Trace Adkins Defends Using Confederate Earpiece

Trace Adkins refuses to apologize for using an earpiece emblazoned with the Confederate flag during a national TV appearance.

The burly country crooner sang during the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting special, telecast Wednesday on NBC. He used an earpiece decorated with the Southern flag during his performance, a decision which caused some Twitter users to express outrage over his decision. 

Adkins addressed the matter on his blog.

“As a proud American I object to oppression of any kind.

To me, the battle flag represents remembrance of my Southern lineage – I am a descendant of Confederate soldiers who followed that flag into battle.

I advocate for the preservation of America’s battlefields and honest conversation about our Country’s history.

To those who view the flag as a symbol of racism, that was not my message and I did not intend offense.”