Classic Country Spotlight is a weekly series covering legendary artists from country music’s past. Whether you still listen to the timeless hits or hope to become better acquainted with an older sound, classic country will never die. Brought to you by Val Turgeon.
The Carter Family was part of the first generation of country music in the 1920’s and established themselves as the most legendary name in the genre. They were the first to ever record in the studio in 1927, taking place in Bristol, Tenn. They set the standard to sing songs of home and the land they cherish, based on their strong connection with the Appalachian area.
Carlene Carter, a third generation Carter and daughter of June Carter and her first husband, Carl Smith, not only carries the Carter blood, but has also carried on the family’s musical tradition. This week she released her new album, Carter Girl—an album that honors her family’s heritage.
“Now that it’s been 11 years since my mother passed away, I felt it was time to do my tribute to the music,” Carlene told radio.com.
The album includes Carter family originals as well as a song by Carlene titled “Lonesome Valley 2003,”a song about losing her mother and her mother’s husband, Johnny Cash, in the same year (2003). Carlene expressed that it was difficult to capture the magnitude of her emotions in just the couple minutes of a song.
You will see that the album has some special appearances by other legendary names. Download the album HERE. Also check out the in-depth interview with Carlene by Radio.com HERE, where she talks about growing up with members of the Carter Family.
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