In the mid-'80s the Nashville scene was at a low point until Dwight Yoakam helped usher in a new wave of country that was both traditionalist and progressive. Yoakam's allegiance to the classic Bakersfield sound of the '60s (Buck Owens, Merle Haggard) as well as his use of rockabilly and soul won him a wide audience. His good looks and dramatic persona also earned him an acting career, and he had major roles in numerous high-profile films, including PANIC ROOM and SLING BLADE.