Lady A, formerly known as Lady Antebellum, has solidified their place as country music royalty over a career spanning more than a decade. From chart-topping albums to sold-out tours across continents, their journey is paved with Gold and Platinum records. Their album Heart Break debuted at the pinnacle of the Country Albums chart, and their tours continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The magic of Lady A lies in the seamless blend of Dave Haywood’s instrumental talent, the distinctive vocals of Charles Kelley and Hillary Scott, and their signature harmonies. These elements combine to create a sound that is both uniquely theirs and universally appealing. Choosing just ten songs to represent their best work is a delightful challenge, revealing the depth and consistency of their discography. The fact that they boast a song that could be considered “The Million Selling Performance You’ve Never Gotten Tired Of” speaks volumes about their enduring appeal and the quality of their music. Let’s dive into a countdown of ten of their best songs, showcasing the harmonies, vocals, and musicianship that define Lady A.
10. Downtown
“Downtown,” released in the winter of 2013, is a vibrant track penned by Luke Laird, Shane McAnally, and Natalie Hemby. This song allowed Hillary Scott to showcase a playful, sassy side of her vocal range. The lyrics tell a story of wanting more passion in a relationship, urging a partner to see her as more than just a safe option. “Downtown” is an upbeat anthem that climbed to the top of the charts, proving Lady A’s versatility and ability to deliver catchy, fun tunes.
9. Goodbye Town
“Goodbye Town,” the follow-up single to “Downtown,” is a powerful ballad co-written by the band and Josh Kear. This song stands out as a vocal masterpiece for Charles Kelley. His performance is filled with raw emotion and weariness, conveying the pain of leaving a place and a relationship behind. Despite its exceptional vocal delivery and poignant lyrics, “Goodbye Town” surprisingly peaked at number 11 on the Country Airplay chart. It remains a testament to Kelley’s expressive vocal capabilities and the band’s ability to explore deeper emotional themes.
8. Love Don’t Live Here
Lady A’s debut single, “Love Don’t Live Here,” released in the fall of 2007, is a foundational track that still resonates with fans today. It was the first introduction to the band’s signature harmonies, which would become a defining element of their sound. This song established Lady A as a force in country music, highlighting their vocal blend and songwriting talent right from the start. “Love Don’t Live Here” remains a fan favorite and a staple in their live performances, showcasing the raw talent that launched their successful career.
7. Bartender
Lady A performing Bartender live, with a vibrant stage and enthusiastic crowd showcasing the song's party atmosphere.
“Bartender,” released in 2014, is pure, unadulterated fun. This single demonstrated Lady A’s ability to lighten the mood and create music that’s simply about having a good time. While not aiming for lyrical depth or critical acclaim, “Bartender” perfectly captures the desire to unwind and let loose. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any Lady A concert, with its infectious energy and sing-along chorus. The song’s purpose is clear: to get people on their feet and enjoy the moment, proving Lady A can masterfully craft both heartfelt ballads and upbeat party anthems.
6. You Look Good
“You Look Good” is a more recent addition to Lady A’s catalog, and placing it on a “best of” list might seem premature to some. However, this track made waves in country radio with its distinctive and buoyant sound. The prominent use of horns was a surprising and refreshing element, reminiscent of sounds not heard since the “Man In Black” era, adding a unique flavor to their country style. “You Look Good” is included here not just for its composition, but for its impact and how it showcased Lady A’s willingness to experiment and evolve their sound while staying true to their core musical identity.
5. We Owned The Night
Lady A performing We Owned The Night, highlighting Charles Kelley's passionate vocal delivery in a concert setting.
“We Owned The Night,” a hit from 2011, was inspired by a suggestion from Dallas Davidson to incorporate the mandolin into their music. This song carries a strong sense of nostalgia in its lyrics, evoking memories of youthful nights and cherished moments. Charles Kelley’s vocals are particularly noteworthy in this track, delivering each line with passion and a subtle quiver that enhances the song’s emotional depth. “We Owned The Night” successfully blends instrumental innovation with heartfelt lyrics and Kelley’s compelling vocal performance.
4. I Run To You
“I Run To You” is a song with layers of meaning. It can be interpreted as a declaration of love and support within a relationship during difficult times, or as a broader commentary against hate and violence, offering solace and refuge. This duality is part of what made “I Run To You” resonate deeply with listeners across various demographics and regions. For many artists, a song like “I Run To You” would be a career-defining hit. For Lady A, it’s just one of many standout tracks in their impressive repertoire, demonstrating their ability to create music that is both personal and universally relatable.
3. American Honey
“American Honey” is a song that truly showcases Hillary Scott’s vocal prowess. Many consider this performance to be among her best, second perhaps only to their most iconic hit. The song is a nostalgic tribute to growing up and youthful innocence, painted with vivid imagery and heartfelt emotion. “American Honey” is a standout example of Lady A’s collective talent, with each member contributing to its overall beauty and impact. It’s a song that resonates with listeners of all ages, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
2. Lookin’ For A Good Time
“Lookin’ For A Good Time,” despite not reaching the top ten, is an unforgettable track from Lady A’s early catalog. This second single highlighted the playful dynamic between Hillary Scott and Charles Kelley’s vocals. Their vocal interplay, a fun and flirtatious exchange, is a key element that set them apart from other groups in the genre. “Lookin’ For A Good Time” is a lively and engaging song that demonstrated their unique chemistry and ability to create music that is both catchy and characterful.
1. Need You Now
“Need You Now,” the 2009 mega-hit, rightfully earns the top spot on any list of Lady A’s best songs. Its placement here might seem predictable, yet its enduring impact and timeless quality are undeniable. Despite its widespread airplay across country, pop, and adult contemporary radio stations both domestically and internationally, “Need You Now” still sounds as captivating and emotionally resonant as it did upon release. Charles Kelley’s vulnerable vocal performance perfectly captures the late-night yearning of the lyrics, and Hillary Scott adds a dreamy quality to what is essentially a booty call scenario. “Need You Now” is more than just a hit song; it’s a modern classic that continues to move listeners and define Lady A’s legacy.
