Miranda Lambert is facing backlash after announcing she will open for Morgan Wallen on his upcoming “I’m the Problem” stadium tour. The decision has surprised fans, who expected the country music icon to headline her own shows rather than play second fiddle to the controversial singer.
Many fans expressed their disappointment on social media, criticizing Lambert for aligning herself with Wallen, who has been involved in several public controversies. In 2021, Wallen faced backlash after being caught on video using a racial slur, leading to a temporary industry blacklist. Last year, he narrowly avoided jail time after throwing a chair off a Nashville bar’s rooftop, which nearly hit two police officers. He pleaded guilty to two counts of reckless endangerment and received probation.
Supporters of Lambert, 41, voiced their disapproval online. One fan wrote, “I’m so confused about why you’re opening for anyone. You should be the headliner!” Another commented, “You are not a side dish. You are a main course.”
Despite the criticism, Lambert responded to fans’ concerns, saying, “It’s not wrong but it’s not right.”
Strategic Career Move
According to sources close to Lambert, the decision to join Wallen’s tour was a strategic career move. By performing as his opening act, she will play in much larger venues than she could on her own. The massive stadium tour is expected to attract thousands of fans each night, giving Lambert the opportunity to reach new audiences and expand her fan base.
An insider explained that Lambert, who got her start opening for country stars like Toby Keith, sees this as a chance to eventually headline stadiums herself. “She’s graduated to playing arenas now, but she isn’t big enough to sell out football stadiums like Morgan does,” the source said. “So she decided to go along for the ride and pick up new fans to get to the point where she herself can headline those stadiums.”
The source added, “Miranda is a savvy musical businesswoman. She’s taking advantage of the exposure and the massive paydays that come with this tour.”
Longtime Friendship with Wallen
Despite fans’ objections, Lambert and Wallen have a longstanding friendship. The two country stars performed together in Knoxville, Tennessee, last September and have maintained a close bond over the years.
The insider emphasized that Lambert’s decision was not solely about career strategy but also about enjoying the experience with a friend. “They’ve been good pals for years, and she’s looking forward to raising a little hell with him on this massive tour,” the source revealed.
While fans continue to debate Lambert’s choice, her team insists that it was a calculated decision to reach a broader audience and solidify her status as one of country music’s biggest names.
The “I’m the Problem” stadium tour is set to kick off in June, with Lambert joining Wallen for multiple shows across the country. Fans will soon see if this bold career move pays off for the country queen.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.