What truly defines the Best Country Song? Is it the storytelling that resonates deep within, the raw emotion that tugs at your heartstrings, or the distinctive twang that sets your foot tapping? Great country songs are more than just music; they are narratives, emotions, and experiences woven into melodies that speak to the soul. They chart the evolving story of country music itself, from its humble beginnings to its global influence.
In 2014, Rolling Stone Country marked its launch with a list of 100 Greatest Country Songs, a moment that celebrated the genre’s rich tapestry. Now, a decade later, to commemorate its 10th anniversary, this list has expanded to 200 songs, offering an even deeper exploration into country music’s vast history. This updated compilation provides a broader perspective, highlighting aspects previously overlooked and reflecting the genre’s dynamic growth.
This expanded list arrives at a pivotal time. We see a classic folk song, like Tracy Chapman’s, achieving country chart-topping success, and Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album illuminating the significant contributions of Black country artists such as Linda Martell. Nearly a century after pioneers like the Carter Family, Jimmie Rodgers, and DeFord Bailey laid the foundation, country music continues to evolve, embracing new voices and stories.
Let’s explore some of these iconic tracks that define what makes a best country song, delving into the stories and sounds that have shaped this enduring genre.
Brad Paisley, ‘Welcome to the Future’
Brad Paisley performing live in 2009, showcasing his modern country style.
Brad Paisley, a prominent voice in mainstream country and known for his liberal viewpoints, delivered an ambitious and expansive track with “Welcome to the Future.” This nearly six-minute single from his 2009 album, American Saturday Night, is a thoughtful exploration of progress and hope. Paisley aimed to blend “multigenerational truth with a strong sense of hope and possibility,” and the song does just that. It’s a quintessential example of a best country song that reflects contemporary themes.
In “Welcome to the Future,” Paisley marvels at technological advancements like car DVD players and mobile-phone video games, contemplating how these innovations would astound his grandfather, a WWII veteran. He seamlessly transitions to acknowledging racial progress within his own lifetime, having even debuted the song live at the White House. The song is characteristically Paisley, a blend of synth lines and steel guitar, fiddle and speed riffs, seamlessly mixing thoughtful observations with heartfelt sentiment. It’s a track that exemplifies how a best country song can be both innovative and deeply rooted in country traditions.
Stoney Edwards, ‘Hank and Lefty Raised My Country Soul’
Stoney Edwards portrait from the 1970s, a Black country artist who paved the way.
Stoney Edwards emerged as one of the pioneering Black artists in country music following Charley Pride’s breakthrough. His song, “Hank and Lefty Raised My Country Soul,” is a poignant reflection on growing up admiring country music’s foundational figures. This track serves as a stark reminder of the additional burden placed on Black artists in the genre, often requiring them to explicitly assert their country music credentials in ways their white counterparts did not. Yet, it stands as a remarkable record in its own right, solidifying its place as a best country song.
The arrangement skillfully merges the sounds of Hank Williams’ Drifting Cowboys and Lefty Frizzell’s Western Cherokees, creating a rich and authentic backdrop for Edwards’ warm Oklahoma twang, a voice unmistakably his own. The narrative of embracing his father’s musical heroes, rather than rebelling against them, as might be expected in rock music, perfectly encapsulates the essence of country tradition. This song is a testament to how a best country song can honor the past while forging a unique identity.
Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty, ‘You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly’
Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty in a portrait from 1979, country music's iconic duo.
The 1970s were a golden era for country power couples, from George Jones and Tammy Wynette to Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash. However, the most beloved duo wasn’t even a romantic pairing: Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty. Their collaboration began with an impressive streak of five consecutive Number One hits early in the decade, and their chart-topping success continued when they released “You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly,” perhaps their most unconventional and humorous contribution to country music. This song stands out as a uniquely funny best country song.
“You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly” is a funky, lighthearted tune that playfully pokes fun at a couple’s aging appearances. Lynn and Twitty fully embrace the comedic tone, trading witty barbs about how each other’s genes have supposedly contributed to their children’s looks. Despite its comedic nature, their performance is fully committed, making it a hilarious and memorable entry in their legendary collaboration. It showcases how a best country song can use humor to explore relatable relationship dynamics.
Gretchen Wilson, ‘Redneck Woman’
Gretchen Wilson performing live, embodying the 'Redneck Woman' persona.
The MuzikMafia, a collective of Nashville’s outcasts and open-minded musicians known for their inclusive open mic nights, broke into the mainstream with the success of Big & Rich’s “Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)” and Gretchen Wilson’s “Redneck Woman.” With its upbeat tempo and unapologetic celebration of beer-drinking and Walmart-shopping “redneck” identity, “Redneck Woman” quickly climbed the country charts. This anthem became a defining best country song of the early 2000s.
Following a standout performance at the 2004 Country Radio Seminar, “Redneck Woman” became the fastest-rising Number One hit since Billy Ray Cyrus’ “Achy Breaky Heart.” While Wilson herself didn’t replicate this level of chart dominance, the song undeniably paved the way for a new wave of rocking female artists like Miranda Lambert and Kimberly Perry. It established a space for strong, assertive female voices in country music, proving that a best country song can be both commercially successful and culturally impactful.
Gene Autry, ‘Back in the Saddle Again’
Gene Autry with his horse Champion in the 1940s, a singing cowboy icon.
According to Country Music U.S.A. by Bill C. Malone and Tracy W. Laird, Gene Autry “completed the ‘romantic westernizing’ begun by [Roy] Rogers.” Autry, initially performing Rogers’ songs, developed his own unique charm, which translated seamlessly to both the silver screen and record sales. By the time “Back in the Saddle Again” emerged, Autry was already a well-established star. This song, a last-minute addition to the 1938 movie Border G-Man, was commissioned in a rush when songwriter Ray Whitley received a 5 a.m. call requesting a new song by 8 a.m. It became Gene Autry’s signature best country song.
The song’s creation story is almost as iconic as the song itself. Whitley, upon being asked by his wife who had called so early, responded, “Well, I’m back in the saddle again.” His wife’s simple reply, “Well, you’ve got a good title,” sparked the creation of a classic. Autry recorded “Back in the Saddle Again” multiple times, with the 1939 version becoming his second gold record. It transformed into his theme song and the title of his autobiography, solidifying its place in country music history. This story highlights how a best country song can sometimes arise from the most unexpected circumstances.
