Rock N Roll

Country music has an unfair stigma attached to it. Many people think it is UN cool, UN hip and well, boring. However, even though most rock fans would hate the thought of listening to country music, they should be aware that they probably already are listening to it.

It is hard to deny the influence that country music has had on rock music today. Sounds of country twangs, guitars and voices can still be heard in a large variety of rock artists now. The Eagles, Neil Young and the Doobie brothers are all rock artists that credit country music with their sound and style.

It is thought that the first person to make country rock songs was Gram Parsons who died living the typical rock and roll lifestyle. However, country music ion rock music goes all the way back to the beginning of rock music in the 40’s and the 50’s.

Neil Young has a huge country sound to his music and is probably the most well known country rock artist in the world. Bob Dylan was another artists that successfully fused the country sound and the rock beat into his music – and very successfully too.

Whatever your opinion on country music, there is no denying the fusion between country and rock works perfectly.

Bob Dylan used his music in the 1960’s to convey social messages and to protest against the Vietnam war and other social upheavals.

A few of his songs, more notably, “The Times They Are a-Changin’” and “Blowin’ in the Wind” became the soundtrack for many civil right movements that took place. It is mainly his lyrics that take centre stage rather than the accompanying music. His influences can be heard heavily in his lyrics, particularly his literary, political, philosophical and social influences.

Bob Dylan is still touring the world and thrilling huge audiences. One of his latest albums called Modern Times is massive hit and has won the acclaimed title of Album of the Year by Rolling Stone magazine.

Dylan uses a guitar, harmonica and a piano to wow his audiences with his sound. His sound is not only unique, but so is his attitude. From his protesting days in the 60’s to his subtle political messages now, Dylan has always wanted to be able to express himself and his views freely.

Dylan is still touring now and his tours have been penned as the never-ending tour. Some people believe that as his vocals are not as strong as they used to be, he should stop touring. However, many of his fans and the fact that the tour sells out night after night, would clearly disagree with the critics.

Rock and roll keeps defining eras throughout history. Not only has it been associated with hatred, protests and drugs; it is also strongly associated with peace, love and happiness.

Love and peace took a prominent place on the stage during the 60’ and the 70’s. Social issues and problems were often addressed using music and this made it possible to convey messages of peace and love all over the world.

Folk artists such as Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie made a huge impact on the social messages that the music conveyed. Other artists such as John Lennon, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young’s also made songs that held strong, social and personal messages.

Spiritual messages have also featured heavily in rock and roll music. Many artists have explored many areas of spirituality in their work, artists such as Pete Townsend and the Beatles to name but a few.

Many bands and artists have used God and religion as a foundation for their music and many are very religious. Some artists have even become born again Christians after overcoming drug and sex addictions due to their fame and money.

Rock and roll music has changed the world that we live in forever. It can be accredited with spreading and promoting the message of love and peace, but many still believe that it is nothing short of evil. While everyone is entitled to their opinion on all forms of music and the message they convey to the masses, most would agree that rock and roll has given the world something that many could not – soul.