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Don't get me wrong, I'm here in Music City, and I hate what they've done to commercial radio. The whole "O Brother" thing was really a backlash, and long overdue. But there's still a baby in that bath water. Trisha Yearwood. Nickel Creek. Even Garth when he's not on his soapbox. Oh, and don't forget Alison Krauss and MC Carpenter (If I weren't married I'd be stalking one of them right now).
When I was in college, all I wanted to hear was 'thought-provoking' music. However, I've since learned that music (popular and otherwise) can serve other purposes that are no less noble:

Helping a tired soul relax after a hard-day's work
Bring back pleasant memories of long-lost loves
Ease the grief of one who is hurting, and my favorite:

Get my wife "in the mood"

Since Shania accomplishes that task, you can't convince me she's not an "artist". ;)

Nickel Creek is fabulous. Wonderful sound, and fabulous lyrics. I was with you till the Garth and Shania references. 8^)

Speaking of Nashville, I've heard a great venue is the Station Inn. Apparently, the impromptu "pickin' parties" are to die for.

Freegards.