Discovering Country Music: A City Slicker’s Guide
Is country music grasping at you, but you’re not quite sure why? As a city slicker, you might be accustomed to rock, pop, and blues. But what you may not realize is that there’s a rich, cross-pollinated world within country music that is just waiting for you to explore. From honky-tonk grooves to storytelling ballads, country music offers a broad spectrum for your listening pleasure.
Understanding the Genre
Country music, often seen as a genre limited to New Country, has deep roots in a variety of musical styles. It’s not simply about a twangy guitar and a hank of twine; it’s about tapping into the rich storytelling and songwriting traditions that have been a hallmark of country music for decades. In fact, many of the songs you already love in rock, blues, and pop have echoes in the country genre. This flexibility makes it a perfect gateway for the city slicker.
Starting Your Journey
It’s important to start small and enjoy the journey. You’re not bound to immediately dive into hardcore country; rather, gradually let the music creep into your listening repertory. Think of it as a fun and engaging experience that introduces you to the genre one song at a time.
A City Slicker’s Country Playlist
To help you on your way, here’s a curated list of songs that blend the familiar with the new, making it easier for you to enjoy country without feeling out of place. Whether it’s the classic rock vibes of “Honky Tonk Women” by The Rolling Stones, or the smoothness of “Picture” by Kid Rock featuring Sheryl Crow, there’s something here for everyone. “Honky Tonk Women” - The Rolling Stones “Don’t It” - Billy Currington “I’d Rather Go Blind” - Etta James “Picture” - Kid Rock featuring Sheryl Crow “The Fighter” - Keith Urban featuring Carrie Underwood “Wagon Wheel” - Darius Rucker “Erie Canal” - Bruce Springsteen “Write This Down” - George Strait “Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not” - Thompson Square “That Don’t Impress Me Much” - Shania Twain “Heartache Tonight” - The Eagles “When It Rains It Pours” - Luke Combs “Angel From Montgomery” - Bonnie Raitt “Strong Enough” - Sheryl Crow “What Are You Listening To” - Chris Stapleton “Our Song” - Taylor Swift “This One’s for the Girls” - Martina McBride “Harvest Moon” - Neil Young “Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean” - Susan Tedeschi “Beast Of Burden” - The Rolling Stones “Ramblin’ Man” - The Allman Brothers Band “Rock Me Right” - Susan Tedeschi “Play It Again” - Luke Bryan “Something to Talk About” - Bonnie Raitt “Following Me” - Thompson Square “She Talks To Angels” - The Black Crowes “This” - Darius Rucker “Back Home Again” - John Denver “O Mary Don’t You Weep” - Bruce Springsteen “Seven Bridges Road” - The Eagles “Take Your Time” - Sam Hunt “Use Somebody” - Kings of Leon “Walking In Memphis” - Marc Cohn “Live Like You Were Dying” - Tim McGraw “Sometimes Salvation” - The Black Crowes “Amie” - Pure Prairie League “Just Won’t Burn” - Susan Tedeschi “Dead Flowers” - The Rolling Stones “Pay Me My Money Down” - Bruce Springsteen “I’ve Got Nothin’” - Darius Rucker “Follow Me” - Uncle Kracker “Collide” - Kid Rock featuring Sheryl Crow Bob Seger “Jacob’s Ladder” - Bruce Springsteen “Man! I Feel Like A Woman!” - Shania Twain “Singles You Up” - Jordan Davis “When Did You Fall” - Chris Rice “Smile” - Uncle Kracker “This Kiss” - Faith Hill “I’m No Angel” - The Gregg Allman Band “Take Me Home Country Roads” - John Denver “Drink a Beer” - Luke Bryan “Tennessee Whiskey” - Chris Stapleton, featuring Justin Timberlake “Born Free” - Kid Rock “Take It Easy” - The Eagles “Need You Now” - Lady Antebellum “Lay Down Sally” - Eric Clapton (featuring Vince Gill, Keb’ Mo’ Sheryl Crow) “I Go Blind” - Hootie The Blowfish “You’re Still The One” - Shania Twain “I Hold On” - Dierks Bentley
These songs are available on YouTube, making it easy for you to explore and find those that resonate with you. Happy hunting!