(fig. 1)
In 1980, Willie Nelson, the acclaimed grandfather of the genre released his classic On the Road Again for the soundtrack to the film Honeysuckle Rose. While the movie wasn't a great success at the box office, the song became a country music icon, even today, and Nelson received a Grammy the same year for this song. This wasn't an uncommon theme for country music in the 1980s, as the same format of release occurred with Dolly Parton's 9 to 5. Presumed to be a song about touring the country with his music and friends, Nelson's text provided an upbeat anthem for a time of uncertainty for the American people in political and social spheres. The 1980s saw giant anthems from all genres during this period.
The majority of songs holding a large cultural capital could be read with a range of intent, from political affiliations to social issues. However, I believe On the Road Again presents a shift in the dynamic of American cultural life. A new president and era would be on the way to kick-start this decade. I understand this to be a simplistic commentary to tell the listeners of the song that a new society is emerging. The lyric "Insisting that the world keep turning our way" has also been interpreted as potential American, but more specifically southern, exceptionalism. Yet this could also be viewed as drawing attention to the genre, or the artist also.
In conclusion, while genres like hip-hop and alternative music tend to play host to powerful political statements and promotion of progressive movements, country music is beginning to follow the same trend. Approached from an artistic manner, the public response is often positive when artists make statements such as these. The lyrics may remain simplistic, but that lends the song and the message to a larger audience and may gain a more positive response due to its relatability. Country music tends to be surrounded by themes of beer and broken hearts, but can be a stage for social change if given the dedication, as proven by Stapleton. It is because of this I believe Fire Away will remain a classic in 30 years and beyond.
References
1. http://www.digitalmusicnews.com/2016/03/01/the-most-popular-music-genre-in-every-u-s-state/
2. http://www.wideopencountry.com/chris-stapleton-discusses-tragic-fire-away-video/
3. http://www.changedirection.org/
4. http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/country/6890808/chris-stapleton-fire-away-video-ben-foster-margarita-levieva
5. http://tasteofcountry.com/chris-stapleton-suicide-prevention-fire-away-video/
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