Country: Portraits of an American Sound

Country music is an integral part of the fabric that makes America tick - it's the voice of the underdog, the voice of love, loss, and longing. The genre has been a reflection of the nation's soul, with countless songs crafted to express the trials and tribulations of everyday people. 'Country: Portraits of an American Sound' delves into this rich musical heritage through a stunning collection of photographs that have captured the essence of country music. The documentary begins with the work of Les Leverett, the long-time photographer of the Grand Ole Opry. Through his lens, we're privy to intimate portraits of country music legends such as Roy Clark, Merle Haggard, and Charley Pride, their faces etched with the lines of years of performing live and telling stories that need to be told. We see moments of quiet reflection - a weary Haggard lost in thought as he sits on a stage, a nodding head that hints at a man content in his work. These images humanize the stars we worship from afar, revealing their complexities and vulnerabilities. We then journey through the photographs of Leigh Wiener, who left an indelible mark on the world of music. His pictures are like time capsules, transporting us back to a bygone era when music was raw and unfiltered. There's a raw energy to Wiener's images, capturing the passion of performers like Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson, men who poured their hearts and souls into their craft. Through his lens, we see the struggles that defined these artists - the poverty, the hard work, and the constant push to succeed. Henry Horenstein brings a documentary approach to his photography, capturing scenes of everyday country music life. He photographs musicians on the road, in their natural habitats - backstage rooms, cramped tour buses, and cramped dressing rooms. These settings reveal a different side of the artists we usually see on stage - the grueling schedules, the endless travel, and the camaraderie that defines the musician's lifestyle. We see Lyle Lovett sipping coffee, lost in his own world, while Keith Urban chats with a fan. These portraits remind us that beneath the glamour and adoration lies a hardworking group of human beings trying to make a living and pursue their passion. The iconic photographers Henry Diltz and Raeanne Rubenstein contribute to the documentary with their stunning portraits of the biggest names in country music. Diltz's work captures the essence of the 1970s country scene - the likes of Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings all featured in his vibrant and evocative photographs. We see the camaraderie that defined the Outlaws, Diltz's images revealing a group of men united by their rebellious spirit and shared passion for music. Rubenstein's photographs have a similar feel to Horenstein's - real and unvarnished. Her lens captures moments of intimacy - Tanya Tucker and LeAnn Rimes, both powerful voices in their own right, sitting on a backstage couch sharing laughter. The contemporary photographers David McClister and Michael Wilson bring a fresh perspective to the narrative, their work a testament to the ever-changing landscape of country music. These artists have grown up with the genre, embracing its evolution while still paying homage to its roots. McClister's photographs capture the raw, emotive power of modern country music. We see Keith Urban shredding on his guitar, the music pouring out of him like lifeblood. Wilson's work has a similar intensity, focusing on the storytelling aspect of country music. His lens captures the quiet moments, the introspective ones where a performer is alone with their thoughts and emotions. Throughout the documentary, the music speaks for itself. Over 25 country classics are woven together to paint a vibrant picture of this uniquely American sound. We hear the likes of 'The Gambler,' 'I Walk the Line,' and 'Friends in Low Places,' songs that have become an integral part of our collective consciousness. These tracks are more than just hits - they're the soundtrack to our lives, a reflection of our hopes, fears, and struggles. They evoke vivid memories - a road trip down a desert highway, a late-night jam session with friends, or a heart-wrenching goodbye. In 'Country: Portraits of an American Sound,' we're treated to a visual and sonic feast that celebrates the spirit of country music. The photographs and music come together to paint a comprehensive picture of this genre, capturing its highs and lows, its triumphs and struggles. The portraits we see on screen remind us that country music is more than just a genre - it's a reflection of America itself, a voice for the people, by the people.