About The Song
Background
“Play Something Country” is a country music anthem by the iconic American duo Brooks & Dunn. Released in June 2005, it served as the lead single for their album Hillbilly Deluxe. The song was co-written by Ronnie Dunn, one half of the duo, alongside Terry McBride.
The early 2000s witnessed a shift in country music with a growing influence of pop and rock elements. Brooks & Dunn, known for their adherence to traditional country sounds, felt this trend strayed too far from the genre’s core identity. “Play Something Country” became a response to this changing landscape, a rallying cry for fans of classic country music.
Musical Style
“Play Something Country” is a high-energy, foot-stomping anthem that celebrates the traditional sounds of country music. The instrumentation features the core elements of the genre:
- Prominent Steel Guitar: The song opens with the unmistakable twang of the steel guitar, a signature sound of classic country music. Ronnie Dunn’s vocals take center stage, delivered with a powerful and soulful twang.
- Driving Backbeat: A strong drumbeat and a thumping bassline provide a solid foundation and infectious rhythm, encouraging listeners to move.
- Electric Guitars: While the song prioritizes traditional instrumentation, electric guitars add a touch of modern flair without overpowering the country essence.
The overall sound is reminiscent of the golden age of country music, drawing inspiration from artists like George Strait, whom Dunn explicitly references in the lyrics.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Play Something Country” are direct and relatable, capturing the frustration of fans yearning for a return to traditional country music. Here’s a breakdown of key themes:
- Yearning for Tradition: The opening lines, “Crank up the band, play the steel guitar / Hank it up a little, let’s rock this bar,” set the tone. The narrator craves the sounds of the steel guitar and classic country artist Hank Williams, reflecting a desire for a more traditional sound.
- Frustration with Modern Country: The line, “Threw back a shot; yelled: ‘I’m a George Strait junkie,'” hints at the frustration with the changing sounds of country music. Referencing George Strait, a country music purist, highlights the narrator’s preference for traditional styles.
- Call to Action: The repeated chorus, “Ha-ooh-hoo, play something country / Ha-ooh-hoo, aw, play something country,” is a powerful plea to DJs and radio stations to play more traditional country music.
The lyrics are simple yet effective, resonating with fans who felt similarly about the changing landscape of the genre.
Cultural Impact
“Play Something Country” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. It resonated with a large audience who felt that country music had lost its way. The song’s success served as a reminder of the enduring popularity of traditional country music and sparked conversations about genre identity.
- Resurgence of Traditional Country: “Play Something Country” is often credited with contributing to a resurgence of interest in traditional country music in the mid-2000s. It inspired other artists to embrace their roots and record music that stayed true to the genre’s core sound.
- Fan Anthem: The song became an anthem for fans who felt ostracized by the changing sounds of country music. It fostered a sense of community among those who yearned for a return to the genre’s traditional roots.
- Legacy of Brooks & Dunn: “Play Something Country” solidified Brooks & Dunn’s status as champions of traditional country music. The song is considered one of their signature tunes and continues to be a fan favorite at their concerts.
Conclusion
“Play Something Country” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that captured a specific moment in country music history. It serves as a reminder of the genre’s rich tradition and the enduring appeal of its classic sounds. The song’s success proves that even in the face of change, there will always be a devoted audience for authentic country music.