Country music is one of the most popular and diverse genres of music in the world. It has a rich history and a wide range of styles, each with its own sound, mood, and message. Whether you are a fan of country music or just curious about it, you might wonder which style of country music suits you best. Do you prefer the classic tunes of traditional country, the upbeat rhythms of bluegrass, the emotional stories of honky-tonk, the rock influences of country rock, the catchy melodies of country pop, or the party vibes of bro-country?
In this article, we will help you find your country music style by introducing you to the main styles of country music, their origins, characteristics, artists, songs, pros and cons, and a fun quiz or checklist to test your preferences. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of country music styles and hopefully discover some new songs and artists that you love.
There are many styles of country music song, but some of the main ones are:
- Traditional country: This is the original style of country music that emerged in the early 20th century. It features simple chord progressions, fiddle and guitar as lead instruments, and stories of rural life and hardship.
- Bluegrass: This is a style of country music that originated in the 1940s and is influenced by Irish and Scottish folk music. It features fast tempos, complex instrumental solos, and high-pitched vocal harmonies.
- Honky-tonk: This is a style of country music that developed in the 1940s and 1950s and is characterized by a honky-tonk piano, steel guitar, and lyrics about drinking, cheating, and heartbreak.
- Country rock: This is a style of country music that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s and is influenced by rock and roll. It features electric guitars, drums, and lyrics that address social issues and personal experiences.
- Country pop: This is a style of country music that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s and is influenced by pop music. It features catchy melodies, polished production, and crossover appeal to mainstream audiences.
- Bro-country: This is a style of country music that emerged in the 2010s and is influenced by hip hop and rock. It features rap-like vocals, electronic beats, and lyrics that celebrate partying, women, and trucks.
Traditional country
History and origin
Traditional country is the original style of country music that emerged in the early 20th century. It is rooted in the folk songs and ballads of the English, Scottish, and Irish settlers of the Appalachians and other parts of the South. It was popularized by radio programs such as the National Barn Dance and the Grand Ole Opry, and by recording artists such as Jimmie Rodgers, the Carter Family, Roy Acuff, and Hank Williams.
Characteristics and features
Traditional country features simple chord progressions, fiddle and guitar as lead instruments, and stories of rural life and hardship. The vocals are often done by a single voice or in high close harmony. The lyrics are usually personal, emotional, and sometimes tragic. The sound is raw, authentic, and unpolished.
Artists and songs
Some of the most famous artists and songs of traditional country are:
- Jimmie Rodgers: Known as “The Father of Country Music”, he was one of the first country stars to record commercially. He sang about trains, cowboys, outlaws, and love. His songs include “Blue Yodel No. 1 (T for Texas)”, “In the Jailhouse Now“, and “Waiting for a Train”.
- The Carter Family: Known as “The First Family of Country Music”, they were a vocal trio that sang traditional folk songs and original compositions. They influenced generations of country singers with their harmonies and guitar playing. Their songs include “Wildwood Flower”, “Can the Circle Be Unbroken”, and “Keep on the Sunny Side“.
- Hank Williams: Known as “The King of Country Music”, he was one of the most influential and prolific songwriters of all time. He sang about heartbreak, loneliness, faith, and joy. His songs include “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry“, “Your Cheatin’ Heart”, and “Hey Good Lookin'”.
- Patsy Cline: Known as “The Queen of Country Music”, she was one of the first female country stars to cross over to pop music. She sang with a powerful voice and a distinctive style. Her songs include “Crazy“, “I Fall to Pieces”, and “Walkin’ After Midnight”.
Pros and cons
Some of the pros and cons of listening to or playing traditional country are:
- Pros: It is a classic and timeless style that preserves the history and culture of country music. It is easy to learn and play with basic instruments and skills. It is expressive and relatable for many listeners.
- Cons: It can be seen as outdated or boring by some modern audiences. It can be repetitive or predictable in its structure and themes. It can be depressing or negative in its tone and message.
Quiz
To find out if you like or suit traditional country, answer these questions:
- Do you enjoy listening to old records or radio shows?
- Do you appreciate simple and honest music that tells a story?
- Do you like singing along to catchy melodies and choruses?
- Do you play or want to play an acoustic instrument such as guitar or fiddle?
- Do you relate to themes such as love, loss, faith, and experience?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then you might like or suit traditional country.
