Country Music History and Genres

The earliest record of country music can be found in recordings Southern Appalachian fiddle players made in the late 1910s, but it wasn’t until the early ‘20s that country music as a viable recorded genre took hold.

Explore the many styles of country music with this guide that looks at bluegrass, country-rock, contemporary country music, and beyond.

Bakersfield singers like Merle Haggard and Buck Owens turned up their guitars to win fame and make history. Take a tour through the world of Bakersfield country with this article.

New Traditionalist artists rejuvenated the country music industry in the 1980s.

Disco died, and listeners fled to country music.

Cowpunk is country music with the energy of punk rock.

Nudie suits were the attire of choice for country music's biggest stars.

Country Music 101 - a glossary of common country music terms

Lesson Two: Different Types of Country - Bob Wills: King of Western Swing

Lesson Three: Different Types of Country - Hank Williams and Honky Tonk

Lesson Four: Different Types of Country - Nashville Sound

Lesson Six: Different Types of Country - New Country

Lesson Five: Different Types of Country - Outlaw Country

A short background on the first star of the Grand Ole Opry - DeFord Bailey.

Lesson One: Different Types of Country - What Type of Country Is For You?

Review of Tracey E. W. Laird's book, Louisiana Hayride: Radio & Roots Music Along the Red River.

Where To Find Who's Playing Where

Country 101: Merchandise

Follow the timeline to find out about the artists that shaped the sound of country music.

Here is a look at country music history through the years.