Photo by L.G. Patterson

In each issue, you will find a curated selection of things to listen to or watch, put together by influencers in the community, on-air talent from Zimmer Communications or members of the InsideColumbia staff. For this issue, Blair Murphy, the co-owner of Johnston Paint and Decorating, shares his ultimate country music playlist. Click here to listen to the full playlist. Enjoy!

These songs tell a lot of life stories. Listening to this music will help you understand life situations in anew light.

“4x4xU” – Lainey Wilson
I really like Lainey Wilson’s voice. She always tells a story in her songs and does a great job involving the crowd at her concerts.

“Lies Lies Lies” – Morgan Wallen
I’m a big fan of “The Voice,” and I always knew when I first heard Morgan Wallen on the show thathe would go far. Wallen is exceptional at storytelling through his music, and he’s the biggest name incountry music right now.

“Neon Moon” – Brooks & Dunn
This is hands down one of the top five best country songs of all time. Brooks & Dunn hit a home run with it. I attended the Morgan Wallen concert in Kansas City, where they made a guest appearance and performed it.

“Write This Down” – George Strait
As a 57-year-old, how could I not love George Strait? I used to drive up and down gravel roads,listening to his cassettes on repeat. During a typical concert, he would simply sit on a barstool andstrum his guitar.

“Life Is a Highway” – Rascal Flatts
Rascal Flatts had some great years in the past, and now they’re making a comeback. My daughter, Maddie, knew every word to each song as a young girl. This song reflects on life’s unexpected surprises and how quickly time passes.