By BLUEGRASS JOHNSON
Rural Route Music 

BITTER SWEET, Ky. — As you all know by now, I’m not one to ridicule or speak badly of someone. As my momma said, if you can’t say something good, keep your mouth shut.

But I have to tell you, I get utterly confused when trying to tell the difference between many of today’s country stars, especially the guys. I mean they’re all these model-types with similar singing styles.

Don’t get me wrong, I think they are all very talented but all very much alike. With that said, it has always been my observation that the difference between a star and a superstar is, superstars are unique and separate themselves from the rest of the pack. With that said, let me introduce or rather, re-introduce you to Sammy Kershaw. Now before you turn to this week’s hog report, hear me out.

Kershaw was one of the hottest singers in country music during the early 1990s, and what made me like him – other than the fact he looked like an ordinary guy – he had a sound that was strictly his.

Kershaw’s music was traditional and often touching and sometimes funny but always pure Sammy. You could see his influences in there, such as the impact George Jones must have had on him, but you didn’t get confused when a Kershaw song played on the radio.

I have been a big fan since his debut album Don’t Go Near the Water came out in 1991. You can’t imagine how happy I was when I discovered his newest album called I Won’t Back Down was released in June of this year.

Now, there are two good reasons I’m so excited. First, it’s good to see Kershaw making good music in much the same style that made him famous to begin with. This album is a mix of traditional country with a couple of rock remakes thrown in. Secondly, any time one of the older guys show they still have it, I say, good for them. Just because we get a few miles on us and have traveled around the block a few times, doesn’t mean we aren’t productive.

Kershaw has certainly proved he still has a lot of talent to share. I can hear a little aging in his voice; but like a good frying pan, it’s not at its best until it’s seasoned.

If you measure a superstar by the number of chart toppers they have recorded or the number of arenas they sold out, you probably wouldn’t count Kershaw as one. But if you look for someone that is unique and has weathered a storm or two to remain in the business for three decades, then Sammy the superstar reigns. I give him an A in my class and hope all those fellas that are hitting the charts today, wake up in 30 years still able to make good music.

Bluegrass Johnson comes from a long line of country music performers and enjoys a passion for the rhythm and melody. From the hills of Kentucky, he will offer his opinions on a variety of new country music each week. Readers with questions or comments may write to Johnson in care of this publication.