The Bakersfield sound is one of the most distinctive and influential subgenres in the history of country music. Originating in Bakersfield, California, in the late 1950s and early 1960s, this style of music was a response to the more polished, orchestral sound that had come to dominate Nashville’s country music scene. It brought back the honky-tonk and rockabilly influences, combining them with the twangy guitars, fast tempos, and hard-hitting rhythm that characterized the West Coast. The Bakersfield sound is often associated with artists who pushed the boundaries of country music and embraced a raw, stripped-down aesthetic. This article will explore some of the key artists and tracks that define the Bakersfield sound and recommend the best songs to dive into.
6 Must-follow Bakersfield Sound Artists
1. Buck Owens – “Act Naturally” (1963)
Buck Owens is often considered the face of the Bakersfield sound, and “Act Naturally” is one of his defining hits. This song features everything that made Owens a star—twangy guitars, a catchy melody, and simple yet heartfelt lyrics. “Act Naturally” is a song about a man who is heartbroken but is willing to act out his emotions on stage to entertain others. The track is known for its energetic rhythm, and the infectious chorus makes it easy to sing along. Owens’ clear, expressive vocals are backed by his signature Telecaster guitar, which became a hallmark of the Bakersfield sound. This song is a great introduction to his music and the Bakersfield scene in general.
2. Merle Haggard – “Mama Tried” (1968)
Merle Haggard is another foundational figure in the Bakersfield sound. His track “Mama Tried” is a raw and poignant story of a man who reflects on his troubled life and acknowledges his mother’s efforts to set him on the right path. The song’s simplicity is its strength, with Haggard’s powerful vocals delivering the pain and regret of the lyrics. Musically, “Mama Tried” features a straightforward country arrangement with a strong emphasis on guitar and fiddle, typical of the Bakersfield sound. This track became one of Haggard’s signature songs and is often considered one of the best examples of classic country music from the Bakersfield movement.
3. Dwight Yoakam – “Guitars, Cadillacs” (1986)
Though Dwight Yoakam rose to fame in the 1980s, his music is heavily influenced by the Bakersfield sound. “Guitars, Cadillacs” blends traditional honky-tonk with rockabilly elements, creating a sound that is both modern and nostalgic. The song’s lyrics reflect the struggles of a man trying to find himself in a world filled with distractions. With its driving rhythm, twangy guitar riffs, and catchy chorus, “Guitars, Cadillacs” is an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt lost or out of place. Yoakam’s clear admiration for Buck Owens and Merle Haggard is evident in his delivery and his musical style. This track helped him gain widespread attention and solidified his place as one of the most important contemporary artists influenced by the Bakersfield sound.
4. Jean Shepard – “A Dear John Letter” (1953)
Jean Shepard’s “A Dear John Letter” is a seminal track in the Bakersfield sound, offering a unique perspective on heartbreak and betrayal. In this duet with Ferlin Husky, Shepard sings about the emotional turmoil of writing a letter to her man, ending their relationship while expressing sadness and regret. The song’s harmonies are tight and emotionally charged, and the instrumentation is clean and sharp, with prominent steel guitars and a walking bass line. Shepard’s strong, emotional delivery helped her stand out in a male-dominated genre, and her work remains a key example of the Bakersfield sound’s depth and versatility.
5. Wanda Jackson – “Funnel of Love” (1961)
Wanda Jackson was one of the pioneering female artists who helped shape the Bakersfield sound. Her track “Funnel of Love” blends rockabilly with a country sensibility, creating an irresistible mix of upbeat energy and infectious rhythm. The song features fast-paced, twangy guitar lines and Jackson’s distinctive voice, which has a playful yet commanding tone. “Funnel of Love” is a love song, but it’s not a typical one. It’s quirky and fun, showcasing Jackson’s ability to play with the conventions of country music while still staying true to the spirit of Bakersfield.
6. Tommy Collins – “You Better Not Do That” (1959)
Tommy Collins was an important figure in the Bakersfield scene, and “You Better Not Do That” is a great example of his contribution to the genre. The song is a fun, up-tempo tune about a man warning someone not to make the same mistakes he made in a relationship. The catchy melody, fast tempo, and humorous lyrics all make for an infectious listen. Collins’ delivery is sharp and witty, and the song showcases the blend of traditional country with the playful, rockabilly energy that defined the Bakersfield sound.
See Also: In Which Country Would You Hear Music Accompanied By A Cuatro?
Conclusion
The Bakersfield sound remains one of the most important and influential movements in country music. Its raw, stripped-down style continues to inspire musicians today, blending the best elements of honky-tonk, rockabilly, and Western swing. Artists like Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, and Dwight Yoakam have left an indelible mark on the genre, and their music continues to resonate with both classic country fans and new listeners alike. Whether it’s the heartfelt storytelling of Merle Haggard or the energetic twang of Buck Owens, the Bakersfield sound captures the spirit of country music in its purest form. These artists and their songs continue to define what it means to be part of the Bakersfield tradition, and their music will live on for generations to come.
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