Genre story · Rock
Country Rock
Rock bands making space for country melodies, pedal steel and a different sense of time.
Country Rock developed prominently in the United States during the later 1960s, when musicians in folk Rock and rock bands began recording more directly in Country styles. The Byrds' Sweetheart of the Rodeo in 1968 was an influential point, and Gram Parsons with the Flying Burrito Brothers pursued another version of the crossing. Country Rock did not invent the combination from nothing; earlier performers had already moved between country and rhythm-and-blues or rock and roll music. The later scene gave the relationship a particularly visible form.
A slower rhythm, a sharper guitar
Pedal steel and country-style singing may sit alongside electric guitar, bass and rock drumming. The songs can keep a country shuffle while using rock's volume and instrumental emphasis. Other records favor ballads and highly developed harmonies. The balance is more useful than a checklist of instruments, since a country-rock song may have no pedal steel at all.
Several continuations
Country Rock helped set the stage for later Alternative Country and Americana, but those terms have distinct social and industry contexts. A 1968 album should not be described as a 1990s alt-country record just because later musicians admired it.
Essential recordings
- 1968The ByrdsSweetheart of the RodeoA major early meeting point.
- 1969The Flying Burrito BrothersThe Gilded Palace of SinCountry traditions reshaped through Los Angeles rock.
- 1969PocoPickin' Up the PiecesA group expanding the style from within the late-1960s scene.