Join Active Minds as we explore American folk music of the early 20th century and learn about its commercialization and how this relates to the roots of country music.

In the early 20th century, American folk music was being influenced by a number of factors. Among them were music collectors and record companies, both of whom shaped the music in important, lasting ways. Join Active Minds as we explore this dynamic and learn about the commercialization of folk music and how this relates to the roots of country music. We will listen to and discuss music by the Carter Family, Jimmie Rodgers, Leadbelly and others, and describe how this also influenced later country music and folk revivals.