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Country Music

“Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town,” Written by Mel Tillis

Mel Tillis tells the true story behind his hit song and all its famous covers. Kenny Rogers and Alice Randall share their thoughts around anti-war songs in country music.

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Country Music | Broadcast Version
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1:55:40
Country music works to stay true to its roots as the genre skyrockets to new heights.
Spanish Version | “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way?”
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2:21:01
Witness a vibrant era in country music, thanks to mainstream crossovers and a new sound.
Spanish Version | "Will the Circle Be Unbroken?”
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1:52:55
Learn what draws artists like Bob Dylan to Nashville as the Vietnam War rages.
Spanish Version | "The Sons and Daughters of America"
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1:55:47
New country artists like Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride reflect a changing America.
Spanish Version | "I Can’t Stop Loving You”
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1:52:30
Visit Memphis during the era of rockabilly, and see how Patsy Cline rises to stardom.
Spanish Version | “The Hillbilly Shakespeare”
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1:54:53
Meet the country stars of post-war America, including the Hillbilly Shakespeare.
Spanish Version | “Hard Times”
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1:54:27
Nashville transforms into Music City as America falls for singing cowboys and Texas Swing.
Spanish Version | “The Rub”
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1:53:07
So-called “hillbilly music” reaches new listeners and launches its first stars’ careers.
Broadcast Version
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:54:03
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
2:19:24
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
1:51:17
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
1:54:09
New country artists like Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride reflect a changing America.
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