Traditional Country Music Playlist
Bluegrass
History and origin
Bluegrass is a style of country music that originated in the 1940s and is influenced by Irish and Scottish folk music. It was named after the band Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, who are considered the pioneers of the genre. Bluegrass developed from the old-time string-band music that was played by immigrants from the British Isles in the Appalachian region of the United States.
Characteristics and features
Bluegrass features fast tempos, complex instrumental solos, and high-pitched vocal harmonies. The instruments typically used are acoustic guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and upright bass. The banjo often plays a distinctive style called “Scruggs style”, named after Earl Scruggs, who popularized it. The lyrics often deal with rural themes, such as love, work, faith, and family. The sound is lively, energetic, and virtuosic.
Artists and songs
Some of the most famous artists and songs of bluegrass are:
- Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys: Known as “The Father of Bluegrass”, Bill Monroe was a singer, songwriter, mandolin player, and bandleader who created and defined the bluegrass sound. His band featured many influential musicians, such as Lester Flatt, Earl Scruggs, Chubby Wise, and Mac Wiseman. His songs include “Blue Moon of Kentucky“, “Uncle Pen”, and “Molly and Tenbrooks”.
- Flatt and Scruggs: Known as “The Foggy Mountain Boys”, Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs were former members of Bill Monroe’s band who formed their own duo in 1948. They were known for their smooth vocal duets, innovative banjo playing, and popularizing bluegrass to a wider audience. Their songs include “Foggy Mountain Breakdown“, “Roll in My Sweet Baby’s Arms”, and “The Ballad of Jed Clampett”.
- The Stanley Brothers: Known as “The Clinch Mountain Boys”, Ralph and Carter Stanley were brothers who sang in a distinctive high-lonesome style that influenced many later bluegrass singers. They were known for their gospel-oriented songs, their use of the Dobro (resonator guitar), and their blending of old-time and bluegrass elements. Their songs include “Man of Constant Sorrow“, “Rank Stranger”, and “Angel Band”.
- Alison Krauss: Known as one of the most successful female bluegrass artists of all time, Alison Krauss is a singer, songwriter, fiddle player, and bandleader who has won 27 Grammy Awards. She is known for her angelic voice, her eclectic musical tastes, and her collaborations with other artists, such as Robert Plant, Dolly Parton, and Yo-Yo Ma. Her songs include “When You Say Nothing at All”, “Down to the River to Pray“, and “I’ll Fly Away”.
Pros and cons
Some of the pros and cons of listening to or playing bluegrass are:
- Pros: It is a fun and exciting style that showcases musical talent and skill. It is a social style that encourages jamming and improvisation. It is a diverse style that incorporates influences from various genres and cultures.
- Cons: It can be challenging to play or sing due to its speed and complexity. It can be repetitive or predictable in its structure and themes. It can be elitist or purist in its attitude towards other styles or innovations.
Quiz
To find out if you like or suit bluegrass, answer these questions:
- Do you enjoy listening to fast-paced and upbeat music?
- Do you appreciate technical and intricate music that showcases individual solos?
- Do you like singing or hearing high-pitched vocals with tight harmonies?
- Do you play or want to play an acoustic instrument such as banjo or fiddle?
- Do you relate to themes such as rural life, tradition, faith, and family?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, you might be a bluegrass country music fan.
Bluegrass Playlist
Honky-tonk
History and origin
Honky-tonk is a style of country music that developed in the 1940s and 1950s and is characterized by a honky-tonk piano, steel guitar, and lyrics about drinking, cheating, and heartbreak. It was named after the type of bars or dance halls where this music was played, which were often located in the South and Southwest of the United States. Honky-tonk was influenced by blues, western swing, and hillbilly boogie. Some of the early pioneers of honky-tonk were Ernest Tubb, Hank Williams, and Lefty Frizzell.
Characteristics and features
Honky-tonk features a simple and catchy melody, a steady rhythm, and a prominent bass line. The vocals are often nasal and expressive, with a slight drawl or twang. The lyrics are often humorous or sarcastic, dealing with themes such as love gone wrong, loneliness, infidelity, and hard living. The sound is lively, danceable, and sometimes sentimental.
Artists and songs
Some of the most famous artists and songs of honky-tonk are:
- Ernest Tubb: Known as “The Texas Troubadour”, he was one of the first honky-tonk singers to use an electric guitar. He sang with a deep and smooth voice and a relaxed style. His songs include “Walking the Floor Over You“, “Waltz Across Texas”, and “Thanks a Lot”.
