Country Style Music to Suit Any Taste
Country music has something for everyone. From the twang of a steel guitar to the beat of a drum, there’s a style of country music to suit any taste. Check out this blog for the latest in country music news, reviews, and interviews.
Country Music Styles
When we think of country music, most of us think of the twangy, down-home sounds of artists like Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton. But there are actually many different styles of country music, from the more traditional sounds of acts like George Strait to the more contemporary sounds of artists like Keith Urban. And within each of these styles, there are sub-genres that further break down the sound. So, if you’re a fan of country music, chances are there is a style out there that suits your taste. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the different styles of country music, as well as some of the artists who are known for playing them.
Traditional Country
Traditional Country is a sub-genre of country music that began developing in the late 1940s. It takes its influences from earlier styles of country music, bluegrass, and folk music, and is characterized by its simple melodies, often with just three chords, and its focus on traditional instrumentation such as fiddles, banjos, and steel guitars. Traditional Country performers such as Hank Williams, Jimmie Rodgers, and Bob Wills are considered some of the most influential country artists of all time.
Outlaw Country
Outlaw country is a subgenre of country music that blended elements of the Nashville sound with the themes and production styles of rock music.
The subgenre takes its name from the fact that many of its practitioners were barred from country radio for embracing various anti-establishment views. Outlaw country artists are often associated with hard living and drug use, as well as a rebellious attitude.
The sound of outlaw country typically incorporates twangy electric guitar licks, Rhodes piano, steel guitar, and extended jams. Notable outlaw country artists include Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, David Allan Coe, Kris Kristofferson, Steve Earle, and Hank Williams Jr.
Though it fell out of fashion in the 1980s, the outlaw country sound has seen something of a resurgence in recent years thanks to artists like Sturgill Simpson and Jason Isbell.
Country Rock
Country rock is a musical genre that fuses elements of rock music and country music. It was developed in the 1960s in the United States.
The style is often characterized by electric guitars, steel guitars, and drums, as well as vocal harmonies and a strong rhythm section. Themes often include love, heartbreak, and loss.
Artists who have been described as country rock include Gram Parsons, the Flying Burrito Brothers, Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Poco, the Byrds, and Neil Young.
Country Pop
Country pop is a subgenre of country music and pop music, with elements of soft rock. It has been described as a blend of country music and pop music. It first developed in the Southern United States in the 1920s. In the 2010s, country pop was influenced by hip hop.
The term “country-pop” was first used in the late 1960s by Johnny Cash to describe his fusion of country and pop music.
In the 1970s, singer-songwriter Barbara Mandrell began having considerable success singing country-influenced material, which led to her being declared Country Music’s Queen of Texture. Later, in 1977, Mandrell had a major crossover hit with her single “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed”, which reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Country Singles chart and the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
In 1979, mandolinist Sam Bush helped make bluegrass—once considered purely American folk music—acceptable to a mainstream audience with his band New Grass Revival’s album New Grass Revival, considered to be one of the key works that initiated the genre’s “newgrass” subgenre.
Where to Find Country Music
Country music can be found in many places these days. You can find it on the radio, on TV, and even on the internet. There are many websites that offer country music, and you can even find it on your favorite streaming service.
Local Radio Stations
If you’re interested in finding country music, there are a few places you can look. Many radio stations now have an online presence, so you can often find a list of local stations that play country music. You can also check out satellite radio, which offers a wide range of genres including country.
You can also find a number of country music festivals held throughout the year. These usually feature a mix of well-known and up-and-coming artists, so you can get a taste of what’s popular right now. Country music cruises are another option, which allows you to listen to live music while enjoying the scenery.
Online Music Services
No matter what your taste in music is, you can find a country station online to suit your needs. Whether you want to relax with some bluegrass, two-step to the latest hits, or enjoy some classic country, there are dozens of stations to choose from.
Here are a few of our favorites:
Pandora Radio: One of the most popular music streaming services, Pandora offers a variety of genre-based stations, including several dedicated to country music. You can create up to 100 different stations, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you.
iHeartRadio: Another popular option for streaming music, iHeartRadio also offers a wide variety of genre-based stations. In addition to their regular offerings, they also have “Perfect For” stations which are curated based on mood, activity, or time of day. Their “Country Christmas” station is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!
Spotify: Spotify is a great option for streaming all kinds of music, including country. They offer a wide variety of genre-based stations as well as artist-based playlists. You can also create your own custom playlists if you’re looking for something specific.
Country Music Festivals
Looking for a way to expand your musical horizons? Check out a country music festival! Usually taking place over a weekend, these outdoor events bring together some of the biggest names in country for a celebration of all things twang.
In addition to the music, many festivals also feature food and drink vendors, as well as opportunities to camp out under the stars. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back hoedown or a rowdy party, there’s sure to be a country music festival that’s just your style.
One of the most popular country music festivals is CMA Music Festival, held annually in Nashville, Tennessee. This four-day event features over 100 different artists, as well as fan zones, meet-and-greets, and more.
If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, try MerleFest in Wilkesboro, North Carolina. This four-day festival attracts around 80,000 people each year to see over 200 musical acts perform.
No matter what your taste in music is, there’s sure to be a country music festival that’s right for you. So round up your friends and get ready for a toe-tappin’ good time!
How to Get Started with Country Music
Country music is one of the most popular genres in the United States, and it has something to offer everyone. It’s a great way to relax and unwind, and it can also be a lot of fun to dance to. If you’re thinking about getting into country music, there are a few things you should know. In this section, we’ll cover the basics of country music and give you a few tips on how to get started.
Listen to a Variety of Artists
When you’re exploring a new genre of music, it’s important to listen to a variety of artists to get a feel for what the genre has to offer. This is especially true for country music, as the genre is vast and filled with sub-genres. You may think you don’t like country music because you only listened to one artist, but if you give other musicians a chance, you may be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
Take the time to explore different artists and don’t be afraid to branch out into different sub-genres. Country music includes everything from bluegrass and folk to rockabilly and honky-tonk, so there’s bound to be something that suits your taste. Once you find a few artists you enjoy, you can start digging deeper into their catalogs and learning more about the genre as a whole.
Find a Country Music Artist You Connect With
No two country music artists are the same. There are so many different styles and sub-genres that it can be hard to know where to start. The best way to get into country music is to find an artist that you connect with.
Here are a few of our favorite country music artists to help you get started:
– Miranda Lambert: If you like strong, independent women, then Miranda Lambert is the perfect artist for you. She sings about heartbreak, love, and everything in between.
– Keith Urban: Keith Urban is a bit more traditional than Miranda Lambert, but his songs are just as moving. He frequently collaborates with other artists, so there’s always something new to listen to.
– Florida Georgia Line: Florida Georgia Line is perfect if you’re looking for something a little more upbeat. Their songs are great for road trips or days spent working around the house.
Once you’ve found an artist whose music you enjoy, start exploring their other work and branch out from there. Country music has something for everyone, so take your time and find the sound that suits you best.
Attend a Country Music Event
No matter where you live, there’s probably a country music event happening nearby. Festivals and concerts are a great way to sample different artists and genres to find the ones you like best. Do some research online or ask friends for recommendations. Once you’ve found an event, buy tickets and enjoy a day or evening of live music.
