New Documentary Explores Rich History Of Country Music In Illinois
Margo Price, an American country singer-songwriter, being interviewed for documentary "Illinois Country."
A new documentary about country music in Illinois premieres Monday, March 2, on WILL-TV.
"Illinois Country" showcases the history and scope of country music in the state, tracing the progression of the genre from early gathering halls to the "National Barn Dance" in Chicago.
Speaking on the 21st show, Director Sarah Edwards and Producer DJ Roach explained Illinois' influence on the genre.
"Chicago was the Nashville of country music from about the 1920s to the early 1960s," Edwards said, largely because of the "National Barn Dance," a variety country music show broadcast out of Chicago. Illinois remained a haven for country music beyond that era: In 1985, musicians came to Champaign for Farm Aid, a benefit concert for farmers.
Edwards and Roach said they were intentional in who they profiled in the film, focusing on people with roots in Illinois, including country music artists Alison Krauss and Robbie Fulks.
Guests: Sarah Edwards, Director. DJ Roach, Producer.
"Illinois Country" and The 21st are both produced by Illinois Public Media.
Prepared for web by WILL intern Sidney Madden.