Is Eric Church the New Jamey Johnson?
There's not much that's left to say about Jamey Johnson. If you've heard him, you dig him. That much is pretty indisputable. But he's left more than a handful of country fans hungering for more music like his. And while I have to admit I've never thought of Eric Church as a Johnson kind of guy, I do agree with the Los Angeles Times that there are plenty of similarities between the two artists. Southern rockers with nuances and "musical and emotional shading." And the fact that both Church and Johnson are garnering praise from critics and fans and industry insiders just adds credence to the Times' comparison.
You can leave a comment, or trackback from your own site.
©2008 Country Music Television, Inc., a Viacom company. A division of
Caroline says:
Eric Church deserves all the praise and more. He is an amazing talent who is finally getting the recognition he has worked hard to earn.
Janetgijoenurse says:
Heck no, not even close to the talent of Jamey Johnson. His new single he has out now is just a repeat of the one he did over a year ago by guys, same melody jsut different words. He seems to be a one horse pony.
Roger says:
Not ready to pass final judgment yet, but I can’t see Eric Church as being in Jamey Johnson’s league anytime soon.
Redmaz says:
Obviously Randy Lewis and the LATimes are out of touch with today’s music scene too.
Courtney says:
I really enjoy Eric Church and Jamey Johnson but I think they each have their own sound. I think Eric Church deserves more credit than he gets, he really has a unique sound. I know many people just automatically call him a country/pop artist, but he has some great songs on his new album that have something different than the majority of what’s played on Mainstream Country Radio. I just wish him and Jamey the best of luck. They’re two terrific artists in my opinion.
Chris Lewis says:
I don’t see how you can even compare these two. Their music styles are very different. Jamey Johnson is definately more traditional country whereas Church is still pop country. Don’t get me wrong I like both styles but Jamey Johnson doesn’t fit in a nashville mold to me. Eric Church could be compared to Luke Bryan and Jake Owen much easier.
doesntneedone says:
Ok. I have to say I love them both as country music artists and song writers in general…BUT the style of music between these two is anything but similar.
Jamey has been around as writer longer than Church,but Johnson has also taken himself off the radar as an artist over the past few years before his new album release… so calling ANYONE the “new” Jamey Johnson is just absurd…if anything Jamey Johnson is the “new” artist bringing traditional back into country..with his own frame of mind. No offense to EC at all, but this comparision is just pushing it for me. All in all..both are amazing artists and love the hell out of what they do! :)
Redmaz says:
If you’re saying Johnson is bringing a more “traditional” sound back to Pop Country you’re right. He is the only country artists played on, and recognized in Pop Country who is also on the Roots Country chart.(except maybe Holly Williams, she is on the the Roots Country chart too, but is she played on Pop radio too?) However, once compared to the many of the other artists on the ROOTS COUNTRY chart, he’s basically doing what the rest of them are doing. Playing country music. It just happens to be Roots Country that’s all. If he’s getting Mainstream attention, more power to him.
Jack D says:
I tend to keep the guys who fly under the radar in the deck of my truck..if you want mainstream music turn on the radio..Church is a guy who flys under the radar and enjoys what he does…I think to compare the two is a little unhinged but they both do their own thing and make good music..time will tell
solongsowrong says:
Alison says Jamey Johnson left more than a handful of country fans hungering for more music like his.
Are they hungry enough to go look for it where it’s at? Because the Americana format is loaded with artists such as him. People who want to get back to the Traditional Country Roots, need to go where the music is played.
It doesn’t get any easier to explain than that.
David Nisbet, Scotland says:
Eric is a hundred times better than Jamey. Plus Eric doesn’t have a superiority complex.
TexasCountyfan says:
Hayes Carll will be the next Jamey Johnson if radio would play him.
Redmaz says:
Radio plays Hayes Carll. Roots radio. Based on airplay. Carll has been on the charts for 65 weeks and is currently at #13. Johnson is on the same chart at #42, and has been on the Roots Country chart for 28 weeks.
countryiscool says:
I like both Jamey and Eric but I fail to see the similarity/ comparison.
Redmaz says:
To countryiscool, What about Hayes Carll and Johnson? Do you see any similarity there? How about Johnson and Bleu Edmondson? Similarity or not?
countryiscool says:
Don’t know either of the names you listed, sorry (other than Jamey’s)
Redmaz says:
I already knew that. Just proving my point. Why won’t you listen to their music?
solongsowrong says:
Hayes Carll was not only honored for his work by the AMA, he’s a riot to listen to.
countryiscool says:
Are they are on the Americana channel? I don’t know where they are on the (radio) dial.
Redmaz says:
Everyone has a myspace page now days with plenty of their music listed. Carll and Edmondson included. It takes about two shakes to listen to this music. You make it sound like this is some long, difficult process in finding this music. It’s simple really.
countryiscool says:
I don’t do myspace or facebook, have no interest in it. The only time I listen to the radio is morning, then it’s CD’s of my choice, or peaceful silence. My hubby already thinks I spend too much time on the computer, don’t need MORE. I do have a life besides this. Can you give me a radio station listed or not? Otherwise its cable.