Brandi Carlile, ‘The Joke’
Brandi Carlile performing at the GRAMMY Museum in 2018, known for her powerful vocals.
Brandi Carlile’s “The Joke” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem, distinguished by one of the most compelling vocal performances in 21st-century country music. This powerful track became an instant best country song contender upon release. It stirringly gives voice to marginalized and minority groups who experienced heightened anxieties during the Trump era. Carlile’s soaring vocals, amplified by the empathetic production of David Cobb and Shooter Jennings, embody the era’s collective pain, anger, and desperation.
“The Joke” quickly became a show-stopping centerpiece of Carlile’s performances, earning her well-deserved Grammy Awards. It possesses all the hallmarks of a timeless standard, yet its raw emotional intensity is so intrinsically linked to Carlile’s unparalleled delivery that it’s difficult to imagine another artist capturing its essence with the same force. This song underscores how a best country song can serve as a potent voice for social commentary and emotional release.
Zach Bryan, ‘Something in the Orange’
Zach Bryan performing, a modern country artist who rose through authenticity.
Zach Bryan’s rise to prominence is a testament to the power of authenticity in modern country music. Eschewing the traditional Nashville trajectory of bar gigs and industry networking, Bryan carved his own path. While serving in the Navy, he spent his off-duty hours writing songs and sharing them on YouTube. He independently released two albums while still in active service, building a grassroots following that appreciated his raw, genuine sound. “Something in the Orange” became a breakout best country song for Bryan.
Following an honorable discharge and signing with a major label, Bryan released “Something in the Orange” as the lead single from his 2022 album, American Heartbreak. The song doubles down on his signature style: simple instrumentation that foregrounds his poetic lyrics, delivered in an urgent, plainspoken voice. Bryan proved that unadorned authenticity could resonate with massive audiences in the 2020s, making him one of the most significant acts across all genres. This success story demonstrates that a best country song can emerge from genuine artistry and direct connection with listeners.
The Oak Ridge Boys, ‘Elvira’
The Oak Ridge Boys backstage in 1981, known for their crossover appeal.
The Oak Ridge Boys began their musical journey in the 1940s in Knoxville, Tennessee, as the Oak Ridge Quintet, singing gospel music. They maintained the classic vocal group tradition while smoothly transitioning into country music in the 1970s and 1980s. Their polished yet approachable image and adaptable musical style facilitated easy crossover success, including collaborations with artists from other genres, such as their subtle and beautiful contribution to Paul Simon’s “Slip Slidin’ Away.” Their biggest pop culture moment came with “Elvira,” a quintessential best country song for sing-alongs.
“Elvira” is characterized by its jovial rhythm, playful horn section, and infectious, sing-along hook, “Giddy up, um-poppa-um-poppa, mow, mow,” delivered by the group’s distinctive deep bass singer, Richard Sterban, a Camden, New Jersey native. This song perfectly encapsulates the Oak Ridge Boys’ ability to blend traditional vocal harmonies with a contemporary, crossover-friendly sound, making it a beloved and enduring hit. It exemplifies how a best country song can bridge genres and generations with its universal appeal.
Beyoncé, ‘Texas Hold ‘Em’
Beyoncé accepting an award in 2024, heralding a new era in country music.
Released in February 2024, Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em” has already become a landmark moment in country music. It marked the first time a Black woman topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart with a debut record. This song is not just a hit; it’s a potential game-changer, redefining what a best country song can sound like in the 21st century. Its broader impact on country music remains to be seen. Will it lead to greater integration on country radio? Will it spark a resurgence in line dancing or incite backlash from traditionalists? Perhaps it will be a catalyst for all of these developments.
What is undeniable is “Texas Hold ‘Em’s” immediate impact and quality. From Rhiannon Giddens’ opening banjo riff to the bareback Western beat, and through to the fife-and-drum-inspired whistle breakdowns, this “real-life boogie and… hoedown” is undeniably a top-tier country banger for the 21st century. It showcases how a best country song can break boundaries, challenge conventions, and still deeply resonate with the genre’s core spirit.
Johnny Rodriguez, ‘Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico’
Johnny Rodriguez in concert in 1975, a pioneer for Mexican-American artists in country.
Johnny Rodriguez holds the distinction of being the first country star of Mexican-American descent. He uniquely demonstrated the genre’s fluidity by recording songs in both English and Spanish. In Ken Burns’ Country Music documentary, he noted, “You have stories in Mexican music, and country music said almost the same thing, just in different languages.” His 1973 single “Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico” is a storytelling masterpiece and a best country song that transcends language barriers.
“Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico” is a poignant narrative of escapism, a weeper penned by Rodriguez about seeking refuge in another country when life becomes overwhelming. The forlornness in his voice is beautifully contrasted by the lush production of Jerry Kennedy. It became his second Number One hit, part of a string of successes Rodriguez achieved in the 1970s. This song is a powerful example of how a best country song can convey deep emotion and universal experiences of heartbreak and escape.
Ricky Skaggs, ‘Heartbroke’
Ricky Skaggs portrait in 1982, a bluegrass-country innovator.
Songwriter Guy Clark envisioned his upbeat “Heartbroke” as akin to a Chuck Berry tune. When Ricky Skaggs recorded it for his groundbreaking 1982 bluegrass-country album, Highways & Heartaches, the future Country Music Hall of Famer admitted he initially didn’t fully grasp the song’s meaning. Nevertheless, Skaggs instinctively knew how to deliver it, making it a best country song with bluegrass roots.
“Heartbroke” became the first of three singles from that album to reach the top of the country chart. Its popularity extended beyond Skaggs, with other artists, including a rising George Strait, also recording versions. However, it was Skaggs, a Kentucky native, who delivered the most vibrant rendition, slightly altering Clark’s line “pride is a bitch and a bore when you’re lonely,” but losing none of the song’s exuberant charm. This track showcases how a best country song can blend genres and be interpreted in diverse ways while retaining its core appeal.
Iris DeMent, ‘Let the Mystery Be’
Iris DeMent portrait, known for her heartfelt and spiritual songwriting.
