smh.com.au
Maren Morris's "Dreamsicle" Challenges Country Music's Conservative Norms
Maren Morris's new album "Dreamsicle" includes "Push Me Over," a song about same-sex attraction co-written and produced by MUNA, reflecting her recent public coming out as bisexual and challenging Nashville's conservative country music scene.
- What is the significance of Maren Morris's "Push Me Over" in the context of Nashville's country music scene and her public identity?
- Maren Morris's new album, "Dreamsicle," features the song "Push Me Over," co-written and produced by MUNA, which openly explores same-sex lust. This is significant given Morris's recent public coming out and Nashville's traditionally conservative country music scene. The song's release reflects a shift towards greater inclusivity within the genre.
- How does "Push Me Over," along with similar songs by other artists, reflect broader trends within the country music industry regarding LGBTQ+ representation?
- Push Me Over" represents a significant moment for mainstream country music, challenging the genre's historically conservative norms. Morris, a prominent artist who has faced backlash for her progressive views, uses the song to stake her territory, demonstrating the growing influence of LGBTQ+ artists within the country music scene. This aligns with similar efforts from other artists like Chappell Roan, creating a visible push for greater representation and acceptance.
- What are the potential long-term implications of Maren Morris's actions and choices for the future of country music and its relationship with social progressivism?
- Morris's continued presence in Nashville despite facing backlash highlights the city's evolving nature as a progressive hub within a conservative state. Her choice to remain and actively work towards change signifies a potential turning point in country music, showcasing a growing acceptance of diversity and challenging traditional stereotypes. This could inspire other artists to openly embrace their identities and challenge the status quo, further diversifying the country music landscape.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing of the article is largely positive toward Maren Morris and her work. The headline highlights her song "Push Me Over" and emphasizes her provocative stance within the country music industry. The introduction focuses on the song's flirtatious and defiant nature, setting a tone that supports Morris's perspective. The article also heavily features quotes from Morris herself, reinforcing her narrative. While it does mention criticisms she has faced, it does so mostly in the context of celebrating her resilience.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and celebratory towards Maren Morris. Words like "slyly," "flirtatious," "provocative," and "rebellious" are used to describe her music and persona. While these are not overtly negative, they carry a certain connotation that positions Morris in a favorable light. There are also positive descriptions of other artists such as referring to Chappell Roan as a "true artist". More neutral language could be used to maintain objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Maren Morris's career and experiences, particularly her public stance against conservative viewpoints within country music. While it mentions other artists like Chappell Roan and briefly references the controversies surrounding Jason Aldean and others, it doesn't delve deeply into the broader context of these artists' careers or the ongoing debates within the country music industry. This omission might leave readers with an incomplete understanding of the complexities of these issues.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified dichotomy between the conservative and progressive factions within country music, potentially overlooking more nuanced viewpoints or internal disagreements within each group. While it acknowledges diversity within Nashville, the overall narrative paints a clear contrast between Morris's progressive stance and the perceived conservatism of the broader country music scene.
Gender Bias
The article doesn't exhibit significant gender bias. While it discusses Morris's personal life, including her divorce and motherhood, this is contextualized within her career and artistic expression. The inclusion of other female artists like Chappell Roan and Madi Diaz suggests a relatively balanced representation of women in the country music industry.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights Maren Morris, a country music star, openly embracing her bisexuality and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights within a traditionally conservative industry. Her music and public statements challenge gender norms and promote inclusivity, contributing positively to gender equality. The article also features Chappell Roan, another artist who creates music about sapphic experiences, further showcasing the positive impact of LGBTQ+ representation in the country music genre.