Redmaz says:
You don’t do myspace? You don’t have to be a member of myspace to check the artists and listen to their music This is no excuse. All these artists have websites too, or don’t you do websites either?. Or cdbaby, or Amazon Or…on the “Blogroll” on the left side of this page is…”Radio Free Texas” They play all kinds of Americana/Texas/Red Dirt Music 24/7. You have the world at your fingertips, if you really love music, you’ll find a way to listen to it. You have absolutely no excuse for not learning anything and everything about music. No excuse.
solongsowrong says:
Now wait a minute Red. You mean even while people are sitting here typing, complaining about “missing” real Country music, and gripping about the music of Swift and company…. they could also…at the same time…. be listening to Country music that doesn’t sound like “Pop” music? And to get there, it’s on this very page and only inches from where they are blogging?
Surely you jest!!! It can’t possibly be that simple?
countryiscool says:
What a bunch of smart A’s. Your air of superiority is enough to steer me the other way. You both could use some improvement in your education efforts, glad you’re not teachers in the school system. I’m sure you’ll have another sarcastic response so pardon me if I find something better to do.
Redmaz says:
Then feel free to move on. I’ve been suggesting something better for you to do, and now our air of superiority is stronger than your love of music? This has nothing to do with education efforts, or teachers in the school system. This is basic music fundamentals that all music lovers should know. The facts are a hard pill to swallow for some. Personally I don’t care if you check out this music or not. You don’t seem to be ready for this music anyway. First of all you need an open mind, and a deep love for music. Neither of which you seem to have. This music is bigger than you and me. Just sit and wait for the next Swift blog to complain about, and we’ll start all over.
solongsowrong says:
Turning this around, reading posts from people constantly complaining about the current shape of Country music that is played on commercial radio, and the degrading of its chief star, doesn’t make for a very good ambassadorship for Pop Country, either. It works both ways.
Am I sarcastic? Sometimes. Do I feel superior? Only in the sense that I at least make my own decisions about what music I listen to based on what is available, not based on what some record label or commercial radio station is trying to sell me through saturation and over promotion.
The only way to know what’s available, is to educate yourself and take advantage of what is offered. If you try and still like the Pop Country better, that’s cool, at least you made a decision based on something other than excuses.
Miami My Amy says:
You’ve got to be kidding….is it April Fools??? EC doesn’t deserve to be mentioned in the same article as JJ, much less same title!! Let Jamey have his career and stop looking for the next person to fill his shoes….he ain’t done yet! There is plenty of music out there to appeal to the masses…unfortunate that the powers that be on radio only plays what they want you to hear. I’m sure EC will get more airtime; longevity is another matter. He sounds like the rest of the little boys out there.
Michigan says:
Wow, Miami My Amy, if you knew anything about EC you’d know he’s been working really hard and is going to have a ton of longevity. He’s not pop country, and anyone who says that has never given him a real listen. He has a really different sound.
And for the smart A’s who are bashing “countryiscool”, leave em alone. You guys are jokes, if people wanna like what’s on the radio, let em. Don’t tell others they don’t love music becasue they like something different. You two (redmaz and solongsowrong) are pathetic
solongsowrong says:
Michigan: Did I not say to countryiscool, if you try and still like the Pop Country better, that’s cool? You’re reading into my words what you want to interpret. I don’t recall telling them they don’t like music.
churchlover says:
wow… eric church is flat out unique. jamey johnson is also. EC’s music isn’t pop by any means. it’s no more pop than some of the music by kellie pickler, taylor swift, that kinda stuff. EC has music from the heart that really means something to hard working blue-collar people. He talks about the truths of love, life, & hard work! He’s amazing! =]
Redmaz says:
To Michigan, it’s seems you are coming into the middle of a conversation you know nothing about. Many posts have been deleted, without the replies being deleted too. This had nothing to do with what people liked on the radio. Nothing. countryiscool complains about a 19 year old Pop singer instead of checking out other music. I believe a music lover checks out music every chance they get. That’s why her hatred for the success of a Pop singer is more important than contributing to the many music blogs here. She’s basically admitted that. I also said that personally I don’t care if she checks out Americana/Roots Music or not. Now might be a good time for you to mind your own business.
Alison W says:
I’m a huge eric church fan but not so much of a jamey johnson fan, not that I dislike him. But something about eric’s music is just amazing to me. The songs they play on radio are BY FAR not even close to the best ones he’s recorded throughout his first two albums. Guys Like Me and How Bout You are really fun to rock out to as his shows, but I don’t think you can even have a real opinion about eric church if the radio singles are the only songs you’ve heard.
Chris says:
I saw them together at an acoustic show in Madison, WI last summer. Was already a HUGE Church fan, but knew little of JJ other that “The Dollar.” He brought out High Cost right away and it hit me just every Church song has… it’s REAL country music. The both bring out the pain and the fun that life provides better than anyone else that’s out there. For anyone that thinks either EC or JJ are getting to be pop country acts, take a look at their touring schedules - bars, county fairs, and small clubs all the way through.
