Have you ever really listened to a country song? Yes, the instruments are soothing and the lyrics keep you company on the long drive. But, have you ACTUALLY listened to a country song? The writers behind the song send messages that some people may not pick up on. Not that that is a bad thing, but try listening to what the writers are trying to tell you. There is a story behind every country song.
I remember growing up on country music and the oldest song I can remember actually listening to is Conway Twitty’s, “That’s My Job.” To sum up my interpretation, the song is about a boy growing up and how he would turn to his father for advice. It is about family and the power that surrounds a boy and his father and being able to turn to them in times of need. You know, you cannot make it through life alone. We all need someone some time or another. Sometimes though, it is not until the people we turn to are gone that we realize how much we actually needed them. No matter how you look at life though, always know that somebody will always be there for you, whether in presence or in spirit.
Craig Morgan has also been a favorite artist of mine, especially with his song, “God Must Really Love Me.” Though there are potentially religious motives surrounding the song, the main focus of this song is to encourage the listener to not give up on him or herself and to be hopeful. I believe everyone should have hope; but understand that not every day is going to be sunshine and rainbows. There will be days where you want to give up on yourself, where you want to quit, and where you want to just sleep forever. Craig Morgan evokes a sense of having others in your life to encourage and help you get through tough situations, much like Conway Twitty did.
Country music can sometimes tug at the heart strings (the chordae tendineae for all you medical buffs out there). It does not necessarily matter if the song is upbeat or slow tempo. Individuals will perceive each song how they desire. However, it is very common for individuals to associate slow tempo music with death, sadness, depression, etc. and upbeat music with life, joy, fulfillment, etc. It may be a bit more difficult to detect the message that surrounds an upbeat song though.
All-in-all country music sends out a message. Whether of life, family, religion, or a dog, it is probably there. It is not just country music though. Artists and writers such as Charlie Puth, Prince, and Eric Clapton also tend to send messages to their audiences through their music. It is a beautiful thing if you are able to understand these messages and they may even teach you a thing or to. So listen on.
