Country rock, a genre that beautifully marries the storytelling heart of country music with the raw energy of rock and roll, offers a distinct sound that’s both familiar and invigorating. Unlike its Southern rock cousin, which often leans into extended jams and bluesy riffs, country rock emphasizes melody, songwriting, and a more reflective, often “peaceful, easy feeling” vibe. Think about the difference: Southern rock’s foundation lies in blues, gospel, and R&B, resulting in jam-heavy tracks. Country rock, however, embraces acoustic guitars, banjos, and a song-centric approach.
The line separating country rock from Southern rock can be subtle. While you won’t find Lynyrd Skynyrd on this list of the top Country Rock Songs, artists like the Allman Brothers Band and the Marshall Tucker Band, who also flirt with Southern rock, do make an appearance. Defining country rock is almost intuitive; as the saying goes, you know country rock songs when you hear them.
This curated list, compiled by music enthusiasts, explores the best country rock songs from the genre’s late ’60s inception through its chart-topping hits and tracks that share a kinship with Southern rock. Almost all of these songs trace their roots back to early 20th-century American folk music. It’s no surprise then that most of these artists hail from the U.S. Evolving from the backroads and front porches of American folk, these sounds were electrified by the late ’50s and early ’60s rock ‘n’ roll revolution, resulting in the rich tapestry of country rock we celebrate today.
35. Linda Ronstadt, “You’re No Good” (1974)
Linda Ronstadt, a powerhouse vocalist known for her versatility, took a Dee Dee Warwick song from 1963 (Dee Dee being Dionne Warwick’s sister) and transformed it into a country rock anthem. Backed by her exceptional live band, steeped in the country rock sound, Ronstadt scored her first and only No. 1 single with “You’re No Good.” While Betty Everett’s original version was an R&B scorcher, Ronstadt’s rendition injected a rootsy pop sensibility. This track became the lead single from Heart Like a Wheel, her sixth album, a breakthrough moment, and a landmark release in the history of country rock albums. It perfectly encapsulates Ronstadt’s ability to bridge genres and deliver powerful, emotionally resonant country rock songs.
34. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, “Teach Your Children” (1970)
“Teach Your Children,” a classic country rock song with a timeless message, was penned by Graham Nash during his time with the Hollies. He brought this gem to David Crosby and Stephen Stills for their initial trio album. However, it wasn’t until Neil Young joined to form Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young that the song found its recorded home on their 1970 debut album, Deja Vu. The track is further enhanced by Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead’s pedal steel guitar contribution, a gesture of reciprocity after CSNY shared their harmony expertise with the Grateful Dead for Workingman’s Dead. “Teach Your Children” stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of the era and remains one of the most beloved country rock songs, celebrated for its harmonies and heartfelt lyrics.
33. Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, “Mr. Bojangles” (1970)
Jerry Jeff Walker’s “Mr. Bojangles,” a poignant narrative about a real-life encounter in jail, has become one of the most covered country rock songs. Walker first released his version in 1968, but it was the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band who scored a Top 10 hit in 1970 with their rendition. Their version, featuring banjo, mandolin, and accordion, resonated deeply with audiences, emphasizing the band’s roots in traditional country, folk, and bluegrass music. Despite accidentally altering some of the original lyrics, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s “Mr. Bojangles” solidified its place among the essential country rock songs, showcasing the genre’s ability to blend storytelling with instrumental artistry.
32. Gram Parsons, “A Song for You” (1973)
Gram Parsons, a pivotal figure in the development of country rock music, had already faced dismissal from the Flying Burrito Brothers (which he co-founded) and the Byrds before launching his solo career. His debut album, GP, released in 1973, featured “A Song for You,” a deeply moving track. This song is a sorrowful yet beautiful ode to the South of his upbringing and to country music itself. It’s a quintessential example of Gram Parsons’ signature blend of country and rock sensibilities. Tragically, Parsons passed away from an overdose just eight months after GP‘s release, further cementing the album and “A Song for You” as poignant and essential contributions to the country rock genre. His posthumous album, Grievous Angel, followed, continuing his legacy.
31. The Ozark Mountain Devils, “Jackie Blue” (1974)
Hailing from Springfield, Missouri, the Ozark Mountain Devils first broke into the charts with “If You Wanna Get to Heaven.” However, it was their 1974 single “Jackie Blue” that truly cemented their place in the country rock hall of fame. This song, inspired by a drug dealer known to the band’s drummer, Larry Lee, became a massive hit. Producer Glyn Johns, fresh off his work with the Eagles’ early albums, refined the song for radio airplay. “Jackie Blue” soared to No. 3 on the charts, proving the Ozark Mountain Devils’ knack for crafting catchy and memorable country rock hits. It remains a classic example of the genre’s crossover appeal.
