I've grown up on country music. It is one of the first genres I think I heard growing up, and I don't regret it one bit. I was a huge fan of Kenny Chesney when I was little, so much that he was my first concert I ever attended. Many people laugh and ask, "It wasn't like the Jonas Brothers or something like that?". And the truth is, yes, I did like that kind of music during the time period, but country music has always stayed a large part of my life and within my heart. In elementary school, my friends would give me a hard time for the concert t-shirts I used to wear. I loved my pink cowboy hat. I jammed to country music if I had my earbuds into my iPod. I. Loved. It.

It wasn't until high school that I noticed more people beginning to love it. I finally had friends to go to concerts with. I was so excited that more people were jumping on the bandwagon. However, as a true country music fan, I would shake my head at the Zac Brown Band concerts...suddenly all these people that were so against country music were coming. Although I love Zac Brown Band, there's so much more to this genre than their songs. I know it can be a starting point for people to eventually jump onto the bandwagon, but they've got to get a little bit of Alan Jackson or Garth Brooks in them before they can say they love country music.

I am never ashamed with my taste in music. See, there's never a bad time for country music. It's perfect to vibe to on a long car ride. It's perfect for a backroad. It's perfect for a pool or lake day. It's perfect in the winter, because it reminds you of warmer weather. Last but not least, the songs are so prevalent. They talk about love, happiness, and the concept of a simple life. All of these things, are something I strive for. I just love love songs. But if you're not into love songs, you can find a song for you.

The summer is the best time because it's concert season. There's nothing better than being in a place full of people with the same undying love and devotion for this music. Some may say it's a major groupie thing, but it's so special. To sing meaningful lyrics at the top of your lungs with millions of people who feel the same way as you do, who have grown up on it, or whose music has saved them, there's nothing better in the world.

In college, most places only play rap or pop music. I am a fan of those, so that's fine with me. I'm usually not a picky person when it comes to music unless it is classical; I just can't seem to get into that. However, what pains me is hearing others talk about their dislike for country music if they have never tried it. I've started some people on this genre, and now they never miss a concert. I suggest everyone give it a try. Try to find something different than the mainstream pop and rap that we all know. At least give it a try before you form your own opinion.

If you see me in the car or with earbuds, there's a 90% chance it's country music. It's something I have had since my childhood, and I will always be devoted to this genre.