Garth Brooks: New Country Music Analysis

When it comes to male artists, Garth Brooks was by far one of the most influential artists. Brooks story is an inspirational story of how an artist can blend rock and country into a whole new style. The world of country music embraced Brooks style known as New Country. The new style was more aggressive with increased emphasis on drums and bass, and more infused gospel and R&B. When it comes to other country artist, Brooks is not completion, becoming the best-selling solo artist in history. The name Garth Brooks became one of the most popular names in county music “as he represented a new breed of straight-talking country music heroes, defending homosexuals in song ("We Shall Be Free," from 1992's The Chase) and talking to Barbara Walters on

Brooks inspired other musicians and producers from the rock world to integrate into country music. Bands such as AC/DC, Def Leppard and the Cars all made the transition over. In the following years, an abundant amount of rock musicians, such as Bon Jovi, Sheryl Crow, Darius Rucker, and Robert Plant have tested the water, even changed their identify to country artists (Ears). However, the shift from rock to country was not the only change in the music industry. Mainstream country artists have even began to incorporate hip-hop and rap into their music (Ears). These opportunities were made possible because Garth Brooks was not afraid to try something new, to be a new movement. Brook’s public affirmation of rock music immensely provoked the turning point of the biggest selling country artist of all time. Country music queen, Reba McEntire is one of the greatest female country artists, whose influence in long lived. Her astonishing legacy was not handed to her on a silver platter; however, she worked hard to earn her title as the Queen of country music. McEntire’s great work ethic and big heart made her the woman she is today. This award-winning, chart-topping artist has also acted in films, her own sitcom and developed several

Records were broke when McEntire surpassed Dolly Parton with having the most nominated female artists in the 43-year history of the CMA Awards. Her next album, All the Women I Am, which included the number-one hit "Turn On the Radio” was released in 2010. When asked what the key to success, Reba exclaims that "To succeed in life," she has said, "you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone (Reba).” Over the past seventy years, country music has developed different traits. However, country music has always explained the real issues of ordinary people. Country music is no longer limited to just country; instead it embraces other aspects of music. Without the powerful influences of artists such as Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks and Reba McEntire, the image of country music might have never changed. The roots of country music run deep because of the artists that are passionate about what they