Lady A Says They've Reached 'Common Ground' With Blues Singer Lady A
By Blake Taylor
June 17, 2020
Just last week, the country band previously known as Lady Antebellum announced they will now go by Lady A. Several days after sharing the news, the trio consisting of Charles Kelley, Dave Haywood and Hillary Scott, connected with the blues artist Lady A, who has been using the name for decades.
"Today, we connected privately with the artist Lady A. Transparent, honest, and authentic conversations were had," the country group captioned a post on Instagram. "We are excited to share we are moving forward with positive solutions and common ground. The hurt is turning into hope. More to come."
The blues singer shared the same photo and message on her own Instagram account as well.
The multi-platinum trio announced their decision to drop "Antebellum" from their name in an open letter to fans on Thursday, June 11.
"After much personal reflection, band discussion, prayer and many honest conversations with some of our closest Black friends and colleagues, we have decided to drop the word 'antebellum' from our name and move forward as Lady A, the nickname our fans gave us almost from the start."
The trio continued on in their message to explain the history behind the term 'antebellum' and why they chose to include it as part of their band name in the first place.
"As musicians, it reminded us of all the music born in the south that has influenced us... southern rock, blues, R&B, gospel and of course country," they shared. "But we are regretful and embarrassed to say that we did not take into account the associations that weigh down this word referencing the period of history before the Civil War, which includes slavery."
"Causing pain was never our hearts' intention, but it doesn't change the fact that indeed, it did just that," they continued. "So today, we speak up and make change. We hope you will dig in and join us."
"There are countless more that need to be taken," the said. "We want to do better. We are committed to examining our individual and collective impact and making the necessary changes to practice antiracism. We will continue to educate ourselves, have hard conversations and search the parts of our hearts that need pruning—to grow into better humans, better neighbors."
Photo: Getty Images