Payton Kiasevicz

Payton Kiasevicz 

Dr. Turner 

Aesthetic Inquiry: Country Music

February 19, 2024 

The Turning Point: Lyrics Shape Everything 

Country music has always been a constant in my life. From the day I understood what music is, it has been a part of my daily routine. When I was young, I was listening to songs in the car with my mom. Now it is while I am studying, working out, hanging out with friends, etc. Since it has always been present, I've never thought too deeply into what country music really means. I listen to both the lyrics and the music, but that is all it used to mean to me. It was simply a song with instrumentals and lyrics to tell a story. As I've gotten older, I have found immense appreciation for these stories, and am able to connect a lot to my own experiences. The opportunity to embark on a journey through the eras of country music has been enlightening, opening my eyes to the deeper meanings of a simple topic such as music. This journey has taught me that music actually isn't simple at all. There is no one way to define music or any of its genres. Yes, you can describe the characteristics and qualities of genres and songs, but there is no specific across-the-board definition. This is what I find absolutely fascinating. 

From the start of this journey, I have been determined to find songs that I could use for this class but also add to my personal playlist. I have always stayed pretty in my comfort zone in regards to music; listening to only about the 80s to modern day songs. I’m thankful that this class has pushed me to explore beyond modern day country and dive into the early 1900s. I did not realize it before but I can now see that we need to listen to older generations to really appreciate and understand the music we have now. Much of the structure and instrumentals we hear in popular modern artists’ songs, such as Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs, come from the foundational generations of the early 1900s and even before that. However, I would say that what stuck out the most to me is the lyrical growth and changes. With this, lyrics are my turning point and paying greater attention to the story behind the songs have shifted my perspective immensely.    

Many of our class discussions have been about the classic themes of country songs and the stories that artists like to tell. For me, the most consistent themes are love, heartbreak, and appreciating the simple life. It has become apparent that songs really are stories, just easier to consume than reading. The way I like to look at it, is that songs are whole books but the stories are told in about 3 minutes. Even though these artists don’t have hundreds of pages to work with, they manage to have a beginning, middle, and end to each story they tell. Starting the journey from songs in the early 1900s has really helped me realize the seriousness and importance of lyrics. From songs such as “Yellow Rose of Texas” by Roy Rogers to “Last Night Lonely” by Jon Pardi, there is a recurring theme of love/finding love. It is truly beautiful that love and the yearning to share your life and experiences with someone else, persists as a common theme through such distinctly different generations. 

Another layer to the love theme is missing that person and the way they felt during that time. For example, we have modern songs such as “Missing You” by Flatland Cavalry that is about missing the girl he loves and talking about how things were good when they were together. “Song of the Bandit” by The Sons of Pioneers is about a girl falling in love with a bandit, he is always gone, so she is forced to wait around just missing him. There is this relatability component to country music that I did not initially realize and has greatly changed my perspective. “Song of the Bandit” has this fantastic storytelling element but also holds a relatability factor because many people understand the difficulty of loving someone who is not always around. Long-distance relationships have always been a thing, but I would say that they are more common in modern day because technology helps ease that gap. These artists that create relatable love stories and those about missing someone, whether it be a significant other, family member, etc., are creating a connecting and meaningful experience for their listeners. I know that personally, music has always evoked strong emotions in me and I connect very well with others. I also have very strong emotions and feel everything very deeply. This trait has also been very helpful throughout this journey. I am getting to understand and realize the lyrical shifts through the generations and how that affects the songs and listeners as a whole.  

Of course then we have the classic heartbreak country songs. There are probably more heartbreak songs than there are for love. “Tennessee Waltz” by Roy Acuff is about having his love stolen, and many people are betrayed when it comes to love. Then we have “Wildflower” by The Carter Family and it is about a girl being deeply in love only to end up neglected. Heartbreak is as prominent as love and seeing this also be a common theme throughout the years, is comforting in a way. These artists that we sometimes place on a high pedestal are still just humans, experiencing normal things such as betrayal and heartbreak. I would say that the heartbreak songs in the early 1900s are very slow and simply just sad. As we move through the generations into modern day, the songs get angrier and more aggressive. In 2024 we still have very slow, lonesome songs but artists are more willing to push the boundary and do something aggressive.  

The shift in each generation also caught my attention. For example, we discussed the 1950s and how that was a very hot political era, thus many country songs were centered around pressing topics in the country and world. As the years go through the 60s and 70s and so on, there is a shift. These songs really focused on the typical country song themes such as working hard, having a good time, enjoying life, and talking about loved ones. This really fits into modern day country because to this day the songs most focus on those major themes. Artists try to stay away from hot topics in the country/world/politics and focus mainly on entertainment purposes. Song is a very powerful way to convey messages and make the listeners feel something, but it is also most  used for entertaining. There will always be artists that are willing to get their voice and opinion out there, which is fantastic. For example, we have Jason Aldean with “Try That In A Small Town.” However, I would say during my journey through time, I noticed that from the early 2000s and on, we get mainly entertainment purpose based songs. Hey, but there’s nothing wrong with a good song about drinking and having a good time while you're sitting on the beach with your friends during the hot, summer days.       

