Skip to main content
Access to this video is a benefit for members through
Back to Show
Country Music

“Hard Times” (1933 – 1945)

Season 1 Episode 2

Watch as Nashville becomes the heart of the country music industry. The genre grows in popularity during the Great Depression and World War II as America falls in love with singing cowboys, Texas Swing and the Grand Ole Opry’s Roy Acuff.

Watch Preview
Support Provided By
“Don’t Get Above Your Raisin’” (1984 – 1996)
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:55:40
Country music works to stay true to its roots as the genre skyrockets to new heights.
“Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way?” (1973 – 1983)
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:21:01
Witness a vibrant era in country music, thanks to mainstream crossovers and a new sound.
"Will the Circle Be Unbroken?” (1968 – 1972)
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:52:54
Learn what draws artists like Bob Dylan to Nashville as the Vietnam War rages.
“The Sons and Daughters of America” (1964 – 1968)
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:54:08
New country artists like Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride reflect a changing America.
“I Can’t Stop Loving You” (1953 – 1963)
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:50:52
Visit Memphis during the era of rockabilly, and see how Patsy Cline rises to stardom.
“The Hillbilly Shakespeare” (1945 – 1953)
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:53:14
Meet the country stars of post-war America, including the Hillbilly Shakespeare.
“The Rub” (Beginnings – 1933)
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:51:29
So-called “hillbilly music” reaches new listeners and launches its first stars’ careers.
Active loading indicator