Iris DeMent, born in Arkansas and raised in Los Angeles, possesses a distinctive voice marked by a vibrato-infused twang that is both gentle and assertive. Her songwriting has consistently been characterized by heartfelt emotion and a grounded spirituality. “Let the Mystery Be,” the opening track from her exceptional 1993 debut, Infamous Angel, is a perfect illustration of her artistry and a best country song for introspective listeners.
The song thoughtfully contemplates ideas of heaven, purgatory, and the afterlife, ultimately concluding with a sensible acceptance of the unknown: “No one knows for certain and so it’s all the same to me/I think I’ll just let the mystery be.” It launched a remarkable and unconventional career for DeMent, spanning gospel standards, protest songs, and even an album inspired by Russian poet Anna Akhmatova, The Trackless Woods. “Let the Mystery Be” has become a standard in its own right, with covers by artists like Jeff Tweedy of Wilco. It exemplifies how a best country song can explore profound themes with simplicity and grace.
Luke Combs, ‘Beer Never Broke My Heart’
Luke Combs performing live, a leading figure in modern country music.
Luke Combs has evolved into country music’s foremost family man in the 2020s, often singing about his wife and children in his heartfelt songs. Yet, he also proves his ability to craft exceptional drinking songs. “Beer Never Broke My Heart,” released in 2019, stands tall within country music’s esteemed collection of drinking anthems. This track easily qualifies as a best country song for good times.
The song’s clever, relatable lyrics and Combs’ husky delivery make it a standout. The way he emphasizes each phrase of the chorus with a deliberate pause — “Long neck! Ice cold! Beer never broke my heart!” — creates an irresistible sing-along energy. His soulful approach to the bridge (“It takes one hand to count the things I can count on”) further demonstrates his ability to infuse genuine emotion into every line he sings. “Beer Never Broke My Heart” is a testament to how a best country song can be both fun and emotionally resonant.
Turnpike Troubadours, ‘The Bird Hunters’
Evan Felker of Turnpike Troubadours performing live, leaders in Red Dirt country revival.
Turnpike Troubadours are at the forefront of the Red Dirt country revival, a sound originating from Oklahoma in the mid-20th century. “The Bird Hunters,” one of the finest songs to emerge from this tradition, fittingly centers on returning home to East Oklahoma. It is a prime example of a best country song in the Red Dirt style.
“The Bird Hunters” beautifully merges traditional storytelling with classic instrumentation, infused with a modern Southern rock sensibility. Evan Felker’s narrative deeply connects with listeners — it tells the story of a man reassessing his life after a move to Tulsa doesn’t work out, finding solace and direction through a friend and his dog. It’s a familiar story, yet the Troubadours tell it with exceptional detail and heartfelt emotion, unmatched by many other bands. This song illustrates how a best country song can revitalize traditional sounds with contemporary storytelling.
Johnny Lee, ‘Lookin’ for Love’
Johnny Lee portrait, associated with the Urban Cowboy era.
One evening in the late 1970s, Eagles manager Irving Azoff approached Johnny Lee, then the house band leader at Gilley’s, a popular Houston bar, and inquired if he’d be interested in singing in a movie Azoff was involved with as music coordinator. Lee, accustomed to empty promises, jokingly replied, “Yeah, sure, just as soon as I finish this watermelon. You bet.” This casual agreement turned into a life-changing opportunity, resulting in a best country song linked to a cultural phenomenon.
The movie, Urban Cowboy, starring John Travolta and Debra Winger, became a box-office sensation, as did its soundtrack. The soundtrack was spearheaded by “Lookin’ for Love,” a mellow, singles-bar anthem crooned by Lee. Gilley and another music coordinator had discovered the song in a stack of demos. Lee, reflecting on the song’s perfect fit with his life, said, “I couldn’t believe I hadn’t written it myself, it was the story of my life up till then.” “Lookin’ for Love” became a signature track of the Urban Cowboy era, demonstrating how a best country song can become intertwined with broader cultural trends.
Keith Urban, ‘You’ll Think of Me’
Keith Urban at Farm Aid in 2002, known for his guitar skills and crossover appeal.
Keith Urban’s 2002 album, Golden Road, solidified his status as a supremely talented superstar with significant crossover potential. “You’ll Think of Me,” the final and arguably finest of the album’s four singles, showcased Urban’s versatility. Trading his guitar shredding for acoustic intimacy, he delivered an exquisitely bitter breakup ballad. This song stands as a best country song for heartbreak anthems.
“Take your records, take your freedom/take your memories, I don’t need ‘em,” Urban sings, expressing a desire to move on, yet his mournful tone reveals the underlying pain driving his defiance. Released as a single in 2004, the song reached Number One on the country charts and crossed over to adult contemporary and adult top 40 charts, ultimately earning Urban his first Grammy Award. It exemplifies how a best country song can blend raw emotion with musical craftsmanship to achieve both critical and commercial success.
Old Crow Medicine Show, ‘Wagon Wheel’
Old Crow Medicine Show performing with Gillian Welch and David Rawlings in 2003, known for their bluegrass revivalism.
Old Crow Medicine Show’s “Wagon Wheel” had a long and winding journey to becoming a hit. It existed for over 30 years before the band recorded it and another decade before it achieved widespread popularity. The song originated as an unfinished Bob Dylan track from the 1973 Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid soundtrack sessions. Old Crow Medicine Show crafted their fiddle-driven version in 2004, adding their own lyrics to replace Dylan’s mumbled vocals, creating a best country song from unlikely origins.
Nine years later, Darius Rucker took his warm rendition of “Wagon Wheel” to Number One on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, cementing its status as a modern classic. Old Crow’s Critter Fuqua noted, “We’ve never met Dylan, but the song is technically co-written by Bob Dylan.” This story underscores how a best country song can evolve over time, passing through different artists and interpretations to find its ultimate resonance with audiences.
DeFord Bailey, ‘Pan-American Blues’
DeFord Bailey portrait, country music's first harmonica star.
