Just last month, Beyoncé became the first Black woman to top the Billboard country songs chart and last week, Swamp Dogg released his first-ever bluegrass album (feat. the great Kenny Vaughan on guitar!). I'm super pumped for both of these upcoming album releases. Also, last month, Camille Parker debuted on the Grand Ole Opry and a few months before that Jimmie Allen was topping the radio airplay charts.
As more and more Black artists are being recognized for their country music contributions today, I thought I'd use my next Back to the Country radio program to spin some of my favorite country records by Black musicians from the 1940s-1970s (and maybe a couple current faves, too). I think a lot of WORT's listeners are already familiar with Charley Pride, Ray Charles, Linda Martell, Tina Turner, and others, but hopefully I can introduce you to some new ones along the way.
As always, the hardest part is cutting the playlist down from thousands to just 50 or so songs, but you've just got to hear some of these amazing lacquer discs by bluegrass pioneers Allerton & Alton, 45s by Wisconsin's own Chuck Brimley and Lonnie Walker, a rare interview disc with O.B. McClinton, 78s by Jimmy Sweeney and Jimmie Newsome, country music beer ads by Ray Charles, Etta James covering the Louvin Brothers, rare live recordings by my recently departed bandmate and dear friend, Eric S Sheridan--years ago dubbed "The King of Blackabilly" by Bill Kirchen--and so much more. Showtime is 9am-noon CST and you can tune in at 89.9 FM in Southern Wisconsin or stream it via wortfm.org.
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The forthcoming edition of your "Back to the Country" radio program promises to be an enriching and educational experience for listeners. Your focus on celebrating the contributions of Black artists to the country music genre, particularly during a time when artists like Beyoncé and Swamp Dogg are making significant strides, is not only timely but also vital for expanding our understanding of the genre's diversity.
ReplyDeleteHighlighting the historical context with artists from the 1940s to the 1970s while weaving in contemporary success stories presents a comprehensive narrative that enriches the listener's appreciation of country music's evolution. It's particularly exciting to hear that Beyoncé recently topped the Billboard country songs chart, marking a significant milestone in the genre, and Swamp Dogg's venture into bluegrass with Kenny Vaughan showcases the genre's versatility and ongoing evolution.
Your planned playlist sounds like a treasure trove of historical gems and rarities that will likely intrigue both seasoned country music fans and new listeners. The inclusion of bluegrass pioneers like Allerton & Alton, alongside regional artists such as Chuck Brimley and Lonnie Walker from Wisconsin, not only honors their musical contributions but also emphasizes the deep roots and wide-reaching branches of Black influence in country music.
The rare interview disc with O.B. McClinton and the 78s by artists like Jimmy Sweeney and Jimmie Newsome are particularly intriguing. These recordings are precious links to the past that deserve preservation and recognition. Your mention of Ray Charles' country music beer ads and Etta James covering the Louvin Brothers highlights the crossover appeal and versatility of these artists, further illustrating how Black musicians have enriched and expanded the country genre.
Moreover, the personal touch of including recordings from your recently departed bandmate, Eric S Sheridan, adds a layer of poignancy and personal tribute to the show. It’s touches like these that make your program not just a musical journey, but also a heartfelt celebration of artists who might otherwise remain unsung.
Your show’s approach to exploring the unsung heroes of country music, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, is commendable. It serves as a powerful reminder that country music, like all art forms, is enriched by contributions from a wide spectrum of humanity. This not only broadens the listeners' horizons but also deepens the understanding of country music as a dynamic and inclusive genre.
I'm looking forward to tuning in to "Back to the Country." It promises to be a show filled with education, entertainment, and reflection—a fitting tribute to the rich, diverse history of country music. Thank you for your commitment to showcasing these important voices and stories.
Great post; keep them coming!
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