Bristol, TN, October 25, 2025
News Summary
The documentary ‘The Music We Call Country’ is now streaming on Amazon Prime. Produced by Marshall Hunter and Noble Giant Films, the film delves into the history of commercial country music, focusing on the Bristol Sessions of 1927. This pivotal event marked the recording of iconic artists like Jimmie Rodgers and The Carter Family, showcasing the rise of traditional Appalachian music. Viewers can rent the film for $2.99 or purchase it for $9.99, offering a thorough examination of the genre’s roots and its enduring legacy.
Bristol, TN
The new documentary titled ‘The Music We Call Country’ is now available for streaming or purchase on Amazon Prime. This one-hour film is produced by Marshall Hunter and Noble Giant Films, aiming to explore the origins of commercial country music. It primarily focuses on the history of what is now considered traditional Appalachian music, starting from its first recording session in 1927 known as The Bristol Sessions.
The Bristol Sessions marked a significant event in music history as it featured renowned future Hall of Famers including Jimmie Rodgers, The Stonemans, and The Carter Family. These recording sessions were conducted by Ralph Peer of the Victor Talking Machine Company, who recorded directly to phonograph cylinders. Remarkably, The Bristol Sessions took place only two years after the invention of recording technology, shaping the landscape of country music.
In a quest to discover talent, Ralph Peer placed advertisements in newspapers to find artists willing to record hillbilly music, which had gained popularity on the radio throughout the Appalachian region. The documentary is described as detailing the story of the “Big Bang of country music” through a combination of interviews and archival photographs, celebrating the legacy of these early pioneers.
The film features insights from musicologists, advocates of the genre, and family members of the original artists. Key individuals highlighted in the documentary include Tim White, Ted Olson, and Rita Forrester. According to the synopsis provided by Noble Giant Films, the film emphasizes the exploration of both the artists and technology that allowed for the discovery and rise of country music’s first superstars.
By unveiling the contributions made by pioneering artists, the documentary seeks to demonstrate their lasting impact on music history. Viewers have the option to rent ‘The Music We Call Country’ for $2.99 or purchase it for $9.99 on Amazon Prime, making this insightful film easily accessible to a broad audience interested in the evolution of country music.
FAQs
What is the title of the documentary?
The title of the documentary is ‘The Music We Call Country’.
Where can viewers watch or purchase the documentary?
Viewers can watch or purchase the documentary on Amazon Prime.
Who produced ‘The Music We Call Country’?
The documentary is produced by Marshall Hunter and Noble Giant Films.
What year was The Bristol Sessions recorded?
The Bristol Sessions were recorded in 1927.
Who were some of the featured artists during The Bristol Sessions?
Some featured artists included Jimmie Rodgers, The Stonemans, and The Carter Family.
Who conducted the recordings during The Bristol Sessions?
The recordings were conducted by Ralph Peer of the Victor Talking Machine Company.
What was the significance of The Bristol Sessions?
The Bristol Sessions are considered the beginning of country music’s rise and are known as the “Big Bang of country music”.
How can viewers access the documentary on Amazon Prime?
Viewers can rent the documentary for $2.99 or purchase it for $9.99 on Amazon Prime.
Key Features of ‘The Music We Call Country’
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | ‘The Music We Call Country’ |
| Available On | Amazon Prime |
| Duration | One hour |
| Producers | Marshall Hunter and Noble Giant Films |
| Historical Focus | Traditional Appalachian music, The Bristol Sessions, 1927 |
| Featured Artists | Jimmie Rodgers, The Stonemans, The Carter Family |
| Key Figure | Ralph Peer |
| Availability Cost | Rent for $2.99 or Purchase for $9.99 |
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Additional Resources
- Bluegrass Today: ‘The Music We Call Country’
- Wikipedia: Bristol Sessions
- WCYB News Bristol: Birthplace of Country Music Museum Raffle
- Google Search: Bristol Sessions
- WCYB News Bristol: Bristol Sessions Super Raffle
- Google Scholar: History of Country Music
- The Boot: The Bristol Sessions & Ralph Peer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Country Music History
- Watauga Democrat: John McCutcheon Tribute Album
- Google News: Country Music

Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


