Cowboy Western music is a rootsy, storytelling-driven genre characterized by simple, lilting rhythms, often in waltz or swing time, and instrumentation dominated by acoustic guitars, fiddles, and pedal steel guitars. Emerging in the 1930s and 1940s, it drew from folk, country, and Appalachian string band traditions, with artists often romanticizing the American West through lyrics. The genre's golden era spanned the 1950s to 1960s, with its cultural significance lying in its nostalgic portrayal of the American frontier and the cowboy way of life. Distinct from country music, Cowboy Western's focus on narrative and atmospheric soundscapes sets it apart, while its influence can be seen in later genres like Outlaw Country and Americana. The genre's unique blend of rustic authenticity and cinematic grandeur has captivated audiences, making it an enduring symbol of American music heritage.
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