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Changes in music are like wars; they seem to happen about every 20 years. For example, most of you are familiar with
how country music has changed. The big blow-up happened when they added electrical hookups to the instruments, allowing amplification.
It split many country bands between those who wanted the new sound that amplification allowed, and those who wanted no part
of it. But as I remember it, country music started a change when Gene Autry's band started using a muted trumpet on his "Melody
Ranch" radio show. Then some band allowed a set of drums for its background rhythm. Before those days, country music
was known for its squeaky fiddles and a stand-up bass fiddle that could hardly be heard. Same for a piano when one was available;
its pretty sound was usually lost.
But electrical amplification changed all that. Suddenly, the lead guitar picked out the melody, the electric bass made
a background rhythm that stood out, and the piano took a front seat. Pretty girl singers replaced Kitty Wells, and then Bing
Crosby recorded a few country tunes like, "Lay that Pistol Down," leading C&W into new respectability, and the
squeaky fiddle's days were numbered. And now people who remember the "B.A." days (before amplification) will tell
you that Country Music isn't country anymore.
And Gospel music has also taken a turn, replacing the old hymns with choruses, and it seems to be pervading most denominations.
In many instances it has taken on a rock music sound, and is causing rumblings among older Christians. But we old-time Christians
apparently must get used to it. The world changes.
But there is one consolation; God never changes. We still must come to him the same way they did in the days of Matthew,
Mark, Luke, John, Peter, and teams like Paul and Silas. Whatever your age or music preference, the way to Heaven is by giving
your heart to Christ and living as the Bible teaches. This is the way for all, from the little old lady who has never hurt
a flea, to the hardest criminal who has done much sinning. each must be Born Again by accepting Christ and His teachings,
just as Jesus told Nicodemus when he asked Jesus what he needed to do to be saved. (That's in the book of John chapter three).
Read it and "do thou likewise."
37BT Bill Thornton February 24, 2005
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