael has been blogging since 2005 on issues such as sustainability, renewable energy, philanthropy, and healthy living. He regularly contributes to a slew of publications, as well as consulting with companies looking to make an impact using the web and social media. He lives in Ithaca, NY with his family on an apple farm.

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