I happen to think one of the greatest success stories from “American Idol” is Carrie Underwood. Of course one could argue Kelly Clarkson’s success made us all feel like the show was going to really crank out some true superstars. Then there’s Jennifer Hudson, a mega star who didn’t even win the competition.
I stopped watching the show a long time ago. I started to feel like it had kind of run its course – and that was about five seasons ago. And from what I’ve heard of the last few seasons, it’s not looking like we’ll have another Carrie, Jennifer or Kelly anytime soon. Don’t tell my mom I said that, though. She just might be one of Scotty McCreery’s oldest super fans.
Carrie seems to have that something. She’s fun to watch on stage, a pleasure to listen to and many of her lyrics resonate with most; especially us country gals and guys.
The new album, “Blown Away”, was released today and I have to say it’s pretty amazing. Although I’m a country girl and quite proud of it, country music has a limited presence in the good old iTunes library (aside from Scotty’s album I had to purchase for his oldest stan). The music has to really make me feel some kind of way to make it to the playlist.
One song from “Blown Away” which does just that is “Thank God for Hometowns”. I’ve always maintained that even though my hometown is not somewhere I can envision myself living full-time again, it truly holds a special place in my heart and I immensely enjoy visiting. As the song says, “Thank God for the county lines that welcome you back in when you were dying to get out….’Cause when you’re lost out in this crazy world, you got somewhere to go and get found.”
Maybe this sentiment is shared by those from big, metropolitan cities as well. I kind of doubt it though. Hubby is from NYC; a city where one might not ever see a familiar face unless going to a class reunion. For me, I can’t imagine going back home to a place where I don’t immediately run into a familiar, friendly face at the old filling station on the main road. You might not remember their name but they sure remember yours.
While I’m at it, Kenny Chesney’s, “Summertime,” also reminds me of home. It totally makes me think of line dancing in a honky tonk bar; which I’ve never done but could really see myself doing one day.
And I cannot forget Jason Aldean’s, “Dirt Road Anthem.” This is the epitome of what country living is all about. Just a real, feel good song. And he actually raps a little in it too. The best of both worlds!
Indeed, there is something very warm and welcoming about hometowns and I’m delighted to music that reminds me of that every now and then.
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