Growing up in our home we had two music choices: Country or Christian. (Except for those times when Dad would blast “You Sexy Thing” by Barry White out of his computer speakers and I thought it was the greatest, funniest thing. And those times when Mom would go grocery shopping and we’d be waiting in his car. “All Shook Up” by Elvis Presley was a favourite. My two non-Christian, non-Country memories.) I listened to a lot of Point of Grace, Newsboys, Bethany Dillon, the “Shout to the Lord” days of Hillsong–classic Christian artists. When I wasn’t mouthing the lyrics to “Step Up to the Microphone” (Christians growing up in the 90s, you’ll get that reference. If you don’t, count yourself fortunate) I was watching the CMT Top 20 Music Video countdown.
My favourite album as a child was “Come On Over” by Shania Twain. Curled up in a chair in the middle of our family room, Shania’s booklet of lyrics in my hand, CD in the stereo system, I read along with her every word. (The lyrics are still with me today. Hello! Love how brains work.) I loved that CD. I still love that CD. Anytime Shania comes on country radio, it’s a blessing. ;) Around age 13, my music vocabulary grew. I discovered favourites like John Mayer, Coldplay, Ella Fitzgerald, Feist, Snow Patrol, Damien Rice, etc. Country (and Shania) took a back-seat. Every now and then, I’d spend a few days reliving my country childhood… but I had no knowledge of “new” country. I’d simply play Faith Hill, Keith Urban, Martina McBride, Paul Brandt and Shania Twain. (Which in my opinion, are still some of the greatest alive.) Somehow country music gets a bad rap. Being the artsy hipster I used to aspire to be, it was no longer cool.
But something happened this Fall. I started listening to country music again… and I discovered it’s FUN. And slightly humorous. (Seriously, while typing this post I’ve been listening to “Country Girl Shake It For Me” by Luke Bryan. What a song title. Funny the first listen, great the next, soooo catchy and brilliant the next 234x.) I persevered with country radio and NOW I REALLY LIKE IT. (Of course, none of my love for other genres has lessened. I’ve simply grown in appreciation for this one. Don’t discriminate.) I now know about “new new” country artists like Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, Lauren Alaina. Any other country fans out there? Who’s your favourite newer artist?!
Happy Monday.
Sun is shining. The Lord is good.
I am a blessed woman.
Oh, Luke Bryan. What a great, great man. ;) I loooove me some country music too, though!!
Finally a blogger who understands! :) haha, I’m in love with country music…that may seem a little strange coming from a New England-er, but I listen to it constantly, Luke Bryan being my all-time favorite singer. I also love Lady Antebellum, (some) Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, The Band Perry, Rodney Atkins, and Gloriana.
love country too! I was also raised on it.. didn’t like it as a teen, then fell in love as I got a bit older. Fun music, great stories within the lyrics, and so relate-able. My favs are Eric Church, Miranda, Zac Brown Band, Little Big Town, Pistol Annies (Miranda’s other band)
I’m a huge country music fan :) I like all the people you listed as well as Brad Paisley, Lady Antebellum, and many many others! One of my favorite songs is sideways by Dierks Bently. (who names their child dierks!? I love it!! haha :))
I love this post! I too am a fan of many genres, but country holds a soft spot for me (Shania will always be my number 1 haha!). I really like Florida Georgia Line and you should check out an album called The Highway by Holly Williams. Enjoy! :)
Casey James, “Crying on a Suitcase.” The Band Perry, “Better Dig Two.” And of course, anything by Miranda Lambert.
I’m on board with Tammy! Zac Brown and Eric Church have been on constant repeat around here but I’ve also discovered Kip Moore and he is fantastic, very indie and home grown.
And I will die a Brad Paisley anything lover!
I listen to just about every one you mentioned as well as the Band Perry, Carrie Underwood, Hunter Hayes, Lady Antebellum, Steel Magnolia, Billy Currington, Josh Turner, and Brad Paisley. I obviously don’t like country music at all ;)
hah! totally get what you’re saying — i LOVE country music, but it almost seems like a sin to like it if you’re aspiring to be the artsy, hippie, soulful hipster. ;) i am not ashamed to say that i love country though. it’s so much fun to listen to! (and, for the record, luke bryan is AH-MAZ-ING.)
Actually, Hot Chocolate sang You Sexy Thing :-)
Love that song!
HAHAHA. “Step up to the Microphone.” I was obsessed with them when I was 12/13…i wanted to marry Phil Joel(his long blonde hair was just the bees knees) ;) so I would force my brothers to do air band dances to Step up to the Microphone and Woohoo because those were the ones he sang. Hahaha…we were pretty sure they were going to get our letters and be super excited to come do a concert in Vernon and stay at our house after.
Lady Antebellum’s coming out with their new cd in 43 days…yes, I have a countdown. :) my favourite song of theirs is “Singin’ Me Home”