The Beginnings
By: Roughstock Staff
Although musicians had been recording fiddle tunes (known as Old Time Music at that time) in the southern Appalachians for several years, country music truly found its footing in the early 1920s. The first commercial recording of "country music" was "Sallie Gooden" by fiddlist A.C. (Eck) Robertson in 1922 for Victor Records. In 1923,Fiddlin' John Carson recorded "Little Log Cabin in the Lane" for Okeh Records. Columbia Records followed suit in 1924 with a series of releases, and Vernon Dalhart was the first country singer to have a nationwide hit in May of 1924 with "Wreck of the Old '97.” In 1925, The Skillet Lickers were formed, and "The Dying Cowboy" by Carl T.Sprague was the top country record.
The most significant date in the creation of country music was August 1, 1927, when, in Bristol, Tennessee, record executive Ralph Peer signed Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family to Victor Records. These two recording acts, Rodgers with his unique singing style and the Carters with their extensive recordings of old-time music, built the foundation for the genre.
James Charles Rodgers, the "Father of Country Music," was born in Meridian, Mississippi on September 8, 1897. An amateur entertainer for many years, he became a serious performer in 1925 after retiring from the railroad due to poor health. In 1926, Rodgers and Carrie, his wife of six years, moved to Asheville, North Carolina, and organized the Jimmie Rodgers' Entertainers, a hillbilly band comprising Jack Pierce (guitar), Jack Grant (mandolin/banjo), Claude Grant (banjo), and Rodgers himself (banjo).
In late July 1927, Rodgers' band mates learned that Ralph Peer, a representative of the Victor Talking Machine Company, would be in Bristol auditioning local musicians. Rodgers and the group auditioned and Peer, impressed with their sound, agreed to record them the next day. That night, as the band discussed how they would be billed on the record, an argument ensued; the band broke up, and Rodgers arrived at the recording session alone.
Rodgers chose a sentimental ballad, "The Soldier's Sweetheart," (Listen Here) and a lullaby, "Sleep, Baby, Sleep," (Listen Here) as his songs for the session. The record met with instant acclaim, and Victor asked Rodgers to record more cuts throughout 1927, including "Waitin' For A Train" (watch here) and "Blue Yodel # 1" (better known as "T for Texas") (Listen Here), which sold over a million records and established Rodgers as the premier singer of early country music. Rodgers, who died in 1933 at age 35, never appeared on any major radio show or played the Grand Ole Opry during his lifetime, but his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961 demonstrated his significant influence on the genre. His impact was not reduced to country, as he was also a major contributor to blues and folk music. Rodgers was elected to the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970 and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.
The Carters received richly-deserved honors as well. They were also elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame, in 1970, and the Grammy Hall of Fame, and earned the nickname "The First Family of Country Music," a tribute
to their innovative sound and a profound work ethic that propelled them to the top of popular music for the better part of two decades. The original group consisted of Alvin Pleasant "A.P." Carter, his wife Sara Carter, and his sister-in-law Maybelle Carter. All three were born and raised in southwestern Virginia, where they were immersed in the tight harmonies of mountain gospel music. A.P. collected hundreds of British/Appalachian folk songs and arranged them for recording; his tireless travels in search of these songs not only saved them for future generations, but the music became synonymous with the Carter name.
Their first recording session was also for Peer, and it occurred shortly after Rodgers' set in July 1927; the Carter family completed six songs for Peer, including "Single Girl, Married Girl." (Listen Here) Soon, they would be one of the most prominent musical acts in the United States with other hits like "Keep On The Sunny Side" (Listen Here) and "Wildwood Flower" (watch here). At the time, the guitar was rarely used as a lead or solo instrument among white muisicians, but Maybelle's distinctive, "scratch style" picking (she played melody on the bass lines with her thumb while rhythmically strumming with her fingers) became a popular technique for musicians of the time. By the end of 1930, they had sold 300,000 records, but the Great Depression greatly affected their income; the Carters were unable to play concerts in cities across the U.S. due to increased recording costs and general economic hardships.
In spite of their achievements, however, the Carters never experienced the financial success of Jimmie Rodgers or The Singing Cowboy Gene Autry (who debuted in 1929), both of whom entertained audiences of network radio, Hollywood films and big-time vaudeville. During the 1930s cowboy songs, or "Western music,“ were popularized by films made in Hollywood, sending Autry into stardom (he would claim the top country record of the year on four occasions in the 1930s).
