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.
Program WebsiteFunding for Country Music was provided by Bank of America, the Annenberg Foundation, the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, Belmont University, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Rosalind P. Walter and by members of ‘The Better Angels Society,’ including: The Blavatnik Family Foundation, the Schwartz/Reisman Foundation, the Pfeil Foundation, Diane and Hal Brierley, John and Catherine Debs, the Fullerton Family Charitable Fund, the Perry and Donna Golkin Family Foundation, Jay Alix and Una Jackman, Mercedes T. Bass, Fred and Donna Seigel, Gilchrist and Amy Berg, James R. Berdell Foundation, David Bonderman, Deborah P. and Jonathan T. Dawson, Senator Bill and Tracy Frist, Susan and David Kreisman, Rocco and Debby Landesman, Lillian Lovelace, John and Leslie McQuown, Mindy's Hope Foundation, the Segal Family Foundation, Michelle Smith. Major funding was provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and PBS.
10:07
Music row musicians discuss their days as members of the fabled ”A Team.”
03:45
The late Merle Haggard discusses his songwriting and other artists discuss his impact.
04:18
Mel Tillis tells the true story behind his hit song.
02:59
Tom T. Hall tells the story of how he came to write his famous song.
15:14
The songwriters, producer, and fans discuss this classic song's genesis and significance.
11:57
Rosanne Cash and John Carter Cash and the Oak Ridge Boys discuss Johnny Cash's faith.
33:23
Interviewees pick they would send into outer space to represent country music.