I think we’ve finally gotten our generation’s Steve Earle and Waylon Jennings with these two.
JulieDarlin says:
To even try to compair Eric Church to Jamey Johnson is not even close. Eric is one of a kind his songs are so personable to his fans it’s like they have lived the songs he writes. It is good to know that Eric is starting to be reconized and appricated for who he is.
EricChurchFan says:
Eric Church is flat out THE MAN! He is an amazing artist and is FINALLY getting the recognition that he deserves! His new CD “Carolina” has great song after great song on it. I just wish he would could out to the west coast and sing more often!
Jeff says:
I’m not seeing the whole “next jamey johnson” comparison. Why is johnson being held in such high regards when church has many more charted singles? And in response to the people who said eric church is pop country you’re dead wrong. He has been around the music business for quite awhile and has done a lot of writing. Jamey Johnson is nothing compared to Eric Church.
Oldno7 says:
Drinking, heartbreak and prison, thats real country music. If it don’t feel right sitting on a barstool then it’s pop country.
CountryKitty says:
I think the comparison works on a few levels — both artists seem to be succeeding with their own individual voice, shun the pre-fab, radio-friendly-at-all-cost sound, and both are kind of scruffy looking! :)
Seriously, I discovered Eric during the 2009 CMA Fest and can’t get enough of his poetic, personal storytelling, which reminds me of Radney Foster more than Jamey Johnson.
ECfan says:
eric church is king, go see him live and try to tell me anybody is better. as to comparing him to Jamey, you cant. they are two different styles. and to whoever thinks eric is pop/country, i laughed outloud, you must be kidding, he is the most country you get. you want pop/country (rascal flatts, taylor swift, tim mcgraw)
JSmitty says:
Both artists are unique, I think Eric Church is above and beyond JJ however.. If eric church would get the credit he deserves he would be one of the faces of country right now.. His songs are amazing and speak to the heart, and I have never seen anyone else rock out a concert like the ECB… They put on the best show, if you have never been to an EC concert I reccomend it… He is defintley a lot more rockin country than pop country..
lpeno says:
Through hard work and tenacity Eric Church has found his place in country music as a singer/songwriter and an entertainer. His concerts are rowdy and loud…..attend one you’ll love it. Doesn’t matter what category people choose to put him in…..he’ll be around a long time.
Andrew Hahn says:
Anybody calling Eric Church pop/country should not be voicing an opinion because they obviously have not done their homework. Anyone who has listened to either of his albums (Sinners Like Me or Carolina) will understand he is one of the most real/raw country musicians left. Eric does not get the recognition he deserves from mainstream country music, and it’s great to finally see it’s starting to happen. The real emotion EC puts into his songs and especially his shows cannot be compared to ANYONE. I’ve seen him in concert 4 times and he is a new and refreshing breed of real country music that this industry needs. GO buy his CD’s, GO see his shows and you too will understand. Passion before Fashion!
Kohl Neel says:
I love both Jamey Johnson and Eric Church. I can say that Eric church’s new cd is on of the best cd’s I have ever bought. I got it a few weeks ago and it hasnt come out of my cd player yet. Every song on the cd is awesome. I wouldnt say he’s like Jamey Johnson. He has his own unique voice, and its awesome. Its what country music needs instead of that boy band crap.
Emilie Aitken says:
Eric Church is one of many artists I’ve had the opportunity to work with, I believe he deserves more recognition than he gets, and seeing as how he will be going to headline a country festival with 30-40,000 people I think he will finally become the well known and loved person in the industry that he deserves to be. I can’t see how Jamey and Eric can be related other than they are both in the music business. I enjoy every second of watching him perform and working with him. I feel honored to be one of many that knew him before he was on the radio and that I have been able to see him become who he is today and can’t wait to see how big he gets. I wish him the best of luck.
ECYAYJJNAY says:
I think my name says it all…I’m not a fan of Jamey Johnson, but I AM a fan of Eric Church.
I’ve been following EC since 2006, when he only had one single out… “How Bout You”. I have to admit, when it was first released, I wasn’t a fan, but that all changed once I saw him live. Man! I’ve been to a lot of shows, and Eric is, by far, the BEST show I’ve been to! So much so, I’ve been to see him about 20 times! Even Faith Hill and Tim McGraw didn’t do for me what he does.
And honestly, as to the whole Mainstream vs Traditional country debate, There is NO comparison between the two. BUT you can’t decide which genre an artist should fall into simply by what the label chooses to release as a single. If you listen to EC’s whole album, you’ll notice that not all of the songs have that pop-ish beat. And if you go back and listen to Sinners Like Me, his debut album, you’ll see that there’s really not much pop to him. He said himself that you can’t keep making the same album over and over…and to my mind, Traditional country, while I love alot of it, IS the same thing over and over again. So, Carolina MAY sound more pop than anything JJ ever put out there, but I can guarantee you that the next album will sound different again. THAT flexibility and the large fanbase that EC is gaining-county fair to bar room to casino to …whatever- IS going a long way towards creating longetivity. After all, he took his advice from one of Country Music royalty and is earning his fans “The Hard Way”…on the road.
