Writers Suggest Obama's Win Can Change Country Music
When Barack Obama won the Presidential nomination earlier this month, it may have signaled the best thing that's ever happened to country music. That's according to a story in the New Republic by David Browne, who is also a contributor to Rolling Stone. He talks about how GOP presidents have long latched themselves onto country singers, and that there's almost nothing at all "country" about Taylor Swift. Meanwhile, writer Gabe Meline at Metro Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz, Calif., suggests that Gretchen Wilson and all other John McCain supporters should get the boot from the radio airwaves.
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Courtney says:
I don’t really see the correlation here. I don’t understand why politics have to mix with music. Also, Gretchen Wilson has seemed to of been booted from radio airwaves, but I for one do not agree with it. She has a hell of a lot more talent than she is given credit for. Hopefully her next single will help her rise again.
Chris N. says:
Kick all the republicans off country radio and you’ll pretty much have dead air occasionally interrupted by a Tim McGraw song.
Muzik says:
I read this article and it just a bunch of pure BS! This guy wants to band all music he doesn’t like, which is censorship at its finest! I’m sure if someone from the country music world would have written such harsh words about his favorite music, he’d be sing a way different tune!
I think Gretchen’s music is great!! I only wish country radio would play her songs! They don’t listen to the fans and keep boring us all to death, playing the same few artiest over and over again! Thank god for IPods and XM Radio!
TITANSFAN says:
GO FIGURE ALWAYS A TAYLOR SWIFT BASHER SOMEWHERE!!! GET OVER IT SHE NOT GOING ANYWHERE.
flutters says:
Craig: I don’t think you accurately summarize why David Browne thinks Barack Obama’s election might be the best thing that’s ever happened to country music. His point is that country music has gotten an inflated sense of itself and started becoming really crossover oriented, sticking to certain themes because it has had the luxury of being considered the music of the people that elected GOP administrations. But the election shows that the average people are different than assumed, so country music has a chance to reevaluate itself to reflect that. That could mean going back to its roots or it could mean going even more pop but the writer is hoping for a better representation of country roots in the music that gets played.
I disagree with him on Lady Antebellum. I don’t think there’s anything hair metal about Lookin’ For A Good Time. Also it’s a little weird to see an article talking about the intersection of politics and country music without mentioning the Dixie Chicks.
Andrea says:
Maybe it’s because I’m an european… but I don’t get it.
John Rich and Gretchen Wilson stated their opinion. You agree with them or you don’t. But why should the radio stations kick them out of their programs?
I always thought it’s the advantage in a great democratic country - the right of free speech. You can say what’s on your mind with out the fear of censorship and punishment.
Why should musicians be censored by the media just because they speak their mind? Just because the candidate they supported lost the election?
I would love to hear new music from both of them. As well as from the Dixie Chicks or any other artist I like. I don’t care about their politic opinion.
Kim says:
does anyone remember that the POPULAR election (the votes we the people cast, not the electoral college) was very close? Obama got the plurality to get elected, but the POPULAR race was close. Obama didn’t win by a landslide. there are still a good number of Republicans out there. If Obama had won by a landslide, maybe those articles would be true. the democrats DO NOT have a super majority in the senate, just a simple majority. the split is about the same as it was when Bush was elected, just this time in favor of the democrats. so guess that means for music…about the same.
but all in all, the two things are non sequitur. these people are grasping at straws to push their own political ideas through their music professions. i don’t think that’s right. entertainment is entertainment. I listen to Gretchen Wilson the same as I do Bon Jovi, and I don’t now, nor ever have given a rip about their politics. good music to the people that want to listen to it is above political issues.
and to say that all the Mccain supporters should be kicked off of airwaves because of their politics is ridiculous. the first amendment has not been abolished last time I checked. Those same people preach change and tolerance and that we have come so far as a culture to elect a black president…That statement that they should be banned from radio because if politics is hypocritical; how can you champion tolerance and then say that? just because you don’t like what they stand for does not give you the right to discriminate against them. I thought that was exactly what they were fighting against.
