As I get older, I find myself being more displeased with the current round of country music hits and more in tune with the older hits from 20 or 30 years ago. Is it supposed to be like this? Have I finally turned into my father?

Not that there would be anything wrong with that. My dad was a heck of a good man … but he didn’t like any music that was charting when I was a teenager and I figured, at that moment in time, it was somewhat of a natural phenomenon. And much of today’s music is geared toward the younger generation (lucky them), not so much for us AARP members.

That said, if my mindset remains as it is, the premise of this column would have to change from talking about music, both new and old, into a nostalgia-only kind of walk down memory lane, week in and week out. Surely there is something new out there that gets my attention and doesn’t sound like every other country song currently on the Top 50 chart!

So, as I am writing this, I’m doing a little research, looking for something brand new that I will feel like sharing and will also be something I really like.

After going through the charts, I did happen upon this country artist that seemed to be so familiar, with the No. 36 entry hitting the charts for the first time. George Strait, I believe, was his name.

Yes – that George Strait, who was going to retire a few years ago. Well thank goodness he didn’t, at least not completely. This song is pure George, and took me back to a time when he was the newbie in country music and storming up the charts on a regular basis.

The fact of the matter is, as much as country music has changed in the last few years, the more room there is for the George Straits of the world to remain relevant. If that were not true, he wouldn’t be on the charts and headlining shows in Vegas.

He will be releasing a new album soon entitled Honky Tonk Time Machine. I really am looking forward to this one.

At a time when I find myself searching for satisfying music, looking in the rear-view mirror, it is a welcome change to know such a superstar as Strait will once again send new material out the country music pipeline.

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 music. Readers with questions or comments may write to Johnson in care of this publication.