You're lookin' at country

As you read this very blog post I am in Nashville Tennessee watching some of my musical heroes rock out in front of 65 thousand people. (I'm not even going to try and pretend that I'm not bragging about this). I'm at a country music festival called CMA Fest which is an epic festival of 4 days, over 115 acts, 10 stages and a whole lot of cowboy boots.

To celebrate the friggin amazing that I'm experiencing right now I thought I would try and share with you the music that I love so much. I'm well aware that it's not popular in NZ and honestly if it wasn't for the internet and Shania Twain I doubt I would even listen to it myself but I love it enough to go to the other side of the world so just give it a go okay?

There are so many different styles of country that I really think anyone will like it provided they find the right artist. Here are just a few of the many different styles of country music for your listening pleasure:

You've got your country/pop sweethearts (Taylor Swift, Hunter Hayes),

Your self confessed red necks (Florida Georgia Line, Blake Shelton).

The female firecrackers (Miranda Lambert, Loretta Lynn, Pistol Annies).

The good ole boys of country (George Strait, Johnny Cash).

Rockabilly rock stars (Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins).

Your traditional Bluegrass (Alison Krauss, Blue Grass Boys).

And some of the most amazing guitar players you will hear in your life (Brad Paisley, Keith Urban)

And countless amazing country music trios and duos (Lady Antebellum, The Band Perry, Brooks and Dunn)

I sincerely hope that one day country music has a steady following in New Zealand. I really believe that country isn't just for pig farmers and red necks, it really is for everyone. I'm not saying you have to like all of it and I don't expect you to but just try it! You're missing out. Trust me on that.

This month I am Loving...

Music.

It seems appropriate to carry on with the music theme this week since May is NZ Music Month.  I can't think of a better idea than a month that celebrates music in all it's wonderful glory.

I love music.  All kinds of music.  In fact I'm probably something of a music junkie.  And one of the things I love doing is discovering new songs to listen to and to share them with others.

So here's a random list of songs that I have been playing lately.  Many of which you may not of heard but which I hope you might like and maybe even become addicted to - just like I have.

Cut My Hair by Luca Vasta

It was Amazon that got me onto this song; listed as it was as one of the songs to watch out for in 2013 and Luca Vasta as an artist on the rise.  And I'm so glad I checked it out.  Its boppy and catchy and a perfect head banging dance song.  So click on the link below and see what you think

Haven't Had Enough by Marianas Trench

Another song that I have been playing on instant replay.  I found this band courtesy of Teen Wolf  and have fallen in love with this song and Stutter which I also recommend that you check out.
 

Magic by Leagues

Another break out band that many are predicting as one of the bands to watch out for in 2013 and their debut record You Belong Here as a must buy.  I have to say I agree and I've already got my copy.

Blowin' Smoke by Kacey Musgraves

I'm usually not much of a country music fan but for some reason this song appeals to me.  Maybe it's because it's not as country as some but has a nice laid back feel to it.

Hold On by Alabama Shakes

These guys (and girl) are just awesome and so deserved last year's Grammy nominations which they or the Lumineers should of won but we won't go into that.  All you need to know is that you have you check them out.

Bones by MS MR

I fell in love with this song earlier this year after hearing it on the Season 3 trailer for Game of Thrones.  It's moody and soulful and the amazing lyrics are made even more so by the lead singer's  voice.  Their debut album has just been released overseas but until then have a listen to the video link below and see what you think