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Some big county music songs hit a controversial note this summer

When you think of country music, you might think of twang, tassels, maybe even walking down a dirt road and corn growing in a field.

Or you might think of politics. 

Politically speaking, country music has never been homogenous — you've got Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Kacey Musgraves, and even to some extent Lil Nas X, leaning left. Then you have the more traditional brand of country music that is all about the stars and stripes, Toby Keith and buying a gun. 

However, some recent viral hits — like Jason Aldean's "Try That in a Small Town," and Oliver Anthony's "Rich Men North of Richmond" — go beyond the typical conservatism and have sparked outrage from some and rallying cries from others. 

The Show spoke more about it with local music critic, musician and editor Jason Woodbury.

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Lauren Gilger, host of KJZZ's The Show, is an award-winning journalist whose work has impacted communities large and small, exposing injustices and giving a voice to the voiceless and marginalized.