Popular TV shows and films have a lasting claim on the public’s imagination. In the 1960s, the epic historical movie Dr. Zhivago touched off

a trend in Russian-inspired fashions. More recently, the 1980 movie Urban Cowboy brought the honky-tonk way of life, with its music and

trendy clothing, to millions of rapt viewers. Now, no less a country music superstar then Riley Green feels that the TV drama Yellowstone has made the Western lifestyle, and particularly the music, highly desirable and exciting.

 

 

No one could deny that country music is hotter than ever. Stars like Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll, Luke Bryan, Morgan Wallen, and Megan Moroney have lit up stages and sold albums to countless enthused fans. Other artists such as Beyonce and Post Malone arrived in the country genre and handily staked out territory there. Western-style outfits are gaining favor too. Just think of the elegant way that Lainey Wilson always presents herself. Post Malone recently launched his own clothing brand.

 

 

When he was a guest on Stingray Music during his performances in Canada in August, Green talked about this subject. As an insider, he has a great perspective on the topic. He said, “Well, I think that a lot of the television has really worked lately. The ‘Yellowstones’ and that western lifestyle has gotten so popular everywhere. But also, I think that the storytelling of country music is something that people can really appreciate everywhere.”

Yellowstone, with its terrific cast, solid writing, and gripping plot, has evolved into a franchise. Viewers can’t get enough of these characters and their machinations. They take meticulous note of what they wear and the music that serves as an effective aural backdrop. So many rising and established country stars such as Cody Johnson, Kacey Musgraves, Lainey Wilson, and Sturgill Simpson have showcased their tunes on Yellowstone. Wilson had a role on the drama as well.

Riley Green has a good point. Listeners do gravitate to the wonderful storytelling in country music. It lures them in and carries them along. They can relate to the heartbreak in “He Stopped Loving Her Today” and the mystique of a 1960s classic such as “Ode to Billie Joe.” Storytelling is and has always been one of the best features of the genre.