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06:34

Wanda Jackson Was More than a Country Star

In the 1950s, Elvis Presley encouraged Jackson to sing rockabilly. She was notable for writing and performing her own independent and forceful songs, says rock historian Ed Ward. Her sexual persona matched Presley's, but proved to be a detriment to her career -- so she returned to country music.

Commentary
06:41

Two Women Rockers Return to Their Country Roots

Rock critic Ken Tucker reviews two new country albums by women singers. Carlene Carter's I Fell in Love features her first hit song; Kelly Willis's Well Traveled Love showcases her rich voice. Both records are uneven but satisfying.

Review
10:44

Country Singer Tennessee Ernie Ford

In 1955, Ford had a hit with his version of Merle Travis' "Sixteen Tons." Later, he was known for his gospel music and daytime and evening television shows. A new collection of his hits, "16 Tons of Boogie" is out on Rhino records.

12:00

Country Singer Carlene Carter Stays True to Herself

Carter was once considered too rock for country and too country for rock. But she says country music has come around to her distinctive sound. Carter is the daughter of June Carter Cash, and sang on the road with the Carter Family. Her new album is called I Fell in Love.

Interview
06:53

New Songs with Mixed Messages about the War

Rock critic Ken Tucker reflects on some recent songs that have come out in favor of or against U.S. involvement in Iraq, including those by Sean Lennon, Hank Williams, Jr., Andrew Tippin, and Randy Newman.

Commentary
12:57

Bluegrass Wunderkind Alison Krauss

Krauss is still a teenager, but she's already a veteran in the bluegrass scene, with three albums and a decade on the road to her credit. Her new album is called "I've Got That Old Feeling," on Rounder Records.

Interview
03:48

One of the Most Interesting Country Albums of the Year.

Critic Ken Tucker reviews the new album from country singer Willie Nelson. The album's called "Who'll Buy My Memories," and it's subtitled "The IRS Tapes" since Nelson made the album to pay off back taxes. Tucker says the album's much better that you'd expect.

Review
05:01

A Fascinating Roots Songwriter.

Rock Critic Ken Tucker can't get country/folk/rock singer Jimmie Dale Gilmore's voice out of his head. He reviews Gilmore's "After Awhile," part of the Elektra American Explorer series.

Review
06:07

Rock History: The Sounds of 1952.

Rock historian Ed Ward begins a series of pieces on rock 10, 20, 30, and 40 years ago. Today, he goes back to 1952, and the early days of rock and roll.

Commentary
20:56

Singer and Songwriter Lucinda Williams on the "Sweet Old World"

A concert and interview with Louisiana born singer/songwriter Lucinda Williams. She's joined by guitarist Gurf Morlix. Her influences include Bob Dylan, Delta Blues man, Robert Johnson, Van Morrison, and writers Flannery O'Connor and Eudora Welty. In the late 70s she made two obscure folk albums. But she didn't really find her own voice until 1988 when she produced her self-titled album. Her new record is called "Sweet Old World."

21:44

Country Singer Charlie Rich Crosses Genres

Rich got his start working with the Sun record label in the late 50s, writing tunes for Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, and Johnny Cash. From there he began making records himself. In the 70s his songs, "The Most Beautiful Girl," and "Behind Closed Doors," were big country-pop hits. During the 80s he dropped out of sight. But he has a new album now, "Pictures And Paintings," of jazz and blues standards.

Interview

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