30. Creedence Clearwater Revival, “Proud Mary” (1969)
Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), led by the distinctive John Fogerty, defied easy categorization from the start. Were they garage rock? Psychedelic? Swamp rock? Or simply a great pop band? The answer is a blend of all these influences, and more. “Proud Mary,” a timeless CCR anthem, was envisioned by Fogerty as a tribute to Stax Records and gospel music, amongst other inspirations. Emerging from the late ’60s musical melting pot, “Proud Mary” evolved into a country rock shuffle, open to diverse musical interpretations. Its enduring popularity underscores CCR’s ability to fuse various American roots music styles into unforgettable country rock songs.
29. Gram Parsons, “She” (1973)
“She,” co-written with bassist Chris Ethridge (who played with Parsons in both the International Submarine Band and the Flying Burrito Brothers), was chosen as the debut single from Gram Parsons’ solo album GP. While it didn’t chart initially, both the song and the album are now recognized as foundational to the alt-country movement of the ’90s, a successor to country rock. Like several tracks on GP, “She” is a warm and nostalgic nod to Parsons’ Southern roots. Its significance lies in its influence on subsequent generations of artists who further blurred the lines between country and rock music, making it a vital piece in the country rock lineage.
28. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, “Ohio” (1970)
Just two months after releasing their debut album, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young responded to the tragic events at Kent State University in May 1970, where the Ohio National Guard killed four student protesters. Neil Young swiftly channeled his reaction into song and reunited with his bandmates in the studio to record “Ohio” as a timely single. Leaning more towards the rock side of country rock, “Ohio” became an instant hit and one of the most powerful protest songs of the era. Its raw emotion and urgent message resonated deeply, solidifying its place not only as a significant country rock song but also as a cultural touchstone of the Vietnam War era.
27. Steve Earle, “Guitar Town” (1986)
By the time Steve Earle released his debut album Guitar Town in 1986, country rock was evolving into roots rock and Americana. Yet, the title track of Guitar Town clearly echoes the golden age of country rock. For a brief period, it seemed Earle, a Texas-bred singer-songwriter, would spearhead a resurgence of raw, less polished country music in Nashville. However, a struggle with drug addiction in the early ’90s temporarily derailed his career, though he made a notable comeback later in the decade. “Guitar Town” remains a standout track, bridging the gap between classic country rock and its contemporary Americana evolution.
26. The Rolling Stones, “Sweet Virginia” (1972)
Around the time Gram Parsons departed the Byrds, his paths intertwined with Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones. A mutual exchange of habits and musical influences ensued. The Rolling Stones’ Sticky Fingers album includes “Dead Flowers” and “Wild Horses,” two songs undeniably touched by Parsons’ country influence (the Flying Burrito Brothers even recorded “Wild Horses” in 1970). Parsons’ country spirit later informed “Sweet Virginia,” a gem from their Exile on Main St. album. These Rolling Stones tracks highlight the broad reach of country rock’s influence, even extending to one of the world’s biggest rock bands.
25. R.E.M., “(Don’t Go Back To) Rockville” (1984)
R.E.M.’s “(Don’t Go Back To) Rockville,” released in 1984, might initially sound like a tongue-in-cheek country rock parody, with Michael Stipe’s affected twang and the song’s down-home arrangement. However, the Athens, Georgia band’s connection to the South was genuine. Guitarist Peter Buck revealed that “(Don’t Go Back To) Rockville” started as a punk song, written by bassist Mike Mills for his girlfriend. But its musical direction shifted on its way to their second album, Reckoning. The song showcases R.E.M.’s ability to subtly incorporate country rock elements into their alternative sound, demonstrating the genre’s versatility and enduring appeal.
24. Janis Joplin, “Me and Bobby McGee” (1971)
Kris Kristofferson was a highly sought-after songwriter in the early ’70s, with hits like “Sunday Morning Coming Down” (Johnny Cash) and “For the Good Times” (Ray Price) dominating the country charts. In 1970, Janis Joplin recorded Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee” just a month before her untimely death in October. Released posthumously on her album Pearl in early 1971, the song became Joplin’s only No. 1 single. Joplin’s powerful and soulful rendition transformed “Me and Bobby McGee” into a country rock classic, showcasing her incredible vocal range and emotional depth, and further cementing Kristofferson’s songwriting prowess.