No artist appeared more frequently on country radio’s influential WSM Barn Dance than DeFord Bailey, the “harmonica wizard.” Confined to bed with polio as a child, Bailey absorbed the sounds of his native Tennessee — trains chugging and whistling, hounds howling, fox hunters shouting, hens cackling — and masterfully recreated them on his harmonica. “Pan-American Blues,” named after the train route between New Orleans and Cincinnati, is a three-minute piece of sonic artistry, a best country song showcasing harmonica virtuosity.
“Pan-American Blues” is a piece of “locomotive cinema,” evoking vivid imagery of train travel through sound alone. DeFord Bailey, one of country music’s first Black stars, was also among the earliest stars of the popular radio show that would become The Grand Ole Opry. His pioneering role highlights how a best country song can be instrumental and culturally significant, shaping the early sounds of country music and breaking racial barriers.
Dierks Bentley, ‘I Hold On’
Dierks Bentley performing live, known for his enduring presence in country music.
In the mid-1990s, Dierks Bentley and his father drove an old Chevrolet pickup across the country from Arizona to Nashville. Years later, in 2012, after Bentley had become a country star, his father passed away. This personal history deeply informs his 2013 single, “I Hold On.” While the context isn’t essential to appreciate the song’s strength, knowing it adds layers of meaning to the lyrics about his enduring attachment to that old pickup truck, making it a deeply personal best country song.
“I Hold On” appeared on Bentley’s seventh album, Riser, a landmark release considered one of his best. While he may not have experienced the meteoric rise of some stadium-filling contemporaries, songs like “I Hold On” demonstrate Bentley’s staying power and artistic depth. It suggests that his career is built for longevity, outlasting fleeting trends. This track exemplifies how a best country song can blend personal narrative with universal themes of memory and perseverance.
Sons of the Pioneers, ‘Tumbling Tumbleweeds’
Sons of the Pioneers portrait, pioneers of Western harmony.
Early recordings by Sons of the Pioneers, the vocal group led by Roy Rogers before he became “King of the Cowboys,” possess an ethereal quality, largely due to Rogers’ captivating vocal interplay with Bob Nolan and Tim Spencer. “Tumbling Tumbleweeds,” recorded during the Sons’ first recording session, evokes vast, open landscapes with its sweeping harmonies and prominent violin. This song is a classic best country song that captures the spirit of the West.
Despite its lyrical themes of vagrancy and freedom, “Tumbling Tumbleweeds” was released during the Great Depression. The song’s strangely optimistic tone about the joys of wandering resonated even in hard times. The lyrics are also subtly humorous, depicting tumbleweeds “pledging their love to the ground” as they roll across the landscape. This track showcases how a best country song can offer escapism and beauty, even amidst societal hardship.
Mary Gauthier, ‘Mercy Now’
Mary Gauthier performing live, known for her Southern gothic songwriting.
Mary Gauthier, a master of Southern gothic songwriting, is best known for “Mercy Now,” a signature song that expands from personal grief to universal compassion and back again. It’s an existential plea for “mercy now” – for her dying father, for a struggling nation, for a fragile planet, and ultimately, for ourselves. This song is a profoundly moving best country song that transcends genre.
Gauthier began writing “Mercy Now” after visiting her father, hospitalized with Alzheimer’s-like symptoms following a car accident. Inspired by the repeating lines in Lucinda Williams’ “Changed the Locks” and the shifting landscape of post-9/11 America, she decided to, in her words, “back the camera up,” broadening her perspective from personal to global. Years later, Rolling Stone recognized “Mercy Now” as one of the 40 Saddest Country Songs of All Time. Gauthier responded, “I’m honored, but ‘Mercy Now’ is not sad, it’s real,” highlighting the song’s grounding in authentic human emotion and experience. It demonstrates how a best country song can tackle complex emotions and social commentary with raw honesty.
Vern Gosdin, ‘Chiseled in Stone’
Vern Gosdin performing live in 1998, revered as a traditionalist country vocalist.
Tammy Wynette once described Vern Gosdin as “the only other singer who can hold a candle to George Jones,” a high compliment from a country icon. Gosdin’s most impactful hit single, “Chiseled in Stone,” and the 1989 CMA Song of the Year, certainly validates this praise. This track is a quintessential best country song for traditional country fans.
Co-written by Gosdin and Max D. Barnes, “Chiseled in Stone” is a classic barroom ballad where casual conversation evolves into deep reflection and then into profound heartache. Gosdin’s exceptional talent lay in his ability to convey each emotional stage with equal weight, never succumbing to sentimentality, even while acknowledging that he is speaking with someone whose life experiences overshadow his own sorrows. This song illustrates how a best country song can capture the nuances of human emotion with depth and authenticity.
Tyler Childers, ‘Long Violent History’
Tyler Childers performing live, known for his socially conscious country music.
The 2020 police murder of George Floyd reverberated across America, even within the often conservative realm of country music. Tyler Childers responded with profound impact on “Long Violent History,” the title track of his third studio album. This primarily instrumental record of public domain fiddle tunes culminates in a powerful message. It stands as a politically charged best country song.
On the album’s closer, “Long Violent History,” the only song with lyrics, Childers addresses racial injustice directly. Acknowledging his perspective as “a white boy from Hickman,” he prompts listeners to consider the experience of constant worry, struggle, and the fight for basic human rights. Childers released the song with an accompanying video message, expressing his desire for “justice for Breonna Taylor, a Kentuckian,” like himself. This song and its message underscore how a best country song can be a platform for social commentary and a call for empathy.
Pam Tillis, ‘Maybe It Was Memphis’
Pam Tillis portrait in 1993, a leading lady of the 90s country boom.
Pam Tillis was a shining star during the 1990s country boom, known for her unique blend of twang, sass, and soul. Music is in her lineage; her father, Mel Tillis, was a Nashville legend. After a period exploring New Wave pop in the 1980s, she returned to her country roots and soared to stardom with her 1991 signature song “Maybe It Was Memphis.” This steamy ballad, recalling a summer romance with a Faulkner-esque character, became a defining best country song of the era.
“Maybe It Was Memphis” launched a string of iconic hits for Tillis, including “Put Yourself in My Place,” “Spilled Perfume,” “Mi Vida Loca (My Crazy Life),” and the playfully titled “Cleopatra, Queen of Denial.” Her music consistently showcased her versatility and charisma, solidifying her place as a prominent female voice in 90s country. This song exemplifies how a best country song can capture a specific time and feeling, becoming a soundtrack to a generation.
