Rodeo Bull

portrait photo

Country is a music that is frequently misunderstood. It’s got a reputation for being simple and homespun. A style defined for twang untrained voices, the loan some moan of steel guitar and songs that deal with stock subjects like faithful dogs, loving mothers, shattered love affairs, empty bottles and the little loan cabin in the lane. Some dislike country music because it sounds crusty and creaky while others love it as a homogenized country pop originating from the Radio stations at their home towns. This is no surprise as in the 1990’s singers like Shania Twain and Garth Brooks sold more records than any one of their processors. This voice is still heard through Carrie Underwood whose music is dominating the lives of millions.

Commercially, country music can trace its inception to early 20’s when it was music of white. Being traditional folk music, country music was chiefly rural and southern. Hillbilly string bands who entertained at community gatherings, fiddlers who showed their skills at over the years all represented country music in its raw form.

This all changed with Jimmie Rodgers who is known as father of country music. Starting from his there is a long list of country artists that put their souls in this music and made it popular among the general public. Who can forget the memorable songs sung by Olivia Newton Johns, Garth Brooks and Kenny Rogers!

The 1990’s saw an alternative form of country music which cam to be known as alternative country. This music was with lyrics that were often bleak, gothic or socially aware. Known artists of the time were Steve Earle, Uncle Tupelo, Son Volt, Ryan Adams, My Morning Jacket and Drive-By Truckers. It was in 2000 we saw a new vigor in country music that was instilled by Richard Marx, Bon Jovi and currently Tyler Swift and Carrie Underwood.

Country music has also got a lot of fan club in Australia and Canada. Focusing its feel on lyrics, Australian country music developed it own unique style, mirrored by such artists as Lee Kernaghan, Slim Dusty and Adam Brand. Some notable Canadian country artists include: Shania Twain, Blue Rodeo, Marg Osburne, Hank Snow, Johnny Mooring, Don Messer, Doc Walker, Emerson Drive, Paul Brandt, The Wilkinsons, Wilf Carter, Michelle Wright, Corb Lund and the Hurtin’ Albertans, Stompin’ Tom Connors, Terri Clark, Crystal Shawanda, Shane Yellowbird, The Road Hammers, and Anne Murray.