Eric Church was interviewed by Rolling Stone Magazine.  One part of the interview had to do with reality TV and singing competitions.  His remarks on the subject started an exchange from other artists like Blake Shelton & Miranda Lambert.  Here's the story that has followed since the article was released, according to "US Weekly" Magazine:

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After initially declining to comment, Eric Church's publicist issued the following statement from Eric:

"The comment I made to Rolling Stone was part of a larger commentary on these types of reality television shows and the perception they create, not the artists involved with the shows themselves. The shows make it appear that artists can shortcut their way to success. There are a lot of artists due to their own perseverance that have gone on to be successful after appearing on these shows, but the real obstacles come after the cameras stop rolling. Every artist has to follow up television appearances with dedication towards their craft, but these shows tend to gloss over that part and make it seem like you can be ordained into stardom.

"I have a problem with those perceived shortcuts, not just in the music industry," he continued. "Many people have come to think they can just wake up and have things handed to them. I have a lot of respect for what artists like Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, and my friend Miranda Lambert have gone on to accomplish. This piece was never intended to tear down any individual and I apologize to anybody I offended in trying to shed light on this issue.

"I am grateful for all of the artists and fans that have supported me along my journey and certainly did not mean for my comments to undermine their talent and achievements," he concluded.