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Back to: Country Music
S1E3
“The Hillbilly Shakespeare” (1945 – 1953)
September 15, 2019
Episode 3 | See how the bluegrass sound spreads in post-war America, and meet honky-tonk star Hank Williams, whose songs of surprising emotional depth are derived from his troubled and tragically short life.
Full Episodes
“The Sons and Daughters of America” (1964 – 1968)
S1E5
New country artists like Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride reflect a changing America.
"Will the Circle Be Unbroken?” (1968 – 1972)
S1E6
Learn what draws artists like Bob Dylan to Nashville as the Vietnam War rages.
“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way?” (1973 – 1983)
S1E7
Witness a vibrant era in country music, thanks to mainstream crossovers and a new sound.
“Don’t Get Above Your Raisin’” (1984 – 1996)
S1E8
Country music works to stay true to its roots as the genre skyrockets to new heights.
“The Rub” (Beginnings – 1933)
S1E1
So-called “hillbilly music” reaches new listeners and launches its first stars’ careers....
“Hard Times” (1933 – 1945)
S1E2
Nashville transforms into Music City as America falls for singing cowboys and Texas Swing....
“I Can’t Stop Loving You” (1953 – 1963)
S1E4
Visit Memphis during the era of rockabilly, and see how Patsy Cline rises to stardom.
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