Country Music: A Film by Ken Burns

2019
4.4
18 reviews
TV-14
Rating
Eligible
Watch in a web browser or on supported devices Learn More

Season 1 episodes (11)

1 The Rub (Beginnings –1933)
9/15/19
After centuries of percolating in America’s immigrant and racial mix, particularly in the American South, what was first called “hillbilly music” begins reaching more people through the new technologies of phonographs and radio.
2 Hard Times (1933 –1945)
9/16/19
During the Great Depression and World War II, country music thrives and reaches bigger audiences. Gene Autry sets off a craze for singing cowboys, Bob Wills adapts jazz’s Big Band sound to create Texas Swing, and Roy Acuff becomes a star.
3 The Hillbilly Shakespeare (1945 –1953)
9/17/19
Country music adapts to the cultural changes of post-war society. Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs transform string band music into Bluegrass. Out of the bars comes a new sound and songs about drinking, cheating, and heartbreak: Honky Tonk.
4 I Can’t Stop Loving You (1953 –1963)
9/18/19
In Memphis, the confluence of blues and hillbilly music at Sun Studios gives birth to “rockabilly,” the precursor of rock and roll. Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash are at the forefront. Nashville has become Music City USA.
5 The Sons and Daughters Of America (1964 –1968)
9/22/19
During a time of upheaval, country music reflects the changes in American society. Loretta Lynn performs songs that speak on behalf of women. Charley Pride becomes a country star. Merle Haggard becomes the “Poet of the Common Man.”
6 Will the Circle Be Unbroken (1968-1972)
9/23/19
With the Vietnam War intensifying, America is more divided than ever. Country music is not immune to the divisions. Kris Kristofferson abandons his military career, becomes a writer whose lyricism sets a new standard for country songs.
7 Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way? (1973-1983)
9/24/19
Defining country music is debated as never before, and the argument sparks a vibrant era. Dolly Parton crosses over to mainstream success. Willie Nelson finds creative freedom in Texas. Emmylou Harris influences a new generation of artists.
8 Don’t Get Above Your Raisin’ (1984 –1996)
9/25/19
As country music’s popularity skyrockets, the genre confronts the question of whether it can also stay true to its roots. The success of the “New Traditionalists”—Reba McEntire, Randy Travis, the Judds, and Dwight Yoakam—suggests it can.
104 Bonus: Dolly Parton: “Pretty Fair Maid”
9/16/19
Dolly Parton sings “Pretty Fair Maid."
105 Bonus: “Will the Circle Be Unbroken:” Country Music’s National Anthem
9/16/19
More discussion of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.”
107 Bonus: Elvis: The Hillbilly Cat
9/16/19
More on Elvis and rockabilly.

About this show

Ken Burns's eight-part, 16-hour documentary series, COUNTRY MUSIC, chronicles the history of a uniquely American art form, focusing on the biographies of the fascinating characters who created it.

Ratings and reviews

4.4
18 reviews
deborah elliott
December 30, 2021
Unfortunately Ken Burns has no feel for country music whatever. This series has all the emotional appeal of a flat pancake. It's accurate but antiseptic. Country music singers were people who were steeped in hard living, the struggles of Southern working class people trying to hang onto their self respect. Ken Burns is so busy trying to be "objective," he misses the heart and soul of country music.
8 people found this review helpful
Did you find this helpful?
Hansel James Matthews
March 24, 2022
I love all of her movies and her music and she's great in everything thing she does.
Did you find this helpful?
Michael Bartleson
April 10, 2021
Nothing because you have to buy it and I do not want to buy it So make it free and i will like it
3 people found this review helpful
Did you find this helpful?

Rate this show

Tell us what you think.