Country Music

The first singing cowboy of the movies—Gene Autry —was one of America’s most popular stars. As the Texas native sang "Back in the Saddle Again" he was also promoting ideas that supported the New Deal and friendly relations with Mexico. His messages rang true with his fans during the Great Depression. On this episode, we unpack the ways this western folk hero, Gene Autry, used his talents to support a positive pro-America agenda.

Nelson's new album, Oh What a Beautiful World — his 77th solo album and 154th overall — doesn't break from convention, but that's exactly why it feels so necessary right now.

The Grand Ole Opry is turning 100. The stage show is celebrating the milestone all year long by welcoming new and seasoned performers.

Country music superstar Morgan Wallen is the first artist to have five Top 10 singles from an album that hasn't even been released yet. His highly anticipated album "I'm the Problem" drops in May.

The former Beatles drummer talks about his new star-studded country record, Look Up.

Charley Crockett has come a long way from his days busking on the streets of New Orleans. Now, he performs at theaters in front of thousands of people. To cap it all off, he's up for his first Grammy.

Tribute artist Shawn Barker's 'Man in Black' is down to earth, and about as close to Cash as you can get, with a live band playing the hits, and more. His show is in Texas this week for performances in Dallas, New Braunfels, and The Woodlands.

Country music singer Charley Crockett was born and raised in Texas, grew up in a single-wide trailer with his mom and says his family lineage traces all the way back to the frontiersman Davy Crockett. This Sunday is the music industry's biggest night — the Grammy Awards. And Crockett is up for an award for the first time — Best Americana Album — for his record "$10 Cowboy." For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org Email us at considerthis@npr.org

The rhythmic sense that made Ringo a great rock drummer guides his vocals here. The result is relaxed authority that usually only a genius like Willie Nelson or Ray Charles can make sound so easy.

NPR's Scott Simon speaks with country music artist Kane Brown about his new album, "The High Road."