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A decade ago, traditional country music felt like it was fighting for its place in the mainstream. Radio playlists were dominated by the final waves of bro-country, a sound built on arena-sized hooks, party anthems and pop production that often seemed more interested in tailgates than storytelling. While there were exceptions, fiddles and steel guitars had largely been pushed to the margins. Then came Midland.<\/p>\n
When the Texas trio arrived with\u00a0\u2018Drinkin\u2019 Problem’\u00a0in 2016, they felt like a breath of fresh air. Their music wasn\u2019t a novelty act or a nostalgia exercise, despite what other platforms and websites had to say. Instead, it was a modern interpretation of the sounds that had made country music one of America\u2019s most enduring genres. Drawing on the smooth harmonies of the Eagles, the swagger of George Strait and the songwriting traditions of classic country, Midland proved there was still a sizeable audience for music rooted in authenticity and craftsmanship. While artists such as Jon Pardi were also helping steer country back towards its roots, Midland arguably became the movement\u2019s most visible standard bearers. Ten years on, they don\u2019t always receive the credit they deserve for helping make traditional country cool again.<\/p>\n