I think, though, Ed Smoake(one of the ECB)said it best last weekend. “We’re not country. That’s just what they call us…we’re actually more like AC/DC with a banjo.”
countryiscool says:
Guess Red told YOU Michigan. And btw, I know I’m NOT the ONLY blogger complaining about Swift so don’t go singling
me out. And Red, you can not say I have not checked out other artists (than mainstream) because I’ve said I have tuned into cable Americana channel several times. You’re going to fault me for not knowing names yet? Give me time. Another point, I have more time for (and prefer) cable TV and radio listening over being tied to my computer. Not everyone is computer savvy or LIKES being “online” for hours on end, whether it be for music or anything else. If you are one that DOES prefer that, then great!
APPSTATECHURCHFAN says:
For anyone that thinks either of these artists is goin “pop” you’re absolutely out of your mind. these two artists are one of the few that are keeping country music actually country. Absolutely no pop, they tell it how it is and actually write their own songs, every single one of them!! how many artists can you actually say that about, that they had a hand in writing each and every song on their cd(S!!) They both need waaaaay more credit than they’re given!
Theresa says:
There is no logical comparison between these two extremely talented singer/songwriters - both are the beginning of two separate careers. While both have edgy approaches to songwriting, their styles of music are very different. However, I love the music of both of these artists and hope that Eric Church will soon gain the recognition that he deserves, as Jamey has recently within the industry….
RobFL says:
Theresa said it all. Both great artists with tons of talent. Although JJ has arguably the best album of the past year, reserve your judgement on EC until you pick up his albums and see him live. You won’t be disappointed. Man, why all the hate on here? Can’t we agree the Rascal Flatts and Emerson Drives of the world are committing all the murder on Music Row?
Heather says:
Eric Church has been my favorite singers since I bought Sinners Like Me. When I saw him live for the first time I was hooked for good. Carolina is an AMAZING cd. He deserves more recognition that he’s gotten so far. If you haven’t listened to him…just go buy the cds right now and do yourself a favor!!! :) He’s awesome live, the best concert I’ve ever seen and I plan to see him again soon.
guitarslinger says:
eric church and jamey johnson may not play the same style of country but they both play country (genuine strait foward been there done that country). and i bet that the two of them could really give a damn how they compare and that is what makes them alike. they both are real pple not some fake tan make-up wearin song buyin “oh dang my boots are dirty” wannabes.
lile_74 says:
Are you serious EC pop country. I have taken many people to an Eric Church show and everytime after the show they get hooked because of the live shows he puts on. There is no way should he be compared to Jamey. Jamey has less songs out and his live show is no where near as entertaining as Eric. Go to a show and you will be hooked on Ec too. I promise.
Redmaz says:
There seems to be quite a bit of confusion as to what Pop Country is, especially from, Chris, ECfan, JSmitty, and appstatechurchfan. I take it you’re not familiar with today’s Root Country Music scene. As stated before Johnson and Williams are the only two people right now who are getting both Pop and Roots recognition. Eric Church is a straight up Pop singer. If you can show me where he has been recognized in today’s Roots Country, I’ll gladly retract my statement. You may like his music more than say Rascal Flatts, Emerson Drive, Urban, Chesney, Paisley, and the rest of the usual suspects…but it’s all Pop Country. An easy comparison to clear up this confusion would be, listen to Jason Boland. Boland, Carll, Edmondson for example are Roots artists. Church is a Pop act.
Sarah says:
“Any song sung by Eric Church is country at its best!” I saw Eric perform for a small crowd in a casino… years back! He’s had me hooked ever since. The guy is an incredibly clever song-writer with the ability to generate some powerful lyrics! I will never understand why it takes so long for the hard-working, TRULY talented country singers to get the recognition they deserve!!! Eric is heads and shoulders above Jamey Johnson!
Bekki says:
Eric Church is an amazingly talented songwriter and performer who is truly passionate about what he does. When you listen to either one of his albums or get the chance to see him live his enthusiasm and dedication to what he does so well is perfectly clear.
I don’t think any true artist out there today wants to be called “The Next ______”. Jamey Johnson and Eric Church are both HUGE assets to country music today, and will both be around for a very long time.
Deloris Bowman says:
I will agree Jamey Johnson is a very good singer but only
one word is needed for Eric Church… awesome! He gives a 110% to every concert he performs,he truly loves his fans and is just what he seems to be. A true country boy with a God given talent. I dont understand why the radio doesnt play him more. Just go buy his two albums you wont listen to the radio anymore anyway.
