Last week the world lost a country music icon and Bakersfield lost a legend.
Red Simpson died last Friday at the age of 81. Simpson was largely credited for establishing one of the most influential genres of country music -- the Bakersfield sound.
The Bakersfield sound became one of the most popular genres of country music in the 1950's and 60's - helping to establish Kern County as a country music mecca.
Largely influenced by rock and roll - the Bakersfield sound was raw, powerful and electrifying. The genre was pioneered by many including Buck Owens, Merle Haggard and the late Red Simpson. Jim Shaw, manager of Buck Owens production says “the sound was like no other.”
"The Bakersfield sound was very raw, very exciting and it was just a little rougher,” Shaw said.
Over the weekend dozens came out to honor Simpson at the Rustic Rail. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made.
