Worth Watching: Ken Burns, Country Music – Episode 6: Will the Circle Be Unbroken? (1968-1972)

Against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and major social movements, legendary artists like Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Tammy Wynette become superstars.

Also discussed during this episode:

  • Kris Kristofferson’s legacy as a songwriter, and how his family disowned him while he made that pursuit
  • Johnny Cash showcasing a wide range of talent on his popular network television show
  • How the folk revival led to a renewed interest in bluegrass music
  • The disbanding of Flatt & Scruggs
  • The making of Will the Circle Be Unbroken?, the landmark Nitty Gritty Dirt Band album

What did you think of Episode 6?

1 Comment

  1. The background song for this era should be “Kay”, by John Wesley Ryles: teenage pregnancy, anti-war soldiers, and the man left behind when the woman hits it big. One of the great country songs about country music – a nice pairing with “Gone Country”.

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