Improving Your Guitar Sound with Accessories in Country Music

As a country guitarist, you know that your sound is everything. It’s what sets you apart from the rest and gives your music its signature flair. But sometimes, you may feel like your sound is lacking that extra something that would really make it shine. That’s where accessories come in. From pickups to pedals, there are a plethora of tools at your disposal to elevate your sound to the next level. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top accessories and techniques that will help you improve your guitar tone and bring out your full potential as a country guitarist. So grab your guitar and let’s dive in.

Choosing the Right Accessories

When it comes to improving your guitar sound, accessories can make a significant difference. The right pickups, strings, tuners, cables, capos, and straps can all contribute to a better overall sound. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this section, we will guide you through selecting the right accessories for country music and provide some top picks. Don’t forget to check out our 10 Must-Have Accessories for Country Guitarists for even more options to explore.

1. Pickups

Pickups are an essential accessory for enhancing the sound of your guitar in country music. They come in different sizes and shapes, but the most popular ones are single-coil and humbucker pickups. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright and twangy sound, while humbuckers offer a warmer and fuller sound.

When choosing pickups, it’s important to consider:

There are also different brands of pickups to choose from. Some popular ones among country guitarists include Seymour Duncan, Fender, and DiMarzio.

So, whether you’re looking for a bright twangy tone or a warm and full sound, choosing the right pickup can make a huge difference in your guitar sound. If you’re unsure about which pickup to choose, consider consulting a professional or trying out different pickups to see which one suits your playing style and preferences.

For more information on other accessories to enhance your country guitar sound, check out our guide on top guitar straps for country music or our country pedalboards guide.

2. Strings

Choosing the right strings is essential for achieving the best possible sound quality on your guitar. Country music is known for its bright and twangy tones, and the right strings can help you achieve this sound.

There are many types of strings available, including nickel, bronze and phosphor bronze. Nickel strings are known for their bright and punchy sound, while bronze and phosphor bronze strings are mellower and warmer. Depending on the sound you want, you should choose the type of string that best suits your style of playing.

It’s important to consider the gauge of the string. Lighter gauges are easier to play and bend, while heavier gauges produce a fuller and stronger tone. For country music, lighter gauge strings are generally preferred, as they allow for a more laid-back playing style and the bright tone that is associated with the genre.

One important factor to consider when choosing strings is their durability. Strings that break easily can be frustrating when you’re in the middle of a performance, so it’s important to invest in high-quality strings that will last. Coated strings are a good option, as they are designed to resist corrosion and have a longer playing life.

Ultimately, the best strings for your country guitar will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. Experiment with different types and gauges of strings until you find the right combination for you. Don’t be afraid to seek out advice from other country guitar players or consult with a music store professional for recommendations.

To learn more about how to improve your guitar sound for country music, check out our article on guitar strings country tips and tricks.

3. Tuners

When it comes to improving your guitar sound, having the right tuner is crucial. Even if you have high-quality strings and a great set of pickups, if your guitar isn’t properly tuned, it won’t sound good. There are many different types of tuners available, including clip-on tuners, pedal tuners, and mobile apps.

Clip-on tuners: These types of tuners clip onto your guitar’s headstock and work by sensing the vibrations of the strings. They are small and portable, making them a convenient option for gigging musicians. Some popular clip-on tuners include the Snark SN-5X and the KLIQ UberTuner.

Pedal tuners: If you’re looking for a more permanent tuning solution, a pedal tuner might be the way to go. These tuners are designed to sit on your pedalboard and can be easily turned on and off with the tap of a foot. Some popular options include the TC Electronic Polytune 3 and the Boss TU-3.

Mobile apps: Finally, there are a variety of tuning apps available for your smartphone or tablet. These apps use the microphone built into your device to listen to the sound of your guitar and determine if it’s in tune. Some popular options include Guitar Tuna and Fender Tune.

No matter which type of tuner you choose, it’s important to make sure it’s accurate and reliable. A poorly calibrated tuner can do more harm than good, causing your guitar to sound out of tune even when you’ve tuned it correctly. To avoid this, consider investing in a tuner from a reputable brand and take the time to properly calibrate it before each use.