Kathy Mattea, ‘Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses’
Kathy Mattea performing live in 1990, known for her folk-pop country style.
Historically, country music has often been considered “grown-up music,” focusing on adult themes and experiences. Kathy Mattea, with her warm voice and folk-pop country style, bridged the gap between Anne Murray and Mary Chapin Carpenter on the radio. She achieved her biggest hit with “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses,” a song that celebrates mature love and life changes, making it a tender best country song.
“Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses” tells the story of Charlie, a retiring trucker heading home to his wife, planning to exchange his big rig for an RV and a life of leisure. Mattea sings with empathy and without condescension, “With pieces of the old dream, they’re gonna light the old flame, doin’ what they please.” The song beautifully portrays the idea that life can begin anew in retirement, resonating with listeners who appreciate stories of enduring love and life’s later chapters. It demonstrates how a best country song can celebrate the quiet joys of everyday life and long-term relationships.
Billy Strings, ‘Dust in a Baggie’
Billy Strings performing live, a bluegrass virtuoso with outlaw country spirit.
Many artists claim the “outlaw country” label, but Billy Strings backs it up with authentic, law-breaking narratives in his music. “Dust in a Baggie” is a raw and honest tale of methamphetamine addiction, loosely based on the experiences of a family friend. This song is a gritty and powerful best country song with bluegrass instrumentation.
Alongside furious guitar picking, “Dust in a Baggie” is driven by an irresistible chorus: “I used my only phone call to contact my Daddy/I got 20 long years for some dust in a baggie.” Despite the song’s dark subject matter, it’s incredibly catchy and energetic. Strings himself avoided the fate of his song’s protagonist, finding sobriety in California. This track showcases how a best country song can tackle difficult subjects with musical intensity and lyrical honesty.
Darius Rucker, ‘Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It’
Darius Rucker performing on The Tonight Show in 2008, marking his country solo debut.
Darius Rucker’s transition from Hootie & the Blowfish frontman to country star wasn’t guaranteed, despite his former band’s widespread influence. However, his 2008 solo debut was undeniably successful, marked by “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It,” a grown-up country anthem that resonated with many. It’s a contemplative best country song about past relationships and “what ifs.”
“Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It” explores the universal experience of reflecting on past relationships and wondering about alternate life paths years after a breakup. The song reached Number One on the country chart, making Rucker the first Black artist to achieve a Number One country hit since Ray Charles’ duet with Willie Nelson on “Seven Spanish Angels” in 1985. This success highlighted how a best country song can bridge genres and resonate with a broad audience through relatable themes and strong melodies.
Jimmie Davis, ‘You Are My Sunshine’
Jimmie Davis in Mississippi Rhythm lobbycard, a songwriter and governor with a complex legacy.
George Jones once declared “You Are My Sunshine” the most perfect song ever written. Alongside “Happy Birthday to You” and “White Christmas,” it’s recognized as one of the most universally known songs in the world. While countless versions exist, Jimmie Davis’ original 1940 recording remains the most beloved and is a timeless best country song.
Despite its seemingly cheerful title, “You Are My Sunshine” has forlorn lyrics and a complex, unverified authorship. Davis’ own history is equally complex; he led one of country music’s first racially integrated bands but later ran on a segregationist platform as a two-term governor of Louisiana. Despite these contradictions, the popularity of “You Are My Sunshine” has remained colorblind, with hit versions by artists from Bing Crosby to Aretha Franklin. This song’s enduring appeal demonstrates how a best country song can transcend its creator’s personal complexities and become a cultural touchstone.
Jo Dee Messina, ‘Heads Carolina, Tails California’
Jo Dee Messina performing in 1997, a 90s country star who broadened the genre's geography.
“Can we change ‘Austin’ to ‘Boston’?” Jo Dee Messina asked songwriters Tim Nichols and Mark Sanders before recording “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” a last-minute addition to her debut album. “‘Cause I really do have people in Boston!” Born in Framingham, Massachusetts, Messina spent her early years in Nashville working as a bartender and entering talent contests. This song became her breakthrough best country song.
“Heads Carolina, Tails California” catapulted Messina to stardom and marked a subtle but significant shift in country music’s geographical focus. While California and the Carolinas were early centers of country music production, for Messina, and for many listeners during the genre’s 1990s boom, they represented aspirational destinations, promised lands of sunshine and twang. This song reflects how a best country song can capture the changing cultural landscape of country music and its broadening appeal.
Linda Ronstadt, ‘Long Long Time’
Linda Ronstadt portrait from the 1970s, known for her powerhouse vocals and genre versatility.
“I hate that album,” Linda Ronstadt confessed to Rolling Stone regarding her 1970 country LP Silk Purse. “I couldn’t sing then; I didn’t know what I was doing.” However, she made an exception for one track: “Long Long Time.” Written by Gary White, this heart-wrenching tale of unrequited love showcased Ronstadt’s incredible vocal range and became a signature best country song for vocal performance.
Listeners had previously been enchanted by Ronstadt’s cover of Michael Nesmith’s “Different Drum” with the Stone Poneys, but “Long Long Time” served as her definitive introduction as a powerhouse vocalist. It was her first solo single to chart and earned her first Grammy nomination. Decades later, in 2023, the song experienced a resurgence in popularity after being featured in HBO’s The Last of Us, demonstrating its enduring emotional impact and timeless quality. It exemplifies how a best country song can transcend time and find new audiences through its emotional resonance.
Sugarland, ‘Baby Girl’
Sugarland performing in 2005, known for their storytelling and harmonies.
Country music often celebrates the underdog narrative, and Sugarland’s 2004 debut, “Baby Girl,” embodies this perfectly. It’s a song about their own journey to making it in country music. With its bright, clean melody and crisp three-part harmonies, the song’s chorus reads like a heartfelt letter, or perhaps an email, requesting support from their hometown, making it a meta best country song about the music industry itself.
