We've all heard it, we might have even said it once or twice before: I listen to every genre! You know, except country.
I realize that we all have our preferences, yet it seems unfair that a single genre is regarded with contempt by so many people. Let me be clear, I am in no way trying to radicalize you into being a country music stan, however I hope the points I outline below are enough to make you think twice before yelling at your friend for turning on a Kenny Chesney song.
1. The Original Sadboi Music
When we hear Kurt Vile confess that he only feels safe entwined with his lover on ‘Baby’s Arms’, Phoebe Bridgers grieve about the death of a friend on ‘Funeral’, or a distraught Father John Misty call out to God while walking drunk down the streets of Manhattan on ‘God’s Favorite Customer’, we are listening to the descendants of the lyrical foundation established by country music.
Notions of lost loves, marital discord, substance abuse, and alienation all frequent the genre. Hank Williams, a country star active during the 1940s whom Bob Dylan cites as one of the greatest songwriters to ever live, wrote ‘I’m so Lonesome I Could Cry’. Johnny Cash dubbed one of his best known classics ‘Cocaine Blues’. Established country artists of this era walked so boygenius could run.
2. The RANGE
Old Town Road by Lil Nas X, Delete Forever by Grimes, Daddy Lessons by Beyoncé, and Joanne by Lady Gaga all have one thing in common: they take key components of country music and spin it on its head. These productions illustrate the breadth and versatility of the genre.
In recent years, we have witnessed the beginning of country music’s evolution. Artists such as Noah Cyrus, Kacey Musgraves, and Orville Peck are paving a path towards a different type of country, one that transcends the boundaries of drinking out of red solo cups and patriotic overkill.
3. Folk Music 👭🏻 Country Music
Country and folk, like our eyebrows, are not twins but sisters. Yes, the sound of Florida Georgia Line and Luke Bryan is clearly distinct from Bon Iver and Fleet Foxes. However, when we start to breach into the territory of Karen Dalton or Bonny Light Horseman, that line becomes incredibly blurred.
When we listen to artists of that strain, it’s much easier to point out the similarities between the two genres and it forges a deeper appreciation for how the two are able to play off of each other. If you have any doubts, dive into the works of Mountain Man, Bedouine, or Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit and take note of the use of acoustic instruments, fiddles, foot-taps, and harmonies. Sisters, not twins.
4. It Tells a Story
An obvious but necessary point to make is that country music is… music. How can one claim to love this medium while snubbing such a crucial and influential genre? Like all music, it acts as an outlet for someone to share their story with the world, a fairly courageous and admirable act that should garner some respect. Of course, there is the blasphemy that is ‘bro-country’ however, every genre has it’s bad apples.
Any ounce of edginess associated with the line “I like all music except country” has been wrung dry due to overuse from the general population. Paint your nails black instead and move on.
5. Great Place to Learn about Trucks
My Dad 🤝 Country Music
Teaching me about trucks
Songs to check out (click the link):
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