Pro tip: In addition to a traditional tuner, many guitar players find it helpful to have a tuning pedal with a mute switch. This allows you to quickly mute your guitar between songs to avoid any unwanted noise, making transitions smoother during performances.

A tuner is an essential accessory for any guitar player looking to improve their sound. Whether you prefer a clip-on tuner, a pedal tuner, or a mobile app, make sure it’s accurate and reliable. Consider investing in a tuning pedal with a mute switch to streamline your live performances.

4. Cables

Cables are often an overlooked accessory when it comes to improving your guitar sound. However, having the right cables can actually make a significant difference in the overall tone and clarity of your sound.

One thing to consider when choosing cables is the quality of the materials used. Higher quality cables, such as those with gold-plated connectors and oxygen-free copper wiring, can provide a clearer and more accurate tone. Make sure to also choose cables with the appropriate length for your needs. Longer cables can lead to signal degradation and noise, so it’s best to use the shortest cable necessary for your setup.

Another important factor to consider is whether to use a straight or angled cable. Angled cables can help prevent strain on your input jack and can be useful if you have limited space on your pedalboard or amplifier. On the other hand, straight cables are generally more affordable and can be a good option if you don’t need to maneuver around tight spaces.

Lastly, it’s important to take care of your cables to ensure they last as long as possible. Coiling your cables properly and storing them in a safe and dry place can prevent damage and ensure consistent sound quality. Additionally, using cable ties or velcro straps can help prevent tangles and make setup and teardown easier.

By considering the quality of materials, the length and type of cable, and proper care and storage, you can improve your guitar sound with this often overlooked accessory.

5. Capos

Capos are essential accessories for country guitar players as they allow you to change the key of a song without having to re-learn or transpose chords. They are especially useful when playing with other musicians or singers who might prefer to play a song in a different key or when you want to get a different sound out of your guitar.

Here are some tips on choosing and using capos to improve your guitar sound:

• Choose a capo that fits your guitar: Not all capos fit all guitars, so make sure to choose one that is compatible with yours. Some capos are designed for acoustic guitars, while others work better with electric guitars. It’s important to choose the right size and shape for your instrument to ensure proper intonation.
• Experiment with different positions: The placement of the capo on the guitar neck can have a significant impact on your sound. Try placing the capo in different positions to see how it affects your tone and playability. You might find that certain positions work better for certain chords or playing styles.
• Invest in a high-quality capo: While there are many affordable capos on the market, investing in a high-quality capo can make a big difference in your sound. Look for a capo that is easy to use, stays in place, and provides even pressure across all strings.
• Consider using different capos for different songs: Depending on the song and the desired sound, you might find that different capos work better than others. Some capos are designed to produce a brighter, more trebly sound, while others are designed for a warmer, more mellow tone. Experiment with different capos to find the right one for each song.

Capos are a versatile and essential accessory for any country guitar player. By choosing the right capo and experimenting with different positions and styles, you can unlock a whole new world of musical possibilities. Don’t be afraid to invest in a high-quality capo or to try out different options until you find the perfect fit for your sound.

If you’re looking for more information on choosing the best capos for country guitar, check out our article on the best capos for country guitar.

6. Straps

One of the most important accessories for any guitar player is a sturdy and comfortable strap. Not only does it allow you to comfortably play standing up, but it also protects your guitar from accidental drops or slips. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right strap for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider:

Depending on your preferences and needs, you may find that certain straps work better for you than others. For example, if you’re a touring musician who plays for hours on end, you might prioritize a wider leather strap for maximum comfort and durability. If you’re a beginner looking for an affordable option, a simple nylon strap with a cool design could be a good choice.

No matter what strap you choose, make sure it’s secure and properly attached to your guitar before playing. A loose or faulty strap can lead to serious damage to your instrument. By taking the time to find the right strap, you can not only improve your playing experience but also protect your guitar investment for years to come.

Using Pedals to Enhance Your Sound

Creating a unique and memorable guitar sound is crucial to standing out in the world of country music. One way to add depth and character to your sound is by utilizing pedals. With the right effects, you can take your sound to the next level and truly captivate audiences. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of distortion or a bit of delay, the possibilities are endless. In this section, we’ll explore some key pedal options and how they can be used to enhance your sound. But before we dive in, make sure you’ve checked out our article on country guitar picks and their perfect uses to ensure you have the right tools for the job.

