Country music

Bakersfield, Calif., has become famous for its own brand of country music, with such stars as Merle Haggard and Buck Owens given credit for putting the town on the musical map. But they evolved through a music scene that was wild and wide-open during the 1950s and '60s, and Fresh Air's Ed Ward has the story.

Boogie-woogie was a piano style that began in the early 20th century and later became a huge fad. Rock historian Ed Ward explains how the genre re-emerged as an important precursor to rock 'n' roll.

Porn film director Wash West. His newest is The Fluffer, set in the gay porn industry. As compared to the films of Iran, Wash West's movies are all about touching. His other films include Seven Deadly Sins: The Gluttony, Naked Highway, Animus and Toolbox. West is much-honored in the field, with several Adult Video News Awards and Gay Erotic Video Awards.

Rock critic Ken Tucker salutes country music legend Johnny Cash, who turns 70 today.

Rock historian Ed Ward remembers the pioneering Bluegrass group of the 1950s Reno & Smiley and the Tennessee Cutups.

Linguist Geoff Nunberg considers the puns in country music.

Critic Milo Miles tells us about the work of blues guitarist John Jackson whose latest album is "Front Porch Blues" (Alligator Records). He's also got two vintage collections: "Don't Let Your Deal Go Down" and "Country Blues and Ditties" (Arhoolie Records).

Rock historian Ed Ward continues his series on how country music was influenced by black and white music traditions.

Rock historian Ed Ward begins his two part series on Black and White country music.

Rock historian Ed Ward remembers Charlie Feathers, who tried everything from country music, rockabilly to protest folk. He had such hits as "Tongue-Tied Jill," and "One Hand Loose., which is considered one of the perfect rockabilly songs.