Moreover, actually listening to and absorbing the lyrics of over 100 songs has opened my eyes to a whole new world. I am happy that I had this shift and a deep change in perspective. It is truly amazing realizing the insane connections these artists are looking for when you listen to their songs. This is all done through their words, how they say it, when they say it, etc. For my learning going forward, I know that I will be more attentive, paying attention to every detail of the lyrics and focusing on how it makes me feel/what I get from it. The lyrics are what make the story a story, so to me it is just as important to focus on the words as it is to pay attention to instrumentals. My learning and thought process has greatly evolved because originally I never paid attention to what country music really is, but now I feel that I am listening with a purpose. 

1. Porch Light – Josh Meloy (2022) 

   1. Harmonica heard throughout entire song, it is very prominent, acoustic guitar, heavy strumming and emphasis on acoustic guitar usage (all of his songs feature the same heavy strumming acoustic guitar, simple instrument style)   

   2. Light tapping on guitar with quiet background for emphasis on his voice and lyrics  

   3. Meloy brings a heavy gritty robust accent with easy to understand lyrics, a simple been on the road but I'm coming home soon song  

   4. This song does not stray too far from the country genre, it has the musical elements and tells a relatable story  

   5. I have been pretty obsessed with this song lately, his voice is so unique and the simple use of instruments is so refreshing, it shows the raw talent and hard work  

   6. It is a simple story line and as a country music lover, it is so easy to get lost in the song because it is purely raw country    

2. Smaller Acts – Zach Bryan (2023) 

   1. Acoustic guitar, soft easy strumming but it is a big part of the song, can hear background noise that sounds like a summer night, frog noises  

   2. His voice is very isolated, allowing the listener to really hear and connect with the lyrics 

   3. Zach Bryan has taken over this genre in recent years, he brings pretty typical songs about love, hard work, and all of the everyday things that most listeners can relate to  

   4. He has surprised me with each album he's released in the past few years, he takes a different approach at the genre each time, but never strays too far from the true elements of country music  

   5. His songs are comforting because you know that you are going to get a unique but relatable country song  

3. Springsteen – Eric Church (2011) 

   1. Acoustic guitar with distinct strumming, strong isolated drumming, can hear many different instruments mostly guitar-like and drums, there is a hint of a piano or keyboard of some forts  

   2. Church has a very deep, distinct voice that is perfect for the country genre 

   3. There is a part of the song that is very focused on instrumentals and it is easy to connect with the music/lyrics  

   4. This has been a staple country song since it was released, it is a story about being younger and looking back once you are grown up   

4. Wagon Wheel – Darius Rucker (2013)  

-this is a classic country song that probably any country listener will know 

-His voice has the very country feel, and the use of acoustic instrumentals really compliments that  

-there are long guitar riffs and very upbeat sound, you can hear violins and I believe fiddles 

-follows the classic love theme and is overall a great song, I'm a little biased, I grew up listening to Darius Rucker   

5. Vice – Miranda Lambert (2016) 

   1. The song starts out with the crackle of an old record player and her voice is isolated without any instruments to create a strong intro  

   2. Drums and guitars are the most prominent throughout the song, but there is this unique rattling rhythm in the background that brings it all together  

   3. Lambert crafts a relatable story that listeners among various age groups can connect to  

   4. She brings in strong electric guitar and this brings a big wow-factor, straying away from the typical use of acoustic   

6. Take Your Time – Sam Hunt (2014)  

-personally not a huge fan of Hunt, his songs do not hit as country, they give more of a pop feel  

-he starts this song by switching in between talking and singing which definitely throws some people off 

-can hear more electrical instruments, he veers into the pop genre 

-still has a great story line and it's very easy to relate to  

7. It's Five O'clock Somewhere – Alan Jackson (2003) 

-Alan Jackson is definitely country 

-he comes in with the guitar and a little bit of drums and violin, it is a very upbeat country sound  

-got to throw in the modern country theme of day drinking here and there  

-this song reminds me of listening to country music during the summer, sitting by the pool or at the beach with friends  

8. Songs About Rain – Gary Allan (2003) 

-unique voice, he is very easy to listen to and he ropes you in 

-talking about losing the girl he loves and everything reminding him of her/being sad, unique lyrics 

-the instrumentals are really amazing, it's on the slower side but the drums and guitars keep you very in tune with the song   

9. Rich Men North of Richmond – Oliver Anthony Music (2023) 

-raspy, deep country voice 

-all acoustic and his voice is super isolated, you only hear him playing the guitar  

