George Strait, the undisputed “King of Country Music,” has always been a stalwart defender of traditional country sounds. With his deep baritone and impeccable phrasing, he has crafted a career synonymous with authenticity and timeless appeal. Yet, even this iconic figure found himself compelled to address the evolving landscape of country music in his 2016 track, “Kicked Outta Country”.
Background
The song arrives as a pointed commentary on the genre’s trajectory. Country music, once a bastion of storytelling and heartfelt emotion, had begun to experiment with pop-infused production and lyrical content. While this evolution undoubtedly expanded the genre’s audience, it also alienated a significant portion of its traditional fanbase. Strait, a cornerstone of classic country, felt compelled to speak out.
“Kicked Outta Country” is more than just a song; it’s a declaration of independence. The lyrics, co-written by Strait and Jamey Johnson, paint a vivid picture of a country artist who refuses to compromise his artistic integrity. The opening lines, “I just wrote a new song today, pulled out my old guitar and I started to play,” immediately establish a sense of defiance. Strait is asserting his right to create music on his own terms, without succumbing to industry pressures.
The song’s chorus is a rallying cry for traditional country fans: “Getting kicked outta country, didn’t hurt a thing.” It’s a bold statement, suggesting that while Strait may be marginalized by the new guard, he remains unfazed. His legacy is secure, and he is confident that there will always be an audience for authentic country music.
Musically, “Kicked Outta Country” is a throwback to the classic country sound that Strait helped to define. The instrumentation is spare, featuring acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and fiddle. The arrangement is straightforward, allowing Strait’s vocals to take center stage. It’s a reminder of the power of simplicity in country music.
While the song is undeniably critical of the direction of country music, it’s important to note that Strait is not entirely dismissive of the genre’s evolution. In an interview with Rolling Stone, he stated, “I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with the new stuff. There’s a place for everything. But I think there’s a place for traditional country music, too.”
“Kicked Outta Country” is a significant moment in the history of country music. It is a testament to Strait’s enduring popularity and his unwavering commitment to his craft. The song has resonated with fans of traditional country music, providing a sense of validation and community. Whether or not it will influence the future of the genre remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving country music’s rich heritage.
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Additional Information
- Songwriting Credits: George Strait and Jamey Johnson
- Album: Strait Out of the Box: Part 2
- Release Date: December 1, 2017
- Genre: Traditional Country
- Themes: Authenticity, defiance, preservation of traditional country music
Harley