Explore the history of country music – from its roots in ballads, hymns and the blues to its mainstream popularity – and meet the unforgettable characters and storytellers who made it “America’s Music.” Directed by Ken Burns.
Dwight Yoakam released “Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc.” in 1986, bringing a rock and roll swagger and hard-hitting style back to country music. At a time when Nashville record labels were embarrassed by the term “hillbilly” music, Yoakam embraced it. He said he was proud of his hillbilly roots and the music’s legacy. The album would sell two million copies.
Johnny Rodriguez grew up in South Texas, 90 miles from the Mexican border. He loved mariachi and was drawn to the country music songs of Jimmie Rodgers, Hank Williams, and Merle Haggard. Singing in English and Spanish, Rodriguez would have 15 consecutive Top 10 hits and become the first Mexican-American to be a major country music star.
What's next for director Ken Burns? Country Music is coming September 15 to PBS. #CountryMusicPBS.
Get a sneak peek at Ken Burns's new sweeping series on the history of country music – from its roots in ballads, hymns and the blues to its mainstream popularity – and meet the unforgettable characters and storytellers who made it “America’s Music.” Premieres Fall 2019. #CountryMusicPBS
Rhiannon Giddens explores the compelling stories and powerful women of 1990s country music. Just one of the stories in Country Music, the sweeping new series from filmmaker Ken Burns – coming to PBS September 15th at 8/7c. #CountryMusicPBS.
Rosanne Cash tells the story of one of her father’s biggest hit songs. Just one of the stories in Country Music, the sweeping new series from filmmaker Ken Burns – coming to PBS September 15th at 8/7c. #CountryMusicPBS.
Dolly Parton explains the wide appeal of her favorite kind of music. Just one of the stories in Country Music, the sweeping new series from filmmaker Ken Burns – Coming to PBS September 15th 8/7c. #CountryMusicPBS.
Musician Marty Stuart explains how the “Grand Ole Opry” became the heart of Nashville. Just one of the stories in Country Music, the sweeping new series from filmmaker Ken Burns – coming to PBS September 15th at 8/7c. #CountryMusicPBS.
The divine inspiration behind the songs of the “Hillbilly Shakespeare:” Hank Williams. Just one of the stories in Country Music, the sweeping new series from filmmaker Ken Burns – coming to PBS September 15th at 8/7c. #CountryMusicPBS.
Join celebrated musicians for a concert celebrating the film by Ken Burns. Hosted by Burns and featuring performances and appearances by Dierks Bentley, Rosanne Cash, Rhiannon Giddens, Vince Gill, Kathy Mattea, Marty Stuart, Dwight Yoakam and more. Tune in and stream to this concert special Sept. 8 at 8/7c.
The filmmakers discuss the origins of their latest project, what they've learned making the series, and how the history of country music really showcases another way to understand the complexities of 20th Century United States.
Learn about the influence of the Carter Cash family, the theme of family that runs throughout country and the unique relationship between country artists and its fans.
Get a glimpse of the filmmaking process, from research to writing to editing and more. Take a sneak peek at the collaboration between country artists and the writers and producers.
Behind the Scenes | Over 100 people were interviewed for this film, including artists from other music genres, all of whom had country music influence their individual musical styles.
Coal miner’s daughter Loretta Lynn describes her songwriting philosophy. Just one of the stories in Country Music, the sweeping new series from filmmaker Ken Burns – coming to PBS September 15th at 8/7c. #CountryMusicPBS.
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