There are many genres of music. One of them, however, is special, as today, September 17, is dedicated to it. It originally comes from the USA, where it is very popular in many areas. We are talking about country music.

History and origin of the holiday

Today is all about the music that has defined rural life in many American states. However, country music has crossed borders and is popular all over the world. The genre originated in the eastern and southern United States in the 1920s. In particular, the city of Nashville, Tennessee is considered its cradle. It combines several styles such as Delta blues, Appalachian folk, Cajun music and Creole Zydeco, with lyrics mostly dealing with the ordinary daily concerns of working-class people.

Its lovers and supporters continue to strive to preserve it, hence the unofficial holiday International Country Music Day was established on September 17, 2003. It was meant to serve as a way to connect musicians and their fans. On this day, festivals and other country music celebrations are held in various places around the world. The date was chosen because this day celebrates the birthday of Hank Williams, one of country music’s most famous artists.

Country music is associated with typical instruments and clothing. ━━ Country music is associated with typical instruments and clothing. ( Source: BrianAJackson /  iStockphoto )

Why do people love country music celebrations?

Country music fans all over the world love to celebrate this day. But why are these songs so popular? They have real human stories at their core, and at the same time, many of them are entertaining. It’s only during a live concert that you can feel how powerful they can be on an audience.

During the celebration, people dress up in typical clothes: plaid shirts, vests, denim pants or skirts, and cowboy hats and boots. Many also celebrate the day by learning to play country instruments, which include acoustic guitar, fiddle, drums, dobro, bass, banjo, autoharp, accordion and harmonica.

Over the years, various subgenres have emerged, such as honky-tonk, bluegrass, rockabilly, country rock and country pop. Today, this music is one of the most listened to in the United States.