-lyrics are written for middle/lower class, hard-working people, and he talks a lot about some modern issues, making this song very easy to relate to  

-I would say this is very specific type of country  

10. Please Don't Go – Wyatt Flores (2022)  

    1. Starts off with strong acoustic strumming followed by deep strumming, possibly some banjo and other string instruments  

    2. He has a very unique voice with a twang and rasp that deeply connects to the country genre  

    3. This song has been on repeat for me for a while, it gives off a little bit of a foreign vibe but it hits all the country marks  

    4. Violins and trumpets come in towards the later part of the song to really bring a unique aspect to this song, it is such an easy and amusing listen  

    5. Storyline is based on love and wanting that love to stay  

11. Missing You – Flatland Cavalry (2015)  

    1. Violins with deep acoustic and electric guitar 

    2. Fantastic storytelling, talking about an old love, thinking about the good times when they were together and missing each other 

    3. The song keeps you hooked for the whole duration of it   

    4. It is heartfelt and a beautiful song, instrumentally and lyrically  

12. Buy Me a Boat – Chris Janson (2015)  

    1. Connecting to working class, working hard all day long but still not being rich, classic country talking about boats, trucks, and beer   

    2. Strong instrumentals, including an electric guitar really emphasizes this song and makes it fun to listen  

    3. Janson has a classic country deep voice  

13. Old Alabama – Brad Paisley (2011)  

    1. Brad Paisley is a well-known country artist  

    2. Starts off very strong with a good guitar opening, continuing the guitar throughout with violin  

    3. Talking about a beautiful southern girl, it's a story of how their night progresses  

    4. He brings an upbeat sound to country  

14. Broken Window Serenade – Whiskey Meyers (2011) 

    1. I can't explain the amount of times I have listened to this song, I have been obsessed for months now listening to it at least once a day  

    2. There is an amazing harmonica introduction and deep guitar riffs that are pretty satisfying  

    3. His voice has a strained tone and it is very country, you can really feel the emotion in the song 

    4. Talks about loving a girl with depression, money struggles, addiction, etc.  

15. Sweet Annie – Zach Brown Band (2012)  

    1. Can hear some electric keys at the beginning, then opens with strong guitar and drums  

    2. Zach Brown Band has always been a top favorite in the country world  

    3. They are a classic band and never disappoint in the country genre  

16. Write This Down – George Strait (1999) 

    1. Guitar, violin, drums  

    2. Strait has a country voice and most people recognize him as a very big name in 90s country   

    3. Another love story but hey got to give the people what they want 

17. Wild One – Faith Hill (1993)  

    1. Upbeat and has that classic guitar sound that most country songs have  

    2. She talks about a girl who is a little rebellious and doesn't let people tell her what to do, definitely an amazing song for young women to listen to 

    3. Her voice is so comforting and engaging  

    4. She fits my country definition  

18. On the Other Hand – Randy Travis (1986)  

    1. Slower song but it has the classic country instrumentals, he has a great deep voice  

    2. Story about cheating on wife, very awful and unfortunate issue but for some it may be relatable  

    3. I would say he's considered country  

19. Last Night Lonely – Jon Pardi (2022)  

    1. One of my favorite modern country songs 

    2. Strong, engaging instrumentals  

    3. It is such a good song to sing along to, it is catchy and so much fun  

    4. Pardi has a pretty typical country voice but he pulls you in and you got to listen to the whole song  

    5. Super cute love story about meeting a girl in a bar and not being lonely anymore after that  

20. If I Were the Devil – Colby Acuff (2021)  

    1. Another obsession of mine, this is becoming a theme but I feel the need to talk about them any chance I get  

    2. He brings whistling to the game and I think this was an excellent country addition  

    3. This is another one where the instrumentals are just very satisfying and are so country  

    4. Talking about what he would do if he was the devil, a little hard to explain so definitely worth the listen  

21. We Ride – Bryan Martin (2022) 

    1. Fantastic guitar intro and he comes in with strong vocals, continuing calm strumming with the addition of drums after a few seconds of lyrics  

    2. He has such a deep voice and has a slight rasp every now and then  

    3. This definitely has a very country feel  

    4. Typical country "bad boy", middle class working hard all day, talking about drinking and such   

22. White Buffalo – Ian Munsick (2023) 

    1. Calm guitar intro, his voice is very isolated and instruments do not overpower at all, but instead compliment his voice the entire time  

    2. He has a very, very high pitch voice, which strays a little from the country genre  

    3. He adds in a lot of interludes with instruments as well as voice work  

    4. Talking about a girl that left and how rare it would be to see her, comparing her to things like seeing a ghost, etc.   

23. Spin You Around – Morgan Wallen (2024)  

    1. He really strayed away from his typical sound and did full acoustic with this song  

    2. The acoustic guitar is fantastic and sounds really beautiful  

    3. He follows with the typical love story theme  

    4. He brings a calm love story to the table and it was nice to hear something different from him  

24. I Still Like Bologna – Alan Jackson (2008) 

    1. This is just about as country as it gets, you can hear the steel guitar and I believe bass and guitar  

    2. There are so many interludes with the steel guitar  

    3. He's talking about modern things such as internet and how it’s a good thing, but it is so much better to embrace how things were during older times  

