Esotropiart

When it comes to music, I have always considered myself pretty much open to most styles. Though there are other exceptions, I generally say, "I like everything except country". No apologies necessary: I just don't like country music! It seems most people I know say that same thing. I guess you either love it or you hate it. Or you start wondering what's wrong when you take a liking to a song or two... uh oh!

I'm not sure if it would be labeled "Country", but I like Carrie Underwood's song, "Jesus, Take the Wheel". Carrie won the acclaimed American Idol competition last season, a show I watch from time to time, but not faithfully. I admit recognizing her name, but I know little else about her or any other of the contestants. From "Jesus, Take the Wheel" and other bits and pieces, I sense that she has faith in Jesus Christ. It would be interesting to see if/how/when she expressed her beliefs or convictions throughout the competition. Not that it really matters. Just because someone is famous doesn't mean they deserve (or desire) more spotlight on their religious persuasion. I'm sure celebrities are under enough pressure as it is and don't particularly enjoy the microscope. Well, I have little interest in Carrie Underwood's reputation or ability to live out a perfect life. I just find her voice and song very beautiful and full of truth.

I really like the melody and message of "Jesus, Take the Wheel". The song presents a story (or two?) of a person in a situation where life runs thin, and there is no option but to cry, "Jesus, Take the Wheel!". I so often throw up my hands and plea with God to take over. This life is absolutely full of trouble and distractions. I wish it was easier to give up, to let God take over, to make His will be done. It's too easy to lean over and grab the wheel again after offering it up for a moment.

Anyway, I'm kinda flabbergasted that I even like the song, because it smells like country. This isn't the first time I've noticed this pattern. I guess I don't like country because it's always the same. The same instruments and beats, the same message... some bad relationship, a broken car, or a cat gone off and got itself killed and a boo hoo hoo... or something. And that awful twang in the voice and hokie guitars bending up and down (or whatever those instruments are). I tend to enjoy songs like "Jesus, Take the Wheel" that border on the edge of country, without leaping over the line. Another that I recently wrote about is "Silent Night" by Mercy Me. It's kinda funny because I really enjoy folk and ballads, both of which have noticeable audible similarity to country. I just have to keep myself in check. Heaven forbid I start liking all out country music! (It's not going to happen, trust me)