Today, Explained Achy Breaky Charts
Apr 9, 2019
Vox's Allegra Frank and Charlie Harding, co-host of "Switched on Pop," dive into the rise of "Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X, exploring its unique blend of country and trap music. They discuss the song's viral success and the surrounding controversy, particularly its removal from the country charts despite its popularity. The conversation expands to race and genre dynamics in country music, highlighting how traditional definitions are evolving. The episode also examines the cultural implications of the song and unexpected collaborations that challenge boundaries.
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Lil Nas X and "Old Town Road"
- Lil Nas X, a 20-year-old rapper from Atlanta, released "Old Town Road" in December 2018.
- He bought a country-sounding beat online and wrote the song about feeling like a lonely cowboy.
TikTok and the "Yeehaw Challenge"
- "Old Town Road"'s popularity exploded due to its use in the "Yeehaw Challenge" on TikTok.
- The song's blend of country and trap music, along with its comedic potential, fueled the viral trend.
Billboard Controversy
- Despite its popularity and initial inclusion on Billboard's country chart, "Old Town Road" was removed.
- Billboard claimed the song didn't have enough "elements of today's country music."