Against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and major social movements, legendary artists like Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Tammy Wynette become superstars.
Also discussed during this episode:
- Kris Kristofferson’s legacy as a songwriter, and how his family disowned him while he made that pursuit
- Johnny Cash showcasing a wide range of talent on his popular network television show
- How the folk revival led to a renewed interest in bluegrass music
- The disbanding of Flatt & Scruggs
- The making of Will the Circle Be Unbroken?, the landmark Nitty Gritty Dirt Band album
What did you think of Episode 6?
The background song for this era should be “Kay”, by John Wesley Ryles: teenage pregnancy, anti-war soldiers, and the man left behind when the woman hits it big. One of the great country songs about country music – a nice pairing with “Gone Country”.