Amanda says:
Eric Church is great, easily my favorite artist. Jamey Johnson is one of the greatest song writers of all time. He’s another personal fave. But Mr. Church has something over Jamey, and I’m not even sure what it is. His fans have been referred to as ‘rabid’ and keep coming back for more. Eric will surely be a big star someday, bigger than Jamey Johnson. He just has that ‘it’ factor. His albums are fantastic and his live shows are better. Yes, Eric and Jamey are similar and because of that share a fan base. However, when it is all said and done Eric Church is the better overall artist.
SB says:
…I agree that both artists are amazingly talented…having seen both perform I have to say that they both bring the passion and heart that country music has been missing to the table…if you have ever seen Eric Church live you know what I mean when I say…”whatever IT is…he’s got IT”…I also think Jamey is very, very talented…it’s just a different show…both men have amazing musicians on the road with them that “bring” it every single night…their hearts are in the music…and you can’t ask for more than that…I am so glad to see these guys putting “real” music out there and bringing it to the people…in my opinion they are both looking at some extensive careers and filling those boots that have been open for quite some time…I will say that if I had to choose between live shows…Church would win…every time…there’s nothing like it…
Derek says:
Dear Redmaz,
I don’t think you quite understand what ‘pop country’ is. While reading your statements, it seems like you think any country artist with a new sound is ‘pop country’. That is far from true. Pop country is songs that have no feeling and don’t evoke any kind of an emotional response other than the occasional urge to rip the stereo out of the truck. What EC and JJ both have is REAL country. Songs that speak to the hard working, common man. Songs that talk about real life. The major difference between EC and JJ that I see is the style of music. JJ prefers the more traditional sound and EC has a sound of his own. Apparently you prefer the more traditional sound, ok…there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. I personally love that sound too, though there are days when some of EC’s songs hit me just right (ie. “What I Almost Was”, “Longer Gone”, and “Smoke A Little Smoke”). I’m not trying to convince you to like Eric. My words can not do that. But if you haven’t listened to EC’s albums, I challenge you to listen to them all the way through at least once, while considering some of the arguments that have been made by some of the above comments. I think you’ll be surprised to find that Eric Church might be more comparable to Waylon Jennings in the fact that he’s challenging the “same ole tune” of country music, and at the same time, taking it back to it’s roots that so much of today’s popular country ‘acts’ are straying from.
Caroline says:
Derek - very well said!!
Sarah Kay Hoffman says:
Eric Church is in a league of his own! He is the guy that “stays hidden,” but resembles that of the “silent killer.” His music is phenomenal AND he writes it! His voice is true. His lyrics are real. Most importantly, his entire demeanor is authentic. Eric Church doesn’t write or sing or act or “be” for anyone in particular. What he does comes from something deeper than an image. I admire every song he has. While I love, “Love Your Love the Most,” it was not that song that got me. It was “Carolina,” which is not mainstream.
Eric Church deserves all the respect he has. I see similarities to that of Jamey Johnson. There is no reason to say anything negative about either one of them; to each is own.
Kyle says:
To all the Jamey Johnson fans out there who are offended by this article I feel for you. I am a huge Eric Church fan, and believe if you have the privilege to see him live it is a treat. Eric, and the rest of the band are completely dedicated to “entertaining” they give it everything they have every time they step on stage. I’ve seen him play for 2+ hours the day after being so sick he was diagnosed with the flu.
Both guys are amazingly talented, but if you listen to Jamey’s new CD it is very dark, after his very public problems in the past years. Many of Eric’s new songs are upbeat, but there are some truly deep songs (Those I’ve Loved) on his record as well.
I also agree with others previously who were saying that you can’t label someone “The Next _____” I dont see why so these guys can’t be recognized for their personal talents.
country music says:
to begin I agree Eric church should not be compared to Jamey johnson. No he will never be the next Jamey johnson and this is because he is already much better than JJ. Eric Church knows what is important and that is his fans,yes both eric and jamey are excellent musians and songwritters but Eric church knows his way around and knows what is important to make a go of it, his fans without them you are no one.
Megan says:
Eric Church is defiantly the new hot country star. I didn’t even listen to country much until I started dating my boyfriend a couple years ago. His mom was the one who originally got me hooked on Eric. And now his music graces my car stereo every time i’m on the road. Keep doing your thing Eric- whatever you’re doing is obviously working :)
Heather says:
I have had the chance to attend a concert of Eric Church and a concert of Jamey Johnson within the last 6 months. Eric & Jamey may be buddies but they are definitely different on their styles of playing. Eric’s shows are about young college frat wannabe country boys going out and getting drunk. I left halfway through the show and had front row seats for Eric because I didn’t come to watch a freaking rock show that he put on. I gave him the benefit of a doubt considering he was dropped off of two tours, and now I know why. I will not be at another Eric Church show surrounded by college drunk kids.