    4. He also has a very deep country voice 

25. Cold, Cold Heart – Hank Williams (1950) 

    1. Steel guitar intro, deep bass, slower song  

    2. He has a yodel sound to his voice, which sounds very country  

    3. He is talking about a cold, closed-off girl; this fits the typical country theme  

26. A Fallen Star – Ferlin Husky (1957) 

    1. Intro sounds like a gospel sound and the back-up singers continue this throughout the song 

    2. This does not feel country at all, I can't put my finger on what it would be but this is not country   

    3. It is a really good song and his voice sounds country  

27. North to Alaska – Johnny Horton (1960) 

    1. Very upbeat and makes you tap your foot  

    2. I actually really like this song but again it doesn't feel super country 

    3. The back-up singers are throwing me off I think 

28. Walkin' After Midnight – Patsy Cline (1957)  

    1. Steel guitar and some light drums 

    2. She has a fantastic voice, it sounds very country  

    3. The sound of the song reminds me of something that would be played in like an old time diner  

    4. This fits the theme of looking for love  

29. Ring of Fire – Johnny Cash (1963)  

    1. The trumpets are really unique, this definitely extends the country genre because I think it fits really well  

    2. There are also string instruments being used in the background which makes it feel more country  

    3. A ton of long instrumental interludes  

30. I'll Never Fall in Love Again – Bobbie Gentry (1969)  

    1. Addition of piano and the use of more drums  

    2. This actually has a pop feel 

    3. The piano is really throwing me off here, I don’t think this is country at all  

31. Everything Under the Sun – Waylon Wyatt (2023)  

1. He uses only acoustic guitar and you can hear the specific cords, it feels exceptionally country  

2. His voice has a slight raspy sound to it; while his voice isn't deep the raspy sound really makes the song  

3. It is about a girl being everything to him, numbing the pain, and when she leaves all the pain comes back   

32. Jolene – Dolly Parton (1974) 

1. Upbeat and very country sounding intro 

2. Her voice is so classic country, she ropes you in and really has you listen to the story  

3. The use of only string instruments is an awesome way to represent country  

33. Whiskey River – Willie Nelson (1973)  

    1. His voice is very unique, I can't put my finger on what it is but he actually doesn't sound that country  

    2. The beat of the song is nice, but the instruments throw me off a little 

    3. Of course this fits the theme of drowning your sorrows in alcohol  

34. The Devil Went Down to Georgia – The Charlie Daniels Band (1979) 

    1. The beginning really takes you in and it is so unique, it has a sort of rush aspect to it and it makes you almost jittery   

    2. The talking also strikes me as country 

    3. Instrumental interludes with a fiddle, very country 

35. Mary Ann Regrets – Burl Ives (1963) 

    1. This isn't country to me, the backup singers throw me off a lot  

    2. His voice is pretty country but the tone of the song and the structure doesn't strike me as country  

36. Miami, My Amy – Keith Whitley (1990)  

    1. I really like the intro, it isn't typical country but when his voice comes in you can connect more to the country feel  

    2. Keith Whitley's voice is fantastic  

    3. Song is about a girl and going to Miami to be with her 

37.  Fifteen Beers – Johnny Paycheck (2002) 

    1. I found this song to be pretty comical, he talks about drinking fifteen beers to get a girl off his mind  

    2. It has a very upbeat tone and the instrumentals are engaging  

    3. He actually almost sounds drunk as he's singing the song, who knows  

38. Chattahoochee – Alan Jackson (1992) 

    1. This is another one of those sounds that most people have probably hear  

    2. The intro instrumentals are very country, guitar and it sounds like fiddle  

    3. Classic country lyrics, drinking, women, having a good time  

39.  Long Haired Country Boy – Cody Johnson (2019)  

    1. Awesome intro, just a guitar and then the drums come in so strong followed by electric guitar  

    2. The instrumentals are so strong and very country, and then he comes in with a very deep country voice  

    3. Just from the title you can tell this is going to be a "country" song  

40. One Piece at a Time – Johnny Cash  

    1. Light intro and then he comes in talking and he talks through a good majority of the song   

    2. I would say this is country and pretty classic Johnny Cash  

    3. It's about wanting more and stealing it piece by piece  

41. Space and Time – S.G. Goodman (2020) 

    1. Her voice is awesome, it is very high but she has the country feel  

    2. The instrumentals are a little misleading but the lyrics are about love so that fits the country genre  

42. Cowpoke – Colter Wall (2020) 

    1. The only way I know how to describe this is that it is a "sweet" country song, the instrumentals are very calming but still fit as country  

