It’s no secret that country music isn’t what it used to be. With the changing times, we’ve gone from country-folk, to rap-country-rock combinations, to indie rock with banjos, to country-pop Top 40 hits. In the midst of Taylor Swift’s tear-stained guitars, there seems to be no hope in saving the sounds of classic country. Fortunately for us, there is one legend still around to be our saving grace. Her name is Loretta Lynn.
It’s been over 50 years since Loretta’s song “I’m a Honky Tonk Girl” was released, yet Loretta’s music sounds as fresh today as it did half a century ago. Born a humble coal miner’s daughter in Butcher Hollow, Kentucky, Loretta Lynn’s successful career has transcended many generations and still continues to reign supreme.
She was named Entertainer of the Year by the Country Music Association in 1972, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1988, and in 2010, she was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. She has been inducted into more music halls of fame than any other female recording artist in the world.
In 1970, she released a song named “Coal Miner’s Daughter” as an autobiographical snapshot of her childhood and relationship with her father. Soon after, Lynn wrote a bestselling autobiography of the same name, which then led to the Academy Award-winning movie starring Sissy Spacek in 1980.
In large part, Lynn’s music has managed to stay relevant thanks to the help of the mega-artist, producer, and current all-around Nashvillian Jack White.
In 2004, she decided to reach out to White (a long-time admirer) to produce her upcoming album. The duo became quick friends and ended up creating Van Lear Rose, which received high praise and was nominated for five Grammy Awards in 2005, winning for Best Country Album and Best Country Collaboration with Vocals. The greatest achievement seemed to be a brand new fan base and heightened appreciation for the songstress, 41 years after the release of her first single.
When asked what keeps her going on tours Lynn responded with, “It’s just one of them things. When somebody needs you, you just go.” In order to keep pleasing her fans new and old alike, Loretta decided to embark on a nationwide tour in the summer of 2013.
On Friday, July 26, Loretta is making a stop at the 9:30 Club in Washington, DC, and we’ve got a pair of tickets to give away to one very, very lucky person!
If you want to win a pair of tickets to see the lovely Loretta at 9:30 Club, then tell us in the comments below, your favorite classic country artist(s). Aside from Loretta Lynn, I think mine has to be Alabama, but I’m pretty biased since the fiddle player is my cousin. It still counts!
The winner will be chosen at noon on Monday, July 22. Tickets are still available.
