Take a tip from The Clash, country kids

Local country music legend Rick Tittle recently sent me a music column bemoaning the lack of historical perspective among the latest generation of country artists.
The Faith and Keith wannabes don't know their Maybelles from their Farons, and it shows in their increasingly bland musical output.
I was reminded of the importance of knowing your musical history while walking on the treadmill just now, listening to The Clash.
Although they began as invective-spewing punkers, Strummer, Jones and the gang quickly infused their music with a heart-felt love of reggae. Later, the developing band added other musical styles to their palette, including blues, 50s rock and even country, culminating in their landmark achievement, the "London Calling" double album.
As a result, The Clash continue to offer towering inspiration to rock artists -- just ask Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong.
While the punk novelty of bands such as the Lurkers, Sham 69 and even the Sex Pistols fades daily, the music of the Clash grows in stature.
That's the lesson for the new country artists.
Sure, your constituency of teeny boppers and on-the-run soccer moms loves your music now, but what about shelf life?
Will these same people embrace your sound as they mature and seek more substantive musical offerings?