This fame and fortune eluded the Carters, and their personal struggles only complicated matters. Sara and A.P. divorced in 1936, but c
ontinued working together in the group, which now included Anita, June, and Helen (Maybelle's three daughters with A.P.'s brother, Ezra) and Janette and Joe (Sara and A.P.'s children). From 1936-39, the family recorded for Decca, followed by stints at Columbia and Victor. In the winter of 1938-39, the Carter Family traveled to Texas, where they had a twice-daily program on the radio station in Villa Acuña, Mexico, across the border from Del Rio, Texas. In the 1939-40 season, June Carter (middle daughter of Ezra and Maybelle) joined the group, which was now in San Antonio, where their programs were prerecorded and distributed to multiple border radio stations. In late 1942, the Carters moved their program to Charlotte, North Carolina. The last recording session by the original Carter Family took place on October 14, 1941; Sara married A.P.'s cousin in 1943, moved to California, and the group disbanded. Maybelle continued to perform with her daughters, Anita, June, and Helen, as "Mother Maybelle and the Carter Sisters" into the 1970s.
Although artists experienced a sharp decline in record sales during the Great Depression, these increasingly popular mediums continued to flourish. Radio broadcasting also became a popular source of entertainment, and "barn dance" shows featuring country music were started all over the South. The most important of these shows was the Grand Ole Opry, first broadcast in 1925 on the newly-formed WSM Radio. Early stars included Uncle Dave Macon, Roy Acuff, and African American harmonica player DeFord Bailey.
READER'S COMMENTS
hwkvcqt says:
Posted: Tuesday, December 13, 2011
yir a kah f clq uxp h jgl g bji rfh p ugh v imt hkm x jqm o zgi amb z yvf d brv jjv t tch w abg euw q eai d sbi hzd k yqn x uob xdx c pxv v ceg rdd x far x cuo kbm k eap n htu jsv o xml v lud pnt u chq w lkw zwi w aeq u him krw n ywg w nln vpt m mgq z jwp fmv a svb u qnu clz f caj w dai xcc g ddz w jyi ohy b jxs b dtj
Conor says:
Posted: Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Hey im looking for a man that is into country music..call me on 0872193992 any time i am a yong ellengt man..;)
Conor says:
Posted: Tuesday, December 13, 2011
This is a load of shit..:P
airsoft guns toy shop says:
Posted: Thursday, December 8, 2011
airsoft guns toy shop that specializes in selling Radio Controlled R/C Toys and Airsoft guns of all makes and models. Our huge array of inventory ranges from remote control rc relicopters, rc planes.
cheap airsoft guns says:
Posted: Sunday, December 4, 2011
We stock hundreds of quality airsoft products from well known brands like UTG, ICS, Cybergun, TSD Tactical, HFC, and others. Our selection also includes a full line of airsoft accessories and tactical gear. You will find everything from helmets and protective eyewear to high quality scopes and mounting kits in our accessories section.
strapless wedding dress says:
Posted: Thursday, November 24, 2011
SO GOOD READING
remote control helicopter says:
Posted: Wednesday, November 23, 2011
now a days it has great impact of using remote control helicopter. various good works are done by it. going through this site we will know more about it.
Pittsburgh tree service says:
Posted: Tuesday, November 15, 2011
It’s really cool in terms of the resources and look. It saved a great deal of time of mine as I get all the information accumulated here I have you on my bookmark. Reading it really helps in getting proper idea about the topic. It’s quite elaborate.
Anna Finley says:
Posted: Wednesday, November 9, 2011
I so wish i could go back into the 50's and 60's..the USA was soo good back then, not to mention the awesome music, music today is painful to the ears..:(
moncler jassen says:
Posted: Monday, October 31, 2011
It’s certainly a instead fascinating page. many thanks a whole great offer for that share. extraordinary indeed.
Uggs Boots Sale says:
Posted: Sunday, October 30, 2011
www.cheapuggsnowboot.com in the world of fashion recently. It's one thing for the boot to be trendy, but
Ugg Mens Boots Discount says:
Posted: Sunday, October 30, 2011
www.crazyugg.com footwear of choice. They will be the first thing you grab out of your closet.
discount uggs says:
Posted: Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Uggs Outlet says:
Posted: Friday, September 23, 2011
This site is amazing. I consistently come across something new & distinct appropriate right here. Appreciate these information.
louis vuitton replica says:
Posted: Friday, September 9, 2011
belstaff online says:
Posted: Tuesday, September 6, 2011
As John Hancock were dairy technology companies to Shanxi, Shanxi through Taichang group bombarded with 10.3 million yuan loan to no avail, long Hing company to court. In August 2006, the case in Shanxi Province, Taiyuan Intermediate People's Court sentenced: debt, while the two companies had secured promises of land and plant the Ruikangyuan sentenced to assume joint and several liability of repayment.
dr dre headphones says:
Posted: Tuesday, September 6, 2011
"We once again be represented." Shaanxi Ruikangyuan Dairy Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Ruikangyuan Company") agents Jishu Wen said with a smile
cheap coogi clothing says:
Posted: Sunday, September 4, 2011
Today well lived makes every yesterday a dream of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope. Look well therefore to this day.
