“The Hillbilly Shakespeare” (1945 – 1953)
See how the bluegrass sound spreads in post-war America, and meet honky-tonk star Hank Williams, whose songs of surprising emotional depth are derived from his troubled and tragically short life.
Previews + Extras
Episode 3 Preview | “The Hillbilly Shakespeare”
S1 E3 - 30s
See how the bluegrass sound spreads in post-war America, and meet honky-tonk star Hank Williams, whose songs of surprising emotional depth are derived from his troubled and tragically short life.
Ralph Stanley: The First Song Mother Taught Me
S1 E3 - 3m 13s
The late Ralph Stanley plays a banjo tune and describes his playing technique.
Hank Williams: The Songwriter and Performer
S1 E3 - 8m 34s
Featured artists discuss the genius and singularity of Hank Williams's songwriting and recall memories of the honky-tonker's unique performance style.
The Carter Scratch, Travis Picking, Doc Watson
S1 E3 - 3m 17s
Randy Scruggs demonstrates the playing styles of Maybelle Carter, Merle Travis and Doc Watson and discusses the unique features of Watson's banjo.
John McEuen: Earl Scruggs’ Banjo Style
S1 E3 - 5m 35s
John McEuen discusses Earl Scruggs' innovations on the banjo. McEuen demonstrates different styles that take us from the melodies of the 1800s to the Bluegrass of today.
Don Maddox: The Most Colorful Hillbilly Band in the World
S1 E3 - 7m 24s
Don Maddox, Jean Sheppard, and Marty Stuart swap stories about the Maddox Brothers and Rose.
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