The Roots of California Country
California has long been a hub for musical innovation, from the surf rock of the 1960s to the punk rock of the 1970s. But one genre that often gets overlooked is country music. Despite its Southern roots, country music has a rich history on the West Coast, particularly in the 1970s. This decade saw the rise of California country, a unique blend of traditional country, rock, and folk that would go on to shape the sound of country music for decades to come.
The Early Days of California Country
The 1960s and early 1970s saw a wave of country musicians migrating to California, drawn by the state’s laid-back vibe and the promise of new opportunities. Artists like Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, and Johnny Cash had already made their mark on the country scene, but a new generation of musicians was emerging. These artists, such as Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, and the Flying Burrito Brothers, were influenced by the folk and rock scenes of the 1960s and began to blend country with other genres.
The Rise of the California Country Sound
By the mid-1970s, the California country sound was taking shape. Artists like Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and the Oak Ridge Boys were achieving mainstream success, while others, such as Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman, were pushing the boundaries of what was considered “country.” The sound was characterized by its laid-back, West Coast vibe, with influences from rock, folk, and R&B.
The Influence of California Country
California country’s influence can be heard in many genres, from country to rock to pop. Artists like Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty, and the Heartbreakers, and even rock legends like The Rolling Stones and The Who, have all been influenced by the California country sound.
The Legacy of California Country
The legacy of California country can be seen in the many artists who have followed in its footsteps. Artists like Dwight Yoakam, Lyle Lovett, and k.d. lang have all been influenced by the California country sound, and have gone on to achieve their own success. Today, the California country sound continues to evolve, with artists like Chris Stapleton, Maren Morris, and Zac Brown Band blending traditional country with modern rock and pop influences.
Conclusion
The 1970s saw the rise of California country, a unique blend of traditional country, rock, and folk that would go on to shape the sound of country music for decades to come. From the early days of Buck Owens and Merle Haggard to the modern-day sounds of Chris Stapleton and Maren Morris, California country has left an indelible mark on the music world.
FAQs
Q: What is California country?
A: California country is a genre of country music that emerged in the 1970s, characterized by its laid-back, West Coast vibe and influences from rock, folk, and R&B.
Q: Who are some notable California country artists?
A: Some notable California country artists include Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, the Flying Burrito Brothers, Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and the Oak Ridge Boys.
Q: How did California country influence other genres?
A: California country’s influence can be heard in many genres, from country to rock to pop. Artists like Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty, and the Heartbreakers, and even rock legends like The Rolling Stones and The Who, have all been influenced by the California country sound.
Q: Is California country still relevant today?
A: Yes, the California country sound continues to evolve, with artists like Chris Stapleton, Maren Morris, and Zac Brown Band blending traditional country with modern rock and pop influences.
