An Anthem for Country Devotion and a Bold Female Spirit
Brooks & Dunn‘s spirited 2005 hit, “Play Something Country,” is an exuberant demand for authentic country music in a world increasingly filled with other sounds, capturing the essence of a woman who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to ask for it, loud and clear. Upon its release, this vibrant track from their Hillbilly Deluxe album charged straight to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, becoming the duo’s twentieth and final chart-topper and also crossing over to reach number 37 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The genesis of “Play Something Country” is as lively as the song itself. The idea struck Ronnie Dunn after a show in Minnesota. As Terry McBride, who played bass guitar for Brooks & Dunn, recounted, Dunn burst onto the tour bus exclaiming, “‘how about this idea?’ and he howls that ‘ah oooh, aw, play something country!'” The inspiration for the song’s central character, a bold woman who strides into a bar and insists on hearing country music, came from Gretchen Wilson, with whom Brooks & Dunn had been touring. McBride and Dunn envisioned a “ballsy chick that bursts into the barroom, puts her hand on her hip […] and goes, ‘play something country!'” When McBride later told Wilson that she was the muse behind the song, she expressed her admiration for it.
“Play Something Country” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a declaration of identity and a yearning for the familiar comfort of country sounds. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who walks into a venue, unimpressed by the contemporary music on offer. Her preferences are clear: she’s a “whiskey drinking, cowboy chasing, hell of a time” kind of woman who appreciates the classics – Kenny, Keith, Alan, and the legendary Patsy Cline. When the DJ deviates to urban beats, she takes matters into her own hands, demanding the kind of music that resonates with her soul. There’s a playful defiance in her request, a sense of self-assuredness that is both charming and assertive.
The song’s meaning extends beyond a simple request for a genre. It touches upon the idea of staying true to one’s roots and finding solace in the music that tells your story. For many, especially those who have lived through the evolution of country music, this song resonates with a longing for the traditional sounds that formed the backdrop of their lives. It’s a reminder of simpler times, of honky-tonks filled with the twang of steel guitars and the honest storytelling that defines the genre. The woman in the song embodies a spirit that many admire – someone who knows who she is and isn’t afraid to express it, even if it means standing out from the crowd.
The energetic tempo, driven by electric guitars and a lively horn section, perfectly complements the narrative. It’s a song that makes you want to tap your feet, maybe even get up and dance. The music video further enhances the story, depicting Brooks & Dunn performing in a bar while a spirited woman interacts with the patrons, at one point even playfully lassoing one and riding him like a horse. This visual representation captures the lighthearted yet firm demand of the lyrics.
In essence, “Play Something Country” is an anthem for those who hold a deep affection for country music’s authentic voice. It’s a celebration of the genre’s enduring appeal and the spirited individuals who keep its heart beating. For longtime listeners of Brooks & Dunn and country music in general, this song likely evokes memories of lively nights, the camaraderie found in shared musical tastes, and the comforting familiarity of a sound that feels like home. It’s a testament to the power of music to define and express who we are, and the simple joy of hearing a song that speaks directly to the soul. The song remains a beloved track in the Brooks & Dunn catalog, a vibrant reminder to always “play something country.”