Rockin’ for the heartland.

The article explores the concept of the "heartland" in American culture and politics. The term refers to a nebulous region in the Midwest, often associated with small towns, farmland, and traditional values. The heartland has been a significant factor in American politics, with presidential candidates appealing to its Jefersonian ideals and nostalgia for rural America. The article also discusses the genre of "heartland rock," which emerged in the 1970s and focuses on the struggles and aspirations of blue-collar workers. The genre has been both disillusioned and anthemic, reflecting the changing cultural landscape of America. [Extracted from the article]