    2. His voice is also very country and he is calming to listen to  

    3. There is a harmonica throughout the song which is awesome  

43. Doin' This – Luke Combs (2022) 

    1. Luke Combs voice is really unbeatable, he has a slight grit to his voice and he's loud/confident  

    2. This is a great example of an excellent modern country song 

    3. It is such a strong song, loud and talking about life   

44. Before He Cheats – Carrie Underwood (2005) 

    1. She has a very sweet voice but she knows how to make a loud country song  

    2. The drums and piano pair together nicely to create a country sound  

45. Honky Tonk Badonkadonk – Trace Adkins (2005) 

    1. This song made me laugh 

    2. He talks through it a lot but the lyrics are very country, almost comical but they fit the recurring theme 

    3. Talking about a girl (and things about the girl), drinking, and other events that happen at a bar  

46. Whiskey Lullaby – Brad Paisley (2003) 

    1. Very sad but the instruments and Paisley's voice are fantastic  

    2. The lyrics are really sad, I almost has a hard time getting through the song  

47. Redneck Yacht Club – Craig Morgan (2005)  

    1. Fiddle or violin opens it up and you can just tell it's going to be one of those good country songs  

    2. Talking about having a good time and making a make-shift yacht club with typical redneck materials-it's funny   

48. John Deere Green – Joe Diffie (1993) 

    1. Good intro and instrumentals  

    2. His voice is unique, a little high but has a country tone to it  

    3. It's a cute love song but in country fashion  

49. Good Directions – Billy Currington (2005) 

    1. This is a classic country song to me, you can distinctly hear the fiddle, bass, and some other key instruments  

    2. The story is about a country boy seeing a city girl come through town and he falls in love  

50. Everyone She Knows – Kenny Chesney (2020)  

    1. Kenny Chesney does country right, this is a very good modern country song  

    2. Awesome instrumental interludes with guitar  

    3. Up-beat and the lyrics keep you hooked because they are going in order of a story 

51. Broken Halos – Chris Stapleton (2017) 

    1. Stapleton is as country as it gets, he has a deep, raspy voice that just screams country  

    2. His instrumentals are very simple but very strong, I can only hear about three or four instruments  

52. El Paso – Marty Robbins (1959)  

    1. This sounds more foreign, however, the song is about falling in love with a Mexican girl  

    2. His voice is classic old country 

    3. The instrumentals throw me off a little bit, but the lyrics do save it on the country aspect  

53. The Wild Side of Life – Hank Thompson (1966) 

    1. Can distinctly hear the steel guitar and harmonica throughout  

    2. It's on the slower side but is overall country  

    3. He has long harmonica interludes with the steel guitar  

54. Sick, Sober, and Sorry – Johnny Bond (1951) 

    1. Talking about drinking and the hangover, but says what a good time he had  

    2. Very upbeat, but uses too much piano 

    3. The storyline is pretty country  

55. Fraulein – Bobby Helms (1956) 

    1. The beginning has strong violin or fiddle  

    2. His voice is very high pitch which caught me off guard but he is very good  

    3. Song about missing a girl  

56. Wichita Lineman – Glen Campbell (1968) 

    1. Nope this is not country 

    2. I can't tell what genre this would be but to me it strays too far from country  

    3. The instrumentals are so off and none of the usual country ones are being used  

57. Sea of Heartbreak – Don Gibson (1961)  

    1. His voice is pretty country but the guy in the background is throwing me off  

    2. The keys are being used too much and the background singers/noises is taking away from his voice  

    3. It's a little hard to focus on this song  

58. Come Cryin' To Me – Lonestar (1997)  

    1. Very country, classic steel guitar  

    2. His voice almost sounds strained and it is a little overtaken by the instruments  

    3. Saying his girl can depend on him  

59. Family Ties – Charles Wesley Godwin (2023) 

    1. He has a fantastic voice, it has a slight rattle and rasp to it  

    2. Beautiful classic country lyrics about love and family  

    3. The instruments are also on point, fiddle, guitar, etc.  

60. Lady – Kenny Rodgers  

    1. Not a huge fan of the beginning, this does not sound country at all 

    2. Honesty had to turn the song off, this was awful  

61. She's Everything – Brad Paisley  

    1. You can hear every instrument he uses in the intro which is fantastic and helps you focus on the music before the lyrics come in  

    2. He has a classic country voice  

    3. Describing the woman he loves and how she's everything he's ever wanted and need  

62. East Bound and Down – Jerry Reed  

    1. Very strong intro with banjo and other string instruments  

    2. High energy and it keeps you in the story  

    3. Classic country theme about a bandit, doing the usual cowboy things  

63. Farmer's Daughter – Rodney Atkins  

    1. Energetic intro and the instruments go together so well, they merge to create a great country sound  

    2. Perfect country voice, deep and has a slight drawl  

    3. Falling in love with his boss' daughter and talking about how gorgeous she is  

64. Something Like That – Time McGraw  

    1. This is a classic in my mind, this song is played at every function during the summer 

    2. "It was Labor Day weekend, I was 17; I bought a Coke and some gasoline..." 

