Country music

Evaluation Essay Evaluation Essay The evolution of country music over the past decades has become something worth noting. It is obvious that it is no longer the sort of music affiliated with the old folk, or people from a certain area. It is this development that has led to the international recognition of some artists in this field of music. Darius Rucker is one such artist. He was first recognised due to the role he played in a band from South Carolina called the Hootie and Bowlfish. It was through this band that he became famously known as “ Hootie”. In the late 1900’s, the band sold over a million copies of their album and became some of the country’s favourite country music band (Ratiner, 2009). Going solo for Darius was a strong call for him. He went on to make albums that had hits on the American charts for a long time. Among the albums that place Darius on the map include, Charleston, SC 1966 and Learn to Live. This paper will review two of his albums and evaluate how they help shape society and the music industry. Learn to Live is an album that surpassed the expectations of many of the artist’s fans. The album was mostly written by the artist, and some of his friends. These friends included those from his band who helped him reach the pinnacle of his career. It was during the making of this album that many saw Darius for what he was capable of achieving. The top hits that made the album famous include It Won’t Be Like This for Long, Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It, and Alright. The lyrics to some of the songs can readily pass on the message that there should be no regrets as to the way life turned out (Ratiner, 2009). This is the implication the songs create whenever they are played on the airwaves. Learn to Live was an album that was radio-ready. The manner in which the songs were written and performed suggested an old, traditional method of country music. There was, however, the use of the modern day electric guitar that set it apart from other country songs. The country melody that is fused into their modern music can remind anyone, who loves country music, of the 90’s country music. This is where the fiddles are audible, and the guitar is given a chance to provide for a solo performance (Ratiner, 2009). In the other album, released in the year 2010, Darius decided to pay homage to his place and date of birth – as his friend, Rodney Foster had done previously. He released an album that was paying respect to his year and place of birth. This is what Darius went for with his solo album. In Charleston, SC 1966, Darius did feature some of the old school feel that was present in the other album. It, however, felt like there were songs that provided for a more traditional feel. This is unlike what other mainstream country albums have done or are currently doing. In the album, Darius shows his capability of delivering emotions in the songs he sings. His impeccable delivery shows a brilliant artist that is well capable of handling a large audience. He has something for all ages. The inspiration one can draw from some of his works is remarkable. Some of the songs in this album include Might Get Lucky and Southern State of Mind. Both these songs are supposed to resonate with the audience in some way. The Southern State of Mind addresses some of the issues that people from where he grew up in face. He talks of the good times he had in the South and how it affected his personality. This album is a smooth and true resemblance of what a talent Darius Rucker is. It is also a reminder of where he, as an artist, has come from and the long way he has to go. Both these albums put Darius Rucker on the global map. He is capable of raising the bar for many country music artists. It is also up to illustrious artists like him to set an example (Ratiner, 2009). An example needs to be set for all those who might want to pursue music as a dream. This is especially so for the country music. In conclusion, the most crucial part about being a musician is to help people understand the meaning behind fantastic music. Good music can always find a place in people’s hearts (Ratiner, 2009). Great artists are supposed to make this happen. With good music, the stars of many artists will continue to ascend to greater heights. This, in turn, makes them internationally acclaimed by all those who favour good music. This is regardless of where it has originated from – or indeed who the music was sung by. Reference Ratiner, T. (2009). Contemporary musicians: Profiles of the people in music. New York: Free Press.