"Cigarettes" Now "This Old Dirt Road"?

Monday, July 30, 2007

Here we go again. Public perception, marketing, and political correctness is in the making of country music. Well, maybe not in the making of the music itself, but in reflection of a title of a song.

Here is a except of a post from Jessica Harp on The Wreckers official message board:

"The label has decided that "Cigarettes" will be the last single from the record, but I wanted to give you a heads up: To avoid the risk of offending some people, they are changing the title to "This Old Dirt Road." Confusing, I know, but I figured I should let you all know in case you ever want to call in and request it (We still need your help!!!!)...that's the new title."

Well, isn't this interesting. Why does a title of a song have to conform to political correctness? Come on. It certainly isn't hurting album sales where reports say that the album will easily sell over a million copies. Country music isn't about making everyone "feel good." Country music is about life. Good times, bad times, and everything in between. The song "Cigarettes" is just that too. A deeply written song about a girl driving down the road after breaking up and the female's inner thoughts. Thankfully, the title change doesn't impact the song's message, too much anyway.

One day, in my dreams, I just wish that the decision making individuals would just stop thinking so much. If its a good country song, let it speak in its own words from the writer and performer. It just may surprise you the success it will have.

"20 You Should Know: Country"

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Checking through the news, I found the above article in The Columbus Dispatch. Its titled "20 You Should Know: Country" by Gary Budzak posted Sunday July 29, 2007.

Looking at his list, Budzak certainly has done his homework. I agree with the list overall, but I do believe there is one hole there. Garth Brooks. However, when trying to set a time-line, which the writer did very well, it is certainly pretty hard to remove any of the songs mentioned in the article to make room for Brooks. Plus, 20 songs is a real short list to fill in on this topic.

I have got to say, writing this article had to be pretty darn close to impossible. Out of all the songs in country music, creating a list of only 20 like this, well, let me just say that I am not sure I could do it. Too many possibilities, too many important songs and history behind them. My hat is off to him to decide on 20 like that, my list would be edited over and over. Newspaper writers on are on deadlines all the time, and if I was in his shoes, I'd never make that deadline.

So, back to my editing, ever so slightly of the list... I would remove "Momma, He's Crazy" by The Judds and add something from Brooks. Yes, The Judds are influential and a great representation of country music, but Brooks set up the theme and sound of country music from his start in 1989.

Now, here I go with trying to decide what song by him to add to the list. After a few thoughts and edits of this paragraph "Friends In Low Places" I think should replace The Judds.

What do you think? Is the list missing something that would be on your list? Then, what would you take off? Add your comments as well.

Tracy Lawrence "Find Out Who Your Friends Are" Video

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Watch Video

If you have followed my writings through the years, you probably know I am not a huge fan of videos. However, here and there, I do find one that really catches my attention. For example, some of Brad Paisley's videos and such.

The new video for "Find Out Who Your Friends Are" is my current example of videos I enjoy. Why? Well, couple of reasons. First and foremost, the song is one of the best songs out there right now. Amazingly lyrics that touch me, and I am sure so very many other people. Great sound to the song and its country no doubt. Secondly, Tracy Lawrence himself. This is a country music lovers favorite type of artist. Full of musical energy and knows how to sing a good country song.

Oh, yes, I guess I should mention that the video has a few special appearances in it. A few athletes, Roy Oswalt of the Houston Astros, Cornelius Griffin and Demetric Evans of the Washington Redskins are in the video, pretty cool. Darryl Worley also is in the video, even cooler. The best though is seeing George Jones in the video, now that is something special.

This is one video I will be watching quiet often, no doubt.

Country Music Alive Is Back!

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Hi there,

Yes, it has been a long time. A new blog, a new website, just a totally new venture is complete. Since March, I have been busy creating the new website. I sure hope everyone that visits will love it as much as I do. It has been a real learning process with some of the new design features that this new site includes.

Wow, just looking around in my final edit I feel so proud of the work I have completed. It makes even prouder that it is ready to be shown to the country music world. I love the music more than words as many of you know, and it is a truly exciting and awesome day with the new released website.

In the next few days, the blog will be talking about the website I’m sure, but don’t worry, my editorial style will quickly return to the blog.

Signed in the love of country music,
Kirk

Launched!!

Monday, July 02, 2007

Wow is all I can say really.

Today, I started sending out e-mails to the old members of the newsletter to let them know about the brand new design of the website. It has been a lot of work as I think about it and just got my first “welcome back” e-mail from a member. Made my day for sure. I can’t wait to hear from other old members and friends.

Well, back to work though, need to actually get some news posted for all the new visitors to read. Once I get those type things updated and everything seems to be running smooth, I promise this blog is going to get real iteresting.

Visit the site and let me hear from you all!