These articles and overreaching theories always happen in election years. a year from now no one will care this was even written.
Kim says:
Andrea, I am a redneck from a town of less than 2000 in North Texas, and I don’t get it either. things like that piss me off every time. You’re absolutely right, it makes no sense! you didn’t miss a thing! Its not because you’re european, it’s because you thought about it and understand a democracy! and then you used your head, and didn’t respond like a child! thank you! very refreshing!
Chris says:
Very well said Andrea and Kim!! I agree 100%
Carol says:
I will tell you what drives me crazy. Hollywood stars can spew their hate toward Republicans, and we are expected to give them a pass, but when some Country Stars give their opinions, or support a canidate, it drives some in the Main Stream Media nut’s.
countryiscool says:
I agree, this is a FREE country (speech) and no artist or celeb should be discriminated against because their opinion or endorsement is for someone ELSE. I’m willing to bet there were PLENTY of people who agreed with the D Chicks but because they are public figures, they got blasted.
Frankly, “we the people” must be thought to either be stupid, or sheeple for anyone to think we can’t think/vote for ourselves and NEED someone to tell us who to vote for.
I don’t vote for a candidate because of a sign in a yard, an ad on TV or magazine, OR an artist or celeb tells me to.
Let’s give credit to the MAJORITY of citizens who think for themSELVES when they vote.
IMO says:
I love Gretchen and her music. She and all the others have a right to support whom ever they want, as do the people that wrote these crazy articles! Even if I totally disagree with them!
Sarah says:
I agree with countryiscool. & Just because someone doesn’t an artists’ personal views, that doesn’t mean that artist should stop getting played on the radio! Let them vote for who they want & you vote for who you want. Free speech!
& Taylor Swift is extremely talented AND country.
Courtney says:
I’m going to have to disagree with you Chris about Gretchen Wilson being the reason people make fun of country music. Hell, people have been making fun of country music since before I was born, and that was over 20 years ago. If you’re letting what other people say bother you, then you must not be a true fan of country music. Who cares what other people think? I don’t give a damn if people want to label me as a hillbilly, beer-drinking, whiskey shooting redneck, if I want to listen to the music I love, I sure as hell will.
Rick says:
So let’s see now, anyone remember when this was reported during the campaign (from The Guardian.UK):
“Referring to working-class voters in old industrial towns decimated by job losses, the presidential hopeful Obama said: “They get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren’t like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.”"
Now that sounds to me like an elitist snob who looks down his nose at all things redneck and “country”. I’d say David Browne has taken far too many recreational drugs and the premise of his article is downright idiotic no matter how he tries to intellectualize this foolishness. As for banning McCain supporting performers from country radio, if you’ve ever been to the People’s Republic of Santa Cruz you’d understand how whacked out the liberals are who dwell there in lala land…..
RedMaZ says:
David Browne is basically on the mark. This is clearly about Pop Country.
countryiscool says:
Chris obviously never heard Barbara Mandrell’s song “I was country when country wasn’t cool.” People made fun of country LONG before Gretchen, like back when MY mom listened to it. I really don’t give a rip what ANYone thinks of what I listen to it, or who I vote for either.
My Country says:
I have been politically involved in the last few elections. I’ve been a life long country music fan. There are issues that are important to me and those candidates I support, I do so because I agree with their stance on issues.
Country Music Artists have a right to voice their opinions and publically support those they wish to. We all have that right. However, we also have a right not to give our hard earned money for a CD of an artist that we disagree with. It is the artist’s choice to voice his or her opinion - it is our choice to decide how important we feel on issues to whether we will continue to support those artist’s careers.
I like the artists I like because of their songs and the music. I feel they are individuals I can relate to through their songs.
I have lately felt torn between those artists who take a political stance that is different from mine and my own view.
I feel that we lost one of the best music trios/groups ever - the Dixie Chicks due to differing opinions. I do not agree with what happened to them by some of their “fans”, however it is an example of what can happen when a entertainer/artist voices their opinions. I’m hoping the Dixie Chicks will make a comeback.
