Beer Can Injury Lawsuit Targets Country Singer Jameson Rodgers and Sony

Incident at New Jersey Festival Sparks Lawsuit
WILDWOOD, N.J. — Country singer Jameson Rodgers is facing a lawsuit after a fan was allegedly struck in the head by a beer can thrown from the stage during his performance at the Barefoot Country Music Festival in June 2022.

The suit, filed by New Jersey resident Samantha Haws in July 2024, claims Rodgers hurled a “full, unopened beer can” into the crowd, hitting her “violently and without warning in the head and facial area.” Haws says the impact caused “severe, painful and permanent bodily injuries.”

The complaint also alleges that Rodgers and others on stage threw full cans of Miller Lite into the audience during the performance.

Sony Ordered to Remain in Case
Haws’ lawsuit names both Rodgers and Sony Music’s Nashville imprint, Columbia Nashville, as defendants. Rodgers was signed to the label at the time of the incident.

Sony argued that it was not responsible for the event or its security and sought to be dismissed from the case. But a judge ruled that the label must remain a defendant, finding that Rodgers could have been acting as an “agent” of Sony during the performance.

The case has not yet gone to trial, and no ruling has been made on its overall merits.

Performer’s Career Stalled After Incident
Rodgers was considered a rising star in pop country before the pandemic. He co-wrote songs for artists like Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, and Florida Georgia Line before signing with Columbia Nashville. His debut single, “Some Girls,” hit No. 1 on country radio in 2019, followed by “Cold Beer Calling My Name,” a collaboration with Luke Combs, in 2020.

After releasing his 2021 album I Bet You’re From a Small Town, Rodgers appeared to part ways with Sony. He released a short EP, JAMO, under Head Coach Records in 2024 and has since issued music independently, though none has charted.

The lawsuit and its timing may shed light on Rodgers’ retreat from the spotlight.

Beer-Throwing Trend Raises Safety Concerns
The case comes amid a spate of concert incidents involving thrown beer cans and other projectiles. At some recent shows — notably by artists like Gavin Adcock and Treaty Oak Revival — tossing beer cans into the crowd has become a recurring stunt, sparking concerns about safety at live music events.

While Rodgers’ case remains unresolved, the allegations highlight a growing issue in the country music scene. The outcome could determine not only his personal liability but also whether major labels can be held accountable for performers’ conduct at live events.