A Nova Scotia cabinet minister is facing criticism for a song he recorded before his time in politics. Energy Minister Marco MacLeod sang on a track called George Jones under the artist name Meadowville. The lyrics include misogynistic terms for women and a reference to using cocaine. Critics say the lyrics are hateful toward women and violent, and have questioned if MacLeod should remain in the provincial cabinet. MacLeod on Saturday posted a note to social media apologizing for the lyrics of two songs he says are hurtful to women. The leader of the Opposition New Democrats says hate targeted at women from a sitting minister is a big deal. Claudia Chender says MacLeod should explain if he still holds the values expressed in the song’s lyrics and what he’s doing to address the harm his words have caused. “We also call on this government to explain why this was missed in candidate vetting and what the repercussions will be for withholding this information,” Chender added in a post to social media. MacLeod did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Adsum House, a Halifax women’s shelter, says it was “sickened” by MacLeod’s song and called for him to resign. — By Eli Ridder in Fredericton. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 17, 2026.
