Don’t Be a Hater…Country Music Has Room for Everyone!

Last night's ACM Awards confirmed a Lainey Wilson song lyric. There is no doubt that "country is cool again."

The so-called 'gatekeepers' of country music no doubt had steam coming out of their ears Thursday night, as they watched three stars known for music other than the country genre take turns performing on the ACM stage. Noah Kahan did a mashup of his hit song 'Stick Season' with Kelsea Ballerini. Post Malone debuted two songs from his upcoming debut country album. And then Chris Stapleton shocked everyone with a surprise Dua Lipa duet on his current single 'Think I'm in Love With You'. By the way...all three performances were fantastic!

Music award shows will often do this type of thing to bring in viewers who might not normally watch. But Thursday night was different. Post Malone has been exploring country music for several years, and for the past several months has been teasing a full-on country album. His debut country single 'I Had Some Help' with Morgan Wallen is already dominating the charts and country radio. Noah Kahan's 'Stick Season' sounds like it was made for country music. And as we found out last night, it was Dua Lipa who reached out to Chris Stapleton because she loved his music.

Country music is the cool kid in class that everyone wants to be friends with. Will that popularity last? It never does. But as a fan of country music, I want to encourage all other country music lovers to embrace this moment. Charley Pride's family said it best last night when they quoted Charley as saying, "I think there's enough room in country music for everybody."

Reba did a great job last night as an ambassador for country music. She was warm, friendly, and welcoming. We should all aspire to act like her. Pop and rock acts dipping their toes into country music has been going on for decades. And each time it happens, a certain percentage of the country listening audience reacts, well how should we say, less than friendly. Don't be a hater. Listen to what these artists have to offer. If it's not for you, then move on to someone who does move your needle. There is an artist in country music for everyone...you just might not have found him or her yet!

So don't be alarmed by facial tattoos or grills on teeth. Listen to what these artists have to say. Country music has always been about storytelling. No other genre of music does it as well. Let's embrace these new storytellers and the potential new listeners they bring to the format. Let's make sure that the circle not only stays unbroken but grows enough to include anyone who wants in. THAT is country music.

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