Country Universe

Kathy Mattea, Coal; Del McCoury, Moneyland

July 19, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 8

Kathy Mattea Coal Del McCoury Moneyland The everyday experience of America’s working poor was once a cornerstone of country music. As recently as the economic downturn of the early nineties, their voices were being heard

Saturday Open Thread: What is Country Anymore?

July 18, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 28

The current issue of Entertainment Weekly, which arrived in my mailbox today, has an interesting three-page feature story on Sugarland. Titled “The Sugarland Express”, the sub-headline proclaims that “With a new album influenced by R.E.M.,

Crunching the Numbers: July 2008, Part 5

July 18, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 9

There was quite a bit of discussion earlier this week about the scarcity of female artists on the radio these days. Then again, there’s usually quite a bit of discussion about the women in country

Friday Open Thread: Upcoming Albums

July 18, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 25

At the end of 2007, the only artists I could think of that had new albums coming out were Kathy Mattea, Alan Jackson and Dolly Parton. But new albums came along from some of my

Review: Billy Ray Cyrus, “Somebody Said a Prayer”

July 17, 2008 Leeann Ward 37

Now, Billy Ray Cyrus may not necessarily be known for his understated vocals. In fact, he’s got some pretty effective pipes when he needs them. On this song, however, he takes the belting to a

Sara Evans, “Love You With All My Heart”

July 17, 2008 Leeann Ward 15

If you tend to embarrass easily, this song is likely to elicit some serious blushing, especially if you’re not alone when listening to it. In this steamy ballad, Sara sings of how it’s been a

Tim McGraw, “Let it Go”

July 17, 2008 Leeann Ward 6

Well, this is clearly an empowerment anthem. He’s going to rise above the pain and dark experiences that have permeated his life and try to “let it go.” It may sound cheesy, but I’m sold.

Thursday Open Thread: Put a 'Stupid Girl' in it

July 17, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 27

Today's open thread From Brad at Music City TV, via The 9513: It makes sense: The new Brooks & Dunn song is called Put a Girl in It. For the music video shot Tuesday, they

Review: Becky Schlegel, “Bound For Tennessee”

July 16, 2008 Leeann Ward 0

Those who are familiar with Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion on NPR may recognize the name of Becky Schlegel, who has performed on Keillor’s show numerous times. Her first single, “Bound For Tennessee”, retreads

Wednesday Open Thread: Worst Song Lyrics Ever!

July 15, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 63

I’m not above lifting another open thread topic from Spinner. They listed what they consider The 20 Worst Song Lyrics Ever, with topping the list. Country music is represented by Shania Twain, showing up at