Buck Owens: The King of Bakersfield Sound

Buck Owens: The King of Bakersfield Sound

By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

Buck Owens, a name synonymous with country music, was a pioneering force who helped define the Bakersfield sound, a style that emphasized a raw, energetic approach that contrasted with the more polished Nashville sound. His distinctive voice, coupled with his innovative musical style, earned him immense popularity and cemented his legacy as one of country music’s most influential figures.

Born in 1929 in Texas, Owens moved to California as a young man, where he began honing his musical skills. He formed Buck Owens and His Buckaroos, a band that would become legendary for their tight harmonies and energetic performances.

Owens’s music was characterized by a driving beat, twangy guitars, and a focus on storytelling. His lyrics often depicted the everyday lives of working-class people, capturing the spirit of the American West with a blend of humor and honesty.

His breakthrough came in the early 1960s with a string of hit singles, including:

• “Act Naturally”: This upbeat number, later famously covered by The Beatles, became a signature song for Owens.
• “Love’s Gonna Live Here”: A classic country ballad that showcased Owens’s vocal range and emotional depth.
• “I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail”: An energetic and playful song that became a staple of his live performances.
• “Streets of Bakersfield”: A duet with fellow Bakersfield Sound pioneer, Merle Haggard, this song remains one of the most iconic duets in country music history.
• “Made in Japan”: A humorous and catchy song that poked fun at the growing popularity of Japanese consumer goods.
• “Buckaroo”: A lively and energetic song that showcased the band’s instrumental prowess.
• “Excuse Me (I Think I’ve Got a Heartache)”: A classic country ballad that showcased Owens’s emotional vulnerability.

Owens’s influence extended beyond his music. He hosted the popular television show “Hee Haw” for many years, which brought country music to a wider audience and helped popularize the Bakersfield sound.

Buck Owens passed away in 2006, but his legacy continues to live on. His music remains timeless, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless country artists today. He is remembered as a true innovator, a charismatic performer, and one of the most important figures in the history of country music.