23. Creedence Clearwater Revival, “Up Around the Bend” (1970)
CCR’s prolific 18-month period, starting in January 1969 with Bayou Country and culminating in their masterpiece Cosmo’s Factory in July 1970, produced an astounding four exceptional albums (including Green River and Willy and the Poor Boys). “Up Around the Bend,” released towards the end of this remarkable run, exemplifies John Fogerty’s songwriting sharpness and hit-making ability. Representing the more robust side of country rock, “Up Around the Bend” is a high-energy track that showcases CCR’s signature blend of roots rock and country influences, solidifying their status as masters of the genre.
22. Bob Dylan, “Lay Lady Lay” (1969)
Bob Dylan, throughout his long and influential career, has consistently been at the forefront of musical movements. With the 1967 Basement Tapes recordings made with the Band, Dylan helped pioneer country rock. His John Wesley Harding album from the same year further evidenced this direction. By 1969’s Nashville Skyline and its hit single “Lay Lady Lay,” Dylan fully embraced the genre. “Lay Lady Lay,” with its gentle melody and Dylan’s softer vocal delivery, is a prime example of his contribution to country rock songs, demonstrating his genre-bending genius.
21. Outlaws, “Green Grass and High Tides” (1975)
Outlaws’ “Green Grass and High Tides,” featuring two extended guitar solos pushing the song past the 10-minute mark, treads close to Southern rock territory in its defiance of country rock boundaries. (In truth, it straddles both genres). By the mid-’70s, many country rock originators had moved towards a more rugged sound. With their debut album and this epic closing track, Tampa’s Outlaws expertly navigated this stylistic line. “Green Grass and High Tides” is a powerful example of the intersection between Southern rock and country rock, showcasing intricate guitar work and ambitious song structures within the genre.
20. J.J. Cale, “Call Me the Breeze” (1971)
J.J. Cale was on the verge of becoming a favorite among artists like Eric Clapton and Lynyrd Skynyrd with his debut album Naturally. This album helped define the “Tulsa sound,” a unique mix of blues, swamp rock, and country rock. “Call Me the Breeze” is notable for its use of a basic drum machine, which gives its sparse arrangement an intriguing open quality. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 1974 cover amplified the volume and intensity but retained the essence of Cale’s exceptional original. Cale’s understated genius and his ability to craft effortlessly cool country rock songs like “Call Me the Breeze” have made him a highly influential figure.
19. The Band, “Up on Cripple Creek” (1969)
Despite their reputation as godfathers of Americana, the Band frequently defied genre conventions. “Up on Cripple Creek,” the lead single from their self-titled second album, features Garth Hudson playing clavinet with a wah-wah pedal. This sound—popular in ’70s funk—gives “Cripple Creek” its distinctive stamp: rootsy country rock grounded in blues and R&B, while hinting at the musical landscape of the upcoming decade. “Up on Cripple Creek” exemplifies the Band’s innovative approach to country rock, blending traditional elements with unexpected sonic textures.
18. Flying Burrito Brothers, “Hot Burrito #1” (1969)
After contributing to the Byrds’ country rock blueprint on 1968’s Sweetheart of the Rodeo, Gram Parsons and the band parted ways. Within two months, original Byrds member Chris Hillman joined Parsons to form the Flying Burrito Brothers. Their 1969 debut, The Gilded Palace of Sin, further expanded the boundaries of the nascent genre. The emotionally raw “Hot Burrito #1” is a standout track and a blueprint for ’70s country rock. It showcases the Flying Burrito Brothers’ pioneering role in shaping the genre, blending raw emotion with country and rock instrumentation.
17. Grateful Dead, “Friend of the Devil” (1970)
The Grateful Dead transitioned from psychedelic rock to a more folk-oriented sound on their fourth studio album, Workingman’s Dead, in 1970. They continued this direction nine months later with American Beauty. Combining folk, country, and bluegrass, these albums helped establish the standards for country rock in the early ’70s. “Friend of the Devil,” sung and co-written by Jerry Garcia, is a highlight of American Beauty and the Dead’s exemplary roots-focused period. This song, with its storytelling lyrics and gentle country rock arrangement, captures the Grateful Dead’s unique contribution to the genre.
