Country rock is a subgenre of American roots music that blends the sounds of country and rock. It's not a new hybrid genre, but rather an expansion of its own origin. The history of country rock music can be traced back to the early 1970s when bands such as The New Riders Of The Purple Sage, The Jayhawks, and many more emerged with a sound that combined elements of bluegrass, rock n’ roll, and even punk. Several artists are commonly associated with the origin of this subgenre. Pushed by the punk craze in 1976, Creedence Clearwater Revival lead singer John Fogerty released "The Blue Ridge Rangers" project which featured country songs instead of the band's usual style. In 1978, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers released "The Great American Canyon” which was inspired by country music again as well as old recordings from Roy Acuff and Ernest Williams. With all these events in mind, here is an explanation of what is country-rock music in America? Keep reading to find out...
Merging Elements of Country and Rock Music
When people think of country and rock music, they often think of two distinct genres that have very little in common. However, country rock music is a fusion of these two genres. It was originally developed by musicians who wanted to create a “Country and Western” sound. Later on, rock music was added into the mix to create a unique new genre. This musical fusion is why many people consider country rock music to be a subgenre of American roots music. It combines rock music with the country genre. This genre emerged during the 1970s when music artists began to blend country music and rock music.
When the genre first developed, it was primarily influenced by artists such as Gram Parsons, The Byrds, and The Rolling Stones. Over time, this genre became a fusion of country, rock, and even folk music. The most important thing to remember is that country rock is a truly American musical style.
Why is it Important to Understand What is Country Rock Music?
This genre has been particularly important in the history of country music because it has given artists the chance to experiment with new musical styles. Over the past several decades, country music has been criticized for being too similar to one another. This has made it difficult for country music to remain relevant to listeners. Country rock music was developed to create a more exciting and modern sound for country music. This genre has served as a source of inspiration for many popular country songs. It has even helped to launch the careers of some of the most successful musicians in the industry.
Musicians Influenced by This Genre
There are many musicians who have been influenced by the country-rock genre. Some of the most famous musicians in the industry have found success while experimenting with the country-rock sound. You can often find this genre of music among artists who play country-rock music. Here are a few musicians who have been influenced by the country-rock genre.
- Bob Dylan - Bob Dylan has often been associated with the country-rock genre. He is a well-known musician who experimented with the country-rock sound. Many of his most famous songs are associated with the country-rock genre.
- Johnny Cash - Johnny Cash was another musician who experimented with the country-rock genre. He is known for songs like “Ring of Fire” and “Sunday Morning Coming Down” that are associated with this genre.
- Willie Nelson - Willie Nelson is another famous musician who experimented with the country-rock genre. He is known for songs such as “Whiskey River” and “On the Road Again” that are often associated with this genre.
Artists Who Play Country Rock Music
As mentioned above, many artists have experimented with the country-rock sound. Here are a few artists who are commonly associated with the country-rock genre.
- The Allman Brothers - The Allman Brothers are a well-known band who have experimented with the country-rock sound. They are known for their song “Blue Sky” which is associated with the country-rock genre.
- The Band - The Band is another well-known band that has experimented with the country-rock genre. Their song “The Weight” is often associated with the country-rock genre.
- Creedence Clearwater Revival - Creedence Clearwater Revival is a well-known band that is associated with the country-rock genre. They are known for songs such as “Fortunate Son” and “Bad Moon Rising”.
- Alabama: This band is known for their hit songs “If You’re Gonna Play in Texas” and “Song of the South” which are classic examples of country rock.
- Alan Jackson: This band is known for their hit songs “Tightrope” and “Drive” which are classic examples of country rock.
- Brad Paisley: This band is known for their hit songs “Alcohol” and “This Is Country Music” which are classic examples of country rock.
- Chris Stapleton: This band is known for their hit songs “Either Way” and “Tennessee Whiskey” which are classic examples of country rock.