A commercial offshoot of the folk music of the rural South, country music is an American art form that Gained worldwide appeal after World War II. Originally known as Hillbilly or mountain music, country music grew from the folk music that was brought to North America by Anglo- Celtics settlers in the 1700s and 1800s. It was also called country and Western music because of its popularity with cowboys.                         

Traditionally country musicians have been most proficient on stringed instruments. The violin, or fiddle, was the most popular instrument because of its easy portability. The Banjo was adapted from the African-American culture. String Bass and Hawaiian guitar have been used since the 1920s. Drums, pianos, and electrified instruments were used as early as the 1930s by Western swing bands. 

Respectability and national acceptance are still by-words with country music industry leaders. Beyond doubt country music has broadened its audience by adapting stylistic elements of rock and other popular music. Yet the appeal of tradition persists.