It Isn’t What It’s Said To Be

Why Bro Country Isn’t Actually Country

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Lily Johnson, Writer

“Bro-Country” is an apparent subgenre of country music, which began in the 2010s. There are many common topics in every song of this “genre”… Attractive women, the consumption of alcohol, trucks, boots, and partying. Personally, I do not categorize Bro-Country to be part of real country music. 

Now, I believe country music is a very nice genre of music, as I grew up with it all my life. But, Bro-Country is not something to be raised on. Almost every single person my age that I’ve talked about country music with, say they have no idea who George Strait is. Ladies and gentlemen, I have an announcement to make… If you do not know who George Strait is, and you say you absolutely love country music, you are being lied to by the music industry. To love country music, you must know who George Strait is. It’s a rule! Unwritten, but still a rule! 

So please, let me introduce to you some of the most classic country artists in the music industry… 

First, George Strait is nicknamed ‘The King Of Country Music!” He’s one of the most influential musicians of our time! His music definitely shaped the genre tremendously. Strait’s songs, such as” I Cross My Heart” and “Nobody In His Right Mind Would’ve Left Her” are outstanding. John Conlee, the amazing musician who wrote “Rose Colored Glasses” was a tremendous hit and had at least 32 songs appear on the Top Country Billboard Charts. Other songs are sung by Conlee such as “Lady Lay Down” and “Friday Night Blues” will make you want to burst out into song as you hear them. Willie Nelson… How could anyone not know him? This man is also a true icon, like Conlee and Strait. You may know Nelson’s voice from songs like “On The Road Again” and “Hello Walls”. Willie Nelson’s songs are sing-a-longs too and have the ability to really bring a smile to your face. 

Now, it’s time to introduce the queen herself… Dolly Parton. Her voice can cheer you up instantly, and bring you joy. Dolly is a wonderful woman, with classic songs that have great stories behind them. “Coat of Many Colors’ is about her childhood, and when the meaning behind it is understood, it can touch your heart. Her voice is truly amazing, and she will always be an icon. 

Bro-Country consists of many artists, such as Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line, Dan + Shay, Cole Swindell, etc. The sounds and lyrics of Bro-Country songs are so different compared to the country classics of the twentieth century. Bro-Country mixes pop and country elements together, and there are no true stories in the songs! Every song in this genre is the same… “I love this girl, she’s so country, let’s go party, drink some alcohol, and I’ll show you my dirty pickup truck.” Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? That’s right, it’s Bro-Country…

Please, for my sake and yours…listen to the classics. You’ll enjoy them, I promise.