Presents an overview of country music and its impact on American culture. Country music has long been a marker of American identity; from popular culture to politics, it has provided a soundtrack to national life. While traditionally associated with the working class, country music’s appeal is far broader than any other popular music style. While this music rose from the people, it is also a product of the popular music industry, and the way the music was marketed to its audience is a key part of its story. This book considers country music’s roots and development, and describes key artists, songs, and musical styles.

Behind the "big bang": The roots of country music -- "Wildwood flowers": Country music goes mainstream: 1923-1930 -- "Back in the saddle again": The birth of the singing cowboy, 1930s-1945 -- "Honky-tonkin'": Postwar country music: 1945-1959 -- "Make the world go away": Nashville and countrypolitan sounds, 1957-1980 -- "Mama tried": Country alternatives, from Bakersfield to Austin, 1965-1980 -- "Friends in low places": Retro-country and country-pop since 1980 -- Coda: Country music in a new millennium.