Overview of music part II: Country

Definition of musical genre: Country
A style of music with a distinct flavor of patriotism. A generally light-hearted style of music generally without electric guitar, but with fiddles and other traditional American instruments.

This musical genre can be found prevalently within this culture:
The American "redneck" culture. As a country artist once said, "both rap and country are about the streets. Except in rap, the streets are paved."

How can country be good?

Country can be very upbeat and encouraging. In fact, much of country is sung by very upright, moral artists who hold onto the core values that Americans should possess. They are patriotic and romantic, sometimes in the same song.
Country is never suicidal, only sad. Many of the artists place great faith in the human spirit and getting through tough times.


How can country be bad?

When country appeals to the more crass "redneck" side of America, things can get a little ugly. Country is somewhat of a feel-good genre...even to a fault. Some songs encourage crazed abandon of all morals and drinking until you pass out. Drinking songs are unfortunately more popular than they should be in country. Female country artists are more likely to encourage promiscuity.

My advice:

Be selective in any country you listen to. It can be influential in all the wrong ways. However, if you're looking for patriotic, easygoing music and upbeat messages, I would say that country is a great choice. This is probably the largest and most popular music genre that has managed to remain so non-sexually oriented. Just watch out for all that alcohol!

Bands and artists to avoid include Gretchen Wilson, Shania Twain, and some of Toby Keith's songs. Gary Allan also put out one horrifying song, but managed to redeem himself with a better song.

Check out this cool free internet country radio station. Click here.