- Hank Williams: Known as “The Hillbilly Shakespeare”, he was one of the most influential and prolific songwriters of all time. He sang with a raw and emotional voice and a distinctive yodel. His songs include “Your Cheatin’ Heart“, “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry”, and “Hey Good Lookin'”.
- Lefty Frizzell: Known as “The Original Texas Honky-Tonk Singer”, he was one of the most innovative and influential vocalists of honky-tonk. He sang with a smooth and flexible voice and a distinctive phrasing. His songs include “If You’ve Got the Money I’ve Got the Time“, “I Love You a Thousand Ways”, and “Saginaw Michigan”.
- Patsy Cline: Known as one of the most successful female honky-tonk singers of all time, she crossed over to pop music with her powerful voice and polished style. Her songs include “Crazy“, “I Fall to Pieces”, and “Walkin’ After Midnight”.
Pros and cons
Some of the pros and cons of listening to or playing honky-tonk are:
- Pros: It is a fun and lively style that makes you want to dance or sing along. It is a humorous and realistic style that reflects the joys and sorrows of life. It is a classic and timeless style that has influenced many other genres of music.
- Cons: It can be seen as outdated or clichéd by some modern audiences. It can be repetitive or predictable in its structure and themes. It can be depressing or negative in its tone and message.
Quiz
To find out if you like or suit honky-tonk, answer these questions:
- Do you enjoy listening to upbeat and catchy music?
- Do you appreciate witty and sarcastic music that tells a story?
- Do you like singing or hearing nasal vocals with a twang?
- Do you play or want to play an instrument such as piano or steel guitar?
- Do you relate to themes such as drinking, cheating, heartbreak, and hard living?
If you answered yes to most of these questions then you and Honky Tonk might be well suited.
Honky Tonk Playlist
Country Rock
History and origin
Country rock is a style of country music that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s and is influenced by rock and roll. It was created by rock musicians who incorporated elements of country music into their sound, such as acoustic instruments, twangy vocals, and rural themes. It was also a reaction to the slick and polished country music of the Nashville sound, which many rock musicians felt was too commercial and artificial. Some of the early pioneers of country rock were Bob Dylan, the Byrds, the Flying Burrito Brothers, and Gram Parsons.
Characteristics and features
Country rock features electric guitars, drums, and bass as well as acoustic instruments such as guitar, fiddle, banjo, and pedal steel guitar. The vocals are often done by a lead singer or in harmony with other singers. The lyrics often deal with personal experiences, social issues, or political commentary. The sound is more raw, edgy, and energetic than traditional country music.
Artists and songs
Some of the most famous artists and songs of country rock are:
- Bob Dylan: Known as one of the most influential and groundbreaking artists of all time, he was one of the first rock musicians to embrace country music in his albums John Wesley Harding (1967), Nashville Skyline (1969), and New Morning (1970). He collaborated with country musicians such as Johnny Cash, Earl Scruggs, and Charlie Daniels. His songs include “Lay Lady Lay“, “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight”, and “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door”.
- The Byrds: Known as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 1960s, they were one of the first rock bands to play country music with their album Sweetheart of the Rodeo (1968), which featured Gram Parsons as a member. They influenced many other country rock artists with their blend of folk rock, psychedelic rock, and country music. Their songs include “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere“, “Hickory Wind”, and “The Ballad of Easy Rider”.
- The Flying Burrito Brothers: Known as one of the pioneers of country rock and alternative country, they were formed by Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman after they left the Byrds. They played a mix of country, rock, soul, and folk music with a hippie attitude and a cosmic American vision. Their songs include “Sin City”, “Hot Burrito #1”, and “Wild Horses”.
- The Eagles: Known as one of the most successful and popular bands of all time, they were formed by former members of Linda Ronstadt’s backing band. They played a smooth and polished style of country rock that appealed to mainstream audiences. Their songs include “Take It Easy“, “Desperado”, “Hotel California”, and “Lyin’ Eyes”.
Pros and cons
- Pros: It is a versatile and creative style that combines the best of both worlds: rock and country. It is a socially conscious and relevant style that reflects the times and issues of its era. It is a classic and timeless style that has inspired many other genres of music.
- Cons: It can be seen as a compromise or a sell-out by some purists or critics who prefer either pure rock or pure country. It can be repetitive or predictable in its structure and themes. It can be elitist or snobbish in its attitude towards other styles or innovations.
