What is the most important, the most resonant, the most American music in our lives? I have had many musical influences. But I am the sort of person who doesn't hear lyrics well. I respond to the rhythm, the--what can I call it?--the flow, the soul. The words seep in later. This list is the the artists who touch my soul the most. I will be adding to it, and I invite comment. (This is only American music, so the Stones, the Beatles, and all the Brits (sorry, Eric Clapton) are, necessarily, excluded, among others--Edith Piaf, etc. They belong to another list.)

Tier 1: The Grateful Dead
Tier 2: Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Patsy Cline, Willy Nelson, Robert Johnson
Tier 3: Phil Oakes, Pete Seeger (and the Weavers), Hank Williams, Cole Porter (yes, Cole Porter)
Tier 4: Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, Muddy Waters, Flatt and Scruggs (together), Cisco Houston
Tier 5: ???

Ok, it's up to you. Let's create the list--as deep as you want (no more than 5 per tier, however). I will be adding to it and revising as I see fit. Give me your input!