The Story Behind Swingin’ by John Anderson
John Anderson’s “Swingin'”
John Anderson’s "Swingin’" is a toe-tapping country classic that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of young love. Released in 1983 as the second single from his album "Wild & Blue," this infectious tune quickly became Anderson’s signature hit and a defining song of 1980s country music.
With its playful lyrics about front porch romance and Anderson’s distinctive twangy vocals, "Swingin’" struck a chord with listeners across the nation. The song’s irresistible blend of traditional country sound and pop sensibility propelled it to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and an impressive No. 43 on the all-genre Hot 100. Its crossover appeal was further cemented when it earned Anderson a CMA Award for Single of the Year and a gold certification from the RIAA.
Musically, "Swingin’" stands out with its catchy guitar riffs and a lively arrangement that includes saxophone, banjo, and fiddle. Anderson’s delivery of the flirtatious lyrics, telling the story of young lovers Charlotte Johnson and the narrator, adds an extra layer of charm to the already engaging composition.
The song’s success marked a high point in Anderson’s early career, becoming the second of his five No. 1 country hits. Its enduring popularity has led to covers by other artists and a re-recording by Anderson himself in 1994.
With its timeless appeal and ability to make listeners want to grab a partner and start swingin’, this country gem continues to be a beloved favorite, proving that sometimes, the simplest songs have the most staying power.
Country Music Album Anniversaries – 02/10/2025
Reba McEntire’s “Whoever’s in New England” Turns 39: A Country Music Milestone
On February 10, 1986, Reba McEntire released her tenth studio album, "Whoever’s in New England," marking a significant turning point in her career and country music history. As this influential album approaches its 39th anniversary, it’s worth examining its impact and legacy.
"Whoever’s in New England" was McEntire’s first album to reach number 1 on the Billboard country albums chart, signaling her ascent to country music superstardom. The album’s success was driven by its title track, which became McEntire’s fourth number 1 single and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance.
The album’s production, helmed by Jimmy Bowen, marked a shift towards a more polished, contemporary sound that would come to define much of 1980s country music. This sonic evolution helped broaden McEntire’s appeal beyond traditional country audiences, setting the stage for her crossover success in the years to come.
"Whoever’s in New England" showcased McEntire’s growth as an artist and her ability to select powerful, emotionally resonant material. The title track, written by Kendal Franceschi and Quentin Powers, tells the story of a woman suspecting her husband of infidelity during his business trips to Boston. McEntire’s nuanced vocal performance brought the song’s complex emotions to life, earning critical acclaim and connecting deeply with listeners.
Other standout tracks on the album include "Little Rock," another chart-topping single that further demonstrated McEntire’s knack for storytelling, and "Can’t Stop Now," which highlighted her vocal range and interpretive skills.
The album’s success helped solidify McEntire’s position as one of country music’s leading ladies, paving the way for her continued dominance throughout the late 1980s and 1990s. It also marked the beginning of her long-standing collaboration with producer Tony Brown, who would go on to produce many of her subsequent hit albums.
"Whoever’s in New England" not only propelled McEntire’s career to new heights but also influenced the direction of country music in the mid-1980s. Its blend of traditional country themes with more contemporary production techniques helped bridge the gap between the genre’s roots and its evolving sound.
As we approach the 39th anniversary of this landmark album, "Whoever’s in New England" stands as a testament to Reba McEntire’s artistry and its enduring impact on country music. It remains a beloved entry in her extensive discography and a pivotal moment in the genre’s history.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PtRXdWagyc
Country Music News – 02/09/2025
Thomas Rhett Releases "All the Bars are Closed (Last Call Version)"
Thomas Rhett has dropped a new version of his hit single "All the Bars are Closed" titled the "Last Call Version". This fresh take on the popular track offers fans a new perspective on the song, potentially featuring different arrangements or production elements. The release demonstrates Rhett’s continued evolution as an artist and his ability to reimagine his own work.
Ryan Hurd Unveils New Single "Die For It"
Singer-songwriter Ryan Hurd has released his latest single "Die For It". The new track showcases Hurd’s songwriting prowess and vocal talents, likely exploring themes of passion and commitment. This release could signal the beginning of a new musical chapter for Hurd, potentially leading to a forthcoming album or tour announcement.
