Morgan Wallen is breaking his silence for the first time – in a five-minute video statement – a week after a controversial video of him using a racial slur hit the internet.
The country star admits that it may be long overdue to make a statement – it’s nonetheless the right time to address fans and the entire industry that has since criticized him sharply – after collecting his thoughts and seeking some real guidance.
“You saw was me on hour 72 of a 72-hour bender. And that’s not something I’m proud of either. Obviously, the natural thing to do is to apologize further and just continue to apologize because you got caught. And that’s not what I wanted to do,” the singer explains, who also admits that he was drunk that night.
Wallen – now nine days sober since the original video was recorded – has also revealed that he accepted several invitations from Black organizations and executives to help him understand the gravity and impact of his words. Both the Nashville chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) as well as gospel singer BeBe Winans, BMI’s counselor to the performing rights organization, offered to talk with Wallen.
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Though he was pretty nervous accepting those invitations, it was worthwhile to him as he got to hear some personal stories from Black people, which Wallen admits to honestly shook him. The discussion brought him a clearer understanding of the weight of his words, knowing that what he’s currently going through doesn’t compare to some of the trials Black people have experienced.
“This week was a big lesson that sometimes we can do just that without even knowing it. Our actions matter, our words matter. And I just want to encourage anyone watching to please learn from my mistakes,” Wallen said.
Morgan Wallen ended the video by quoting 1 Corinthians 13:11. He also shares his plans on going off the grid in the meantime as he focuses on making good choices. Wallen has also acknowledged that while he appreciates his fans’ support, they should never defend his actions.
“I have one favor to ask. I appreciate those who still see something in me and have defended me. But for today, please don’t. I was wrong. It’s on me to take ownership for this, and I fully accept any penalties I face. The time of my return is solely upon me and the work I put in.”
