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Music genre

Heartland rock

Heartland rock is a music genre that emerged in United States in the 1970s. It is usually classed as a form of rock music. Explore key artists and related styles.

About Heartland rock

Heartland rock is a music genre that emerged in United States in the 1970s. It is usually classed as a form of rock music.

Artists closely associated with the genre include Bryan Adams, Sheryl Crow, Traveling Wilburys, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and John Mellencamp.

From Wikipedia

Heartland rock is a genre of rock music characterized by a straightforward, often roots musical style, often with a focus on blue-collar workers, and a conviction that rock music has a social or communal purpose beyond just entertainment.

The genre is exemplified by singer-songwriters Tom Petty, Bob Seger, Bruce Springsteen, Jackson Browne, Michael Stanley, and John Mellencamp and country music artists, including Steve Earle and Joe Ely. The genre developed in the 1970s and reached its commercial peak in the 1980s when it became one of the best-selling genres in the United States. In the 1990s, many established acts faded and the genre began to fragment, but the major figures have continued to record with commercial success.

Genre family tree

Parent genres (↑) and subgenres (↓) of Heartland rock.

Key artists

  • Bryan Adams
  • Sheryl Crow
  • Traveling Wilburys
  • Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
  • John Mellencamp

Related genres

Frequently asked questions

What is Heartland rock?

Heartland rock is a music genre that emerged in United States in the 1970s. It is usually classed as a form of rock music.

Where and when did Heartland rock originate?

Heartland rock originated in United States in the 1970s.

Who are famous Heartland rock artists?

Bryan Adams, Sheryl Crow, Traveling Wilburys, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and John Mellencamp.

Sources & credits