As you know, country music gets a lot of hate. With rap and hip hop growing in popularity, cowboys and twang doesn't exactly fit the trend. But that's not all country music is. Country has heart and soul and it brings people together. So, if you're one of those people who swears they'll never enjoy a country song, read this list with an open-mind.
Here's why you should give country music a chance:
1. It always tells a story
I'm sure you've heard Carrie Underwood's hit song "Before He Cheats" a few times. This is a classic example of how country songs tell stories. Carrie is notorious for this, with lyrics that describe getting revenge on a cheating ex, a young girl leaving her drunk, abusive father behind in a tornado, and even a murder done by two mistresses. The stories behind the music are subtle, but they give the song meaning and purpose. While many of "Today's Top Hits" are repetitive and empty, country music has intention, and it's really interesting to listen to!
2. It's "feel good" music
There's no better feeling than cruising around with the windows down blasting country music through your speakers as the summer sun shines down. Country music has a special way of making you feel happy, with songs about friends, family, love, and beer. Everyone knows summer is the season for country music, even if you choose not to listen to it year round. And, there's no other suitable soundtrack for a bonfire with friends than some Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw!
3. It fills you with patriotism
When I think of America, the first song that comes to mind is definitely "Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue," by Toby Keith. This amazing song, inspired by the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States, will without a doubt give you chills every time you hear it. Country music has a lot of focus on America as a country, and you probably can't go to a country concert without seeing the American flag on stage. In a time where everyone is so critical of our country, country music manages to bring out the good in everything and unite us as one.
4. There's a song for every emotion
Country music is truly sang from the heart. In fact, most artists even write their own songs about their real life experiences, making it even more personal and passionate. Whether you're a fan or not, there's no denying that the country music genre is known to evoke many emotions. It often brings up old emotions that you had buried away, but it can also draw out new emotions that you never even knew you had inside of you. Brad Paisley's "Whiskey Lullaby" and Lee Brice's "I Drive Your Truck," are just two country songs that are sure to make you tear up.
5. The artists are truly talented
When listening to a rap song, the artist is nearly speaking the lyrics to you. Don't get me wrong, it takes skill to be on beat and have the proper rhythm. But, when you listen to a country song, you can truly hear and experience the artist's voice. Not to mention, many country artists also play an alternate instrument, mainly the guitar, while performing live, which only compliments and emphasizes their great talent.
6. It's heartfelt and sends a good message
Popular music today is filled with curse words and swears. This isn't always a bad thing, because it sometimes enhances the message that the artist is trying to get across, or conveys anger or excitement. However, country music is a step away from all of this, with mostly clean, respectable lyrics. With the absence of profanity, the artists are forced to use words that stimulate feeling and communicate a message in a more wholesome way.
7. It's 100% relatable
Country music is often criticized for its emphasis on love. People often say that it's always the same guy singing about some girl that broke his heart, or vice versa. We all know that Taylor Swift received a lot of disapproval for this in her country days. But the truth is, if you look deeper within the lyrics, every country love song is about a different kind of situation or relationship. And, if you really listen, I promise you'll be able to relate the artist's experience with your own. There's something comforting about knowing that someone else is going through exactly what you are, and that you're not alone. And, there's something amazing about the fact that someone was able to put your experiences and struggles into a beautiful song.
Moral of the story, don't knock it 'til you try it!
And for my country lovers: may your summer be filled with cowboys and twang!
