In the country of "country" (Urban-style)
On Saturday, Keith Urban played an exemplary show inside HSBC Arena. The musicianship was of a high level, the pacing taut, the presentation -- including the biggest, highest-resolution video screen I've ever laid eyes on -- impressive. Urban and band played a fantastic gig. I'd hesitate, however, to call what Urban does "country" music. It sure sounded like rock, pop, folk, all combined. But country? I dunno.
After suggesting as much in my review of the show, I received some interesting letters split equally between folks who agreed that Urban is great, but not country, and those who insist, vehemently, that indeed, Urban is as country as country gets.
I'm asking for your help. Please post a cogent, serviceable definition of country music here. I'm not sure I know what it is anymore...
(Photo: Keith Urban at last week's CMA Awards. By Associated Press.)