Jennifer Nettles, Kristian Bush, Kristen Hall, and co-writer Troy Bieser also subtly wove in critiques of the music industry’s cutthroat nature within the verses. “Big town full of little white lies/Everybody’s your friend, you can never be sure,” Nettles sings, offering a glimpse behind the industry facade. “Baby Girl” served as a strong introduction to the multi-talented Nettles and foreshadowed a path in country music that would later be echoed by artists like Carrie Underwood, Kelsea Ballerini, and Taylor Swift. It showcases how a best country song can be both personal and industry-aware, resonating with artists and fans alike.
Luke Bryan, ‘Drink a Beer’
Luke Bryan performing in 2013, known for his happy-go-lucky image but capable of deep emotion.
Initially, “Drink a Beer” might have seemed like another lighthearted tailgate anthem from Luke Bryan, often associated with spring break party songs. However, the ballad profoundly moves listeners with its poignant story of honoring someone lost too soon. Bryan delivers the song with heartbreaking authenticity, drawing from his own experiences of losing both his brother and sister at young ages. His lingering grief is palpable throughout the track, making it a surprisingly emotional best country song.
Bryan’s performance of “Drink a Beer” at the 2013 CMA Awards, with a then-underknown Chris Stapleton backing him, was charged with raw emotion. Yet, it’s the studio version that stands as Bryan’s high point, a rare and palpable moment of sorrow from an artist typically known for his upbeat persona. This song demonstrates how a best country song can reveal unexpected depth and vulnerability, even from artists known for lighter fare.
Brenda Lee, ‘I’m Sorry’
Brenda Lee performing in 1960, a young prodigy with immense vocal range.
Brenda Lee, the first woman inducted into both the country and rock and roll halls of fame, was only 15 when she recorded “I’m Sorry” with producer Owen Bradley, the Anita Kerr Singers, and studio musicians known as the A-Team. “I’m Sorry,” a pop Number One that never charted on the country countdown, is both a quintessential example of the Nashville sound and a reminder that genre boundaries are often arbitrary. It is a classic crossover best country song.
The record remains enigmatic in many ways. How did Lee, at such a young age, convey such profound emotional prostration? She repeatedly apologizes, earnestly begging for forgiveness. The listener is left to wonder: what exactly did she do? And will she ever forgive herself? This song’s enduring mystery and emotional depth contribute to its status as a timeless classic, proving that a best country song can resonate across genres and generations with its raw emotional honesty.
Margo Price, ‘Hurtin’ (on the Bottle)’
Margo Price performing live in 2016, known for her outlaw country authenticity.
What’s the recipe for a great country song? For Margo Price, it might involve hanging out with friends on a porch and sharing a bottle of Bulleit Rye. Price co-wrote “Hurtin’ (on the Bottle)” one evening with her husband, Jeremy Ivey, along with Caitlin Rose and Mark Fredson. It was released on her 2016 debut, Midwest Farmer’s Daughter, and quickly became her most popular song, a best country song for honky-tonk heartbreak.
The song’s appeal is simple: who doesn’t love a swinging anthem about whiskey and heartbreak? Although Price has since become sober, she continues to perform “Hurtin’ (on the Bottle).” As she told Rolling Stone last year, “Jeremy was like, ‘You don’t even drink anymore. Do you want to play any drinking song? Do you even think that that connects with you?’ I was like, ‘It f*ing resonates with me now more than ever.’” This highlights how a best country song** can evolve in meaning for both the artist and the audience over time.
Brandy Clark, ‘Pray to Jesus’
Brandy Clark performing in 2013, a celebrated songwriter and performer known for her wit.
Brandy Clark was already a highly respected Nashville songwriter (known for hits like Miranda Lambert’s “Mama’s Broken Heart”) when “Pray to Jesus,” the opening track of her solo debut, 12 Stories, introduced her as a singer-songwriter of significant depth. This song is a character-driven best country song with insightful social commentary.
Sung from the perspective of everyday people who “pray to Jesus” and “play the lotto” because “there ain’t but two ways/We can change tomorrow,” it initially sounds like a condescending character study. However, as the details accumulate, the song reveals its knowing empathy and understanding of the lives it depicts. Clark’s clever wordplay—funny, wise, poignant, and pained—has propelled her and frequent co-writer Shane McAnally to Broadway, through their work on the musical Shucked. It showcases how a best country song can combine sharp wit with deep empathy.
Tony Joe White, ‘Polk Salad Annie’
Tony Joe White portrait from 1970, the Swamp Fox and originator of country funk.
Louisiana native Tony Joe White begins “Polk Salad Annie” by defining “polk salad” for those unfamiliar with Southern cuisine and then proceeds to tell tales of Annie’s tough family. However, beneath the swampy storytelling, this is fundamentally a love song. White’s raw grunts, suggestive guitar licks, and sweaty groove all celebrate the wild-child Annie, making it a uniquely funky best country song.
Recorded with the original Muscle Shoals rhythm section after they relocated to Nashville for session work, “Polk Salad Annie” is an early example of country funk. Decades later, it remains the genre’s standard-bearer for funky country sounds. This song demonstrates how a best country song can blend regional sounds and narratives with infectious rhythms and raw sensuality.
Wanda Jackson, ‘Hot Dog! That Made Him Mad’
Wanda Jackson portrait from 1958, the Queen of Rockabilly and a rebel icon.
Wanda Jackson sang with a feral growl, projecting an aggressive sexuality and rebellious spirit. The Oklahoma firecracker earned her title as the Queen of Rockabilly in the 1950s. Discovered by Hank Thompson and touring with Elvis Presley, Jackson unleashed a string of libidinally charged tunes. Her ultimate classic is the 1956 single “Hot Dog! That Made Him Mad,” a feminist guitar anthem where Jackson revels in the erotic thrill of tormenting men, making it a fiery best country song.
“Hot Dog! That Made Him Mad” defined the rebellious spirit of female rockabilly pioneers like Janis Martin and the Collins Kids. Later in her career, Jackson turned to gospel music, but she returned to her rockabilly roots in a 2011 comeback album, The Party Ain’t Over, collaborating with fan Jack White. This song underscores how a best country song can be both musically groundbreaking and culturally defiant, challenging gender norms and genre expectations.
Hank Snow, ‘I’m Moving On’
Hank Snow portrait from the 1970s, known for his distinctive twang and train-track rhythms.