1. Boost Pedals

Boost pedals are essential for any country musician looking to enhance their guitar sound. They work by increasing the volume of the guitar’s signal, allowing the player to bring more volume and intensity to their playing.

Here are a few tips for using boost pedals to improve your country guitar sound:

• Use a clean boost: A clean boost will increase the volume of your signal without altering the tone or adding distortion. This is ideal for country guitarists who want to maintain a pure and authentic sound.
• Pick the right moment: Boost pedals work best when used during solos or when you want to add an extra kick to a particular section of a song. Use it sparingly, as overuse can lead to a harsh and overbearing sound.
• Pair it with other pedals: Boost pedals work well when paired with other pedals, especially overdrive or distortion pedals. This creates a fuller and more dynamic sound that is perfect for country music.
• Experiment: No two boost pedals are alike, so it’s important to experiment with different models to find the one that works best for your playing style and equipment.

Boost pedals are just one of many accessories that country musicians can use to improve their guitar sound. By combining them with other accessories, such as the right pickups, strings, and cables, players can achieve the perfect tone for their country music.

If you’re interested in learning more about the different types of guitars that are best suited for country music or tips for protecting your guitar while on the go, check out our articles on acoustic vs electric guitars for country music or protecting your guitar while touring. Additionally, for information about alternative country guitar picks, read our piece on different types of guitar picks for alt-country music.

2. Overdrive/Distortion Pedals

One of the most popular accessories in country music for enhancing your guitar sound is the overdrive/distortion pedal. These pedals are designed to add a gritty, raw, and distorted sound to your guitar, making it perfect for country music. With so many different overdrive and distortion pedals available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are some factors to consider before making your purchase:

Once you have selected an overdrive or distortion pedal that meets your criteria, there are several techniques you can use to enhance your sound. One technique is to use the pedal to add a subtle crunch to your clean tone, which can add more depth and character to your playing. Another technique is to use the pedal to create an aggressive and distorted solo sound, which can help your solos stand out in a country music context.

Whether you are new to playing country music or have been playing for years, an overdrive/distortion pedal can be a great accessory to help enhance your guitar sound. With so many options available, take the time to research and experiment with different pedals to find the one that fits your playing style and preferences.

3. Wah Pedals

Wah pedals are an excellent accessory to enhance your guitar sound in country music. These pedals allow you to create unique and funky sounds by emphasizing different frequencies in your guitar’s tone.

Here are some ways to make the most out of your wah pedal:

1. Find the Sweet Spot

The first step in using a wah pedal is to find the sweet spot. This is where you can sweep the pedal back and forth to emphasize the desired frequency. Typically, the sweet spot is found around the 2/3 point of the pedal’s travel. Spend some time experimenting and finding the sweet spot that works best for the tone you want.

2. Practice Controlled Movements

Once you’ve found the sweet spot, practice controlled movements with the wah pedal to create a consistent tone. Experiment with how quickly or slowly you sweep the pedal, as this can have a significant impact on your tone.

3. Combine with Other Effects

Wah pedals can be used in combination with other effects pedals to create even more unique sounds. Try combining your wah pedal with other effects like overdrive, distortion or delay to create something truly original.

4. Use in Context

Wah pedals are excellent tools for adding flavor to your solos or riffs. However, it’s important to use them in context and not overuse them. Be mindful of the overall sound of the song and use the wah pedal sparingly to make the most impact.

5. Change Pedal Position

Finally, experiment with changing the position of your wah pedal to create different effects. Placing the pedal in the middle of the sweep can create a more subtle effect, while moving it all the way forward or back can create more extreme sounds.

A wah pedal can be a fun and creative tool for enhancing your guitar sound in country music. By spending some time experimenting and practicing with this accessory, you can unlock a whole new world of guitar tones and effects.

