The Mind of Mr. M

So, in lieu of all the hyper-critical comments out there floating around about Taylor Swift, I thought I would share my two cents.  For those that think she can’t sing, apparently there are millions (she surpassed 10 million in sales in Sept.) of others who think she can.

And as far as saying that Country Music got it wrong, maybe you don’t realize how the awards are determined. Here is an excerpt from the CMA awards site:

CMA award winners are chosen in voting by industry professional members of the Country Music Association. Thus, award winners are honored by their peers in the music industry. The staff of CMA does not participate in the voting process.

My frustration is the example that we as a culture are setting in competition and sportsmanship.  Why is it that people must be so hateful and mean when someone, other than their singer(team, personality, politician) succeeds.  I think it’s ridiculous.  What ever happened to the congratulatory handshake and hoping for better luck next time.

Anyway, I have actually gone to see several country acts perform, of those I would like to point something out. At the Taylor Swift concert I attended at Energy Solution Arena, I was amazed at the participation of the fans and the connection that she had to them.  I was also, impressed by the content of her songs, as they related to her audience.  Now, I know that there are those of you who are saying, yeah but her audience is a bunch of tween/teen girls. I agree, as I took my daughters and their friends.  But, maybe that is exactly the problem…maybe people are taking fore granted the fact that their are those fans of country music that want what Taylor Swift is offering.  Maybe Taylor is on to something as her fans are young enough to grow with her.

On a side note, country music, or any music for that is about connecting with your audience.  About taking your experiences and making it theirs.  Now, for me, I can honestly say that I can’t connect with all her songs but, I will not discount or discredit the fact that she has connected with my daughters and as long as I think she can be a positive influence, even if fallible, I will remain a fan.

Congratulations Taylor Swift…don’t let the critics silence you!