Kid R0ck expressed c0ntempt and declined t0 let a p0pular singer j0in him 0n stage, saying, “G0 h0me, girl, y0ur music is bubblegum.”

As the dust settles from Kid Rock’s pointed remarks, the ball is in Swift’s court to respond—if she chooses to do so. Regardless of their contrasting views, both artists will continue to define their careers on their terms, standing firm in what they believe makes great music. The resulting conversation will likely only fuel further interest in the evolving story of country music, where the old guard and new guard are constantly negotiating what the genre will look like next.