Season 1: Country Music | Broadcast Version
So-called “hillbilly music” reaches new listeners and launches its first stars’ careers.
“The Rub” (Beginnings – 1933)
Nashville transforms into Music City as America falls for singing cowboys and Texas Swing.
“Hard Times” (1933 – 1945)
“The Hillbilly Shakespeare” (1945 – 1953)
Meet the country stars of post-war America, including the Hillbilly Shakespeare.
“The Hillbilly Shakespeare” (1945 – 1953)
“I Can’t Stop Loving You” (1953 – 1963)
Visit Memphis during the era of rockabilly, and see how Patsy Cline rises to stardom.
“I Can’t Stop Loving You” (1953 – 1963)
“The Sons and Daughters of America” (1964 – 1968)
New country artists like Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride reflect a changing America.
“The Sons and Daughters of America” (1964 – 1968)
"Will the Circle Be Unbroken?” (1968 – 1972)
Learn what draws artists like Bob Dylan to Nashville as the Vietnam War rages.
"Will the Circle Be Unbroken?” (1968 – 1972)
“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way?” (1973 – 1983)
Witness a vibrant era in country music, thanks to mainstream crossovers and a new sound.
“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way?” (1973 – 1983)
“Don’t Get Above Your Raisin’” (1984 – 1996)
Country music works to stay true to its roots as the genre skyrockets to new heights.