Loyalty, Guns, and Good Ol' Boys: Unpacking the Power of Jason Aldean's "Try That in a Small Town"
Jason Aldean's 2019 hit "Try That in a Small Town" isn't just a catchy country song; it's a cultural phenomenon. The song's anthemic lyrics and gritty instrumentation tap into a deep vein of identity and defiance within rural America, resonating with millions of listeners who find solace and strength in the values it celebrates: unwavering loyalty, a strong sense of community, and a fierce protectiveness over their way of life.
A Chorus of Shared Identity:
"Try That in a Small Town" paints a vivid picture of life in a close-knit community where neighbors watch each other's backs. Lines like "We ain't got nothin' fancy, but we got each other's backs" and "Small town hearts, big town grit, that's the way we live it" evoke a sense of belonging and shared experience that resonates deeply with residents of rural areas. A 2018 study by the Pew Research Center found that 67% of rural residents believe that their way of life is "very different" from that of urban residents, and 72% feel that rural areas are "losing ground" compared to urban areas. In this context, "Try That in a Small Town" becomes more than just a song; it's a rallying cry, a declaration of pride in a way of life often misunderstood by outsiders.
The Power of the "Good Ol' Boy" Network:
Beyond a sense of shared identity, the song celebrates the concept of the "Good Ol' Boy" network – a loose-knit social fabric built on trust, reciprocity, and a shared code of conduct. Lines like "Got a brother in the next county, nephew down the street" and "We all know who we are, ain't no room for doubt" highlight the importance of family ties and community bonds in small towns. This network serves not only as a source of support and assistance but also as a form of informal social control. The song's message is clear: mess with one member of the community, and you mess with all of them.
Guns: Symbol of Protection or Threat?
The song's lyrics also include references to guns, a topic that often sparks debate in American society. Lines like "Got a gun that my granddad gave me" and "They say one day they're gonna round up, well that shit might fly in the city, good luck tryin' that in a small town" raise questions about the role of firearms in rural communities. While some interpret these lyrics as advocating for gun ownership as a form of self-defense and protection against perceived threats from outsiders, others view them as perpetuating a harmful gun culture that contributes to violence.
Beyond the Rural Divide:
Despite its focus on rural themes, "Try That in a Small Town" has also resonated with listeners beyond the bounds of geography and demographics. The song's message of loyalty, community, and standing up for what you believe in transcends geographical boundaries and speaks to a universal human desire for belonging and protection. In an era of increasing social and political polarization, the song's call for unity and collective action offers a sense of hope and a reminder that despite our differences, we share a common ground.
The Enduring Legacy:
"Try That in a Small Town" is more than just a chart-topping country song; it's a cultural touchstone that captures the essence of rural America and its values. The song's success can be attributed to its ability to tap into a deep vein of identity, pride, and defiance that resonates with millions of people. It's a reminder that while urban and rural America may have their differences, there are also shared values and experiences that bind us together.
Data Sources:
Pew Research Center: [https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2018/05/22/urban-suburban-and-rural-residents-views-on-key-social-and-political-issues/]
Jason Aldean - Try That in a Small Town (Official Music Video): [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1_RKu-ESCY]
You must be logged in to post a comment.