Rock music and country music both hold a special place in the hearts of many, yet it is somewhat peculiar that the two genres haven’t completely merged. While, there have been several songs that blend the two, such as Willie Nelson’s “Always On My Mind” and The Eagles’ “Desperado”.
Nonetheless, over recent decades, a handful of artists has fused new forms of country with rock, resulting in truly unique music.
Introducing Country Rock
The genre was pioneered by Gram Parsons, who founded The International Submarine Band, an innovative blend of folk and country that incorporated bluegrass instruments like the banjo, fiddle, and pedal steel guitar.
The 1972 album Sweetheart of the Rodeo by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band exemplified this fusion, and it has been credited with launching the first commercial wave of country-rock melding.
Another notable group was Seatrain, which combined elements from both genres with added jazz influences. They released three albums before disbanding following Clarence White’s death in 1973.
Instruments of the Genre
In country rock, band members frequently play multiple instruments, as they are often songwriters who compose their music.
This means they will typically play some of these instruments: bass, drums, electric guitar, electric mandolin, and pedal steel guitar. Additionally, the piano and violin are common in this genre.
In Conclusion
Country rock’s popularity soared in the early 1970s, and it quickly became one of the most popular genres in American music. Decades later, its popularity shows no signs of waning.
From its inception as a blend of country and rock to its current status as an established form in American music, country rock has traveled a remarkable journey. It remains one of the most beloved styles of music worldwide.
