Parker McCollum has stepped forward to clarify recent accusations made by Oliver Anthony regarding the use of autotune and backing tracks in his live performances. Anthony, who gained fame with his song “Rich Men North Of Richmond” last year, recently shared a YouTube video titled “What I’ve Learned From the Music Industry So Far.” In this lengthy video, Anthony expressed his intention to leave the music industry for ministry work and criticized an unnamed artist who performed after him at a country music festival in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Observers quickly identified the festival as the Carolina Country Music Fest, where Parker McCollum was the only artist scheduled to perform after Anthony.
Anthony alleged that many mainstream acts use backing tracks during performances. He recounted an experience at a Myrtle Beach festival where the following act supposedly used multiple autotune modulators on stage to assist with live vocals and ran backing tracks and drum loops. He criticized this practice as unfair to fans who pay substantial amounts for what he described as an inauthentic performance.
As Anthony’s comments gained traction on social media, McCollum took to his own platforms to dispel the rumors and “clear things up.” Addressing the situation directly, McCollum stated, “Hey guys, per the Oliver Anthony interview or whatever it was, claiming that he saw drum loop, modulars or whatever he called it. I don’t even know what that is. 100 percent fabricated lie.” He insisted that he and his band perform entirely live without the aid of autotune or prerecorded elements, emphasizing their commitment to genuine, live music.
McCollum concluded his message by urging fans to consider the matter closed. His statement was met with support from friends and fellow artists, including Texas musicians Koe Wetzel and Kolby Cooper, who left encouraging comments on McCollum’s post.
While some artists may rely on technology like autotune and backing tracks, McCollum has made it clear that his performances do not include these elements. Fans can look forward to experiencing his authentic live shows during his upcoming What Kinda Man Tour in 2025. The tour will begin on January 23 in Athens, Georgia, and conclude on April 26 in Gainesville, Florida, featuring rising country star Kameron Marlowe, with special guests Laci Kaye Booth and William Beckmann.