While “pop” has become a genre synonymous with contagious tunes and well-produced backing tracks, it’s important to recognize just how far-reaching the genre is. From pop/rock to alternative country, you’ll find a wide array of artists in the Top 40.

This week’s Poptarts pick falls somewhere between pop, singer/songwriter and country. Caitlyn Smith is a country artist with a knack for writing memorable melodies with emotionally evocative messages. Her song “Crushed and Created” takes this ability to a new level with synthesizer pads behind a simple piano and vocal arrangement. The song fills out with the entrance of some light drums and bass, adding wait to the entrance of the chorus. The song is so well down, in fact, that it was chosen for placement in several MTV shows including The Real World, True Life and The Hills. Incidentally, her song “Come Alive” was also featured on The Hills. Now, Smith bases herself out of Nashville, TN and just recently signed with Stage Three Publishing as a staff songwriter.

Check out Smith’s profile on OurStage to hear her Top 10 ranking songs including “My Lover’s Gone and Left Me”.