The Big Bang of Country Music
How Records, Radio, and the Bristol Sessions Changed American Music
About this Program
In the 1920s, a remarkable transformation was taking place in American music. New recording technology and the growing popularity of radio were bringing regional musical traditions to audiences across the country.
In 1927, recording engineer and talent scout Ralph Peer traveled to Bristol, Tennessee, where he recorded a collection of musicians who would help shape the future of country music. Among them were the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers, whose recordings became cornerstones of a new musical industry.
Through live performances, historical photographs, and storytelling, Martin Gilmore explores the musicians, technology, and cultural changes that helped transform traditional American music into a national phenomenon.
The Carter Family (Maybelle, A.P., and Sara Carter), c. 1927. Victor Talking Machine Co. publicity photo / Public Domain.
The Story Behind the Music
Before the Big Bang: Regional music, traveling performers, early recording companies, and the emergence of commercial recordings marketed to rural audiences.
The Recording Revolution: The growing importance of records and radio, the business of discovering performers, and the role of Ralph Peer and Victor Records.
Bristol, 1927: The recording sessions themselves, the musicians who participated, and why the sessions became such an important symbol in country music history.
A Lasting Legacy: How the Carter Family, Jimmie Rodgers, and other early performers influenced later country, bluegrass, folk, and popular music.
Duration
60-90 Minutes
Audience
Adults, Lifelong Learners, Community Groups
Format
Lecture with live music
Equipment
Projector or display
Suitable Venues
Libraries, museums, historical societies
Handouts
Downloadable PDF
Provided
What We'll Explore
American popular music before commercial country recording
The phonograph, recording industry, and rise of radio
Early recording stars and the search for rural musicians
Ralph Peer and the 1927 Bristol Recording Session
The Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers
The lasting influence of early country recordings
Jimmie Rodgers, c. 1929–1930 / Public Domain
Songs Featured
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"The Wreck of the Old 97"
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"Bury Me Beneath the Willow"
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"Keep on the Sunny Side"
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"Wildwood Flower"
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"Blue Yodel No. 1 (T for Texas)"
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"Waiting for a Train"
Selections may vary depending on program length and audience.
Class Handout
Download the accompanying PDF with historical notes, song references, and recommended resources.
PDF 8MB
Image Gallery
Explore a selection of photographs and images related to the Bristol Recording sessions of 1927.
VIEW IMAGE GALLERY