Entry Four: The Country Revolution
As a teacher from Manchester, United Kingdom, I very much do not live the cowboy lifestyle (although I sometimes like to think I do). But there is something about country music that, ever since the first listen, has been a massive love of mine—and it’s happening all over.
The first time I remember listening to a country song was in 2021. I was working in a bar, and as it came on, I was instantly hooked by the acoustic guitar to electric guitar transitions, the smooth guitar slides, and, most of all, the unique way of singing that feels so heartfelt and real. That song was What's Your Country Song by Thomas Rhett, and I will never forget it as the track that got me into country music.
From that point, I went on an obsession with country music. I was introduced to a whole new world of songs, and I could not get enough. The slow, powerful ballads, the upbeat summer anthems, the breakup heart crushers—it completely had it all. I discovered the likes of Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen, and I found the type of music that was generically ‘my taste.’ Almost four years and a playlist with 290 songs later, it has grown so much more in the public eye—and I am so happy.
With the likes of Beyoncé and Post Malone veering into the country space, and chart-toppers like Austin by Dasha and A Bar Song (Tipsy) by Shaboozey making waves, country has never been more popular. Even Noah Kahan (though not technically country) is getting well-deserved attention with various songs. People are finally starting to give this genre the recognition it deserves, and it needs to continue. There are so many artists over in Nashville that, with some attention, can become absolutely massive in the world of music.
You don’t even have to travel over there to experience this music live. I was lucky enough to see Luke Combs a couple of years ago, and I have also seen Darius Rucker—both completely different from typical gigs. So much talent all over the stage, huge bands, massive numbers, and the crowds singing and dancing in such unique ways—it truly is special.
Looking ahead, you see the rise of C2C Festival, a UK country music festival growing each year, and it’s clear there’s no ceiling country music can’t break through. I can’t wait to see what’s next for this amazing genre, and I hope you grab your cowboy hat, saddle up, and join the rodeo too—you won’t regret it.
This Week on The Music Guyde
Weekly Guyde #4: The Country Gateway – Dedicated to the five artists that got me into country music. Featuring:
What’s Your Country Song - Thomas Rhett
When It Rains It Pours - Luke Combs
Fires Don’t Start Themselves - Darius Rucker
Orange and White - Conner Smith
More Than My Hometown - Morgan Wallen
No gigs until next week, so I’ll see if I can finally get a couple of those album reviews I promised done.
‘Glasto 25: a WORTHY Playlist’ has landed and is ready to listen to on my Spotify.
Until next time, keep your boots on the ground and your heart in the music! 🤠🎶