Emerging in the early 20th century, country music referred to music made in the South. Mixing spiritual songs and work songs in its early infancy, country music bordered the blues style. White country music was commonly played with European instruments like the fiddle and harmonica. These sounds would overlap and influence one another. The banjo, an African instrument, was played by enslaved Africans at dances for their enslavers. Eventually, the fiddle and banjo would be played together to create the roots of country music.

Country music made by White artists was branded “hillbilly music” and country music made by Black artists was called “blues.” Once the radio became popular, artists from around the country could hear what others were doing. White artists were able to incorporate many new techniques into their style, taking it to record labels, radio stations, and Hollywood – establishments that refused to promote Black artists - and effectively dominated the industry.