Origins: 1920s, Southern and Western United States
Key Characteristics:
- Simple chord progressions and melodies
- Narrative storytelling lyrics
- Traditional instruments: guitar, banjo, fiddle, steel guitar
- Themes of rural life, family, heartbreak, and patriotism
- Distinctive vocal styles often with regional accents
Historical Context: Country music evolved from folk traditions brought by European immigrants, particularly from the British Isles. It developed in parallel with blues but in predominantly white, rural communities.
Subgenres:
- Honky-Tonk: Dance hall music with themes of drinking and heartbreak
- Bluegrass: Acoustic, virtuosic style with Appalachian roots
- Outlaw Country: Rebellious movement against Nashville’s commercial sound
- Country Rock: Fusion with rock elements
- Alt-Country: Independent, experimental approach
Influential Artists:
- Hank Williams (Honky-Tonk)
- Johnny Cash (Outlaw Country)
- Patsy Cline (Nashville Sound)
- Bill Monroe (Bluegrass)
- Dolly Parton (Traditional/Pop Country)
Cultural Impact: Country music has remained deeply connected to American rural identity and values while achieving massive commercial success globally.