16. Eagles, “New Kid in Town” (1976)
Four years after their self-titled debut album became a country rock benchmark, the Eagles had largely moved away from their earlier “peaceful easy feeling” sound, embracing a faster lane lifestyle. Their fifth album, Hotel California, encompassed a wide range of styles from hard rock to reggae to grand, string-laden ballads. “New Kid in Town,” however, offered a nostalgic nod to their country rock origins. As the lead single from Hotel California, it became a No. 1 hit. “New Kid in Town” demonstrates the Eagles’ evolution while retaining their country rock roots, appealing to both their long-time fans and a broader audience.
15. The Rolling Stones, “Wild Horses” (1971)
“Wild Horses,” inspired by Gram Parsons during his association with Keith Richards, borrows phrasing and tone from the country rock pioneer. When the Rolling Stones initially shelved their demo, deeming it subpar, Parsons took it to the Flying Burrito Brothers for their second album. The Flying Burrito Brothers’ version predated the Stones’ reconsidered and superior rendition (found on 1971’s Sticky Fingers) by over a year. This story highlights Parsons’ direct influence on the Rolling Stones’ foray into country rock, and “Wild Horses” became a classic example of the genre’s crossover appeal.
14. The Rolling Stones, “Dead Flowers” (1971)
As the Rolling Stones moved into the 1970s, they continued working on what would become their first album of the new decade, Sticky Fingers. Drawing from various corners of American music—soul, blues, and country—Sticky Fingers arguably defines the Stones’ classic sound: potent riffs underpinning a sexy, rebellious swagger. “Dead Flowers” applies this formula to a country shuffle. This song exemplifies the Rolling Stones’ masterful incorporation of country rock elements into their signature sound, resulting in a unique and enduring track.
13. Eagles, “Already Gone” (1974)
With their third album, On the Border, the Eagles began consciously expanding their audience. This shift towards a more rock-oriented sound didn’t harm their commercial success; in fact, it paved the way for their even greater achievements to come. The album’s opening track and first single, “Already Gone,” flirts with Southern rock influences, featuring a Lynyrd Skynyrd-esque guitar solo from new guitarist Don Felder. “Already Gone” marks a pivotal moment in the Eagles’ transition, blending their country rock foundation with a more prominent rock edge, appealing to a wider fanbase.
12. Creedence Clearwater Revival, “Bad Moon Rising” (1969)
Deceptively upbeat with its rockabilly rhythm, “Bad Moon Rising,” a highlight from Green River, is one of John Fogerty’s most apocalyptic songs. It describes an approaching, ominous evil with a casualness that borders on nonchalance. This country rock warning has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and video games over the years. Like several other Creedence Clearwater Revival singles, “Bad Moon Rising” reached No. 2 in 1969. Its enduring appeal lies in its catchy melody juxtaposed with its dark lyrical themes, making it a standout country rock song.
11. Linda Ronstadt, “When Will I Be Loved” (1974)
“When Will I Be Loved” was originally a hit for the Everly Brothers in 1960, but Phil Everly’s song achieved even greater success when Linda Ronstadt covered it on her breakthrough album Heart Like a Wheel. Following her No. 1 hit “You’re No Good,” “When Will I Be Loved” became Ronstadt’s second consecutive hit, reaching No. 2 on the pop chart. It did, however, reach No. 1 on the country chart, acknowledging its deep country roots. Ronstadt’s rendition of “When Will I Be Loved” further solidified her status as a queen of country rock, capable of taking songs from various genres and making them her own.
10. The Allman Brothers Band, “Midnight Rider” (1970)
Gregg Allman was determined to have a hit with “Midnight Rider,” which first appeared on the Allman Brothers Band’s second album, Idlewild South. The song, co-written with one of the band’s roadies, gained a second life (and a Top 20 chart position) in 1973 on Allman’s solo debut, Laid Back. The earlier version by the Allman Brothers Band remains definitive, with the band restraining their usual jam tendencies for three minutes of blues-infused country rock. “Midnight Rider” demonstrates the Allman Brothers Band’s ability to create concise and impactful country rock songs, even within their broader Southern rock repertoire.
9. Eagles, “Lyin’ Eyes” (1975)
By the Eagles’ fourth album, One of These Nights, in 1975, they were moving towards a more rock-oriented direction. However, Glenn Frey’s sole lead vocal contribution to the album, “Lyin’ Eyes,” heavily relied on the country element of their original country rock identity. “Lyin’ Eyes” reached No. 2 on the pop chart and No. 8 on the country chart (their only Top 40 country hit until their 2007 reunion album)—unsurprising given its breezy acoustic melody and theme of infidelity. This song showcases the Eagles’ continued mastery of crafting commercially successful country rock songs, even as their sound evolved.