Luxury Watch Onlie Store says:
Posted: Friday, September 2, 2011
As pioneers of high-tech ceramics in the watch making industry, Rado has once again exploited its unrivalled knowledge in producing this timepiece. The tapered bracelet gently and sensually embraces the wrist. Highly flexible, it offers exquisite comfort and elegance to all who wear it. I appreciate for your posting and I look forward to seeing some again. Keep up this good job. I like your style of writing. I am always searching online for articles that can help me, but your articles are best choice. Good luck to the author! all the best !
designer leather handbags says:
Posted: Saturday, July 9, 2011
Nice to be visiting your blog again, it has been months for me. Well this article that I’ve been waited for so long. I need this article to complete my assignment in the college, and it has same topic with your article. Thanks, great share.
Wordpress Website Designer says:
Posted: Tuesday, June 14, 2011
It is a very good post.I am very glad to see this post.It contains many interesting things.Thanks for this post.
tax disc holders says:
Posted: Tuesday, June 7, 2011
hey,this is one of the best posts that I’ve ever seen; you may include some more ideas in the same theme. I’m still waiting for some interesting thoughts from your side in your next post.
Oakley sunglasses says:
Posted: Thursday, May 12, 2011
I love the way the people here interact and shared their opinions too. I would love to track your future posts pertaining to the said topic we are able to read.
Oakley sunglasses says:
Posted: Thursday, May 12, 2011
I would love to track your future posts pertaining to the said topic we are able to read.
Oakley sunglasses says:
Posted: Friday, April 22, 2011
I would love to track your future posts pertaining to the said topic we are able to read.
assichfat says:
Posted: Monday, April 18, 2011
Very Interesting Information! Thank You For Thi Post!
Oakley sunglasses says:
Posted: Friday, March 25, 2011
I love the way the people here interact and shared their opinions too. I would love to track your future posts pertaining to the said topic we are able to read.
al says:
Posted: Thursday, February 17, 2011
this...is...kinda...weird...but i like it so, forget u haters.this tat cowboy.
moncleronsale says:
Posted: Friday, November 12, 2010
Thanks for your sharing."I HAVE BEEN SHOPPING ALL DAY AND MY FINGERS ARE KILLING ME!..." i have foget how many stores i have bought,but i remeber i bought discount moncler jacket
juicy couture says:
Posted: Friday, November 12, 2010
Excellent reading. Thanks so much, great share.
moncleronsale says:
Posted: Thursday, November 11, 2010
Thanks for your sharing."I HAVE BEEN SHOPPING ALL DAY AND MY FINGERS ARE KILLING ME!..." i have foget how many stores i have bought,but i remeber i bought discount moncler jacket
nicole says:
Posted: Tuesday, October 19, 2010
wow wow wow what a article this is. this helped me with life
says:
Posted: Tuesday, October 19, 2010
says:
Posted: Wednesday, October 13, 2010
mike says:
Posted: Wednesday, September 22, 2010
It is really good to know the history of a certain musicians and how they start in this music industryland cruiser for sale
Joan Glory says:
Posted: Sunday, August 8, 2010
There should be an equal acknowledgment to these artists. There is a certain bias or they have neglected other artists. I do agree with "William". But in music industry there goes certain competition between rival artists. But in all they should be considered as one for they are promoting for the sake of the essence of music. Cheers, Joanna Glory
property management company says:
Posted: Thursday, August 5, 2010
I found this is an informative and interesting post so i think so it is very useful and knowledgeable.
The Daughter says:
Posted: Monday, August 2, 2010
Of a very bad bad man.. turn 17 corner and never looked back. iPad bag
nike watches says:
Posted: Saturday, July 24, 2010
i am looking for the words to an old song my dad used to sing to us when we were little. i only remember part of it: i won't go hunting with you jake, but i'll go chasing women. is there anyone out there who's heard this or remembers this song, and the artist who sang it?
says:
Posted: Thursday, July 8, 2010
says:
Posted: Thursday, July 8, 2010
says:
Posted: Thursday, July 8, 2010
says:
Posted: Thursday, July 8, 2010
says:
Posted: Thursday, July 8, 2010
Waters34Shirley says:
Posted: Thursday, July 8, 2010
I had a dream to begin my own organization, however I didn't earn enough amount of cash to do that. Thank God my close fellow said to use the personal loans. So I took the short term loan and realized my desire.
nb-4l charger says:
Posted: Thursday, July 1, 2010
reat grandmother. I came across an old key chain. On one side it has "Bristol Virginia Tennessee". On the other side it reads "Commemorating the first Country & Western record cut for national distribution by The Carter Family & Jimmie Rodgers August 2, 1927
says:
Posted: Tuesday, May 25, 2010
says:
Posted: Friday, April 16, 2010
shahun says:
Posted: Friday, April 16, 2010
thats funny
Robin says:
Posted: Monday, March 8, 2010
I meant Vermon's recording "wasn't" nationally distributed but....
LEAVE A COMMENT