I heard this second hand so forgive the paraphrasing. Thelonious Monk was asked by a music writer what kind of music he listened to. Monk replied, "All kinds." The writer asked, "Even country?" Monk said, "I don't think you heard me - ALL KINDS."
Charlie Parker was known to play Hank Williams and Lefty Frizzell almost exclusively on the juke box.
Not sure why I think I need the jazz cred to set this up. I understand why people hate the stuff that's played on country radio today. Here's a dose of the real thing. Doyle Holly on gold sparkle Jazz bass, Willie Cantu on drums, Tom Brumley on steel and Dandy Don Rich on matching sparkle Tele and singing lead. (That's Buck Owens' band for those that aren't hip.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SA2N7XbaG4I
