Gary Quinn and William Michael Morgan: Keeping It “Country Strait”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Artist Profiles: Transatlantic Traditionalists
Gary Quinn (UK/Northern Ireland): A leading voice in UK country music, Gary Quinn seamlessly blends his Northern Irish roots with the rich, neo-traditional sounds of Nashville. Based in Manchester, Quinn has garnered multiple UK chart-topping singles and is known for heartfelt storytelling and an authentic sound that draws comparisons to American artists like Chris Young and Mo Pitney. His involvement as co-founder of major UK festivals like Buckle & Boots shows his deep commitment to fostering the international country music community.
William Michael Morgan (USA): Hailing from Vicksburg, Mississippi, William Michael Morgan is the quintessential modern torchbearer for classic country. With a pristine baritone and an old-soul sensibility, Morgan broke onto the scene with his Gold-certified Billboard hit, “I Met a Girl.” Often compared to icons like Randy Travis and George Strait, Morgan’s music is drenched in the twang and sincerity of ’90s country, positioning him as a stalwart for traditionalists in Music City.
Review: “Country Strait”
Released as a collaboration that literally bridges the transatlantic country scene, “Country Strait” is an affectionate, cleverly crafted anthem dedicated entirely to the King of Country, George Strait. This single co-written by Quinn and Morgan, and produced by Nick Gibbens, is far more than a simple tribute; it’s a sophisticated songwriting exercise built on “knowingly nostalgic” traditional country architecture.
Lyrical Ingenuity: A Catalogue Weave
The core appeal of “Country Strait” lies in its ingenious lyricism. The title itself is a double entendre, referring both to the genre’s traditional sound (“country straight down the middle”) and, of course, to George Strait. The verses function as a tapestry woven exclusively from the titles of Strait’s vast catalogue. The structure is immediately recognizable to country diehards, creating a game of lyrical recognition within the song itself.
The lyrics paint a picture of classic honky-tonk life, using Strait’s hits to define the environment and the mood: “We like a cold beer Friday night… Easy come, easy go, right or wrong it’s just the way we are.” The chorus cements the theme, declaring their preference for country music that features “A little bit of twang. When we hear a steel and fiddle we get carried away. There’s always blue clear sky even if it’s going to rain. Yes, it’s a love without end, Amen.” This method successfully avoids cliché by making the deep cut references the very substance of the song, resulting in a heartfelt celebration that is simultaneously clever and catchy.
Instrumentation and Production: Pure Neo-Traditional Gold
Musically, the track is a masterclass in modern neo-traditional production. It rejects the pop-country polish of the mainstream and embraces a full, authentic band sound designed specifically for the genre’s golden era.
The instrumentation features everything a fan of classic country demands: the steel guitar bends and cries, creating a soundscape rich with melancholy and warmth, while the fiddle is placed high in the mix, driving the melody with an old-time swing. The rhythm section lays down a steady, shuffling groove that makes the track instantly danceable—a perfect soundtrack for a “cold beer Friday night.” The vocals are equally pristine. Morgan’s rich baritone pairs perfectly with Quinn’s equally clear, earnest delivery, showcasing a seamless blend of American and UK country vocal styles. Their harmonies during the chorus are tight and reverent, emphasizing the celebratory nature of the tribute.
Verdict
“Country Strait” is a must-listen for anyone who believes that traditional country still holds the crown. It’s a joyous, foot-stomping collaboration that pays perfect homage to one of the genre’s most enduring figures. By utilizing George Strait’s song titles as building blocks, Quinn and Morgan have created a nostalgic track that manages to sound completely fresh, proving that the heart of real country music beats just as strongly on both sides of the Atlantic.
One Response
This review of Country Strait is just the musical equivalent of a double shot of iced coffee on a Tuesday – exactly what I needed! Calling it a masterclass in neo-traditional gold is like saying The Shania Twain is just a really good pop singer; its understatement personified! But seriously, the way they wove Straits hits into a lyrical tapestry? Genius! Its like a game of Name That George Strait Tune, but you get credit just for showing up. And the production? Pure, unadulterated honky-tonk happy dance fuel! It’s the kind of track that makes you want to do a little boot scootin’ while simultaneously contemplating life’s deeper questions, all while clutching your cold beer. High praise indeed!Free Nano Banana