History/Origin
Country music originated as a popular rock and roll genre in the United States of America in the late 1920s. Country music got its roots from the folk music of Appalachian Mountains, old school blues, gospel music and Celtic music. Country music is a blend of all the above genres. This kind of music was actually originated in the southern United States such as Texas, Alabama, South Carolina and many more. People usually compare Country music with Blues music and there are a few similarities to it. The term “Country music” was formed as the music feels like driving along the countryside of America as the lyrics too talk about the mountains, rivers and other natural aspects of the country.

Artists who made it famous
Hank Williams Sr.,Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline ,Ronnie Milsap ,Kenny Rogers ,George Strait ,Linda Ronstadt ,The Eagles ,Chet Atkins , John Denver, Willie Nelson

Best known proponents today
Toby Keith, Keith Urban, Dixie Chicks, Martina McBride, Shania Twain, Tim McGraw, Reba McIntire, Garth Brooks, Jewel

High points/Memorable Moments
Country music created a rage in America during the 1950s and the whole world was a witness to it. Due to this rage, many people all around the country wanted to become a Country musician which also caused many people to enter this industry. Country music was not just another musical genre but a trend or a lifestyle to some people. Country music also traveled far and wide with music originating from U.K., Germany, Sweden and other countries. Many people cite Elvis Presley as their main influence as he did justice to both Country music and rock and roll music. Nashville is considered to be the home of Country music and each year thousands of musicians show up at the city for a chance to be recognized. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum was started in the year of 1961 to commemorate the Country musicians for excellence in this field. Each year a Country musician is entered into the Hall of Fame.

Trivia

John Denver wrote the song “On the Wings of a Dream” dedicated to his father after he passed away.

Shania Twain was nominated for six Grammy Awards in 1999.

Alan Jackson worked in the mailroom of TNN before getting his major break.

Quotes:

“True country music is honesty, sincerity, and real life to the hilt.”
- Garth Brooks

“You have to listen to what resonates within your own gut. You find your direction there. Your voice comes out.”
- Kathy Mattea

Famous Song
Garth Brooks – No Fences (1990); Elvis Presley – Elvis (1956); Chet Atkins – Picks the Best (1962); John Denver – Windsong (1975); Dixie Chicks – Home (2002); Johnny Cash – I Walk the Line (1964)