Country music, the timeless genre that evokes nostalgia, tradition, and southern charm, is currently experiencing a new wave of popularity. In an unprecedented event, the top three songs on the Billboard Hot 100 chart are all country songs. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the increasing embrace of streaming by both country music artists and fans. In fact, country music has seen a 20% rise in listenership this year, surpassed only by Latin music and K-pop. However, this victory is not without its complexities.
The songs that are currently breaking through in the country genre have a distinct sound that deviates from the traditional country music style. While country music has always embodied an underdog spirit, there is a growing sense of resentment in both the music and the conversations surrounding it. Take, for example, Jason Aldean’s controversial hit, “Try That in a Small Town.” In this song, Aldean celebrates rural values by warning against urban pathologies, but the music itself sounds more like post-grunge alternative rock than traditional country. This blending of genres is not uncommon, as the music landscape is constantly evolving and artists draw inspiration from various sources.
The controversy surrounding Aldean’s song stems from the perceived political undertones and potential racial implications. Although the song does not explicitly mention race, some listeners interpreted it as a dog whistle for white supremacist violence. The music video, which was shot in front of a Tennessee courthouse where a Black man was lynched, only added fuel to the fire. Despite these criticisms, the song gained even more attention when it was banned by Country Music Television, resulting in a significant increase in streams.
Aldean himself has expressed confusion over the controversy surrounding his song, claiming that it simply reflects the feeling of community he experienced while growing up. While his southern heritage is evident in his voice, Aldean’s delivery lacks the traditional playful tone of country legends like Merle Haggard or Hank Williams Jr. Instead, he embodies a certain post-grunge angst that resonates with listeners and reflects the economic decline and societal challenges faced by small-town America.
Another artist making waves in the country music scene is Morgan Wallen, who has cited Nickelback as an influence. Wallen’s hit song, “Last Night,” incorporates elements of rap and showcases his pop talent. Despite a controversy earlier this year, Wallen’s song reached No. 2 on the Hot 100 chart, proving that even negative publicity can contribute to an artist’s success.
Luke Combs, with his soulful cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” has also faced scrutiny due to the lack of success for Black women in country music. This observation sparked a heated debate, attracting conservative backlash and increasing the song’s popularity.
While country music is currently dominating the charts, it is important to acknowledge the lack of diversity among the performers. The recent success in mainstream country music is largely rooted in white, male, and sometimes aggrieved identities. This is not to say that all genres don’t have demographic associations, but it raises the question of whether the current landscape promotes inclusivity and diversity.
This surge in country music’s popularity serves as a lesson for artists in other genres. The industry is witnessing the profitability of inflaming passionate pluralities, whether through stoking rivalries or leaning into political divides. As streaming technology and social media continue to shape the music landscape, artists and listeners alike will need to navigate these complexities and strive for a more inclusive and diverse future.
(Note: An earlier version of this article misstated the release date of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car.”)
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