During quarantine last year, many people around the world got their chance to catch up on old shows, as well as start watching some new ones. For reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year, Luke Bryan, Yellowstone was his TV show of choice. This series brought Bryan not only entertainment, but also a bit of inspiration for new music.
The Georgia native and “Waves” singer has hopes of embracing this Texas Country sound in his own music in the future, after hearing the soundtrack of the show. His last album, Born Here Live Here Die Here, released in 2020, does not necessarily include the typical western sound, but he did end up with a few hits among the tracks including, “Knockin’ Boots,” and “One Margarita.”
“I’m really into Yellowstone, and the music in Yellowstone,” Bryan said in an interview with The Los Angeles Times. “It’s Texas music, cowboy music. I’m obviously not a cowboy, but it makes me wonder how I could do a really retro-sounding cowboy song that isn’t just drums, bass, guitar and steel guitar.”
The Paramount Network’s drama-filled series that follows the Dutton Family, led by John Dutton, was first aired in 2019 and takes place on the largest ranch in the U.S. Artists that can be heard on the show include Tyler Childers, Whiskey Myers, Sturgill Simpson, Colter Wall, Turnpike Troubadours, Chris Stapleton, Kacey Musgraves, Blackberry Smoke, and Ryan Bingham.
Country music continues to evolve, as new sounds are being incorporated more and more into the genre. Some welcome the changes, while other fans in the country music community would rather stick to the traditional cowboy music, which can sometimes get lost in what is known as “bro country.” This western show has certainly allowed for a resurgence of the traditional tunes.
All the Yellowstone fans, including Bryan, will be happy to know that Season four is set to be released in November of this year. If he can find the time to watch, maybe the next season will bring even more inspiration for the singer.
Although Bryan has not yet produced this Yellowstone-inspired track, there’s no doubt that it could one day turn into a reality and when that day comes, he will have Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan to thank.
In the meantime, Bryan will continue with his performances on the Proud To Be Right Here tour after just recently finishing up with his Farm Tour. Soon, he will be heading back to Hollywood for his return as a judge on American Idol in 2022.