Let’s take a ride in the way back machine and have a little music history lesson, shall we kids? Don’t worry; you won’t learn anything boring like in them learny books.

Before today’s country music cuties, there were the first real crossover stars whose name wasn’t Dolly Parton. Dolly crossed over in the 80s with her theme to the movie 9-to-5, but she was never widely considered pop music. In the 90s, a few cowgirls tossed off their hats and officially labeled themselves Madannabes: Shania Twain and Faith Hill.

Both were solid country music acts who decided to trade in their boots for high heels. To some fans, it was a form of fakery. Others felt the two were deserting their core fans, who made them successful in the first place. It was ultimately a success story, but there was a definite line between genres. A hard, fat line.

Today’s country cuties are breaking those barriers. Both Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood have found success in their own genre, mainstream, and even adult contemporary in the case of Carrie’s inspiring single, Jesus Take The Wheel.

Though American Idol served as Carrie’s launching pad, she was always true to her authentic country girl roots. Pretty much why she won, in addition to her amazing pipes.

With Taylor, it’s even more groundbreaking simply because of her age. She’s not even old enough to drink and she’s one of the most successful music acts of the new millennium.

Together, they represent the new face of country music. Both have developed an audience that doesn’t altogether consider themselves country fans - because at its heart, country music is still rock ‘n’ roll, just with a Southern twist.

Get More Taylor and Carrie on YH:

Celebrity page: Carrie Underwood

Celebrity page: Taylor Swift

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