    3. It is a relatable song for everyone about teenage love and just enjoying being young  

65. Rock and a Hard Place – Bailey Zimmerman  

    1. This is a very modern country song 

    2. He uses great acoustic guitar for the intro and then the instrumentals get stronger as the song progresses  

    3. A relationship that is stuck and they don’t know what to do-relatable   

66. Sleeping on the Blacktop – Colter Wall  

    1. Very unique, mysterious, dark and long intro 

    2. I love the addition of the stomping and clapping, it adds to that ominous, dark country tune  

67. Crazy – Patsy Cline  

    1. The beginning does not strike me as country, the keys are too strong  

    2. Her voice sounds very country but the instrumentals don’t back it up  

68. Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under – Shania Twain 

    1. I believe she is talking about a man who "gets around" and how she isn't his only girl-this is a very big trend/issue in modern times  

    2. She has a very country voice with strong vocals  

    3. The piano actually adds to that accusing tone she has in the song  

69. Night Life – Ray Price  

    1. Steel guitar intro, however, this does not sound country  

    2. Sounds like a song that would be played in a nice restaurant  

70. The Grand Tour – George Jones  

    1. Deep voice, the piano at the beginning does not compliment his voice but the instrumentals get decently better throughout   

71. On the Road Again – Willie Nelson  

    1. The whole song sounds very country to me, the bouncy beat and his voice pair nicely together 

    2. Talking about enjoying life on the road-that is very cowboy   

72. I've Been Everywhere – Hank Snow  

    1. Deep, raspy voice 

    2. The piano in the background takes away from the song and is so distracting  

    3. This doesn’t sound country 

73. Family Tradition – Hank William Jr. 

    1. Awesome string instrument intro, sets his deep voice up nice 

    2. Breaking family tradition, and having family issues  

74. Some Summer Day – Charley Patton  

    1. This is terrible. Sorry to be harsh but I could not even make out the words he was saying  

75. The Lovebug Itch – Eddy Arnold  

    1. Classic steel guitar intro 

    2. This doesn’t sound country either, I don’t know where I would place it honestly but definitely not country  

76. Lady May – Tyler Childers  

    1. This intro is beautiful, you can tell it is going to be a very satisfying song  

    2. His voice isn't super deep but it has this rasp every now and then 

    3. He is a modern country artist but he really connects to the older ways of country music, it is an amazing sound  

77. Funny Way of Laughing – Burl Ives 

    1. This isn't country 

    2. His voice sounds country, but the backup singers really take away from any country feel   

78. Slide Off Your Satin Sheets – Johnny Paycheck  

    1. Good country intro, harmonica  

    2. His voice is like rough country, he sounds like he's really from the sticks 

    3. A girl isn't happy with her rich man and whenever he leaves, she goes to find this other man for love  

79. Better Off Gone – Logan Mize  

    1. Acoustic guitar intro 

    2. He has a very modern country voice with these unique tones that come out at the end of some words  

    3. Talking about his girl leaving and how its better with her leaving because she always wanted to go  

80. Diggin' Up Bones – Randy Travis 

    1. Simple country intro  

    2. His voice is what really makes this country, it is so deep and almost sounds strained in some parts  

81. Dirt Cheap – Cody Johnson  

    1. Cody Johnson has really taken over the modern country scene  

    2. He has a recognizable deep voice that fits well with classic country instruments such as guitar, fiddle, etc. And he makes piano work as country in this song  

    3. Very cute storyline about an old man not selling his land because of all the memories he has there  

82. No Caller ID – Megan Moroney  

    1. If you are looking for a modern female country singer this is a great artist to go too 

    2. You can hear her accent coming out in her singing and she uses simple instrumentals which lets her voice really shine  

    3. About a guy that always comes back and ruins things  

83. Alcohol You Later – Mitchell Tenpenny  

    1. Classic country spin on drinking alcohol, when they are sober they say they are done but when they drink they call each other   

    2. The beginning is very unique but it comes out as country, his voice is also so unique, I think it would only fit in the country genre  

84. Carolina – Parmalee  

    1. Super upbeat, strong drums and electric guitar  

    2. Raspy, deep voice  

    3. Describing the girl he loves and how she makes everywhere feel like home  

85. From a Table Away – Sunny Sweeney  

    1. I really like this intro, I believe I hear a steel guitar  

    2. Her voice is pretty country, and it pairs well with the drums and guitar  

86. Sunny And 75 – Joe Nichols  

    1. The intro doesn’t sound country, it takes a little while to pick up but then he comes in super strong and creates a very upbeat, fast-paced country song  

