'Those roots are really here': From the Carter Family to Bill Monroe, unearthing the hidden history of Charlotte country music

Back in the 1930s, more country music was recorded in Charlotte than in Nashville, Tennessee. Some of the Charlotte recordings from that period have become part of the essential canon of traditional country music, from "the first family of country" — the Carter Family — to the first career steps of "the father of bluegrass" Bill Monroe. So how did Charlotte become the center for country music? And why isn't it any longer?

Om Podcasten

Charlotte is known for banking and football. But what can be said of the Charlotte music scene? Join award-winning host Joni Deutsch every other Thursday for Amplifier, the music podcast from WFAE, where we shine a light on the artists who call Charlotte home. You just might find a new favorite song along the way.In 2019, Amplifier was named Charlotte Magazine’s “Best Podcast,” received a local Edward R. Murrow Award for “Excellence in Innovation” and was honored for innovation in music/arts podcasting by The Webby Awards (named “The Internet’s Highest Honor” by The New York Times). In 2021, it was Charlotte Magazine's "Best Podcast" again.Are you a musician or music professional from the Charlotte-area? Submit your information for future podcast consideration! Click here (or go to wfae.report/amplifier/submit-your-cltmusic-to-amplifier).