Hey MAB. Just let you know, I appreciate the work you did on that billboard list. As a matter of fact, I have "Billboards Hot Country Songs" bookmarked, and from time to time will check it out. Mostly just to make sure what I'm hearing on my radio station here is really "current" country. For the most part it is. AND by the way; I am NOT one of those who complains about todays country and how it "sucks" relative to "how it used to be". I really don't even listen to yesterday's music that much.
And in addition to simply finding a you-tube of the artist performing the song, I will also go find a site that gives me the chord progressions. It's hard to find a site that also shows the timing, so when I listen to the artist, I listen to the drum beat along with the chord progression I found to determine the chord timing. Then I may go watch a "how to play it" video. I have yet to learn how to play any of the current songs, but I do use that study to help me when I (finally do) start a new song. In my writings, I try to keep the lyrics simple and conversational. And I try to use simple chord progressions. Usually a 1, 6m 4,5 or maybe a 2m or 3m in there also with/instead of the 6m. And I want to use the same kinds of chords, progression, and rhythm as what is current on the radio. YES, I understand most of this will be "outdate" in about 3-6 years, but If you don't at least start with what is current, you may never be able to keep up with what will be coming tomorrow.
One song on that list that really fascinates me is Thomas Rhett's, "Die A Happy Man". Love the simplicity of the chord progression, and that (syncopated?) slap rhythm. I've watched a couple of "how to" videos, but I still can't get the hang of that rhythm. The chord progression is really simple. But the rhythm used is very complicated. To me.
Thanks again MAB, for all the time you take taking care of us.
Speaking of taking care of us, have you all read the message from Eddie at the top of the home page? Sounds like this may be the Ramps last year. We need to figure out a way to help these guys out. Both $$ and time.
phil g.