I saw Jamey once, twice, three, make that 9 times in the last few months. From small honky tonks to big theatres and all points in between, Jamey knew how to handle a crowd. He sold out weeks in advance of all his shows so far. He gives it his all. I’ve seen him play for 4 hours nonstop without a break on numerous occasions. Jamey doesn’t rely on a set list and even honors those in the past with various covers…but they are done with pure taste and are well done. I have been fortunate to meet Jamey and to see him interact with fans. You are not rushed, he talks to you and loves to hear what fans have to say about his music. He may look like a mean person, but he has a heart of gold. He is also well respected in the industry…just take a look at who all was at his Gold Record Party.
I really doubt that Eric will become the next Jamey Johnson. They are totally different styles of music filling the void that fans have been craving for years. He is our generation of outlaws who definitely carries the torch well with his talents.
Redmaz says:
Thanks for the reply Derek. I will be glad to discuss/debate this issue with you. Actually I’m looking forward to it. First I would like to ask you if you are familiar with today’s Americana/Roots Music scene? From your reply it gives me the impression you may not be, but I want to be sure.
countryismyrock says:
calling EC pop country is calling Waylon, Hank, and Haggard the same… His music stems from that generation
~ Heavenlymoon76 ~ says:
I’m a huge Eric fan! I haven’t heard much of Jamey’s music so I can’t say whether they are similar or not. What draws me to Eric’s music, is that he doesn’t sound like everything else I hear on the radio. Country, rock, pop, whatever you want to call his music, I LOVE IT!
DANIEL M says:
I dont compare the two of them together. They are both very talented and are the real deal. Both refuse to follow the ways of mainstream Nashville both write most of their songs (something mainstream artists rarely do anymore.) Both deserve more praise than they recieve. I do know that Eric Church has busted his ass performing year round for almost 5 yrs straight. Both work and play hard. I advise everyone to take a break from the mainstream (Kenny Chesney,McGraw,Swift,Rascal Flatts(fags),etc. Real country no longer has center stage because it refuses to sell itself to hollywood. Hank sure as hell wouldnt of done it that way!
DANIEL M says:
…..and also I think this article shouldve never been written in the first place. the author of this article must have ran out of stuff to write about. Totally a waste of time
Haleigh says:
i don’t compare them at all. jamey is just ehh for me, probably because i haven’t heard alot of his music. but i heard “pledge allegiance to the hag” and i’ve never stopped lovin eric church! he’s the real deal and his songs nail it everytime!
Chris_in_CO says:
I don’t understand the comparison. I’ve never seen Jamey, but the whiny voice I hear on the radio isn’t for me, but I promise to keep an open mind and see him the next time he is in the Denver area.
Eric Church has always said “the road to the top is a mirror image of the road down”. He’s taking his career slow and easy and building his fan base one fan at a time. Besides, it’s the same faces you see on the way up as you do on the way down.
His concerts are amazing and I can’t get enough of either one of his CD’s!
Derek says:
No Redmaz, I am not familiar with the Americana/Roots Music scene. Just about all the music I listen to comes from the radio.
Redmaz says:
Well then Derek, no offense, but since you are only listening to your local radio station, and are unaware of the other 90% of today’s music scene I’d say you are not in any position to tell me anything about what is or what is not Pop Country music. If you are really a music lover, and are interested in learning about all of today’s music, let me know, I will help you.
Coery says:
ANYONE who does not think Eric and Jamey are in the same league has obviously did not listen to Erics first album or heard anything on the second album. Maybe try to catch him live. The funny thing is these two guys have a tremendous amount of respect for each other. With these two and Randy Houser….I think country music have a big three lane highway coming through…..but really, it doesnt get any better than The Eric Church Band!!
josh t says:
thats like comparing charlie daniels and george strait.both are great artist,but they have different places in music.
Jim M says:
They are both incredible artists. I love the albums both have out now. They both speak to me. I find it interesting that the LA Times article refers to them as Southern Rock. They just cannot bring themselves to say “Country Music” I guess.
Dan Troub says:
I do see some similarities between Church and Johnson. they are both amazing and top notch and sculpting every part to a great song, one that hits you deep and makes you think. I listen way more to Eric, so I am more familiar with how much of an awesome songwriter, performer and guy. He’s got so much more to show everyone as well as this genre. Just give the man some more radio love, that’s all I ask.
Shannon Hanna says:
I love both of them. I do not think the two of them are one in the same. I have seen Eric 10 times minimum and heading to my next Jamey Johnson show this weekend. Both boys are gritty I will say that but thank god they are not the same. Who needs that with all the pop country crap out there! BRING ON WAYLON!
Blake R says:
i see a lot of similarities between jamey johnson and eric church. I like both of them. They are both amazing songwriters and performers. I think guys like jamey and eric are what country music needs. Luke Bryan as well. No more of this pop country stuff. Country music needs get back to great songs with great stories.
Redmaz says:
To Blake R.You should try and be more specific in your post. As a general overview, it makes no sense. First you say these are the people country music needs. Do you mean Pop Country or Roots Country need these people? Because as stated before Johnson is the only male currently who has crossed over from Pop to Roots Music. Both Church and Bryan are Pop acts, but you say “No more of this pop country stuff”. I’m sorry but, that makes absolutely no sense. You may like these two more than other Pop acts, but that doesn’t change the fact that’s what they are. And if that wasn’t strange enough you say “Country music needs to get back to great songs with great stories”??? There are dozens and dozens of great singer/songwriters out there today. I take it you don’t listen to much new music other than Pop Country(or Pop music in general). If you are interested in learning about, and differentiating betwenn the two(Pop and Roots Music), just ask. I will help. Thanks.
