"
I’m not sure if this trend was intentional, but as a lifelong country music fan, I’m not complaining. This year, Zach Bryan, Dylan Gossett and Luke Combs have all taken to the Notre Dame stage to perform their similarly twangy tunes. Are three concerts of the same genre excessive?
I say no! I’d argue that these artists are not as similar as they seem, despite falling into the same broad category of Southern white guys who play guitar, sing about whiskey and perform for audiences wearing cowboy boots and trucker hats (okay, maybe the category really isn’t that broad). I may just have a well-trained ear since this type of music makes up about 95% of my usual listening — check out my Spotify Wrapped if you don’t believe me — but I think the three singers have offered distinctly different performances.
The problem is rooted in this generic label of “country.” Even the most emphatic country music hater who whines that “every song sounds the same” can admit that Zach Bryan’s “Sweet DeAnn,” Dylan Gossett’s "Beneath Oak Trees,” and Luke Combs’s “Beer Never Broke My Heart” are far from identical. And, when one gets to see all three in the same year, their unique methods of storytelling through song truly come through.
Zach Bryan’s style draws from American roots and even borders on folk and alternative. His vocals are emotional and raw, and his lyrics are poetic. The setlist ranged from the nostalgic and solemn “River Washed Hair” to the high-energy and raucous “Revival,” which lasted over 20 minutes. His performance brought together over 80,000 fans, all drawn in by his vulnerable and relatable songwriting. Somehow, he made a sold-out concert still feel deeply personal.
Dylan Gossett’s performance was much more intimate as he performed for just students at the annual Sound of SUB concert. Although he’s an up-and-coming artist, Gossett draws inspiration from traditional country legends like Alan Jackson and even Johnny Cash. In fact, he covered part of Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues,” merging it with “Hangin’ On” to create a blend of the classic and the contemporary. The smaller setting of Stepan Center suited his style; he sings the kind of songs you’d want to hear around a campfire with close friends. Luckily, Notre Dame caught him before he inevitably outgrows the tiny concerts that allow this energy.
Luke Combs, on the other hand, is one of the most famous country artists in the world. He has established himself as a star, having released six hit albums and headlined six major tours. He brings an upbeat, electric and pop-inspired style to his music. His more lighthearted songs, like “When It Rains It Pours,” balance well with his more emotional ones, like “Even Though I’m Leaving.” His mainstream songs attract audiences of all ages across the nation; even your friends who scoff at country music will know the words to his most well-known hits.
You might still say that these artists are too similar and that country is overdone. I guess I can’t argue with your opinion, even though you’re completely wrong and have terrible taste. Never fear, though! Apparently, we go to a concert school now, and the genre variety is only growing. I’m fairly confident that AC/ DC has significantly fewer songs involving harmonicas.
