Columnist: Sturgill Simpson provides an authentic country music experience
- Sturgill Simpson is renowned in modern country music for his authenticity and innovative sound, blending traditional country with modern elements to create emotionally resonant music.
- Simpson's music breaks genre boundaries by incorporating traditional country, bluegrass, and rock, appealing to a diverse audience and significantly impacting the independent country music scene.
- He advocates for authenticity and genuine storytelling in music, advising aspiring artists to focus on conveying emotions and stories rather than vocal acrobatics, thus influencing a new generation of country musicians.
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Sturgill Simpson is a name that has been synonymous with authentic, raw country music for years. The Kentucky-born singer-songwriter has carved out a unique niche in the country music scene by blending traditional outlaw country and bluegrass with modern elements, creating a sound that resonates deeply with listeners. Simpson’s music is not just about the notes; it’s about the emotions, the stories, and the experience he brings to every song.
A Journey of Authenticity
Sturgill Simpson has always been about authenticity. His journey into music began in his formative years in Kentucky, where nearly everyone in his family played music. Every Saturday night, his family would gather in his grandfather’s living room to play and sing. This environment of music and storytelling shaped Simpson’s early life and laid the foundation for his future career.
Simpson’s path to stardom wasn’t straightforward. He rebelled as a teenager and was busted for selling drugs in high school. He then enlisted in the Navy, a decision he made impulsively after visiting an enlistment center. Simpson served stints in Japan and Southeast Asia but found that the military life wasn’t for him. He eventually drifted back to Kentucky, where he began playing music with the band Sunday Valley.
It wasn’t until Simpson moved to Nashville with the encouragement of his girlfriend (now wife), Sarah, that he began to focus on his music career. His first album, High Top Mountain, was released in 2013 and received critical acclaim for its raw, traditional country sound. However, it was his second album, Metamodern Sounds in Country Music, that truly showcased his unique blend of genres and cemented his status as a leading figure in modern country music.
Blending Genres and Pushing Boundaries
Simpson’s music defies genre boundaries. He effortlessly weaves together elements of traditional country, bluegrass, and rock to create a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Tracks like “Long White Line” and “Living the Dream” from Metamodern Sounds in Country Music are perfect examples of this blend, featuring atmospheric guitar squalls and Southern rock elements, all while maintaining the gritty, honest spirit of traditional country.
This blend of genres has made Simpson a favorite among fans of all ages. His ability to speak to both rednecks and dubstep kids alike is a testament to his inclusive approach to music. As he says, “I want people to focus on listening, not the image. And I want to play to everyone: rednecks, dubstep kids, punk rockers, and people who like as-real-as-it-gets country music.” This inclusivity has contributed significantly to his broad appeal and lasting impact on the music industry.
Impact on the Country Music Scene
Sturgill Simpson has been a catalyst for a revolution in independent country music. His influence can be seen in the success of artists like Chris Stapleton and Tyler Childers, who have credited Simpson with inspiring their own work. Metamodern Sounds in Country Music was particularly influential, as it inspired Chris Stapleton to cut a live record with producer Dave Cobb, which went on to achieve great success. Simpson’s impact extends beyond just music; he has also helped shape the cultural landscape of country music by challenging traditional norms and pushing boundaries.
Advice for Up-and-Coming Artists
In a recent interview, Simpson shared some valuable insights for up-and-coming artists seeking to make it in the country music world. He emphasized the importance of authenticity and genuine storytelling. Simpson advised young musicians to listen to classic country artists like Merle Haggard and Roy Nichols for their melodic and soulful playing styles. When it comes to singing country music, Simpson stressed that it’s not about vocal acrobatics but about genuinely conveying the emotions and stories behind the songs.
Simpson’s approach to music is deeply rooted in his passion for storytelling. He believes that if you want to sing country music truly, you have to mean it. It’s about holding the note, drawing out syllables, and making the listener feel the emotions. This approach has been echoed by many of the great country singers, including George Jones and Lefty Frizzell, who were known for their unique vocal styles that added character and personality to their music.
Conclusion
Sturgill Simpson’s journey into country music has been one of authenticity and innovation. From his early days playing with Sunday Valley to his current status as a leading figure in modern country music, Simpson has always stayed true to his roots while pushing the boundaries of what country music can be. His influence on the country music scene extends far beyond his own music; he has inspired a new generation of artists and challenged traditional norms in the industry.
For listeners who are looking for an authentic country music experience, Sturgill Simpson is the perfect choice. His music is not just about notes; it’s about the stories, the emotions, and the experience he brings to every song. If you haven’t already, take a listen to his latest album or revisit some of his classic tracks. With Simpson, you know you’re getting genuine country music that will resonate deeply with you.
