Interesting thoughts going on here. If I may add a couple of observations outside of where this thread has gone.
One idea is that instead of looking at what Nashville wants, it might be interesting to see what the folks that like country genre buy, live, and do.
What do they need in music, "Feel Good" or an Anthem or crying in your beer.
What's their story, it will be the story in our lyrics.
I think it's a main POV instead of a main rhythm.
Next point. My wife & I write some Gospel music and have seen a move to "Praise" Gospel instead of a story based Gospel.
We tend to write Bible verse centered lyrics and find Praise music only part of the song as if it's a chorus only song with nothing else.
Some are great, some not as strong as it could be with a bit more Biblical foundation in them.
Instead of following the trend, we'll incorporate the 2 styles and try to stay relevant and true to the Bible.
My point, I guess, is to stay true to the message you want people to hear and stay contemporary .
Wyndham