I’d prefer if the Country Artists would not share their political opinions - respecting those who might have a different point of view, the fans that love the artist’s music - the fans that they disenfranchise when they share political opinions.
OR we, as people, can respect each other’s opinion. We can respectfully state our opinions in a positive tone and manner. We can respectfully agree to disagree. We can stay away from making nasty comments or attacking someone else because of their views. I hope and pray we can come to that point…
But I have the whole Dixie Chicks episode burnt into my memory and wonder if people can get so upset over one person’s views that they make death threats to that person (as was done to the Dixie Chicks) - well, we’ll have a long, long way to go… so I’d prefer for Country Music to stay away from politics. I want to enjoy the music without wondering where my $15+ will go from the artists.
Texas Guy says:
Well, eight years of Bill Clinton didn’t exactly sweep country music under the cultural rug did they? Despite a campaign and election soundtrack of 70s and 80 pop-rock songs by Fleetwood Mac and INXS, the Clinton years coincided with one of the biggest commercial booms in the history of Nashville.
Or does Browne suppose that was all Newt Gingrich’s doing? Me, I’m willing to give a little credit to Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Alan Jackson, and the rest of the gang who actually write and sing the songs. George W. Bush didn’t influence what people listen to, and neither will Barack Obama.
dan says:
this story or what ever it is was done by just another or 2 sexiet (cant spell) liberal that hates anything normal thinks everyone are gay child rapists that does drugs liberals are all the same they think everyone should be like them and those that ain’t should be re-educationed in nazi like concention camps
Cj says:
Gretchen Welson sings country. Anyone that says Taylor is country lives in a pretend world. What does Romeo and Juliet have to do with country. She sings one level. Barely goes up or down. These new people are pushing our real country stars that had to pay there dews out. That is wrong. Very Sad.
RedMaZ says:
So, cmt is part of a liberal left wing company? Lets look at their television line up…”12 Days of Redneck Christmas”, “Beer For My Horses”, My Big Redneck Wedding”, “Larry The Cable Guy”, “Hulk Hogan”. Does this sound like a liberal left wing schedule to you?
Cj, Swift is a Pop Country singer. From my understanding, Swift is played on Pop Country radio, is nominated, and wins Pop Country awards. Time to face the facts. Swift is a Pop Country singer. Follow the genre and you’ll find the music.
Genette says:
lets not be harsh about the other artist getting the boot noone deserves that so therefore if you can’t say nothing nice then keep your opion to yourself thank you
Cricket on Froggy 104 says:
I will go ahead and say that the reason radio isn’t playing anything new from John or Gretchen is that there hasn’t been anything worthwhile (according to market research conducted on the subject) to play in the past few years besides “Lost in This Moment.” I think both of these individuals are extremely talented, but they don’t always release singles that reflect that talent.
Ham says:
Darn, where were all you free speech nuts when the Chicks got censored? You sure didn’t come creeping out from under the rocks to defend them.
ROSEBUD says:
I agree with Ham. I will defend the Dixie Chicks anytime, any place and to anyone!!!!
Gw says:
Music is medicine for the soul, let artists express thier music & opinion freely! Take it or leave it but BACK OFF & leave the decisions to individuals. Gabe needs to have a beer & chil. By the way I voted for John but I will pray & support the president as I always do. We have the right man for the time regardless of my or your opinion. Sit back & listen to some music! Medicine! & we need some!
cebra says:
I’m sorry , too cj that Gretchen has taken alot of heat. But have Marty Stuart as your critic and CMT will go the right way -he is the country music judge like Rich I think. But do you think Obama will help or hinder country music and why. I would love other opinions though I am a Mccain person. What will this untry and world is coming too is in mystery!
Owen says:
There is a left, middle and center in the splended genre of Americana - of which country music is a part. You’ll find just as many great artists/songwriters in Austin who support Democrats as their counterparts in Nashville who support Republicans. Country radio - well, that’s another issue altogether. The programmers support just one thing: $$$$$.
