Going along with the theme of much maligned music genres, I thought we might explore the realm of country music. I can already hear the steady chorus of ‘Oh NO!’s and groans issuing from just about every corner, but the fact remains that in spite of all this, country music is one of the largest genres of the music industry. And I for one enjoy some of its more mainstream tracks. For instance, today I felt a little bit country and decided to listen to some Keith Urban. I’ll be the first to admit that it’s not one of his latest offerings, but “Somebody Like You” is one of those laid back tracks that you can just groove along to without even realizing it

In truth, country music has had a bad rap, from overplayed Hollywood casting to jump-on-the-bandwagon country music bashing. But the truth is, if you listen, really listen to a good country song, you will find yourself thoughtfully agreeing with the soulful lyrics, because, as Randy Houser once put it,

“Country music is truth. Of all genres of music, country music is the one that’s not so much about the beat as it is about hittin’ you right where it hurts the most in your heart and in your gut. Sometimes it hurts and sometimes it feels good. Sometimes it makes you laugh or cry or whatever, but I think it’s the last genre of music that’s all about a man telling you what he’s been through and where he’s been. And the truth.”

And yeah, if you think about it, country music isn’t about the beat, or even the music, or a steel guitar, it’s about feelings. So forget about accents, the twang, and negative media hype, and tune in to the lyrics – because in essence that’s what country music is all about.

Or as Harlan Howard once said, country music is “Three chords and the truth”. Enough said I think.

Try out Lonestar’s “Amazed”

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJyJwbAa1i8&feature=related