When the residents of Southern Appalachian Mountains of North America, brought the music and instruments of Europe along with them for nearly 300 years, country music was born. Mostly played using open chords on the guitar; Rustic music unrefined art, yet a true heart, that’s country music. Country music is credited with originals of innumerable contemporary chart-busters. From Elvis’s ‘Always on my mind’ to Ronan Keating’s super-hit ‘Nothing at all’, their roots trace back to country music. The country music scene is always a delight. Let’s explore some top charts of this year, in no particular order.
“In Case You Didn’t Know” – Brett Young.
The Nashville sensation released his self-titled debut album last year, defining his style as a singer and songwriter. The second single from the record, “In Case You Didn’t Know,” has struck a chord — probably because of its deeply romantic lyrics, spoken by a stoic protagonist who finally opens his heart to confess his affection, are relatable for all. https://youtu.be/2SzeQqwhB1A
“Body Like a Back Road” — Sam Hunt
The song has spent a staggering 25 weeks (record breaker and still counting!) atop the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 2017. Inspired by Hunt’s love interest, now-wife Hannah Lee Fowler the song is a smooth country tune tinged with funky riffs and sultry lyrics. https://youtu.be/Fx-EfjsRcBk
“Better Man” – Little Big Town
Heartbreak from an alternate perspective. Singer Karen Fairchild isn’t drowning in self-pity instead she confidently states the blunt, honest truth. Had the man been better, this song would not see the light. https://youtu.be/ph9NQ8ASmX4
“Either Way” – Chris Stapleton
Backed by just a solitary acoustic guitar, Stapleton’s song is about a tortured decision — salvage a flagging relationship/or let it go? —indeed one of his trademark anguished, heart-wrenching vocal performances. He’s the same talented man who gave us the awesome ‘Traveller’. https://youtu.be/T7LoWH0nMrE
“Never Gets Old” — Joe Nichols
“Never Gets Old” is the traditional-leaning country song that dwells in the vintage era of country music and feels absolutely right, true to the origins, indeed there is nothing similar on the billboard currently.It’s a sheer simple delight. https://youtu.be/1j37DIftqvg
“Tin Man” – Miranda Lambert
She needs no introduction. Talk of courage, talk of valour in love this song is an absolute word by word manifestation of that.This number from ‘The Weight of These Wings’ is indeed a lyrical delight, rendered mellifluously. https://youtu.be/12cUm2OwnPs
“The Fighter” – Keith Urban (Feat. Carrie Underwood)
Keith Whitley would be proud of this Keith for sure. Underwood is stunning as usual.Country gets a modern makeover here. This track is fun, borrowing elements from contemporary Pop and Rock. One of our favourites. https://youtu.be/GzT4p-OaJ5c
Luke Combs – When It Rains It Pours
Wooow ‘Magnolia’, no not this one. A peppy number, well listen to this one when you mother in law isn’t around.Enough said go get a lottery ticket. https://youtu.be/uXyxFMbqKYA
“It Ain’t My Fault” Brothers Osborne
Check the video to know what are US presidents up to.This one is for a loud volume stereo, on a freeway along the country.So get some gas and drive along this. https://youtu.be/E5RDEXpc8OY
“Drinkin’ Problem” – Midland
It has Texas written all over it. A throwback to good old country music. The baritone and meaningful words complement each other.Notice the acoustic amp, the cowboy in you would surrender to the melody. https://youtu.be/g7f6HiQ2LuU
There are too a few other tracks worth mention like Heartache on the Dancefloor, Small Town Boy and more. Do let us know what song is your favourite for this season.