4. Reverb/Delay Pedals

Reverb and delay pedals are two of the most commonly used effects among guitarists in country music. These pedals can add depth and space to your sound, giving it that signature twang that is synonymous with the genre. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your reverb and delay pedals:

• Experiment with different types of reverb: Reverb pedals come in many different varieties, from spring reverb to plate reverb to hall reverb. Each type of reverb produces a unique sound, so it’s important to experiment with different types to find the one that best suits your playing style and tone.
• Pay attention to the decay time: The decay time on a reverb pedal determines how long the effect lasts after you stop playing. Longer decay times can create a more ambient sound, while shorter decay times can add a subtle touch of reverb without overwhelming your playing.
• Use delay in moderation: While delay can be a great way to add depth and dimension to your guitar sound, it’s important to use it in moderation. Too much delay can create a muddy and cluttered sound, making it difficult for your playing to cut through the mix.
• Experiment with the delay time: Delay pedals allow you to control the length of the delay, from a few milliseconds to several seconds. Experiment with different delay times to find the one that best complements your playing style.
• Combine reverb and delay: One of the great things about reverb and delay pedals is that they can be used together to create a more complex and textured sound. Try combining both effects to see how they interact with each other.

By following these tips, you can get the most out of your reverb and delay pedals and create a rich and dynamic sound that is truly unique to your playing style. Remember to always experiment and have fun with your effects, and you’ll be well on your way to improving your guitar sound in country music.

5. Chorus Pedals

When it comes to enhancing your guitar sound with accessories, chorus pedals are a popular choice among country musicians. They add depth and dimension to your tone by creating the illusion of multiple guitars playing simultaneously. There are several models available in the market, but here are some features you should consider when choosing a chorus pedal:

By understanding the different features of a chorus pedal, you can choose the right one that will enhance your guitar sound in country music. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different modes and settings to find your perfect tone.

6. Compression Pedals

Compression pedals are an essential accessory for any country music guitarist looking to enhance their sound. This pedal can help even out the levels of your playing, making soft notes louder and loud notes softer. It essentially compresses the dynamic range of your playing.

Here are some tips on how to effectively use compression pedals to take your country music sound to the next level:

1. Find the right compression pedal for your guitar: There are various compression pedals available in the market, each with unique features. To get the best results, choose a pedal that suits your guitar’s sound and your playing style.

2. Experiment with the pedal’s settings: Compression pedals have knobs that allow you to adjust the level of compression applied to your sound. Experiment with these settings to find the perfect balance for your playing style.

3. Place the pedal in the right spot in your effects chain: The placement of the compression pedal in your effects chain can greatly affect its performance. Try placing it after the overdrive pedals to hear a more pronounced effect.

4. Use compression pedals to add sustain to your sound: Compression pedals can help you sustain your notes longer by maintaining the volume level of your guitar’s signal. This can add depth and richness to your country music sound.

5. Don’t overdo it: While compression pedals can do wonders for your sound, too much compression can make your playing sound unnatural. Don’t be afraid to experiment, but use compression pedals with caution and in moderation.

By following these tips, you can effectively use compression pedals to improve your country music guitar sound. Remember, finding the right balance is key, so don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect sound for your playing style.

7. Volume Pedals

Have you ever experienced the frustration of trying to adjust your guitar’s volume knob during a performance? It can be tricky to get the right sound while also trying to focus on your playing. That’s where volume pedals come in. These pedals allow you to easily adjust the volume of your guitar without taking your hands off the strings.

Here are some tips for using volume pedals to enhance your country music sound:

• 1. Start with a Clean Tone: Before you start using a volume pedal, make sure you have a good clean tone. This will ensure that any changes in volume are accurately reflected in your sound.
• 2. Use Swells for Emphasis: Volume pedals are perfect for creating swells in your playing. This technique involves gradually increasing or decreasing the volume of your guitar to create a dramatic effect. Try using a volume pedal to accentuate certain parts of a song or to add some texture to your solos.
• 3. Experiment with Different Pedals: Not all volume pedals are created equal. Some are designed to be more transparent, while others can add some color to your sound. Try experimenting with different pedals to find the one that best suits your style and tone.
• 4. Incorporate into Your Rig: If you plan on using a volume pedal regularly, consider incorporating it into your setup. Some guitarists prefer to have their volume pedal towards the end of their signal chain, while others prefer to have it towards the beginning.
• 5. Practice with the Pedal: As with any new piece of gear, practice is key. Take some time to experiment with your volume pedal and get a feel for how it works. Try incorporating it into your practice routine to get comfortable using it in different contexts.

