Party Pop Queens in Bedazzled Country Coats

Sometimes I'm upset with myself for how much work I have to put into being happy.  It comes so easily for some people, but for me it seems my natural state is to be dissatisfied and/or anxious.  Ever since I realized just ignoring it doesn't work, I've struggled to pay enough attention to myself to give myself the things (be it food, rest, or fun) that I need.  I don't want to distract myself; I want to take care of myself.  And I think that mentality, indulgent but necessary self-attention, is what I love about these albums from the last year - Younger Now by Miley Cyrus, Joanne by Lady Gaga, and, of course, Rainbow by Kesha.

What was it about this past year that caused these women, known for being pretty out there, to go back to (or for the first time to) country roots?  Maybe this year was difficult, and we all needed to quiet down and reassess.  In some ways it's turning to something quieter, less heavily produced, and more reflective.  But, we're still going to bedazzle our jackets, y'all.

Some dismiss music by women like this - women who don't shy away from utilizing their sexuality,  talk about reckless parties, or have outrageous, attention-seeking wardrobe choices.  And while I didn't particularly care for Kesha's earlier work, when I listened, I always imagined some sort of melancholy irony behind her voice.  (Songs like "Die Young" seemed too on the nose to be completely oblivious.)  Regardless of whether or not I liked their music, I always admired their ability to unapologetically take up space in a way I was unwilling to do.

It's no wonder that two of these albums have a track with the OG Bedazzled Jacket, Dolly Parton.  All three of these albums are excellent and came out just when I needed them.  Thanks, ladies.

Excessively Diverted,

BBP