Serving the GW Community since 1904

The GW Hatchet

AN INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SERVING THE GW COMMUNITY SINCE 1904

The GW Hatchet

Serving the GW Community since 1904

The GW Hatchet

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Booze, broads & belt buckles: Country rocker Pat Green to play 9:30 Club

Pat Green, a mainstream country crooner who recently concluded his tour with Kenny Chesney, makes no conscious attempt to break down the common stereotypes of country music – song-stories about lost love and pick-up trucks against the background of twangy guitar strumming – which results in constant criticism from Green’s critics. To this, the Texan doesn’t invest much, merely staying true to his core ideal: “I got something to say in my music that comes from an honest place in me.”

Green’s work has encountered overwhelming success under the parent label of Universal Records, generating a large country music following. In describing his tour with Kenny Chesney, Green told The Hatchet that the collective crowd of about 1.6 million people made for “a fantastic experience.”

His most recent album, Lucky Ones, was similar, generating a stupendous following. Green explained his rather unique ability to discern what makes a title track.

“When Lucky Ones was coming around, we were coming from a smash record. Everything in my life was hitting on all cylinders,” the musician said enthusiastically, the warm Southern twang resonating through the phone line.

Green makes testament to his Texan roots, which essentially fueled his attraction to country music. However, he made it clear that his music comes from within.

“I never fight what’s coming out inside of me – I let it roll organically, naturally,” he said.

Though music for him is an internal experience, he does credit Willie Nelson and Bob Wills as “opening the doors” for country musicians such as him. In speaking of these apparent idols, Green notes that there is no question of his admiration for Nelson, and that “Bob was such a hero to all people like me.” Apparently, Nelson allowed Green to “feel what it’s like to be at the top” when the two musicians were able to perform together.

“He’s just one of those guys that loves everybody,” Green said about Nelson.

Pat Green rejects the commonly held stereotype that associates Southern Republicanism with country western music. “I know both Republicans and Democrats,” Green quickly and sharply said. In discussing this stereotype and stereotypes associated with country music, Green is blunt and quirky.

“Well you know what I would say about stereotypes? That they’re stereotypes,” Green said. “I think I have a great job . not many people I know get to make a living playing music.”

Pat Green will be performing at the 9:30 Club Sunday. Doors open at 10 p.m.; tickets are available for $25 online at www.930.com.

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