Adding a volume pedal to your rig can greatly enhance your country music sound. By following these tips and incorporating some swells into your playing, you’ll be able to add some extra emotion and expression to your playing.

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Practicing Techniques to Improve Your Sound

As a guitarist, it’s no secret that practice is key to improving your sound. However, simply playing the same songs or riffs over and over again won’t necessarily yield the results you’re looking for. That’s why it’s important to incorporate different techniques into your practice routine. By honing your skills in areas such as alternate picking, hybrid picking, fingerstyle, bending, and vibrato, you can take your country music playing to the next level. In this section, we’ll explore each technique in depth and provide tips to help you incorporate them into your practice routine effectively.

1. Alternate Picking

When it comes to improving your guitar sound in country music, one technique that can have a big impact is alternate picking. This technique involves using a combination of upstrokes and downstrokes to pick each note in a line or riff, rather than relying solely on downstrokes. Here are some tips to help you master alternate picking:

• Start Slow: Don’t try to play too fast too soon. It’s important to build up your speed gradually by starting at a slower tempo and gradually increasing your speed as your accuracy and confidence improve.
• Finger Placement: Place your fingers correctly on the strings and the pick in your hand. Your pick should be held between your thumb and index finger, with the other fingers curled into your palm.
• Angle the Pick: Experiment with different angles of your pick against the strings. A slight angle can help you produce a more clear and defined sound.
• Practice with a Metronome: Using a metronome, drum machine or backing track will help you keep a steady rhythm, which is essential for mastering alternate picking. Start at a slower tempo and make sure you can play the riff or lick accurately before increasing the speed.
• Watch Your Posture: Pay attention to your posture while practicing alternate picking. Sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed, keeping your picking hand and arm relaxed as well.

By mastering alternate picking technique you’ll not only improve your sound, but also your overall playing ability. Practice regularly, start slow, and relax while playing to achieve better results with this technique.

2. Hybrid Picking

Hybrid picking is a technique that combines two styles of playing: flatpicking and fingerstyle. This technique allows you to play faster and more efficiently. To use hybrid picking, hold the pick with your thumb and index finger, and use your other fingers to pluck the strings.

Why Hybrid Picking is Important

Hybrid picking is crucial for country music because it allows for a more complex and nuanced sound. It can also help you play with greater speed and accuracy, and create a more dynamic sound. However, mastering hybrid picking can be challenging.

Technique and Tips

To start practicing hybrid picking, begin with a simple exercise that involves picking a string with the pick, then plucking the adjacent string with your middle or ring finger. Gradually increase your speed and accuracy as you become more comfortable with the technique.

Here are some tips for successful hybrid picking:

Conclusion

Hybrid picking is an important technique for any country musician looking to improve their sound. By combining flatpicking and fingerstyle, you can achieve a more dynamic and nuanced sound that will help you stand out. However, it takes practice and patience to master the technique, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Keep at it, and soon you’ll be adding hybrid picking to your arsenal of skills.

3. Fingerstyle

Fingerstyle is a popular technique used in country music to add a rhythmic and melodic dimension to the guitar sound. This technique involves plucking the strings with the fingers instead of using a pick. It offers more control over the dynamics of the sound produced and adds a personal touch to the playing style. Here are some tips on how to improve your fingerstyle technique:

• Start slow: When learning fingerstyle, start with slow and simple patterns to build up your finger coordination. Gradually increase the tempo as you get comfortable.
• Focus on the thumb: The thumb is responsible for playing the bass notes while the other fingers play the treble notes. Practice alternating between the thumb and fingers to create a steady rhythm.
• Use fingerpicks: Fingerpicks can help you produce a brighter and more consistent sound from your guitar. Experiment with different picks and find the ones that work best for you.
• Practice arpeggios: Arpeggios involve playing the notes of a chord separately. Practice different arpeggio patterns to improve your finger independence and control.
• Try fingerstyle arrangements: Look for fingerstyle arrangements of your favorite country songs and try to learn them. This will help you develop a sense of timing and phrasing in your playing.