Churchgoer says:
Wow, this really drummed up a response didn’t it!!! My eyes are crossed from reading most of the comments. I’m a HUGE JJ AND EC fan first of all and NO, they are not comparable. They are both unique in their own ways and yes, I honestly believe they are BOTH Outlaws of country music. They are both truly talented singers/songwriters who enjoy crossing the lines every now and then. I LOVE the fact that they write their own music and the lines in their songs are lines from their LIVES. They’ve LIVED their songs, people! They are both true to their roots and full of passion for what they do. I LOVE that neither of them play in big venues. Honky tonks, bars and county fairs…I hope they never take that away from us. So to answer the question IS Eric Church the next Jamey Johnson? Well no, Eric Church IS Eric Church and thank God for that! And Jamey is Jamey. They ARE different. I don’t want to listen to the same sounding music over and over. I don’t know about ya’ll, but I LIKE their differences!
So honestly people, if you don’t like the “pop country” on the radio, then don’t listen! That’s what websites and ipods are for! I don’t like it anymore than you all do, so I choose to listen to my kind of music!
Don’t cry for me when I’m gone… says:
Damn! What a debate! A ridiculous one…
First of all, even the insinuation that Church is the “new Jamey Johnson” is asinine. Who the hell said he was trying to be anyone else, especially Jamey Johnson? Church is the best songwriter in Nashville. Church flew the damn bird at country radio. Have y’all heard “Lotta Boot Left To Fill?” If not, you may want to rethink your criticism until you do. A pop artist? Are you out of your minds?
Johnson has serious game and deserves tremendous respect, but it’s like you folks are trying to persecute one artist or the other - or both — when they really deserve props for flipping the script.
Churchgoer says:
AMEN!
Redmaz says:
Just stating the facts. When and if his music gets played it’s on Pop radio, and it fits right in with Urban, Bentley, Flatts, Bryan, Adkins, MG etc. It certainly doesn’t fit in with Reckless Kelly, Bleu Edmondson, Jason Boland, Mo Robson Band, Rodney Parker & 50 Peso Reward, Jackson Taylor Band, or The Lost Immagrants.
LottaBOOtlefttofill says:
I have seen both artists in concert, and have them both on my ipod. Eric Church played for 2 hours in a small bar in Johnson City, Tn and had me wanting more, while Johnson sang his 3 or 4 good songs and picked the remainder of his dinner out of his pubic hair like beard. Church is on his way 2 the top, Jamey has flat lined out at the peak of his career and should have seen it in color!!!
Redmaz says:
Hey? where’d you go? Come on back if you can.
Michigan says:
Just popped back in and can’t believe this debate is still going on. Church is NOT pop. Just because he gets played on mainstream country radio does not make him pop. You obviously havent listened to either of his CDs all the way through if you think he is. You people that think you can decide whats what in country music just because Eric is more popular than your precious roots country doesnt mean hes pop. He sounds so much like Waylon and Haggard on some of his songs. Unless they are pop too.
Redmaz says:
Hey Michigan, I’m glad you made it back. Yes Waylon and Haggard were both played on Pop Country radio back in the day, but both are now only recognized in Americana/Roots music. As I said, I don’t think you know what Pop Music is, but if you’d care to give me your definition, we’ll go from there. Also, Church is not popular at all in Roots Country. He is only popular in Pop Country. When and if he’s played on radio it’s in the same genre as Swift, Chesney, Urban, Underwood. As I’ve stated, you may like him more than other Pop acts, but that still doesn’t change the facts. Are you familiar with, or have you checked out any of the dozen artists or so that I’ve mentioned in this blog? Get back with when you have.
Michigan says:
Let me give you a scenario. There’s a radio station in my area (not country) that plays AC/DC, Blink 182, Maroon 5, and Metallica. Does that make them all the same genre? Of course not. So Eric being played on the same station as Swift or Chesney does not make them the same.
Pop music to me is fluffy, meaningless music with no edge (Hannnah Montana, Jonas Brothers, etc…). Eric does not fit into that category. I will now go check out those artists you spoke of.
Redmaz says:
To answer your scenario, Yes, those bands you named are in the same genre. Pop Rock. They certainly are not Roots Rock artists. This is why I don’t think you really know what Pop music is. Pop Music is NOT an individual genre of music. Pop is an industry consisting of many genres. Maybe if you listen to some Roots Music that will help you understand.
Michigan says:
I think you are wrong about pop music (AC/DC and Waylon have NEVER been pop). It sounds to me like you’re saying everything on the radio is pop and everything else is roots. I don’t think it works like that.
