Style: Country

For those of you that want to head for the hills at the mention of this genre, shame on you!

Let's get started. Country is probably the MOST hated on genre of popular music; I can't even begin to estimate how many people answer the question "what kind of music do you listen to?" with the following answer:

"I guess I like a lot of things... a bit of everything even. Except Country!"

As a general disclaimer before we dive into specifics, I admit that I, too, dislike several elements of Country music. The whiny guitar tones and lyrics are primarily the beef I have, because I don't generally listen to music to get depressed. That said, that is NOT all that Country has to offer.

Lyrics

As a tangent example, Rap music may have very catchy beats and looped melodies, but its lyrics number highly among the most crude (AND sexist) in the industry. By contrast, Country music has some of the most down-to-earth, intelligent (and FUNNY) lyrics available. Check out Brad Paisley’s “Mr. Policeman” and “I’m Still a Guy” to get a solid example of comedy, and “All I Wanted Was a Car” for something that a great many people (and young males, at least) can relate to.

The earnest nature of song-writing is one of Country’s great strengths as a genre. If you can’t think of a strong example off the top of your head, go look up a little band called the "Eagles”. Hits like “Tequila Sunrise”, “Love Will Keep Us Alive”, and “Take it Easy” (among MANY others) are very much written from the heart… and after all, is what music fans are looking for not something to connect to their own lives?

Musicianship

The following comment is directed towards those who believe Country is for “no-talent hacks”: Country musicians are, on average, FAR AND AWAY more talented with their chosen instrument than musicians of other styles. In Country:

- The singer has to really, REALLY be able to sing. No atonal bullshit, no "faking it" or "just givin' 'er".

- The WHOLE band has to be diverse and capable of handling multiple adaptations of styles from other genres (how often do you see THAT kind of willingness in bands of OTHER genres?)

For guitarists specifically, I would like to point out that, while in Rock technical proficiency had a fallow period (beginning in the early 90s with Grunge), Country has pretty much NEVER lost its technical edge, with complex and fascinating techniques inhabiting every sub-genre. Don't believe me? Check out this guy: Johnny Hiland.

I recognize that there are exceptions to every rule. But I’ll tell you from what I’ve seen, heard and read that Nashville musicians (both performing and session) are generally more diverse and talented than musicians rooted in another style.

So please, when you’re out on the town and the ladies all start screaming because a Paul Brandt or Keith Urban song starts playing, before you say “Oh ****, not THIS crap”, please take a moment and really LISTEN to the music; you may be pleasantly surprised by what you hear.

- close doors only if you want to imprison yourself