Country music is one of the most popular genres of music today in the United States. Throughout the years, this industry has created many well known stars, such as Johnny Cash, Hank Williams Jr, and Loretta Lynn, who have all been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame (“Inductees List”). Together, along with the numerous other stars in the category, these immensely talented artists contributed to the sound of country. But modern country music is undergoing a sizable obstacle. Many artists are pushing the boundaries of country music, leaving the definition of the genre up for debate.
So what is country music? Webster Dictionary defines country music as “a style of music that developed in the southern and western United States, that is
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Ring up the subject of instruments. This is referring the the instruments that a unique to country music, such as the banjo and fiddle: The relationship between these unique instruments and the more general instruments, like a piano and acoustic guitar, creates country music’s distinct and recognizable sound. This ‘twang’ is what a lot of avid listeners are looking for, and is also one of the biggest features that is being manipulated today. “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” by the Charlie Daniel’s Band, which won the 1979 for “Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal”, is a perfect illustration of the sound behind older country (Songfacts). The fiddle is the fundamental instrument within this song, and is responsible for creating the unique sound that brings in an audience. Some 21st century artists, like Jon Pardi, continue to stick to the deep roots of country, while some try to stretch those rules.An example of this is one of the most popular country stars today, Luke Bryan. In his hit songs, such as “That’s My Kind of Night” or “Kick the Dust Up”, he brings in instruments, such as bass guitars, that contribute a powerful electrical sound. He also has a very strong beat and bass that is brought into the song. Even though Bryan brings in these aspects which are not typically in a country song, he also tries to salvage the traditional feel by bringing electric …show more content…
One pretty clear answer comes to mind, the fans. Today's culture is much different than what it was back in the 80’s. When millennial stunt on the radio, many of them are often looking for a way to escape. They want to be able to turn on a loud, upbeat song, full of bass that is capable of shaking cars, all in order to forget about their current situations. Most of the earlier music in this style are slow, meaningful songs. These usually don't overpower the the senses even to distract the audience; if fact, these songs could be the exact cause of a long, personal look into one’s self. Another reason behind this could be concerts and how entertaining they are. Some people like to be able to rock out during a concert and be able to get up and move. The audience may want to be able to dance in a way that is different than square dancing. Artists have probably noticed this within today's society. So by bring in these new, captivating components, writers are bringing in new audience who can become lifelong listeners to ensure that the genre will continue to persevere and last for a long