Oliver Anthony: America’s Next Viral MAGA Star
Now, they sound tired, but they don’t sound Haggard
They’ve got money, but they don’t have Cash
They got Junior, but they don’t have Hank
I think, I think, I think, the rest is
A long time gone-Darrell Scott, Long Time Gone (Also performed by The Chicks)
“The Rich Men North of Richmond” apparently lives in all of our heads rent-free right now. Written and performed by Oliver Anthony, a previously unknown singer/songwriter, Rich Men was released online two weeks ago and is currently the #1 song in America. There was clearly an organized effort — by fans, Anthony’s team, right-wing influencers, or a combination of all three — to amplify the artist and the song, but that effort has paid off. Everyone seems to be listening, responding, and writing endless hot takes about the song, the man behind it, and what it all means.
I wasn’t surprised that the song went viral in MAGA-land. All the elements are there: white male grievance, anti-government populism, punching down, and hints of QAnon. All wrapped up in a country music package. Anthony’s story certainly fits the mold as well. On Facebook, Anthony has emphasized his Appalachian roots and personal struggles. He’s also bragged about turning down “8 million dollar offers” from the music industry and says that his music has “no editing, no agent, no bullshit. Just some idiot and his guitar.” If…
