Memphis Standard

The U.S. Senate has passed a resolution designating October as "National Country Music Month," introduced by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.). This resolution aims to honor the contributions of country music to American culture and encourages citizens to observe the month with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Senator Blackburn delivered remarks on the Senate floor ahead of the passage. She highlighted the upcoming induction of John Anderson, James Burton, and Toby Keith into the Country Music Hall of Fame by the Country Music Association. “Each year since 1961, the Country Music Association has inducted legendary performers, songwriters, and artists... Next month, three new names will join this legendary group,” she said.

Blackburn emphasized that country music reflects core American values such as faith, family, freedom, hope, opportunity, and patriotism. “While each artist has their own distinct sound and style, they share a music tradition that reminds every American of the things that truly matter,” she noted.

She also paid tribute to the Grand Ole Opry: “There’s a reason the Grand Ole Opry... is known as the ‘home of American music.’” Blackburn stressed that now is an opportune moment for Congress to honor country music's contributions to U.S. history.

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