    2. There are also great instrumental interludes  

87. One Hell of an Amen – Brantley Gilbert  

    1. The electric guitar is very country in this intro  

    2. Now his voice is absolutely country, deep, gritty, and bold  

    3. Putting your trust in the lord  

88. Bless the Broken Road – Rascal Flatts  

    1. The piano intro does not make this sound country 

    2. Rascal Flatts is definitely country but this song strays a little away from the genre  

    3. The piano is too heavily relied upon  

89. One Margarita – Luke Bryan  

    1. Not a great song, the guitar is good but I think this could pass as a pop song  

    2. Luke Bryan has a very country voice but here he strays a lot  

    3. The alcohol theme holds consistent though  

90. Forty Hour Week – Alabama  

    1. Deep country voice  

    2. The instrumentals are weak at the beginning but then pick up as the song goes  

    3. Working hard and earning your pay  

91. Lonesome Number One – Don Gibson  

    1. Not country, the instruments used are not very country at all  

    2. His voice would also sound better in a different genre-he actually reminds me of Elvis  

92. Gone – Ferlin Husky  

    1. The backup singers remind me of gospel/religious song  

    2. His voice is very deep and fits country but the instrumentals stray so far away from country  

    3. The story is country though about being lonely after his girl leaves 

93. Oklahoma Smokeshow – Zach Bryan  

    1. Beautiful use of violin on the intro and then coupled with the guitar  

    2. His voice is very country, you can hear his accent and the raspy, grittiness to it 

    3. About a beautiful girl and how she's never treated right  

94. Hometown Girl – Josh Turner  

    1. Simple country into, good guitar and drums  

    2. He has such a deep voice 

    3. Talking about the classic country pretty girl, growing up in a small southern town, and he needs a hometown girl  

95. Beer Can't Fix – Thomas Rhett  

    1. This is one of those great entertainment, party country songs  

    2. Thomas Rhett is a great modern country singer, sometimes he veers into the pop category but I would say he mainly sticks to country  

96. Living – Dierks Bentley  

    1. Aligns with the enjoying life theme that is very country, enjoying all the little things in life and appreciating everything around you  

    2. Drums, guitar and he has a deep, raspy voice 

97. Fire Away – Chris Stapleton  

    1. Anyone that has hear Stapleton should recognize that he is the epitome of a country voice-I feel like he needs no explanation 

    2. Country excellence, simple instrumentals that compliment his deep, bold voice  

98. It's Four In The Morning – Faron Young  

    1. Intro does not sound country, the violin is too high  

    2. His voice is very deep and sounds country  

    3. Holding on to a relationship that needs to end and how hurtful that is  

99. Letters from Home – John Michael Montgomery  

    1. Sweet, simple intro, you can hear the steel guitar  

    2. He has a very classic country voice, its deep and bold  

100. Hell Of A Way To Go – Riley Green  

     1. He has a very high voice but it's so unique and fits the country genre  

     2. The instrumentals are very strong and upbeat  

     3. The storyline is about death unfortunately, but talking about a good way to go, doing the stuff you love 

Payton Kiasevicz 

Dr. Turner

HNR-2509

April 23, 2024 

Final Reflection: Turning Point Essay #2

For our album release project, I worked alongside Mahoney, Rowan, Kylin, and Harry. We each took on different roles, but worked together to reach a final product of every element that was necessary. As the Event Management Team, we created flyers, an attendance sheet, mood board, feedback sheet, and the agenda for the upcoming performance exam. While working together to establish themes, general event criteria, and a guideline for attendees, I was able to put my organizational and creative skills to good use. I assisted in the brainstorming process, and offered innovative, unique ideas that we could use to make this project whole. We discussed possible locations and themes, and we were all given the chance to share our ideas and give input on what we thought would be a good way to make this project the best it can be. As a Journalism major, a lot of my classes involve pitch meetings and sharing our ideas with the group, so we can get help and opinions from those around us. Sometimes getting opinions from others can help us come up with something that we never would have originally thought of. I also have a lot of creative positions within the organizations I am involved in on campus, so I got to put those abilities to use for the class. This group was very teamwork-based and I loved getting the opportunity to share ideas and strengthen my relationships with fellow honor students. 

When this project was first explained, I was a little nervous. Creating songs and organizing a release party was very outside of my comfort zone, and unlike anything I have done before. Initially, I wasn’t sure how we would connect what we learned during lectures and assignments to this project, but I now see the benefits of understanding what country music is and how we were able to use our knowledge to create this event. Being able to research various songs and forms of country music, allowed us to connect with how country music makes people feel and we used that knowledge to establish an event that would appeal to our audience. My turning point during the planning of this project was when we were trying to decide on themes and the details of the event. We discussed some of the elements of country music that we learned about during class, and we were able to connect that knowledge to this project, creating something that our classmates and peers will enjoy. Moreover, my perception of my role and the team’s role as whole, shifted very positively during this process. I now see how important small details such as themes and schedules are to making an event successful. This team is a very important and pivotal part in making this performance happen and without our planning and organization, we wouldn’t be able to showcase our classmates' creativity.    

