When the sound of country music emerges, numerous individuals often become displeased. The thought of redneck culture, cowboy boots, and strong country accents provide many with an unpleasant experience.

Although there is a great disposition against country music, it provides people with a unique sense of morality and a new lifestyle interpretation. Even though this new lifestyle is looked down upon, country music provides insight into a life revolving around the importance of nature, surrounding yourself with positive people, and enjoying the small moments in life.

These aspects are often overlooked but ultimately in certain circumstances showcase an individual’s upbringing. Contrary to popular belief, sophomore Keelin Wittkamp is a firm believer that country music has shaped who she is as an individual since it enables her to express her southern heritage. 

“I like country music because I grew up in the south and it reminds me of things from my childhood,” noted Wittkamp.

Along with remembrance of an individual’s upbringing, country music also provides a somewhat modest, clean form of music. Although some derogatory language is spoken amongst various artists, generally most country pieces refrain from swearing. Even though inappropriate language has become more widely used amongst younger generations, Wittkamp benefits from listening to country music.

“I also enjoy it because it’s more appropriate for the most part, there is barely any cussing and the intentions are more pure,” commented Wittkamp. 

Although country music enables feelings of childhood nostalgia and refrains from the use of explicit language, some individuals are not convinced that this genre is a pure interpretation of music. Oftentimes country singers express their beliefs based on their upbringing, which frequently is displayed with a strong, southern accent. While this accent is not inferior by any means, some individuals such as sophomore Leah Finkle think differently. 

“Country can be rather slow at times and most country singers have a certain accent that people might not like. They can be sort of annoying because especially in Colorado people don’t really have any accents… and again some of the lyrics might not be super relatable in more populated areas,” stated Finkle. 

Finkle demonstrates a valid point regarding country music and how it can be perceived differently depending on where someone lives, whether it be a large city, suburb, or rural community. Wherever an individual lives, country music can showcase heartfelt emotions and provide purposeful lyrics to their listeners. Although Finkle is not keen on listening to country music frequently, she does support the meaning behind each country song. 

“It can be really relaxing and I like the guitar music. Some of the lyrics can be really meaningful too,” exclaimed Finkle. 

From childhood nostalgia to expressing one’s southern roots, to the lack of inappropriate language, country music can instill a positive message amongst people, as well as instill a sense of pride. Despite the disposition that country music often faces, it can be quite worthwhile if an individual were to give it a chance and who knows maybe one day they will exclaim like Wittkamp, “Yes, I love country music, it’s pretty much all I listen to”.