Hank Snow delivers “I’m Moving On” with his signature nasal and hyper-articulate twang. He sings of catching a train back south to escape a “pretty mama” who wronged him. However, the song’s remarkable 21-week reign atop the country chart likely owes as much to his band’s driving rhythm as to the lyrics. This track is a best country song for its rhythmic drive and classic country sound.
The song’s train-track rhythm, lonesome-whistle steel guitar, and Snow’s hot flat-picked lead guitar created a sound that was state-of-the-art country & western in the mid-20th century. Even today, “I’m Moving On” sounds like it’s still picking up speed, showcasing the timeless appeal of its energetic and expertly crafted sound. It exemplifies how a best country song can be driven by both lyrical narrative and compelling musical arrangements.
The Band Perry, ‘If I Die Young’
The Band Perry backstage in 2010, known for their sibling harmonies and emotional depth.
“If I Die Young,” the 2010 breakout hit from The Band Perry’s self-titled debut album, directly confronts the idea of premature death. Written by lead singer Kimberly Perry, it remains unparalleled in its heart-wrenching depiction of a life cut short, centered on the vivid image of “the sharp knife of a short life.” This song is a deeply emotional best country song about mortality.
Certified seven-times platinum, “If I Die Young” is the sibling trio’s biggest hit and has had a significant pop culture presence. It was prominently featured on American Idol and Glee, where it was movingly covered by Naya Rivera in honor of Cory Monteith. Tragically, Rivera herself passed away young in 2020, leading to a resurgence in the song’s popularity and further amplifying its poignant message about life’s fragility. It demonstrates how a best country song can deeply resonate with personal and collective experiences of loss and remembrance.
Dave Dudley, ‘Six Days on the Road’
Dave Dudley portrait from the 1970s, the voice of trucking anthems in country music.
Before “White Line Fever,” “Convoy,” or “East Bound and Down,” there was “Six Days on the Road.” This song forever linked country music’s hardworking, blue-collar image to the world of semi-truck driving. While not the first trucking song, “Six Days on the Road” was an early hit that masterfully captured the loneliness, monotony, demands, and details of life on the road for truckers, making it a definitive best country song in the trucking subgenre.
Dave Dudley told the authors of The All-American Truck Stop Cookbook that “Six Days on the Road” resonated deeply with truckers of the era. He received letters thanking him for “taking the load off our back,” as the song helped elevate their image to “knights of the road.” This song’s impact highlights how a best country song can authentically represent and celebrate specific communities and professions, giving voice to their unique experiences.
David Allan Coe, ‘You Never Even Called Me by My Name’
David Allan Coe as The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy in 1975, known for his outlaw image and humor.
Of all places to write “the perfect country & western song,” as the lyrics themselves suggest, Paul Anka’s personal suite at the Waldorf Astoria seems highly unlikely. Yet, that’s where Steve Goodman and John Prine began writing this parody and celebration of country music clichés. “You Never Even Called Me by My Name” is a humorous and self-aware best country song.
John Prine recalled feeling “pretty good” after raiding Anka’s liquor cabinet, inspiring him to jump on the bed, pretend to play a fiddle, and exclaim, “But you don’t have to call me darlin’, darlin’.” While many artists might have shied away from the song’s self-deprecating humor, David Allan Coe embraced it, even adding a bridge where Goodman himself appears as a character, intentionally adding more clichés to the lyrics. This song’s success demonstrates how a best country song can blend humor, satire, and genre tropes to create something both entertaining and insightful about country music itself.
The Mavericks, ‘All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down’
The Mavericks performing on The Tonight Show in 1995, known for their Tex-Mex infused country sound.
Billboard aptly described The Mavericks’ position in mid-1990s Nashville as “unorthodox but platinum.” Their biggest hit on the Billboard country chart, reaching Number 13 in 1996, is the irresistibly lively Tex-Mex groover “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down.” It is a vibrant and unique best country song that blends genres seamlessly.
The song features a spirited organ, insistent shakers and hi-hats, and Raul Malo’s rich tenor voice clearly enjoying himself. All of this sets the stage for Flaco Jiménez’s accordion, which constantly comments on the musical action, taking center stage whenever possible. This track highlights how a best country song can incorporate diverse musical influences, creating a sound that is both distinct and broadly appealing.
Jim Reeves, ‘He’ll Have to Go’
Jim Reeves portrait from the 1970s, known as Gentleman Jim and for his smooth baritone.
“He’ll Have to Go,” a dreamy and romantic lovers’ conversation, was the biggest vocal hit of 1960. A classic example of the early Nashville sound, this vibraphone-heavy waltz intentionally mirrored an arrangement released earlier in the year by rockabilly artist Billy Brown. However, it was Jim Reeves’ deep, velvet-smooth baritone that elevated the song to iconic status, making it a definitive best country song of the era.
Jim Reeves himself described the song’s appeal: “I get the very pathetic picture of the old fellow standing in the telephone booth, about half plastered, talking with his girl, asking her to run the other guy off. Makes for pretty good listening though, I guess.” This understated description captures the song’s emotional core and enduring popularity, showing how a best country song can connect with listeners through simple yet powerful storytelling and vocal delivery.
Kenny Chesney, ‘The Good Stuff’
Kenny Chesney performing live, known for his stadium country anthems and emotional ballads.
“The Good Stuff” begins with a newlywed couple’s first argument, leading the husband to seek refuge in a bar. Instead of ordering a stiff drink, he’s unexpectedly served a glass of milk. Kenny Chesney masterfully plays with the title’s double meaning: “The Good Stuff” can refer to alcohol, but it also symbolizes life’s truly meaningful moments. This song is a thoughtful best country song about love, loss, and what truly matters.
By the song’s end, it’s revealed that the bartender, who served the milk, lost his wife to cancer, and her memory is more potent than any whiskey. Songwriters Craig Wiseman and Jim Collins wrote the track after a friend lost his spouse to illness. Wiseman recalled, “We were talking about, what if you just sat there and watched your wife die? We both just sat there and were sort of stunned for a minute. We said, ‘OK, let’s get a cup of coffee and write a song!’” This poignant origin story underscores how a best country song can emerge from real-life experiences of grief and reflection.
Barbara Mandrell, ‘(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right’
Barbara Mandrell portrait from the 1970s, known for her crossover appeal and dynamic performances.