During my time with this team and final project, my experiences have been productive, hardworking, and determined. Our team worked hand-in-hand with the other teams, and we kept each other in check. We would have other group members checking in to make sure everything was being completed in a timely manner, and we also did the same for them. This teamwork and support that we showed other groups, helped everyone stay productive and accountable. Each member from my team interacted with patience and kindness. We were determined to reach our goal together and keeping that in mind, limited any frustrations. These mature and responsible interactions, helped the success of this project and we would not have been able to do it without each other’s support. I am grateful for the great interactions I had with everyone on this team, as well as the class as a whole. I feel that we were overall very productive and respected everyone’s ideas, opinions, and time.     

With every major project, you have to be prepared for logistical and structural issues to arise. Our team faced the challenge of finding the perfect place to host this final event. Originally, we were looking to have the event happen in the ballroom in Cottrell, but we had to pivot when that plan did not go as we had hoped. We had to do extra planning and searching because there are many big, open spaces on campus, but during final exams week, it is difficult to reserve these spaces. During a planning meeting, someone had suggested that we use the small courtyard outside of the Hayworth Fine Arts building. But when choosing a location outside, we had to think about logistical and uncontrollable conditions such as the weather and where we would find outlets to plug in the speakers. This small bump in the road did not halt our progress and we worked as a team to resolve this issue and find a solution. Thankfully, with Dr. Turner’s help we secured the Pauline Theater for our final event; a magnificent location to host an album release party. Working through this issue with my team was a great learning experience and it shows that when the entire group is dedicated and willing to put in extra work, anything is possible. We addressed these challenges together and did not let it affect our ability to perform. With the end goal of organizing a successful release party in mind, we worked through challenges together and made sure that we would not let anything get in our way. 

Between the aesthetic and historical foundations provided in the first half of the semester and their practical application in the music industry explored in the second half, I have learned countless new and important information about Country music. During class time, we explored various readings and had discussions that allowed each class member to express their opinion and elaborate on it. Having the opportunity to hear how my peers viewed and felt about Country music, aided me in my journey to fully understanding what my definition of Country music is. I specifically enjoyed the Song Analysis and Field Notes assignments because I was able to take the techniques and applications shown in class and further my abilities and understanding of them. The Field Notes allowed me to dissect some of my favorite songs while also expanding my horizons and diving into artists’ music that I never previously listened to. There is such a broad range of historical aspects of Country music. When they were combined with the aesthetic aspects during class time, I was able to make connections between the foundation of what music is and what it means to listeners. Originally, I never considered the format and structure of songs, I simply just listened to them and deciphered which ones I liked the best. The historical aspects such as form/structure and beat/meter were very helpful to learn when connecting to how those elements contribute to evoking emotion in listeners. Songs are made so people can connect to them and feel like they are heard and understood. I feel that I can better connect to the songs I listen to and I am now excited to go outside of my comfort zone and explore new artists. 

To continue, this project has enhanced my understanding of the dynamics and demands of the music industry. This class taught me that music is a very personal and emotional concept, and those features are employed to make the music industry successful. For example, we chose specific themes, graphics, and colors because we knew the audience would connect with those specific things. Not only were we taught to look deeper into the meaning of Country music, but we also got to take that knowledge and simulate exactly what the music industry does with it. Gaining this knowledge and then using it in practical applications will greatly benefit my future studies and professional life. I feel that I am prepared to dive into new topics that I may not initially understand, and do the work that is necessary to become proficient. Country music has always been a constant in my life but this is the first time I have gotten the opportunity to look at it in a deeper and more meaningful way. I believe I can use the techniques and tactics that were taught in this class to look more into the bigger meanings of things. My biggest takeaway is that there is always more to learn and understand. Through the readings, lessons, and various assignments, I now see that there is a whole side to Country music that I never before considered. I am excited to continue my journey through music, and I will use my critical thinking skills that were developed in this class to connect more with what I am listening to.

The structure and meaning behind this project does correlate to what we have discussed during this semester. I would say it pertains to a range of majors, such as Marketing, Event Management, and Business. The one change that I would suggest would be to have all students collaborate on the songs. Only some students were tasked with writing and creating the songs so the rest of the groups didn’t put too much of the new musical knowledge to use. So possibly the groups could be split so that there's a person completing each task within that group. For example, people working on that song, someone focusing on the marketing for that song, and so on. Overall, I would say that this project was a good way to end the class and I feel that it helped broaden our creative and organizational abilities.