Born and raised in a small, suburban town in New Jersey, I always considered myself more of a city slicker than a country bumpkin. But times are changing and so am I, and I love all things county, especially the music. By no means am I a bull-riding, boot-wearing, y'all-yelling female, although I sort of wish I was. I don’t shoot whisky, I don’t like men who drive tractors and I haven’t been known to shake my butt on the hood of any pickup trucks. I guess this is a good thing because, despite many stereotypes, not all country songs are about these things, not the good ones at least.
I consider country music my any-kind-of-mood music, the music that speaks to me regardless of my current mood. I’ve been known to cry alongside Carrie Underwood (metaphorically, of course) as she belts "Jesus, Take The Wheel" and a day later, dance to Sam Hunt’s "House Party," until I can no longer stand. Undoubtedly, I can find solace in the words and rhythm of a country song, no matter my mindset.
The relatability to country music is part of my undeniable attraction to it. Luke Bryan’s booty, I mean biceps, are another part of my attraction, but that’s a topic for a different article. Whether you’re going through a breakup, arguing with a good friend or perfectly content with your life, there is a country song that will speak right to your very soul.
I think LeAnn Rimes best described what country music can do to a girl, “There’s no escape from love, once a gentle breeze, weaves its spell upon your heart.” Admittedly, this might not be exactly what she meant, but it’s close enough. Once you let country music sink its spurs into you, it can take you places. Listen to "Toes" by Zac Brown Band and try to tell me you don’t picture yourself on a beach in Mexico, Corona in hand. You won’t be able to.
If you’re fearful you have become detached from your small-town roots, give Carrie Underwood’s "Thank God for Hometowns" a listen. Country music isn’t all about finding comfort during your darkest days, but about making the most of your brightest moments. Share a laugh with Blake Shelton and a dance with Flordia Georgia Line, too.
Like every person who listens to it, sings it and has ever experienced it, every country song has a story. Country music isn’t a collection of words strung together to fit within an auto-tuned rhythm. From the first lyric to the last, each word fits within a story that is told throughout the song. Let the story become a part of your day and you will soon find yourself becoming part of each story. Wow, that got deeper than I expected. Moving on.
Country music, to me, is like a good bra, a favorite t-shirt, a boyfriend’s embrace and some bitter dark chocolate. Country music is supportive, comforting, strong and enjoyable no matter the situation.
