This may not come as much of a surprise, but I grew up listening to country music.

It wasn’t uncommon for my family’s house and vehicle speakers to emit tunes sung by George Strait, Garth Brooks and other “classic” voices. To this day, my radio remains tuned to the same stations, and I have countless playlists filled with both my all-time and current favorites.

In addition to my preferences, country music continues to be the genre of choice for countless people worldwide. Several artists we know and love — both past and present — also have strong agricultural ties, and some make it a priority to give back to youth leadership organizations such as 4-H and FFA, or partner with notable brands and companies within the industry.

Words have meaning in ag

Since so many listen to country music, I often reflect on what makes it special and why it continues to stand the test of time. The short answer? It’s simple, yet impactful.

Carefully crafted lyrics and melodies paint a vivid picture that remains within us. When played, these songs also enable us to recall fond memories or transform us to a specific moment in time.

For example, every time I hear Luke Bryan sing “Harvest Time,” I envision myself riding in the buddy seat of a combine with my dad or older brother, watching the acres pass by. Likewise, Jason Aldean’s song “Big Green Tractor” reminds me of long summer days spent raking hay.

Music, as a whole, is a powerful thing. It enables us to process thoughts and express emotions in a way few other things can. For those of us within agriculture, music also takes on a much deeper role. It shares a story that connects us to a greater audience and platform — all without having to say a word ourselves.

Connecting to music message

In celebration of my 16th birthday, my family and I attended a Luke Bryan concert as part of his “Farm Tour” series. On a Saturday night in October, we ventured out to a field in the middle of rural Missouri that had been transformed into a (temporary) concert venue.

During his well-known song, “Here’s to the Farmer,” I was suddenly overcome with emotion — particularly gratitude — as thousands of voices sang along to these verses:

Here's to the farmer's wife

That loves him every night

Raising a son, raising a daughter

They gather 'round the table, send it up to the Father

Somehow they get closer when times get harder

Here's to the farmer

Now, I couldn’t tell you how many of the people around me grew up on a farm, were or are involved in production agriculture, or recognized the true significance behind what they were singing along to. I do, however, know one thing for certain: They were encountering part of the industry in some capacity.

Just as country music serves as the soundtrack to special moments, it also invites listeners into the small, yet significant moments characterized by a life in agriculture.

The next time you hear your favorite titles on the radio, consider how many people it may be reaching and the greater impact it may have. More so, if you ever find your own words falling short, share these tunes with others and invite them to experience the deeper meaning behind the lyrics.

Quinlan graduated from the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources with a degree in agriculture education, communications and leadership. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree at Oklahoma State University. Contact her at [email protected].