And listening to Reckless Kelly i thought EC would fit right in with them.
Redmaz says:
Yes, everything on mainstream commercial radio is Pop Music. Musically it really doesn’t matter what it is. At a certain point in time a more traditional sound was popular as in being played on the radio, but you’re saying Pop is an individual genre of music? That’s what you seem to be implying, so that must mean you know quite a bit about it’s history as an individual genre of music. If you would, could you give me some information on it too, such as it’s origin, the instruments used, it’s tradition, and key artists within it’s genre.
The most important part of this discussion is you finally took the time to checked out some new music. Reckless Kelly. It took a while, but you finally did it. Most people don’t even do that much, so I commend you for that. However, I see no connection whatsoever between EC and RK, but that’s where opinion comes in once you get past the facts.
Michigan says:
Pop originated as a softer alternative to rock and roll in the 1950s. It’s traditionally appealed to a youthful demographic and is oriented towards short, radio friendly, love songs. The genre tends to focus more on individual singles and is driven by commercial success and not artistic growth, while trying to appeal to everyone. Production is often more important than performance. Synthesizers, keyboards, bass, drums, and guitar are common instruments. As for notable artists; The Monkees, Jackson 5, Michael Jackson, Backstreet Boys, New Kids On the Block, etc…
That enough for ya?
Michigan says:
And by the way, Jamey Johnson is also played with EC on mainstream radio. So by your definition, that makes him pop as well right?
Redmaz says:
Very good definition. I see you did some homework. However you left out the Nashville Sound, Countrypolitan era of Country, which is really what Pop Music we’re talking about. So, you feel that no Country music fits into your basic description? You feel there is no such thing as Mainstream Pop Country music? As I said before Johnson is the only current male as of now who has crossed over from Pop Country to Roots Country, so technically he’s both, however I see him having a longer career, and recognition in Americana/Roots Music..
Michigan says:
Oh there is definitely pop country. But Eric Church is not at all part of it. He focuses on his songs and their meaning, live shows, and building his fan base regardless of whether he will get played on the radio. The way he talks about his music and his writing, he is most definitely not any form of pop.
Redmaz says:
You are definately entitled to your opinion, and if you like his music tha’s fine but I’m talking about facts. Here are a couple more, I checked the Capitol records artists line up, and the are no Americana/Roots artists, but there are several Pop Country acts listed including Adkins, Lady A, LBT. I would venture to guess that nearly every artists focuses on songs and meanings, live shows and building his fan base. Those characteristics are not limited to just Roots Music artists. Here are a couple more facts, his CD “Sinners Like Me” is currently at #32. Right between The Wreckers at 31, and Steve Azar at 33. Church is nowhere to be found on the Roots Chart. These charts are based on radio airplay.
Michigan says:
All I’m saying is not everything played on mainstream radio is pop. But that doesn’t mean it’s Americana/Roots. It can be something else. I see Eric as kind of country rock. And I think him and Jamey do have some similarities between them.
That being said I think it’s ridiculous to say EC is the next Jamey because Jamey isn’t retiring or done with his career or anything like that. I love both of their music but there won’t be a “next” Jamey Johnson for hopefully 30 years (at least).
Redmaz says:
Well what you’e saying is wrong. Everything that’s played on mainstream commercial radio IS Pop music. You say it can be something else? Basically all of today’s Country music can be classified as Mainstream Pop or Americana/Roots. You say you see him as country rock? Well so is the Jackson Taylor Band. When was the last time you heard Jackson Taylor Band on Mainstream Pop radio? When was the first time EC was played on Americana/Roots radio? The answer to both is never. As I stated, like who want, but don’t make them out as something other than what they are. I’ve proved my point with facts…
Michigan says:
You can’t factually prove what genre someone is in because it is an opinion. You think the Jackson Taylor Band is country rock. Maybe they are and maybe not. You think everything is pop on the radio, that’s your opinion. Who made you the grand general of deciding who belongs where in music? It’s an opinion, don’t act like you are above me because you know some secret fact about music that I don’t.
Redmaz says:
Thanks,, but you are giving me way too much credit,, but I have factually proved what genre someone is in. Everything I’ve learned about music in the last 40+ years is no secret. Nearly anyone can learn it.. I never said that everything is Pop on the radio,, because there is also Roots Radio. Everything on mainstream commercial radio is Pop music. No one made me the “grand general”(whatever that means), of deciding who belongs where in music. There are genres and genre descriptions for a reason. I just seem to be more educated in music than you are, and this is what I’ve learned through education. These are not opinions. Here’s an example of the difference between opinion and fact…my opinion is people like Church, Urban, Chesney, McGraw, Swift, Underwood are not Country at all!, but the fact is…all of them are Pop Country acts. I accept that. See the difference? Did you take some time and listen to “Jackson Taylor and The Sinners”?
Michigan says:
Ya I did listen to them. And I’ll tell you why that’s not country music. Because in country music “you just can’t use the f word” - hank jr
Redmaz says:
ha…tell that to his son Hank Williams III