CMT documentary examines African-Americans in country music

Although most county music lovers probably have no idea about black contributions to the genre beyond DeFord Bailey, Ray Charles and Charley Pride, African-Americans have contributed significantly to the music's growth for more than a century.
Getting there
Waiting in the Wings: African Americans in Country Music airs tonight on Country Music Television (CMT) at 8:30 p.m. CMT airs on Ch. 30 on Comcast cable, and is also available on Direct TV and Dish Network satellite systems.

Country Music Television's (CMT) new documentary Waiting In The Wings: African Americans in Country Music may finally correct that oversight. The show, which airs tonight at 8:30 p.m., profiles five young black country artists, among them American Idol finalist Kimberley Locke. The show also includes interviews with Curb recording artist Trini Triggs, California vocalist Vicki Vann, Pennsylvania native and Star Search finalist Rissi Palmer and young Texas siblings Buddy and Tina Wright.

The 90-minute documentary includes some familiar information, particularly the influence of blues musician Rufus "Tee-Tot" Payne on Hank Williams and Charley Pride's unprecedented rise to country music superstardom. Pride is the only black member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and at one time was RCA's top-selling country music artist. However, the show's primary focus covers emerging acts like Triggs and Palmer who are anxious to dispel the notion that African-Americans can't make it in country music.

"In my view, we just haven't gotten the right song to really break me out," Triggs said. "I've performed in some of the toughest clubs you can imagine and never had anyone tell me that I shouldn't be singing country music."

Palmer said people were initially astonished to hear her sing country songs, but because it was the music she loved, she stuck with it.

"I certainly heard all types of music growing up, but as far as writing and singing, country was the music I've always preferred," she said.

Both Triggs and Palmer maintain that there are plenty of African-Americans who like country, but that some of them won't admit it on the record for various reasons.

"I think that's one of those things where you won't be considered cool or hip among your peers in some cases," Triggs said.

Palmer added: "For me, I think the barriers are coming down and people are starting to just see music as music."

The most important thing new artists need to understand about country music audiences is that they respond best to honesty and sincerity, Triggs said.

"If they think you're just coming into country on your way to pop, or that you don't really feel what you're singing, then they'll reject you no matter what color you are," she explained. "If you've got the talent and are willing to stick it out, eventually you'll be accepted."