In November, we wrote a review of Van Plating’s excellent “Orange Blossom Child.” The record is not only one of our favorites of 2023 but carries an important legacy forward. Honestly, that review still expresses some of the reasons that her record spoke to us here at Your Tuesday Afternoon Alternative. It was a real, authentic record made by a true original.
Authentic country music is more than just a genre; it’s a soulful narrative that weaves together the threads of everyday life, love, heartbreak, challenge and the “ups and downs” and occasional sideways glance of the anything but simple, human experience. Rooted in the rural landscapes of America but over time about far more than bucolic existence, this musical genre emerged from the folk traditions of the 19th century and has since evolved into a distinct and influential form of artistic expression while exploring the problems of place. One can become too rooted. However, for Van Plating that is not a dilemma without solution. Her music answers the mysteries of place and self in a language that does not speak down to the listener. That authentic puzzle solving is part of what makes Van Plating’s music so damn powerful. Through this record we come to see ourselves and wonder about the places, spaces and home that made us.
At its core, authentic country music resonates with credible, truthful and genuine storytelling. The lyrics often mirror the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people, reflecting the joys and sorrows of life. Artists like Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn, and Dolly Parton have become iconic figures, not only for their musical talents but also for their ability to capture the essence of the human condition through their songs. And equally important is the characteristic of real country music that all too often becomes a punch line of a bad joke — a sense of place. This idea of place, town, community, neighborhood, or area becomes part of the music. Whether the lyric is focused on an effort to escape the clutches of being held down because of where you come from or a reflection of the myriad influences of the place you once called home. Those experiences — in that place — made you who and what you are as a person. Home is inescapable because it lives within you. These musicians, and we count Van Plating among them, have played a pivotal role in shaping of modern country music and contributing to its enduring appeal.
One hallmark of authentic country music is its connection to the roots of lived experience and culture. With influences from folk, blues, and gospel music, country songs tell the stories of hardworking individuals, the beauty of the countryside, and the complexities of human relationships. The twang of a steel guitar, the melancholy of a fiddle, and the honesty in the lyrics create a unique and evocative sound that speaks to the soul.
Furthermore, authentic country music serves as a reflection of one’s cultural identity. It often embraces regional nuances, providing a snapshot of life in that place, that home. Whether it’s the dusty trails of the Southwest, the rolling hills of Appalachia, or the vast expanses of the Midwest, country music paints a vivid picture of the landscapes that have shaped its artists and their stories.
In a world where musical genres continuously evolve, authentic country music stands as a timeless sacrament to the enduring power of storytelling through song. Its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level transcends generations, making it a cherished and enduring form of musical expression. As long as there are stories to tell and emotions to convey, authentic country music will continue to resonate, carrying the rich tradition of music into the future. And Van Plating with her spirited and vibrant “Orange Blossom Child” carries that tradition forward.
Our sixth installment of 11 Questions with… features one of the best songwriters in the Dayton Music Scene! Charlie Jackson burst onto our consciousness with his solo record ‘These Days’ (released in late 2015-early 2016) that featured some of the most well crafted, mature and relatable songs about the problems of real life. Wanting a broader sonic textures for his songs, Charlie recruited Denny Cottle, Ricky Terrell and Brad Bowling for ‘
Dr. J: What can you share with us about when and how you both started recording your latest record, 
Dr. J: You have worked closely with Patrick Himes at 
Dr. J: The King & Queen of Dayton Country is a very different record than E.P. and Charlie Jackson and the Heartland Railway, how do these records compare? What influenced your work on each of them?
Dr. J: ‘Call This Home’ – the first single from The King & Queen of Dayton Country – addresses forms of love and support that someone finds at home – is that a correct interpretation of the title? If that is correct, did you intend to address how difficult it is to make a loving home or did the song evolve in that direction over time?
CJ: I can draw inspiration from just about anywhere, but my biggest muse has definitely always been Amanda. In the love songs (even if they aren’t autobiographical) I use her as the focal point of the love itself. For the sad songs and the heartbreak songs I recall back to our times apart in the rockier years of our early relationship, or I look at what I now know I would be missing out on if that love wasn’t there. Now, with this new level where I’m writing songs about her and for her to sing, she’s even more of a muse than she already was. Not just lyrically, but even the way I arrange the music revolves more around her. I write in keys that showcase her as much as possible. When I can coax her out of her shyness and get her to sing out, especially in her higher register, she has this natural vibrato in her voice that is just beautiful.
Dr. J: How would you describe the music that you typically create? How has that process evolved or changed over time (especially as you think about your journey from These Days to Charlie Jackson and the Heartland Railway to The King & Queen of Dayton Country)?
Dr. J: What is next for you musically? Do you have plans to record again with The Heartland Railway? How would you describe your thoughts at this point for your next project?
Dr. J: What is your favorite song to perform with Amanda? What is your favorite song to perform with the Heartland Railway? What makes it a current favorite in your performances? Do you enjoy Live Streaming?
Dr. J: What is one message you would hope that listeners find in the unique nature of your latest music?
The first couple of Dayton Country Music have their first single from their upcoming debut record! Harkening back to the classic country duets and duos of classic country past, Charlie & Amanda craft songs that address and document the challenges of real life with heart, sincerity and authenticity. Their music reminds us of the legendary country duos of Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn, George Jones and Tammy Wynette, Kenny Rodgers and Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash and June Carter. The most appropriately titled full length album “The King & Queen of Dayton Country” is available for pre-order now at at the duo’s 
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