RedMaZ says:
You’re exactly right Owen(or left s the case may be;). Lets put it this way…you are correct.
Floral City says:
I was late to country music (probably not until my 40’s)and have a relative that only reveres the “real” country artists and hates Rock and Roll Country. So wasn’t I surprised when this relative would go with me and just loved the Blake Sheldon and Miranda Lambert concert at our local County fair. I did get a little worried when the speakers about knocked us out of our fold up chairs.
So…… is it country when the star grew up in or lives in the country or only sounds country or only at the discression of the listener and we should argue about it and make it political? Arguing and making it political seems really dumb to me and I’d just as soom enjoy the 95% that I just love.
And, by the way…… I am sad to say this but the Dixie Chicks was an entirely different story. If you havn’t listened to award winners and words to songs, country music is very patriotic compared to most politicans.
my78cobra says:
Why is everyone so paranoid? Country will always be country and it dosen’t matter who plays it or sings it. Styles may alter by generations but that is a part of growing up. They will not destroy country music. I am sure if they try Toby will put a boot in thier ASS.
RedMaZ says:
This part is great…”The sight of two country stars from two different generations, looking testy yet powerless–visual proof that among the many losers in last weeks election was country music itself”. So true! Deal with it.
Countrydancer says:
I totally agree with Muzik. The writer hasn’t got a clue as to what IS country music. But I do have to say it is probably not his fault, radio stations don’t play the songs that most country music fans listen to, so if he is only basing his idea of country from what mainstream radio plays, then I can understand his point of view. Country music is here to stay. Just go to your local bar on karaoke night and you’ll see that even rockers are singing country.
RedMaZ says:
Apparently he knows what Pop Country is. That’s what he’s referring to. Whether he knows about the rest of todays country is another question. I see no reference to that. Karaoke? You’ve got to be kidding.
Laura says:
Well I have to get my 2 cents in here. lol.
The REAL country fans will always be REAL country fans and the Country artist will always be REAl country.
This stuff about Obama changing the way country music will go is like saying “Will the White House still be called the White House when Obama is elected”. oops
Everyone will still have the right to listen what ever they want to. For me I’m a Die Hard Country Fan and will always stay that way.
Now let’s politics be politics.
RedMaZ says:
I have a feeling at least Obama knows what is on his ipod. That’s more than you can say for Bush. Remember him having the Escovedo song in his top 10? And we all know how Escovedo felt about that don’t we?
Mark Wells says:
I think its absoloutly stupid giving the boot to John McCain supporters. I am a Barrack Obama supporter but i think everyone is open to their own opinions and like people have said politics should have nothing to do with how country music is run.
melinda reilly says:
It sickens me that Ive found a picture of this socialist on a country music website. America had a good run, but now its over.
bob says:
NO FREAK’IN WAY
amy says:
I thought we lived in America, land of the free. Because of that, these writers have the right to their opinions, but I also have my right to call them idiots! Who ever said that because the political candidate that a musician supported didn’t win, they should be kicked off the radio, is a very close minded person and should move to a communist country because they don’t value other people’s freedom. What if McCain would have won, are we gonna ban all of the black entertainers that supported Obama. I would hope not. I enjoy all types of music and think that everyone that lives in the United States has the right to support whatever candidate they see fit. That is what makes America so great!
E Stevens says:
I’d like to play Redneck Woman outside the White House on a loudspeaker for a few days. Ban our favorite country music stars? Never. Next he’ll try to eliminate our right to carry arms? I don’t think so! Soon we’ll be USSA–United Socialist States of America.
Jennifer says:
As a life long Democrat and current Obama supporter I would like to say that it was sickening what happened to the Dixie Chicks. I thought we had learned our lesson with blacklisting in the McCarthy era. It would be a real shame for the same thing to happen to Gretchen Wilson. I know I, for one, would miss hearing her.Republican or not, she can rock it! It would never happen however. With the exception of a few artists country music still has strong ties to the right.