American Roots Music

Travel back through the 20th century to explore the roots of American music and discover the pioneers of the musical forms that combined on American soil to become the most pervasive music throughout the world.

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Created By

Status

Ended

Original Name

American Roots Music

First Air Date

October 29, 2001

Last Air Date

November 19, 2001

Seasons

Episodes

Language

English

Production Companies

Networks

PBS

S01E04

All My Children of the Sun

Explore the reassessment of diverse ethnic musics previously excluded from American “folk” music, and their inclusion in a redefined “American roots music.” This episode describes the flourishing of Cajun culture in southwest Louisiana, the popularization of tejano music in south Texas, and the evolution of Native American music forms. We round out the series by exploring the state of American roots music today - where the blues, country and gospel genres are now and where they are headed in the 21st century. Commentary in this episode is provided by Marc and Ann Savoy, Steve Riley, Flaco Jimenez, Edwin Hawkins, Robbie Robertson, Floyd Westerman, and Robert Mirabal among many others.

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