Quiz
Some of the pros and cons of listening to or playing country rock are:
To find out if you like or suit country rock, answer these questions:
- Do you enjoy listening to rock music with a country flavor?
- Do you appreciate creative and innovative music that blends different genres and influences?
- Do you like singing or hearing vocals with a twang or a drawl?
- Do you play or want to play an electric or acoustic instrument such as guitar, fiddle, or pedal steel guitar?
- Do you relate to themes such as personal experiences, social issues, or political commentary?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then you might like or suit country rock.
Country Rock Playlist
Country Pop
History and origin
Country pop is a style of country music that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s and is influenced by pop music. It was created by country musicians who wanted to reach a larger and more mainstream audience by incorporating elements of pop music into their sound, such as catchy melodies, polished production, and crossover appeal. It was also a reaction to the more raw and edgy styles of country rock and outlaw country, which many country musicians felt were too rebellious and alienating. Some of the early pioneers of country pop were Glen Campbell, John Denver, Olivia Newton-John, and Kenny Rogers.
Characteristics and features
Country pop features a smooth and soft sound that blends country instruments such as guitar, fiddle, banjo, and pedal steel guitar with pop instruments such as keyboards, drums, and synthesizers. The vocals are often done by a lead singer or in duet with another singer. The lyrics often deal with romantic themes, such as love, relationships, and happiness. The sound is more upbeat, positive, and accessible than traditional country music.
Artists and songs
Some of the most famous artists and songs of country pop are:
- Dolly Parton: Known as one of the most successful and versatile artists of all time, she was one of the first female country stars to cross over to pop music with her distinctive voice and style. She collaborated with many pop artists such as Kenny Rogers, Linda Ronstadt, and Whitney Houston. Her songs include “Jolene”, “9 to 5”, “I Will Always Love You”, and “Islands in the Stream“.
- Kenny Rogers: Known as one of the most popular and influential male country pop singers of all time, he was known for his raspy voice and his storytelling songs. He collaborated with many pop artists such as Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, and Sheena Easton. His songs include “The Gambler“, “Lady”, “Coward of the County”, and “We’ve Got Tonight”.
- Shania Twain: Known as one of the best-selling female artists of all time, she was one of the most dominant figures of country pop in the 1990s. She combined country elements with rock, pop, dance, and world music influences. She was known for her catchy songs, her glamorous image, and her empowering lyrics. Her songs include “Any Man of Mine“, “You’re Still the One”, “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!”, and “That Don’t Impress Me Much”.
- Taylor Swift: Known as one of the most successful and influential artists of the 21st century, she started her career as a country pop singer-songwriter in the mid-2000s. She gradually transitioned to pure pop music in the 2010s. She was known for her personal songs, her catchy melodies, and her loyal fan base. Her songs include “Love Story”, “You Belong with Me“, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”, and “Blank Space”.
Pros and cons
Some of the pros and cons of listening to or playing country pop are:
- Pros: It is a fun and enjoyable style that makes you want to sing along or dance. It is a popular and successful style that reaches a wide audience. It is a diverse and adaptable style that incorporates various genres and influences.
- Cons: It can be seen as shallow or superficial by some critics or purists who prefer more authentic or traditional country music. It can be repetitive or predictable in its structure and themes. It can be commercialized or manufactured by the music industry.
Quiz
To find out if you like or suit country pop, answer these questions:
- Do you enjoy listening to pop music with a country flavour?
- Do you appreciate catchy and polished music that appeals to a wide audience?
- Do you like singing or hearing vocals with a smooth or soft tone?
- Do you play or want to play an instrument such as keyboard, drum, or synthesizer?
- Do you relate to themes such as love, relationships, and happiness?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then you might like or suit country pop.
Country Pop Playlist
Bro-country
History and origin
Bro-country is a style of country music that emerged in the 2010s and is influenced by hip hop, hard rock, and electronica. It was created by male country singers who sang about attractive young women, the consumption of alcohol, partying, and pickup trucks. It was named by Jody Rosen of New York magazine in an article published on August 11, 2013, in which he described songs by Florida Georgia Line, particularly their debut single “Cruise”. Rosen also named Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Jake Owen among singers of the genre.
