The general understanding of "country music."

  Write a brief, original, research paper that includes a modest proportion of critical analysis; no paper will receive an "A" without originality and critical analysis. In MUSIC 117 we examine a variety of styles that are identified under the general understanding of "country music." In your final written assignment you are to examine one song that fits your own criteria of "country music" and provide the following: 1. A brief background of the song and its artist, e.g. date of release, album, artist's bio (very brief) 2. An in-depth analysis of the song's musical features (melody, harmony, rhythm, form, texture, instrumentation, dynamics) 3. What features make this song distinctively "country" and, most importantly, why? . If you want to quote the words or use ideas from someone else, you MUST cite your reference and credit the originator of the ideas.