Crossover

July 2, 2009

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The foundation of my musical appreciation was built upon the country music cornerstones of Alabama, Reba McEntire, Kenny Rogers, and George Strait.  It was not until I was in my late 20s that I began to branch out into other musical genres.  Today, these are some of the non-country artists that I consider to be among my favorites:

  • The Eagles
  • .38 Special
  • Jimmy Buffett
  • Avril Lavigne
  • U2
  • The Beatles
  • Bob Seger
  • Eric Clapton
  • Bob Dylan
  • Tchaikovsky
  • Bare Naked Ladies
  • Lynyrd Skynyrd
  • Styx

I could name a few more, but the point is that I have broadened my musical tastes considerably.

I really enjoy seeing artists – or their music – cross over.  My first exposure to The Eagles was via the “Common Threads” album – a compilation of Eagles songs that were song by country songs.  When Jon Bon Jovi did a duet with Sugarland singer Jennifer Nettles on “You Can’t Go Home Again”, the song went to #1 on the country charts – and I started listening to more Bon Jovi.

In 2008, Kid Rock released the song “All Summer Long”, which is based on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s uber-classic “Sweet Home Alabama” (as well as Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves of London”).  I love the song, and am hoping for similar songs from Kid Rock in the future.

A crossover artist that really has my attention these days is Darius Rucker, best known as Hootie of Hootie and the Blowfish.  Rucker has released a country album and has already had two number one hits – “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It” and “It Won’t Be Like This For Long.”  I love Rucker’s voice, and hope that he continues to produce country music – but I also plan to buy some Hootie and the Blowfish music to see if I like it – something that probably wouldn’t have entered my mind if not for Rucker’s foray into country.

What’s the one crossover I’m hoping to see in the future?  How about an album of duets with Taylor Swift and Avril Lavigne?

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