The soundtrack for this road trip is filled with homegrown harmonies.

The soundtrack for this road trip is filled with homegrown harmonies.

From folksy fiddling tunes to pop-inspired crossover hits, country music has come a long way since its arrival on the music scene in the 1920s. Listen closely to any modern country song, and you’ll hear the influence of the genre’s pioneers, many of whom got their start here in the Hospitality State. The Mississippi Country Music Trail’s first marker honors Jimmie Rodgers, credited with creating the first country sounds. The trail stretches across the state, marking places and spaces which sparked songs in the hearts of some of country’s greatest talents— “First Lady of Country Music” Tammy Wynette’s birthplace, Grammy winner Faith Hill’s hometown and Grand Ole Opry legend Marty Stuart’s favorite early performance spot. Need more proof Mississippi makes great musicians? See the markers for Charley Pride, Chris LeDoux, Bobbie Gentry and many more. Crank up the radio and let the music take you.