HARDY is one of the most popular names in country music right now, much in part to his distinct style and personality.
The genre-bending performer has thirteen number one hits as a songwriter, including the 3x platinum One Beer. Being such a prominent songwriter, HARDY clearly understands the formula of what makes a country song truly great, but he’s also not afraid to admit when songs are just plain fun.
Not every song needs to be a deep, compelling story that evokes serious emotion with an audience. Those kinds of tunes are not inferior by any means, but it’s also beneficial to have some silly, light ones in the mix as well. This notion is especially true in country music, given the fact that many of the genre’s main themes are focused on having a good time- a large part of what makes it so amazing.
In 2021, HARDY appeared on the You Betcha Radio podcast with Myles Montplaisir where they discuss the best “worst” country songs. By “worst” they are talking about songs whose beauty lies in their simplicity, humor, and slight lack of emotional depth- not hating on the song.
In reference to HARDY’s playful 2021 collaboration with Brantley Gilbert & Toby Keith, the group decides to drop their top best “worst” country songs. Toby Keith’s Red Solo Cup gets name-dropped first with co-host Tyler adding; “When you just look at it, it shouldn’t be good but it’s a banger.”
HARDY replies:
“Yeah I think that’s definitely on my list, no doubt.”
“I would say She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy… Yeah. That’s Kenny Chesney.”
“God there’s so many when I think about it. Pickup Man. Rest In Peace Joe Diffie- awesome dude, but the line ‘I met all my wives in traffic jams’ is just so like… really?”
It’s cool to see HARDY, someone who has a deep understanding of songwriting, admitting that some songs, despite lacking depth, can still be respected. Songs like these are loved because they’re fun, not because they’re discussing the most important subject matter.
The hosts proceeded by asking HARDY if he plays any songs on stage that he knows are “kinda dumb” but he puts it in his set regardless.
“Yeah. REDNECKER.”
“That’s like I’m country and I’m proud of it. Then we have UNAPOLOGETICALLY COUNTRY AS HELL… That’s the best song live.”
While HARDY admits he didn’t write these songs purposefully trying to make them “funny” or “dumb”, he is fine with the crowd taking it however they please. He feels that if a wide audience can connect with them, no matter the context, he has succeeded in his job. People love them and it shows in his live sets, which is really what seems to matter most to him as an artist.
HARDY represents an interesting side of country music, writing songs that are emotional, clever, and at times, genre-crossing. He seems to understand songwriting on a deep level and appreciates all facets of it as an art, whether you love him or hate him.
Watch the clip here: