Eric Church - Springsteen

Up until now, I’ve been pretty good at containing my obvious love for country music and instead focusing more on my pop favorites.  But, it’s summer and that means two things: (1) it’s hot (really, really hot if you’re from D.C.) and (2) it’s time for country music. There’s something about the combination of hot summer nights and country music that is just too irresistible to pass up. Knowing that, country artists usually work to whip out a slew of new country songs right before we enter those hot and hazy months in order to capitalize on that feeling. Songs about old memories, summer flings, outdoor parties, and of course, adventures in fishing can all be found blaring from every country station. This summer is no exception. With all the new summer tunes to choose from, my absolute favorite this year is Eric Church’s “Springsteen.” Clearly an experienced musician, Church has been on the country music scene for quite awhile, but his most recent album is causing everybody to stand up and take notice. Known for his signature baseball cap and aviators, Eric Church has a distinct smooth sounding style that naturally sets him apart. His current single “Springsteen” is tearing up country music charts, and I guarantee if you turn on a country station, you’re bound to hear it within five minutes of air play. The lyrics set up the dynamic between past and present as it depicts the perfect scene of remembering a young summer romance set to the tune of Bruce Springsteen’s classics. Somewhere in the chorus, Church lays it all out with “Funny how a melody sounds like a memory…” a line that reminds us all that music sometimes holds our most precious memories and feelings. Church tells his story clearly, and by the end of the song, you can’t help but picture that young couple listening to some Springsteen on a hot, July night. With the abundance of summer songs out there, make sure you take a listen Eric Church’s “Springsteen,” as I’m sure it will get you in the summer mood, if you’re not already. I know it has for me. Enjoy. - Lindsey