Scotty McCreery Collaborates with Jason Crabb on "Red Letter Blueprint"
American Idol alum Scotty McCreery has teamed up with gospel singer Jason Crabb for a new song called "Red Letter Blueprint". This collaboration bridges the gap between country and gospel music, potentially exploring faith-based themes. The partnership between McCreery and Crabb could introduce each artist to new audiences and showcase their versatility as performers.
Blake Shelton Announces Las Vegas Residency Shows
Country superstar Blake Shelton is set to perform in Las Vegas on February 7 and 8, 2025. These shows are likely part of a residency or special event series, offering fans an intimate concert experience in the entertainment capital. Shelton’s performances in Vegas highlight the continued popularity of country music in non-traditional markets and the genre’s ability to draw large audiences to destination venues.
Outlaw Music Festival 2025 Tour Announced
The Outlaw Music Festival has revealed plans for its 2025 tour. This annual event celebrates the rebellious spirit of country and roots music, featuring a lineup of established and emerging artists. The announcement of the tour demonstrates the enduring appeal of outlaw country and its influence on contemporary artists, while also providing fans with a highly anticipated live music experience.
Retro 10 – 80s Editions – 02/07/2025
Top 10 Country Music Songs, Week of February 7, 1985
1. Kenny Rogers – "Morning Desire"
2. Ronnie Milsap – "Lost in the Fifties Tonight (In the Still of the Night)"
3. The Judds – "Love Is Alive"
4. Lee Greenwood – "Dixie Road"
5. Ricky Skaggs – "Country Boy"
6. George Strait – "Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind"
7. Exile – "I Don't Want to Be a Memory"
8. Earl Thomas Conley – "Honor Bound"
9. Merle Haggard – "Natural High"
10. John Schneider – "I've Been Around Enough to Know"
This week in 1985 saw a mix of established stars and rising talents in country music. Kenny Rogers topped the chart with "Morning Desire," showcasing his continued popularity in the genre. The Judds, a mother-daughter duo, were making waves with their harmonies on "Love Is Alive." George Strait, who would go on to become one of country music's biggest stars, was already showing his chart prowess with "Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind." The diversity of styles represented, from traditional country to more pop-influenced sounds, reflected the evolving nature of country music in the mid-1980s.
Country Music Album Anniversaries – 02/05/2025
Celebrating 50 Years: Merle Haggard’s "If We Make It Through December" (Released February 7, 1975)
Merle Haggard’s album "If We Make It Through December" was released on February 7, 1975, marking its 50th anniversary in 2025. This album solidified Haggard’s status as one of country music’s most influential artists and showcased his ability to capture the struggles of working-class Americans.
The album’s title track, released as a single in late 1973, became one of Haggard’s signature songs. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a factory worker struggling to provide for his family during the holiday season, resonated deeply with listeners during a time of economic recession and high unemployment rates.
Album Production and Themes
Produced by Ken Nelson and Fuzzy Owen, "If We Make It Through December" featured Haggard’s backing band, The Strangers, providing a classic country sound with touches of Western swing and honky-tonk. The album’s themes centered around the hardships of everyday life, love, and loss, reflecting Haggard’s ability to connect with his audience through relatable storytelling.
Key tracks on the album include:
- "If We Make It Through December"
- "Love and Honor"
- "Better Off When I Was Hungry"
- "I’m An Old Old Man (Tryin’ To Live While I Can)"
Critical Reception and Impact
Critics praised the album for its honest portrayal of working-class life and Haggard’s emotive vocal performances. It further cemented Haggard’s reputation as the "Poet of the Common Man" and demonstrated his ability to blend traditional country sounds with contemporary themes.
The album’s success contributed to Haggard’s growing crossover appeal, attracting listeners beyond the traditional country music audience. It helped establish him as a voice for the disenfranchised and working poor, a role he would continue to embrace throughout his career.