While not country music’s first foray into disco rhythms, Barbara Mandrell’s “(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right” is arguably one of the era’s most successful integrations of the boom-swish beat. Drummer Hayward Bishop adeptly incorporates club-ready accents while maintaining a bouncy two-step rhythm. This track is a crossover best country song that blends genres seamlessly.
The song’s arrangement evokes Philly soul, with strings more reminiscent of Barry White than Billy Sherrill, yet it remains firmly rooted in Nashville. The song itself originated in Memphis, a 1972 soul hit for Luther Ingram on Stax Records. Barbara Mandrell, eight albums into her career and poised for superstardom, transformed this emotionally conflicted and intensely sensual lyric into a showstopper, both subtle and passionate. It became her biggest crossover hit, reaching the Billboard pop Top 40, her only song to achieve this feat. It demonstrates how a best country song can successfully blend different musical styles and resonate across diverse audiences.
Florida Georgia Line, ‘Cruise’
Florida Georgia Line performing in 2012, pioneers of bro-country and genre-bending sounds.
There was a time when combining country and hip-hop was considered controversial and unconventional. “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line defied these boundaries, becoming a high-summer love song where trucks, girls, and the FGL duo themselves are objects of affection. This genre-bending track is a polarizing yet undeniably impactful best country song.
Like some other songs on this list, “Cruise” was initially accused of “ruining country music.” FGL’s Brian Kelley responded to the “bro country” criticism on 60 Minutes, saying, “There’s no label that can really hurt our feelings.” A decade later, the twangy banjo in the verses almost sounds traditional, and the jacked-up Silverado in the music video appears almost modest. “Cruise” ultimately reshaped the sound of contemporary country, demonstrating how a best country song can challenge genre norms and redefine commercial success.
Mickey Guyton, ‘Black Like Me’
Mickey Guyton performing in 2020, a pivotal voice for Black artists in country music.
Mickey Guyton deeply respects country music tradition, but as a Black woman, she brings a crucial perspective to the genre. “Black Like Me” is her breakthrough ballad, mapping out her experiences and challenging listeners to consider racial inequality. “If you think we live in the land of the free/You should try to be black like me,” she sings over pedal-steel guitar, weaving in elements of R&B and Black church music, essential components of country’s 21st-century DNA. This song is a socially significant best country song that addresses racial identity.
“Black Like Me” remained unreleased until the murders of Ahmaud Aubrey and George Floyd prompted Guyton to share fragments on social media. The response was immediate and powerful. Within a year, she performed it at the Grammys, becoming the first Black woman nominated for Best Country Solo Performance. Though she didn’t win, “Black Like Me” changed the conversation around Black country artists and opened doors for a new generation of diverse voices. It exemplifies how a best country song can be a catalyst for social change and genre evolution.
Emmylou Harris, ‘Boulder to Birmingham’
Emmylou Harris performing in 1975, known for her emotive soprano and influential country-folk sound.
Emmylou Harris was on the verge of stardom and highly sought-after in Nashville when she released her sophomore album, Pieces of the Sky, in 1975. However, she was also grappling with profound grief. Her singing partner, mentor, and close friend Gram Parsons had died from a drug overdose just over a year prior. Harris channeled her heartache into “Boulder to Birmingham,” which became her signature song and a deeply personal best country song about loss.
“Words can be so powerful to help you express something you can’t otherwise,” Harris reflected years later. “And everyone has experienced loss.” Few, however, can articulate sorrow so beautifully. “Boulder to Birmingham” is a raw confession of grief, illuminated by Harris’ shimmering soprano, destined to become one of the most recognizable voices in country music. It demonstrates how a best country song can transform personal tragedy into universal art, resonating with anyone who has experienced loss.
Joe Diffie, ‘John Deere Green’
Joe Diffie performing in 1994, known for his storytelling and honky-tonk hits.
Joe Diffie, an Oklahoma native, sang the quintessential small-town romance in “John Deere Green,” penned by legendary songwriter Dennis Linde. It’s a gem of country storytelling, where Billy Bob professes his love for Charlene by painting their names inside a 10-foot heart on the town’s water tower. The tractor-themed color is the detail that makes it iconic: “The whole town said that he should’ve used red/But it looked good to Charlene, in John Deere green.” This song is a charming and memorable best country song for its storytelling.
In March 2020, Diffie tragically became one of music’s first victims of the Covid-19 pandemic at just 61 years old. He left behind a legacy of classic hits like “Honky Tonk Attitude,” “Pickup Man,” and “Bigger Than the Beatles.” “John Deere Green” stands as a testament to his storytelling ability and his knack for capturing the heart of small-town America in song. It exemplifies how a best country song can create a vivid and lasting impression with simple, relatable narratives.
Conway Twitty, ‘You’ve Never Been This Far Before’
Conway Twitty performing in 1974, known for his transition from rock and roll to country and his sensual ballads.
Conway Twitty, initially a rock and roller, transitioned to country music in the 1960s and 70s, bridging Elvis-style balladry into the country mainstream. He was also notable for singing about sex more openly than many country singers before him. “You’ve Never Been This Far Before,” with Twitty purring about “trembling fingers touch forbidden places,” even faced brief boycotts from some radio stations. This song is a sensual and boundary-pushing best country song.
What makes “You’ve Never Been This Far Before” so effective is its understated and almost naked sound. The throbbing electric bass is the most prominent instrument, and Twitty’s repeated “buh-buh-buh” vocalization functions as both a heartbeat and a hook. This song’s success demonstrates how a best country song can be both musically minimalist and emotionally charged, pushing lyrical boundaries while maintaining a strong connection with listeners through subtle musical cues and vocal intimacy.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Best Country Songs
Exploring these 50 songs offers a glimpse into the vast and varied landscape of what constitutes the best country song. From tales of love and loss to social commentary and celebrations of everyday life, country music at its finest captures the human experience in ways that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. The songs highlighted here showcase the genre’s evolution, its ability to blend tradition with innovation, and its enduring power to connect with listeners across generations. Whether it’s the storytelling, the emotion, or that unmistakable twang, the best country song continues to resonate, evolve, and shape the soundtrack of American life.
