Watermelon Wine

Originally published in 1978, Watermelon Wine received honest, unsentimental examination of the compassion as well as the passion behind authentic country music. A quarter-century later, the essays in the book seem prophetic, and in many cases have become even more relevant. Author Frye Gaillard looked at the commercialization of the Grand Ole Opry; the tradition-minded rebels such as Hank Williams, Waylon Jennings, and Tompall Glaser; the growing divide between country and folk music; how Johnny Cash inspired new songwriters and new ideas; how the changing relationships between men and women affected the music; the role of God and gospel; and Southern rock's increasing influence. A new introduction by Nashville music journalist Peter Cooper and a new afterword by the author update the book's themes and show what has happened to its personalities. Gaillard and Cooper have also collaborated to include a Listener's Guide to the best CDs by the artists featured in the book.