Improving your fingerstyle technique takes time and patience, but the effort is well worth it. With practice, you can create beautiful and complex melodies using just your fingers. Experiment with different patterns and techniques to find your own unique sound.

4. Bending Techniques

Bending techniques are some of the most important techniques in country music guitar playing. Bending notes adds an extra layer of expression and emotion to your playing that can really take your playing to the next level. Here are some key bending techniques to consider:

• Half Step Bends: A half step bend is when you bend the string up one fret. This creates a slightly higher pitched note and is often used to add some flavor to a melody.
• Whole Step Bends: A whole step bend is when you bend the string up two frets. This creates a much more pronounced change in pitch and can be used for a more dramatic effect.
• Bending and Releasing: Bending and releasing is when you bend a note up and then release it back down to its original pitch. This can create a very expressive and emotional sound.
• Pre-Bends: A pre-bend is when you bend the note up to pitch before it is played. This technique allows you to create a very precise bend that is perfectly in tune with the music.
• Micro Bends: Micro bends are small bends that only raise the pitch of the note slightly. These are often used to add some subtle flavor to a melody.

It’s important to note that bending techniques take time and practice to master. Developing good intonation is essential to ensure that your bends are in tune with the rest of the music. Practice bending techniques regularly and always listen for pitch accuracy. With time and patience, your bending techniques can become a key component of your country music guitar sound.

5. Vibrato Techniques

One of the key techniques that can take your guitar playing to the next level is vibrato. It adds depth and character to your sound, allowing you to express your emotions through your playing. Here are some vibrato techniques to help enhance your country guitar sound:

Remember, vibrato is a subtle and expressive technique that requires practice and finesse to master. Experiment with different vibrato techniques to find the one that works best for your playing style. Incorporating vibrato into your country guitar playing can take your sound to the next level and add a new dimension to your playing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, adding accessories and pedals to your guitar setup can greatly enhance your sound in country music. By carefully choosing the right pickups, strings, tuners, cables, capos, and straps, you can achieve a rich tone that complements the genre perfectly. However, it’s important to not overlook the potential of pedals to take your sound to the next level. Adding boost, overdrive or distortion, wah, reverb or delay, chorus, compression or volume pedals can allow you to create a uniquely country sound that distinguishes your playing from others.

Along with using accessories and pedals, practicing various techniques such as alternate picking, hybrid picking, fingerstyle, bending, and vibrato can greatly improve your sound. By regularly practicing these techniques, you can become a well-rounded and versatile guitarist in the country music genre.

Remember to experiment with different combinations of accessories, pedals, and techniques until you find the sound that suits you best. With patience, practice, and perseverance, you can continue to refine and enhance your guitar sound in country music. So, keep exploring, keep practicing, and keep playing with passion and creativity!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can accessories really improve my guitar sound?

Absolutely. The right accessories can enhance your tone, sustain, and overall sound quality.

2. What type of pickups are best for country music?

Single coil pickups are the most commonly used pickups in country music for their bright and twangy sound.

3. Why are strings important for my guitar sound?

Strings play a huge role in determining the overall sound of your guitar. Choosing the right strings can greatly improve your tone and playability.

4. What type of tuner should I use?

Clip-on tuners are a popular choice for their ease of use and accuracy. Pedal tuners are also great for gigging musicians who need quick and accurate tuning on stage.

5. Do cables really make a difference in my sound?

Yes, high-quality cables with good shielding can prevent signal loss and interference, resulting in a clearer and stronger signal.

6. What makes a good capo?

A good capo should provide strong and even pressure across all strings, with no buzzing or intonation issues.

7. Why is it important to have a comfortable strap?

A comfortable strap can reduce fatigue and allow for longer playing sessions. It should also securely support the weight of your guitar.

8. What is the purpose of a boost pedal?

A boost pedal can increase the volume and gain of your signal, allowing for more sustain and a fuller sound.

9. What is a compression pedal and how does it benefit my sound?

A compression pedal evens out the dynamic range of your signal, resulting in a smoother and more consistent sound.

10. Can practicing techniques really improve my guitar sound?

Absolutely. Practicing proper techniques can greatly improve your playing and overall sound quality, no matter what accessories you use.

References

• 5 Tone Tips: You’ll Just Sound Better
• Playing styles – Country