Country Music

2019
1 Season
8.9 (1,121)

The documentary series Country Music explores the evolution of American country music. The miniseries traces the path of the genre from a fringe rural form to a commercial juggernaut. The series is directed by documentarian Ken Burns. The miniseries premiered in the US on September 15, 2019, as a series of eight two-hour episodes. As a prelude to the premiere, Burns hosted a concert special filmed at the Ryman Auditorium, featuring Dierks Bentley, Rosanne Cash, Rodney Crowell, and Marty Stuart among others, which aired September 8, 2019. A completely reedited version produced in conjunction with BBC Four, consisting of 9 50-minute episodes, began airing in the UK on November 22, 2019.

Filter by Source

Do you have Prime Video?

What are you waiting for?

Nice! Browse Prime Video with Yidio.

Ad Info

Seasons

8. Don't Get Above Your Raisin' (1984-1996)

September 25, 2019

As the genre takes off, country music artists such as George Strait, Randy Travis and the Judds work to keep country music true to its roots; the rise of Garth Brooks and the return of Johnny Cash.

7. Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way? (1973-1983)

September 24, 2019

Mainstream crossovers and a new "Outlaw" sound are prevalent in country music during the years 1973-1983.

6. Will the Circle Be Unbroken? (1968-1972)

September 23, 2019

Country music draws artists to Nashville, Tenn., as the war in Vietnam wages on; Kris Kristofferson sets a lyrical standard; Bob Dylan and The Byrds, among others, come to Nashville, Tenn., to record.

5. The Sons and Daughters of America (1964-1968)

September 22, 2019

Country music artists like Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard and Charley Pride reflect a changing America as they appeal to wide audiences.

4. I Can't Stop Loving You (1953-1963)

September 18, 2019

A visit to Memphis, Tenn., during the age of rockabilly with Sun Studios artists Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley; Ray Charles crosses over racial borders by recording a country album; Patsy Cline rises to stardom with a smooth new sound.

3. Hillbilly Shakespeare (1945-1953)

September 17, 2019

The country stars of post-war America, including Hank Williams, whose songs are inspired by his troubled and tragically short life.

2. Hard Times (1933-1945)

September 16, 2019

Nashville, Tenn., becomes the center of the country music industry as it grows in popularity during the Great Depression and World War II.

1. The Rub (Beginnings -- 1933)

September 15, 2019

"Hillbilly music" reaches new listeners through phonographs and radio, launching the careers of country music's first big stars -- the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers.

104. Bonus: Dolly Parton: "Pretty Fair Maid"

September 16, 2019

Dolly Parton sings “Pretty Fair Maid."

105. Bonus: “Will the Circle Be Unbroken:” Country Music’s National Anthem

September 16, 2019

More discussion of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.”

107. Bonus: Elvis: The Hillbilly Cat

September 16, 2019

Where to Watch Country Music

Country Music is available for streaming on the PBS website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Country Music on demand at Amazon Prime, Amazon and PBS.