PG Music Home Forums General Discussion Off-Topic What is the difference between real country and modern country

I have to say this is easily one of the most respectful conversations around this topic I've seen (here or elsewhere).

There is a lot I could say here; but there are hints of what I would say in much of what has already been said; some in previous posts on the forum as well.

I think Floyd sums it up pretty well when saying more traditional country is all about the story. Modern country is more like a slogan based style of music.

I very specifically said "modern" and not "current" when saying that. There are actually many more traditional country songs that are currently being made. They may not get as much radio play; but some of them do. I guess it's what you look for.

From what I've seen; many times when comparing the two time frames of music; they compare extremes. They will take some that is REALLY traditional and compare it to something that is VERY pop country. Very seldom will they take a traditional country song from years back and compare it to a traditional country song of today. They also seem to forget some of pop country form "back in the day." I've never figured out why people do that.

Usually in this discussion someone posts the video of how "all" current country sounds the same. Unfortunately they used pitch and time alterations to make that happen. People who don't normally listen to that style use it as "proof" of how it all sounds the same. I truly believe you could pick pretty much any period of time, do the same thing they did, and make a similar point. I'm not arguing that it doesn't sound similar...but that's what genres are. lol

Speaking of genres; I would say countries current state is pretty diverse. Bud on the forums described Americana as "One Big Tent" with many sub-genres within that tent. I would agree. I also think that applies to rock music and country. There's just a lot going on in music right now.

This subject couldn't be more timely for me. I was driving this morning and had on, at least I thought I did, a local country radio station. I heard a little bit older song I like; but wasn't really paying attention either...until the next song came on. It was, I thought, a pop song. It sort of sounded a little like a current boy band type of sound that my daughters listen to. My first thought was "I thought I had a country station on; but...oh wait! It is a country station!" It's a song I started hearing over the last month and it's a Thomas Rhett song. I missed the intro; so I didn't know it was a country song. lol Anyway, here is the song...



Incidentally, Thomas Rhett's real name is "Thomas Rhett Akins." He is the son of the country singer Rhett Akins. His dad's name also happens to be "Thomas Rhett Akins." His dad went with "Rhett Akins"; and he went with "Thomas Rhett" to differentiate himself.

Here is one of his dad's bigger songs...


He was more of a mid-90's country guy. He still writes a fair amount; and much of it for and with others.

So country surely has different and aspects to it. I think the change is great. I also think the traditional is great.

I've always looked for appreciation in any music. If I don't like it; it doesn't mean "it sucks."

Anyway, production varies wildly. Some of the current stuff is VERY produced; others more "raw." Between the two; I would say there is much more produced though, overall, on the radio.

Believe it or not; the subject matter of the songs are still pretty similar. It's the delivery that has changed. There is still a lot about love; loss, drinking...what you would expect. I'm glad no one has brought up (until me now) "sugar shaker" and "bed of my truck." The first wasn't used much at all; the second was very much a theme...just pick ups in general. But I think that's always been.

Very good thread you started. I get where people may not like the genre. I never understand where someone would have problem with someone else liking it.