BITTERSWEET, Ky. — A couple of weeks ago, I shared with you my thoughts on some of the happiest country songs ever recorded and, in doing a little research, I discovered there are a lot more cheerful melodies that have made their way onto country radio than I thought. So, as promised, part two of the happy song list is coming your way, with the hopes that one of these hits will keep your spirits high even if you’ve had a lousy week. And there is no better way to start than with one of my favorite artists, Alan Jackson. This guy has brought us so many good-time songs, it’s hard to pick just one. He has had us dancing on the “Chattahoochee,” “Livin’ on Love” and who could forget the song “Drive” that, for me, brings back memories of my father? But a song on his debut album, entitled “Home,” really gets to me and tells the story of a simpler time and how true love should be. Tim McGraw’s “I Like It, I Love it” has to make this happy song list as well, and proved to be an anthem for many a young country boy falling in love. This song was included on the 1995 album All I Want. One of my favorite country music voices belongs to Joe Diffie, and his 1993 hit “Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox” sort of says it all when it comes to wanting just a little more time to enjoy life before the Good Lord calls our number. Brad Paisley has given us many songs with comedy flair, and a good laugh always leaves me feeling happy. It was his hit “I’m Going to Miss Her” that comes to mind first; it tells the story of a guy who prefers fishing at his favorite watering hole to his nagging significant other. This 2001 hit comes from the Part II album. In wrapping up the happy song list, I just have to include Travis Tritt and his 2000 hit “It’s a Great Day to be Alive.” This song epitomizes the idea that even when a tough day comes along, that silver lining can still be found. And with that, I’ll leave you with this thought: Always look for that silver lining even when the day isn’t going your way. You just might find that being happy feels much better than the alternative. 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. |