8. Neil Young, “Heart of Gold” (1972)
One of music’s most restless artists, Neil Young had already explored folk, pop, psychedelic, and rock music before his fourth solo album arrived in 1972. Harvest firmly planted Neil Young in country rock territory, with its lead single, “Heart of Gold,” becoming a career highlight. Featuring vocal harmonies from Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor, “Heart of Gold” reached No. 1, significantly raising expectations from fans and his record label. Characteristically, Young then veered in a new musical direction. “Heart of Gold” remains Neil Young’s most commercially successful country rock song, and a testament to the genre’s widespread appeal.
7. Eagles, “Take It Easy” (1972)
The Eagles sounded fully formed right from their debut single, “Take It Easy,” in 1972. Extensive studio and road experience (including work with Linda Ronstadt) had refined the original quartet into a finely tuned country rock machine. While not genre originators, the Eagles quickly became a benchmark for country rock bands. “Take It Easy,” co-written by Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne (whose version appeared a year later), became the definitive version thanks to the Eagles’ polished harmonies and infectious energy.
6. Eagles, “Desperado” (1973)
“Desperado” was initially just an album track and the title song of the Eagles’ second album when released in 1973. However, it soon became one of their most beloved songs. An earlier Don Henley composition, tailored to fit the Desperado album’s theme of Old West outlaws, the song was musically inspired by Ray Charles’ “Georgia on My Mind,” even incorporating sweeping strings. Linda Ronstadt’s cover in the same year further boosted its popularity. “Desperado” is a prime example of the Eagles’ ability to create cinematic and emotionally resonant country rock ballads that transcend their initial album context.
5. The Byrds, “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere” (1968)
The Byrds launched their career in 1965 with a cover of Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man.” Four years later, as they were reinventing themselves and starting a new chapter, another Dylan song served as a catalyst. Rebranding as a country rock band on Sweetheart of the Rodeo, the Byrds opened the album with Dylan’s “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere,” from the then-unreleased Basement Tapes he recorded with the Band. “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere” marked the Byrds’ official embrace of country rock, signaling a significant shift in their sound and influencing the genre’s development.
4. Little Feat, “Willin'” (1972)
Little Feat’s first attempt at “Willin'” didn’t gain much traction. Written by Lowell George and included on their self-titled 1971 debut album, the song was given another chance, at a slower tempo, on their second record, Sailin’ Shoes. The result is one of country rock’s cornerstones, a road anthem about “weed, whites and wine” that has been covered by Bob Dylan, Linda Ronstadt, and countless others. “Willin'” showcases Little Feat’s unique blend of country, rock, and funk influences, becoming a quintessential country rock song celebrated for its laid-back groove and outlaw spirit.
3. The Marshall Tucker Band, “Heard It in a Love Song” (1977)
For much of their career, South Carolina’s Marshall Tucker Band could be classified as Southern rock (evident in their classic “Can’t You See”). However, “Heard It in a Love Song” perfectly straddles the line between country and rock with a pop-oriented musicality. It’s not just the masterful flute melody throughout the song or Doug Gray’s heartfelt vocal delivery—making a goodbye song sound so warm. “Heard It in a Love Song” is ’70s songwriting at its finest, demonstrating the Marshall Tucker Band’s versatility and ability to craft emotionally resonant country rock songs that transcend genre boundaries.
2. The Band, “The Weight” (1968)
The Band were instrumental in shaping the country rock sound, alongside Bob Dylan, during their extended 1967 collaboration that resulted in the Basement Tapes. Still refining their sound when they recorded their debut album Music From Big Pink (which included some Basement Tapes songs), they created an instant classic with “The Weight.” This song, a parable as timeless as the folk tunes it evokes, became an anthem. “The Weight” is a cornerstone of country rock, showcasing the Band’s masterful storytelling, rich harmonies, and ability to blend folk, country, and rock elements seamlessly.
1. The Band, “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” (1969)
Everything about the Band’s self-titled second album points to the genesis of Americana music—from the sepia cover photo by Elliott Landy to Robbie Robertson’s songs about faith, redemption, and repentance, played on instruments that could be centuries old. No song embodies this atmosphere more powerfully than “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.” Set during the final year of the Civil War and sung in a dust-laden voice by Levon Helm, the song is a masterpiece. “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” is not only one of Robertson’s and the Band’s greatest achievements but also the conceptual heart of The Band. It serves as a link to the fading past and a bridge between country and rock music as they progressed further into the 20th century, making it the ultimate country rock song.
