DOWN HOME MUSIC.

Byline: KEITH RYAN CARTWRIGHT

They're both looked upon as a pair of country music's elite singers, and yet they've had two rather distinctly different careers.

Alan Jackson, oft referred to as "country's long, tall cool one," is a throwback of sorts to the classic artists of yesteryear who sang simple songs about routine life for everyday people.

Martina McBride, on the other hand, has set aside her stunningly good looks and focused her powerful singing prowess on emotionally charged tunes of strong-willed women.

"I'd like to be known as someone who records songs that are intelligent and emotional," McBride said. "I don't want to be …