She Remembers Everything: Explaining the Zach Bryan Controversy

Zach Bryan, the now infamous “Something in the Orange” and “I Remember Everything” country singer, has spent the past few weeks under fire. The country star’s ex-girlfriend, internet personality and podcaster Brianna LaPaglia (otherwise known as Brianna Chickenfry), recently came out with shocking allegations of emotional abuse.

While speaking about her ex-boyfriend, LaPaglia recalled instances of Bryan attempting to control what she wore, what music she listened to, and even her career. When asked about the situation, Ramapo senior Alexis Lynch said, “as a fan of Zach Bryan’s music, I was shocked. I never expected something like this to come out”. Like many toxic or abusive relationships, Bryan created an environment where LaPaglia was completely emotionally dependent on him, attempting to isolate her from major settings and people in her life. She spoke about one distinctive moment when, during her contract renegotiation with Barstool Sports, a popular sports and pop culture vlog, Bryan made an offer to pay double the vlog’s offer to his girlfriend in exchange for LaPaglia quitting her job and solely focusing on being his girlfriend. This wouldn’t be the first time he would attempt to use bribery as a manipulation tactic. After their relationship ended, Bryan’s management team reportedly offered LaPaglia 12 million dollars in exchange for her to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). She refused to give up her right to discuss what she experienced in the relationship, and instead took to Barstool’s BFF podcast to share her side of the story (Hollywood Reporter).

Many fans of Zach Bryan are shocked and disgusted by his behavior, and have denounced the country star following LaPaglia’s allegations. Ramapo senior Mckenna Houston mentioned that she had never listened to his music before, but that, “after hearing his ex-girlfriend’s story I don’t see myself listening to him anytime soon.” This situation has forced many fans to question whether they can still support someone who would treat their partner and peers in such a terrible way. Is it possible to separate an artist’s music from their actions?