Bill Clinton: “Thank you very much. Where I was raised we didn't know it was country; we thought it was the only music there was.…”

“Thank you very much. Where I was raised we didn't know it was country; we thought it was the only music there was. [Laughter] Ladies and gentlemen, country music vividly demonstrates America's fundamental ability to adapt and to change, to innovate, while never forgetting the best of our past in the mountains of Appalachia, in the hills and fields of the South, in the plains and deserts of the cowboy West. We took ancient folk ballads, we mixed in blues and gospel and came up with a whole new kind of song. As an American and as a southerner, I take special pride in seeing our country music now spreading all across the planet. And I'm very proud that our theme this evening is the women of country. Our host has a well-earned reputation for nurturing and encouraging country talent, and for a little country homespun wisdom. He's worked with everybody from Hank Williams, Dottie West, and Elvis, to Dolly Parton and Paul McCartney. He's probably the best known guitarist in the world. Please welcome Mr. Chet Atkins. [At this point, the performances proceeded.]”