Love You Like Appalachia

Essie Country’s
Real Country Music
Song of the Week
September 6-12, 2026

Love You Like Appalachia
by Lanie Gardner
Released 09/05/2026
(Source: Spotify)

Intro by Gene Johns 

This week’s Essie Country’s Real Country Music Song of the Week leans toward the folk/Appalachian side of country music rather than traditional country. And that’s perfectly okay, because Appalachian music is one of the historical roots from which country music developed.

Some may classify this song as Americana. Others may call it folk-country or Appalachian country. One thing is certain—it’s not pop-country, country-rock, or contemporary Nashville country radio. It is country music with a strong folk/Appalachian influence. It’s my kind of country.

With its emphasis on storytelling, Appalachian musical influences, and intimate singer-songwriter style, “Love You Like Appalachia” by Lanie Gardner is country in a folksy kind of way. Lanie’s warm, controlled, soulful vocal adds a touch of sultry charm while maintaining a natural, roots-oriented authenticity rather than a polished pop vocal style.

It’s the kind of song and performance that makes it hard to understand why anyone wouldn’t enjoy it. So kick back and enjoy the melody, the Appalachian imagery, and Lanie’s relaxed, smoky, sultry vocal by clicking on the video below: