The Rising Trend of Country Electronic Dance Music
While there has been a steady rise in traditional-leaning country music—complete with fiddles and steel guitars—another trend is picking up steam in Nashville. Country music seems to be flirting with electronic dance music, breathing new life into a genre that many thought had reached its stylistic limits.
What Is Country Electronic Dance Music?
Country Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is an exciting amalgamation of two seemingly distinct genres. While a complete undoing of the traditional “three chords and the truth” could never happen (fingers crossed), this new experiment allows country music to lend its storytelling prowess to the pulsing beats of EDM.
This isn’t an entirely new concept. Many have noted country music’s flirtations with pop over the years, and artists like Morgan Wallen have explored the incorporation of trap beats into their tracks. However, a fresh wave of experimentation is taking place, allowing electronic music to capitalize on the current popularity of country within pop culture. Major EDM DJs like Diplo have been seen adjusting their faders to favor cowboys and cowgirls, with events like the Stagecoach festival showcasing this crossover. Diplo even hosted his own Honky Tonk stage, collaborating with fellow DJs to remix classic country tracks for lively festival crowds.
Country Music’s History With Electronic Dance Music
One could dismiss this trend as a mere festival gimmick, but country music has a long history with dance music—often blending genres in innovative ways. For instance, who could forget the cultural phenomenon that was the Rednex’s “Cotton-Eyed Joe”? Released in 1994, this dance track ingeniously reinterpreted a folk song from the 1920s, creating a catchy anthem that remains a favorite at parties.
Fast-forward to the 21st century, and it’s clear that the boundaries between country and dance music are increasingly blurred. In recent years, major producers have ventured into Nashville. Notably, Diplo’s foray into country music includes his album “Chapter 1: Snake Oil,” which features collaborations with prominent country artists like Morgan Wallen and Thomas Rhett.
Other familiar EDM figures have also crossed into country territory, such as Avicii with “Hey Brother,” and Tiësto’s collaboration with Alana Springsteen on “Hot Honey.” Marshmello has made waves in the country scene too, collaborating with Kane Brown on “Miles On It” and Thomas Rhett on “Where We Go.” Additionally, the duo Two Friends recently rolled out a dance track called “Save a Little Love” with Dustin Lynch, showing that this fusion is not just a one-off but a growing movement. They’ve even planned a one-day country-EDM festival in Nashville called Big Boots Land this December.
Will Country EDM Become a New Genre?
While the idea of an entirely new genre emerging from this blending is intriguing, the short answer is no. Country and EDM boast unique qualities that each genre brings to the table. The genuine storytelling that defines country music is irreplaceable, and EDM, with its infectious beats, is capable of complementing various formats.
Just as rock, hip-hop, and pop artists have explored country music’s appealing storytelling, this crossover will likely continue to help spread the gospel of country while introducing new audiences to its charm. For those who adore country and occasionally dabble in EDM, it’s a delightful combination—akin to sipping a well-mixed bourbon and sweet tea cocktail. It may not be your everyday choice, but when the mood strikes, it certainly hits the spot.
16 Hip-Hop and R&B Stars Who’ve Gone Country
In the broader scope of genre-blending, several famous hip-hop and R&B artists have also ventured into country music. This exploration ranges from curious experimentation to full-blown collaborations. Stay tuned as we take a deep dive into 16 instances where major stars stepped outside their usual comfort zones to embrace the storytelling and melodies of country music.
As the lines blur between these genres, fans of both country and electronic music eagerly await what exciting collaborations and innovations are yet to come. The musical landscape is ever-changing, and this partnership may just be the spark that ignites new creative avenues for artists across the board.
