Pop country, also known as country pop, is a subgenre that blends country music with pop music and other mainstream genres.
The style’s origins go back to the 1950s with what was called “Countrypolitan” and the “Nashville Sound.” The genre was created to offer an alternative to rockabilly, which had gained popularity among younger audiences. The new sound proved successful but was controversial among country purists. Pop country would later inspire counter-movements like outlaw country and the Bakersfield sound, which were heavily influenced by rock music.
Nevertheless, pop country has evolved and remained popular throughout the decades. In recent years, it has been fused with hip-hop and dance music to great success, with artists like Diplo and Nelly collaborating with country stars such as Morgan Wallen and Florida Georgia Line.
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