The Zac Brown Band’s residency at The Sphere in Las Vegas has sparked significant controversy, with fans claiming the show incorporates satanic imagery. Following a performance on December 12, 2024, Zac Brown addressed the allegations directly during his remarks to the audience.
“Thank y’all for such an incredible, incredible night tonight,” Brown expressed, acknowledging the online discourse surrounding the show. He emphasized, “I want to say a little something about this show because there’s a lot of people that picked it up online saying that we are doing some kind of satanic ritual or something like that.” He further asserted, “I don’t think we can put any more love and light into a show than what we put into this one.”
The accusations gained traction, particularly on social media platforms. Videos from the concert, shared widely on TikTok, depicted Brown wearing a crown resembling horns while performing amid imagery interpreted by some fans as devilish. One user on X (formerly Twitter) claimed, “Zac Brown Band performed a demonic ritual at the sphere,” suggesting that such performances serve as “energy harvesting rituals.”
Audience reactions varied, with some fans expressing disappointment. Comments on social media included sentiments like, “Oh look another one who sold their souls,” and “You’ve crossed into the demonic realm like way too many artists.” Despite the backlash, Brown urged fans to counter the negativity by defending the show’s message of positivity.
Other Country Stars Accused of Satanism
The Zac Brown Band is not alone in facing scrutiny over alleged satanic connections. Carly Pearce, another prominent figure in country music, encountered similar accusations last summer. On June 10, 2024, Pearce shared images from the CMA Fest, including one that showed her standing next to a parking space believed by some to be numbered 666.
The reaction was swift, with social media users commenting on the supposed significance of the number. Pearce responded to the speculation, stating, “I’ve seen too many comments about this being some sort of ‘hint’ towards 666 or Satan.” She clarified, “This was the parking spot for my tour bus at CMA Fest & I believe it is 668. I am a devout Christian who takes PRIDE in using my platform to point people toward JESUS.”
Supporters rallied around Pearce, condemning the accusations. Comments from fans reflected disbelief at the claims, with one stating, “This is insane! Accusing you of this is like accusing Carrie Underwood of the same thing.”
Jelly Roll’s Experience with Backlash
In another instance, Jelly Roll, who often shares his Christian faith, faced similar accusations last year. During a November 2024 interview on The Pat McAfee Show, he discussed the intense scrutiny he experienced after performing at Ozzy Osbourne’s Rock Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
“I started getting drawn into weird stuff that made me feel weird, because I’m a man of faith,” Jelly Roll explained. He strongly rebutted claims of any satanic associations, stating, “Satan runs from the name I say.” He expressed frustration over the lack of understanding from some fans regarding his beliefs and intentions.
As the controversy unfolds, the interactions between country music stars and their audiences continue to highlight the complexities of interpretation in performance art. While artists like Zac Brown, Carly Pearce, and Jelly Roll stand firm in their faith and messages of positivity, the evolving landscape of social media amplifies scrutiny and speculation surrounding their work.
