I've been thinking about women in country music for decades and have some thoughts as a fan. I agree partially with Trigger that it's mostly economics and what sells. But deconstructing what appeals to the masses and sells is a worthwhile study. Here's my take:
* It starts with the song. People want to imagine themselves as the narrator. Songs with lyrics that could potentially apply to all genders and songs with themes that appeal to the listeners - stories people can and do see themselves in - songs so well crafted with melody they m o v e people. There is A LOT of space in the genre today for more universally themed songs that cause people to feel something.
* Lower & mid-range voices the masses can sing along too. I fundamentally believe this is one of the reasons Taylor's music spiked even though her topics strangely didn’t age with her.
* Likeable artists able to connect as real-life humans that genuinely care about, see and hear ALL of their audiences. Hating half the country means you’re missing a chance to get to know and listen to the stories of real human beings. “Two eyes, two ears, one mouth.” If you have actually lived the stories - even better. Country loves authenticity.
Thanks for taking the time to respond. And I agree with the economics but the reason is critical.
Why do those who statistically spend more on "going out" stuff (booze, merch, music, etc.) not get more attention from bean counters?
The point about voices is interesting, but people sing along to George Jones, Patsy Cline, Dolly, and Buck Owens. (Some are better examples than others.) The real question here is why men are permitted to be lower range and still have a career, and women can't.
Likeability is a construct. And I believe you're getting to the same point. Look at Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll -- both big stars right now and tell me who has to work harder to keep their place at the top? Who had to work harder to get there? Who has to develop a style and never stray from it? That can be seen as contrived and unlikeable. But Jellyroll can just show up and be himself. I'm not saying I like or dislike either of their music -- just observing.
I've been thinking about women in country music for decades and have some thoughts as a fan. I agree partially with Trigger that it's mostly economics and what sells. But deconstructing what appeals to the masses and sells is a worthwhile study. Here's my take:
* It starts with the song. People want to imagine themselves as the narrator. Songs with lyrics that could potentially apply to all genders and songs with themes that appeal to the listeners - stories people can and do see themselves in - songs so well crafted with melody they m o v e people. There is A LOT of space in the genre today for more universally themed songs that cause people to feel something.
* Lower & mid-range voices the masses can sing along too. I fundamentally believe this is one of the reasons Taylor's music spiked even though her topics strangely didn’t age with her.
* Likeable artists able to connect as real-life humans that genuinely care about, see and hear ALL of their audiences. Hating half the country means you’re missing a chance to get to know and listen to the stories of real human beings. “Two eyes, two ears, one mouth.” If you have actually lived the stories - even better. Country loves authenticity.
I have more but those are my top 3. 😂
Thanks for taking the time to respond. And I agree with the economics but the reason is critical.
Why do those who statistically spend more on "going out" stuff (booze, merch, music, etc.) not get more attention from bean counters?
The point about voices is interesting, but people sing along to George Jones, Patsy Cline, Dolly, and Buck Owens. (Some are better examples than others.) The real question here is why men are permitted to be lower range and still have a career, and women can't.
Likeability is a construct. And I believe you're getting to the same point. Look at Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll -- both big stars right now and tell me who has to work harder to keep their place at the top? Who had to work harder to get there? Who has to develop a style and never stray from it? That can be seen as contrived and unlikeable. But Jellyroll can just show up and be himself. I'm not saying I like or dislike either of their music -- just observing.