Country rock is a genre that blends the storytelling and twang of country music with the energy and attitude of rock 'n' roll. Characterized by its use of acoustic guitars, pedal steel, and fiddles, country rock often features a rootsy, Americana sound with a strong emphasis on rhythm and melody. Emerging in the late 1960s and 1970s, the genre drew from folk, rockabilly, and Southern rock traditions, with key artists merging country's narrative style with rock's sonic experimentation. Country rock's popularity peaked in the 1970s, with its blend of rural and urban sensibilities resonating with a generation seeking authenticity and escapism. The genre's cultural significance lies in its bridging of musical and geographical divides, speaking to both rural and urban audiences. While often associated with the Laurel Canyon scene, country rock also drew from other styles, including Southern rock and folk rock, and paved the way for later genres like Americana and alt-country.

Hurt Like That

Reba McEntire

Single - Released May 22, 2026