41. Buck Owens and His Buckaroos, ‘Carnegie Hall Concert’ (1966)

Buck Owens and His Buckaroos – Carnegie Hall Concert (1966)

Released in 1966, Buck Owens and His Buckaroos' Carnegie Hall Concert is a remarkable live album that captures the electrifying energy of Buck Owens, one of the pioneers of the Bakersfield Sound, during a historic performance at the legendary Carnegie Hall in New York City. The album is a snapshot of a key moment in country music history when Buck Owens and his band, The Buckaroos, bridged the gap between the traditional sounds of Nashville and the more honky-tonk, stripped-back vibe of the Bakersfield scene, which was gaining popularity in the 1960s.

The Carnegie Hall Concert is a unique and somewhat unexpected milestone in Owens' career, as the venue was far more associated with classical and jazz performances rather than country music. The fact that Owens and his band were able to perform in such a prestigious venue speaks to the immense popularity and cultural impact of Owens' music during this period.

The Context: Buck Owens and the Bakersfield Sound

In the 1950s and 1960s, Buck Owens was a central figure in the Bakersfield Sound, a movement that arose in Bakersfield, California, as a reaction to the slick, orchestrated sound that dominated Nashville at the time. Owens, along with artists like Merle Haggard, helped define a new form of country music that was rougher, more stripped-down, and more electric than the smooth sounds of the Grand Ole Opry.

Owens' music was also characterized by its honky-tonk influences, upbeat tempos, and catchy melodies, which were contrasted by the honest, plainspoken lyrics. His big hit singles, such as "Act Naturally", "Together Again", and "I've Got a Tiger by the Tail", helped solidify his reputation as one of the most influential country artists of his time.

The Concert: A Historic Performance

Buck Owens' Carnegie Hall performance was a historic event for both Owens and for country music as a whole. It took place at a time when country music was experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and the genre was beginning to gain recognition beyond its traditional base. The concert represented a significant step in bringing country music to a larger, more diverse audience and demonstrated that country music could thrive in prestigious venues alongside other musical genres.

The Carnegie Hall Concert features Buck Owens and his legendary band, The Buckaroos, in front of an enthusiastic audience. The live recording captures the high-energy atmosphere of the performance, with Owens at the helm as the charismatic frontman, leading the band through some of his greatest hits, as well as some classic covers and instrumental jams.

Key Tracks and Highlights

The album is a reflection of Buck Owens' versatility as both a performer and songwriter, and it features many of his most beloved songs, as well as moments that showcase the musical prowess of his talented band. Some of the standout tracks include:

1. "Act Naturally"
   One of Owens' signature hits, "Act Naturally" opens the album and sets the tone for the evening. The lively, upbeat nature of the song is a perfect example of the Bakersfield Sound, with its honky-tonk piano and twangy guitars. The crowd’s enthusiastic response adds to the track’s energy, and it’s clear that Owens is in his element, connecting with the audience.

2. "Tiger by the Tail"
   Another major hit for Owens, "Tiger by the Tail" is a fast-paced, upbeat tune that features Owens' distinctive vocals and the tight, tight-knit instrumentation of The Buckaroos. The performance has a sense of urgency, and Owens' delivery is full of swagger, perfectly capturing the song’s spirit.

3. "Together Again"
   A beautiful ballad that became one of Owens’ most enduring hits, "Together Again" is given a heartfelt, tender performance at Carnegie Hall. The band’s harmonies shine here, and the track's more subdued, reflective mood contrasts nicely with some of the more upbeat, fast-paced songs in the setlist.

4. "My Heart Skips a Beat"
   This song is a classic example of Buck Owens' blend of traditional country with more pop-infused melodies. The live version retains the song’s bright energy, and the upbeat rhythm makes it a crowd favorite. It’s also a great showcase for the band's instrumental abilities, particularly the guitar work.

5. "I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail"
   As one of Owens' most beloved songs, "I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail" is a fast-paced, infectious tune that brings the energy of the live performance to a peak. The song features some impressive instrumental solos, and the audience’s reaction to the performance highlights the excitement surrounding Owens' music during this period.

6. "Buckaroo"
   This instrumental tune is a true highlight of the concert, allowing the band to show off their musicianship. With its twangy guitar lines, steady rhythm, and tight instrumental interplay, “Buckaroo” is a defining moment for The Buckaroos, capturing the distinctive sound of their musical style.

The Sound and Atmosphere

The sound quality of Carnegie Hall Concert is remarkable, especially for a live album from the 1960s. The recording captures the clear, crisp sound of the band and the lively interaction between Owens and the audience. The energy of the performance is palpable, and you can feel the excitement and enthusiasm of the crowd as they cheer, clap, and sing along with Owens and his band.

The Carnegie Hall setting also brings a certain level of elegance and grandeur to the performance, yet Owens and his band stay true to their honky-tonk roots. There's an interesting juxtaposition of the refined atmosphere of the venue and the raw, vibrant energy of country music.

Legacy and Impact

Carnegie Hall Concert is an important album in the legacy of Buck Owens and the Bakersfield Sound, as it captures a key moment in the country music world during the 1960s. The performance at Carnegie Hall not only marked a milestone in Owens' career but also symbolized the increasing mainstream acceptance of country music.

For country music fans, this album stands as a testament to Owens’ musical influence, his charismatic live presence, and the enduring appeal of the Bakersfield Sound. It also showcased how Owens and The Buckaroos could electrify an audience with their tight performances, sharp melodies, and innovative country sound.

The Carnegie Hall Concert remains one of the most iconic live country albums ever released, capturing a unique moment in country music history when Buck Owens and His Buckaroos brought their distinct sound to one of the most prestigious stages in the world. It is a live album that is not only a celebration of Owens’ music but also an important historical document of country music’s growing influence in the mainstream.