The quote above is attributed to Harlan Howard (1927-2002), an American songwriter primarily known for his contributions to country music, penning songs for Patsy Cline, Charlie Rich, Johnny Cash, and a host of other first-generation country artists. It was his way of describing what makes a great country song.

More recently, it’s the title of a great podcast on SiriusXM by Duff McKagan (bassist for Guns ‘n’ Roses) and his wife Susan Holmes-McKagan. It\’s well worth your time every week.