Legacy and Influence
"If We Make It Through December" has endured as a classic country album, with its title track becoming a perennial holiday favorite. The song has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, demonstrating its universal appeal and timeless quality.
The album’s impact on country music was significant, inspiring future generations of artists to address social and economic issues in their songwriting. It exemplified the power of country music to serve as a voice for the common people and tackle relevant societal concerns.
Fifty years after its release, "If We Make It Through December" remains a testament to Merle Haggard’s songwriting prowess and his ability to capture the American experience in his music. Its themes of resilience and hope in the face of adversity continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its place as a landmark album in country music history.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-IJxTd8dCo
Retro 10 – 90s Editions – 02/05/2025
Top 10 Country Music Songs, Week of February 5, 1995
1. Tim McGraw – Not a Moment Too Soon
2. Alan Jackson – Gone Country
3. Pam Tillis – Mi Vida Loca (My Crazy Life)
4. Collin Raye – My Kind of Girl
5. Wade Hayes – Old Enough to Know Better
6. George Strait – You Can't Make a Heart Love Somebody
7. Clay Walker – This Woman and This Man
8. Trisha Yearwood – Thinkin' About You
9. Reba McEntire – The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter
10. John Michael Montgomery – I Can Love You Like That
This week in 1995 saw a mix of established and rising country stars dominating the airwaves. Tim McGraw's "Not a Moment Too Soon" held the top spot, while Alan Jackson's "Gone Country" was climbing the charts. Notably, this period marked the beginning of Shania Twain's rise to stardom, though she hadn't yet reached the top 10. The list also includes future country legends like George Strait and Reba McEntire, showcasing the strong talent pool in country music during the mid-1990s.
The Story Behind All My Ex’s Live in Texas by George Strait
George Strait’s “All My Ex’s Live in Texas”
George Strait’s "All My Ex’s Live in Texas" is a country music classic that perfectly captures the singer’s signature blend of humor, heartbreak, and honky-tonk swagger. Released in 1987 as the second single from his album "Ocean Front Property," this catchy tune quickly became one of Strait’s most beloved hits.
The song’s clever lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who’s fled to Tennessee to escape his romantic past in Texas. With its infectious Western swing rhythm and Strait’s smooth baritone, "All My Ex’s Live in Texas" showcases the King of Country at his storytelling best. The track’s memorable chorus and witty wordplay have made it a staple of country radio and karaoke bars for decades.
Reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in July 1987, "All My Ex’s Live in Texas" helped solidify Strait’s status as one of country music’s biggest stars. The song’s popularity has endured well beyond its initial release, earning platinum certification and remaining a fan favorite at Strait’s live performances.
Beyond its commercial success, "All My Ex’s Live in Texas" has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It’s been referenced in other songs, featured in films and video games, and even inspired Drake to name-drop Strait in one of his own hits. With its timeless appeal and quintessential country sound, this track stands as a shining example of why George Strait is hailed as the King of Country Music.
The Story Behind Elvira by The Oak Ridge Boys
Elvira by The Oak Ridge Boys
“Elvira” by The Oak Ridge Boys is a toe-tapping country-pop gem that took the music world by storm in 1981. Released as a single from their album “Fancy Free,” this infectious tune quickly became the group’s signature hit, skyrocketing to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to reach an impressive No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song’s irresistible blend of country twang and doo-wop nostalgia, coupled with Richard Sterban’s unforgettable bass refrain of “oom papa mow mow,” created an instant earworm that captivated listeners across genres. Originally penned by Dallas Frazier in 1966, it was The Oak Ridge Boys who transformed “Elvira” into a cultural phenomenon, earning them a Grammy for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1982.
“Elvira” not only dominated the airwaves but also achieved double platinum status, a rare feat for a country single at the time. Its crossover success introduced The Oak Ridge Boys to a broader audience, cementing their place in both country and pop music history.
Four decades later, “Elvira” remains a beloved classic, still capable of getting crowds singing along to its catchy chorus. It stands as a testament to The Oak Ridge Boys’ ability to create timeless music that bridges generational and genre gaps, proving that sometimes, all you need is a great hook and a “giddy up oom papa oom papa mow mow” to make music history.