Characteristics and features
Bro-country features a musically upbeat sound that blends country instruments such as guitar, banjo, and fiddle with pop instruments such as drum machines, keyboards, and synthesizers. The vocals are often done by a single voice or in rap-like cadences. The lyrics often deal with rural themes, such as dirt roads, tailgates, tan legs, and moonlight. The sound is lively, fun, and sometimes raunchy.
Artists and songs
Some of the most famous artists and songs of bro-country are:
- Florida Georgia Line: Known as one of the most successful duos of all time, they were the pioneers of bro-country with their smash hit “Cruise“, which featured a guest appearance by rapper Nelly. They combined country elements with pop, rock, hip hop, and EDM influences. Their songs include “This Is How We Roll”, “Dirt”, “H.O.L.Y.”, and “Meant to Be“.
- Luke Bryan: Known as one of the most popular and influential male country singers of all time, he was one of the leaders of bro-country with his party anthems and dance moves. He sang about good times, good girls, and good drinks. His songs include “That’s My Kind of Night“, “Play It Again”, “Kick the Dust Up”, and “Country Girl (Shake It for Me)”.
- Jason Aldean: Known as one of the most consistent and successful male country singers of all time, he was one of the early adopters of bro-country with his rock-infused sound and swagger. He sang about rural life, romance, and rebellion. His songs include “Dirt Road Anthem“, “Burnin’ It Down”, “You Make It Easy”, and “Rearview Town”.
- Sam Hunt: Known as one of the most innovative and controversial artists of bro-country, he was one of the first to incorporate R&B and pop elements into his sound and style. He sang with a rap-like delivery and a smooth voice. His songs include “Body Like a Back Road“, “Take Your Time”, “House Party”, and “Kinfolks”.
Pros and cons
Some of the pros and cons of listening to or playing bro-country are:
- Pros: It is a fun and energetic style that makes you want to party or chill. It is a popular and successful style that reaches a wide audience. It is a diverse and adaptable style that incorporates various genres and influences.
- Cons: It can be seen as shallow or sexist by some critics or purists who prefer more authentic or traditional country music. It can be repetitive or predictable in its structure and themes. It can be commercialized or manufactured by the music industry.
Quiz
To find out if you like or suit bro-country, answer these questions:
- Do you enjoy listening to upbeat and catchy music?
- Do you appreciate music that blends country and pop with other genres such as hip hop, rock, or EDM?
- Do you like singing or hearing vocals with a rap-like or a smooth tone?
- Do you play or want to play an instrument such as guitar, banjo, or drum machine?
- Do you relate to themes such as attractive young women, the consumption of alcohol, partying, and pickup trucks?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then you might like or suit bro-country.
Bro-Country Playlist
Other Country Music Styles
Apart from the styles mentioned above, there are many other subgenres and variations of country music that have emerged over the years. Some of them are:
- Alternative country is a style of country music that emerged in the 1980s and 1990s and is influenced by alternative rock, indie rock, punk rock, and other genres. It was created by country musicians who wanted to break away from the mainstream country music industry and its conventions, such as the polished production, the pop sensibilities, and the commercial appeal. Some of the most famous artists include Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams and The Jayhawks. Explore more Alt-Country
- Western swing: A style of country music that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s and is influenced by jazz, blues, and swing. It features a lively and upbeat sound that blends country instruments such as fiddle, guitar, and steel guitar with horns, drums, and piano. It is often played by large bands that perform for dancing crowds. Some of the pioneers of western swing were Bob Wills, Milton Brown, and Spade Cooley. Explore more Western swing
- Outlaw country: A style of country music that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s and is influenced by rock and roll, folk, and blues. It features a raw and rebellious sound that rejects the polished and commercialized Nashville sound. It often deals with themes such as anti-establishment, freedom, drugs, and crime. Some of the pioneers of outlaw country were Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and Merle Haggard. Explore more Outlaw country
- Rockabilly: A style of country music that emerged in the 1950s and is influenced by rock and roll, rhythm and blues, and boogie-woogie. It features a fast and energetic sound that combines country instruments such as guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar with drums and slap bass. It often deals with themes such as love, sex, cars, and rebellion. Some of the pioneers of rockabilly were Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Buddy Holly. Explore more Rockabilly
- Americana: A style of country music that emerged in the 1990s and is influenced by alternative rock, folk, blues, and roots music. It features a diverse and eclectic sound that blends traditional and contemporary elements of American music. It often deals with themes such as history, culture, identity, and social issues. Some of the pioneers of Americana were Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams, and Ryan Adams. Explore more Americana