American Roots Music

Overview

Travel back through the 20th century to explore the roots of American music and discover the pioneers of the musical forms that combined on American soil to become the most pervasive music throughout the world.

Episodes

S01E01 When First Unto This Country

October 29, 2001

Trace the emergence of roots music in America from its European and African origins through its maturation into American musical genres such as spirituals, blues, country and gospel. For the first time, American “folk” music...

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S01E02 This Land Is Your Land

November 5, 2001

Explore a period in which different strands of roots music become commercialized and visible through movies, television, radio and records. Concurrently, “folk music” is redefined to include newly written music for songs that often deal...

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S01E03 The Times They Are a-Changin'

November 12, 2001

Trace the continuing emergence of American roots music through a national awareness catalyzed by the folk and blues revivals. Gospel music's golden years are explored in this episode, from the Golden Gate Quartet to Rosetta...

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S01E04 All My Children of the Sun

November 19, 2001

Explore the reassessment of diverse ethnic musics previously excluded from American “folk” music, and their inclusion in a redefined “American roots music.” This episode describes the flourishing of Cajun culture in southwest Louisiana, the popularization...

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