Since her breakthrough in 2016 with the powerful anthem “My Church,” Maren Morris has solidified her place as a prominent figure in contemporary music. Hailing from Arlington, Texas, Morris has captivated audiences and critics alike with her distinctive blend of country roots, pop sensibilities, and insightful songwriting. Her journey from a rising country artist to a Grammy-winning crossover sensation is marked by a collection of songs that showcase her evolution, vocal prowess, and sharp lyrical wit.
This article delves into the essential discography of Maren Morris, highlighting ten of her best songs that have defined her career and resonated with fans worldwide. From her early country hits to her pop crossover smashes and empowering anthems, we explore the tracks that make Maren Morris a standout artist in today’s music landscape.
10. “Flavor”
Kicking off our list is “Flavor,” a high-energy track from her album Girl that perfectly encapsulates Maren Morris’s confident and sassy persona. This song is a bold declaration of individuality, underscored by a driving electric guitar riff that amplifies its assertive message. Morris’s powerful vocals deliver lines like “I’m cooking up my own flavor/ Even if it ain’t your style” with undeniable conviction. “Flavor” is an unapologetic anthem for self-acceptance and staying true to oneself, resonating with listeners who embrace their unique qualities. It’s a vibrant and infectious track that showcases Morris’s ability to blend country grit with a rock-infused edge.
9. “Drunk Girls Don’t Cry”
Showing off her songwriting cleverness, “Drunk Girls Don’t Cry” is a witty and insightful track co-written with Barry Dean and Luke Laird. The song presents a sharp observation on relationships and the often-avoided truths within them. With a blend of humor and poignant realism, Morris delivers a cautionary tale to a man who is emotionally unavailable or undeserving of a genuine connection. The lyrics are both humorous and pointed, showcasing Morris’s talent for storytelling and her ability to tackle complex relationship dynamics with a light yet impactful touch. “Drunk Girls Don’t Cry” is a testament to her lyrical prowess and her knack for creating relatable narratives within her music.
8. “To Hell & Back”
Maren Morris in a black and white promotional shot.
“To Hell & Back” offers a contrasting thematic element, presenting a tender and airy love song that feels like a mature response to the narratives explored in her debut album Hero. This track speaks of finding unconditional love and acceptance, celebrating a partner who embraces imperfections and past struggles. The lyrics, “My wings are frayed and what’s left of my halo’s black/ Lucky for me, your kind of heaven’s been to Hell and back,” are beautifully vulnerable and deeply romantic. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt delivery highlight Morris’s versatility and her ability to convey deep emotion through her music. It’s a testament to finding love that accepts and cherishes every facet of a person.
7. “80s Mercedes”
Following her initial success, “80s Mercedes” solidified Maren Morris’s dynamic range with its equally captivating energy. This track is a vibrant and catchy tune that blends modern country with retro vibes. The “belt-heavy chorus” and echoing verses create an infectious rhythm that underscores her clever and playful lyricism. The iconic line, “I’m a ’90s baby in my ’80s Mercedes,” perfectly encapsulates the song’s nostalgic yet contemporary feel. “80s Mercedes” is a fun, upbeat track that showcases Morris’s ability to craft songs that are both lyrically smart and irresistibly catchy, further establishing her unique sound in the country music scene.
6. “Common” (feat. Brandi Carlile)
“Common” stands out as a powerful collaboration with Brandi Carlile, amplifying Morris’s already potent voice. Pairing two such powerhouse vocalists results in a track that is both musically stunning and thematically significant. Beyond their vocal harmonies, Carlile and Morris use their combined platforms to deliver a vital message of unity and shared humanity, especially poignant in today’s divided world. The song reminds listeners that despite political and social divides, common ground and shared experiences bind us together. “Common” is a moving and important song that showcases the strength of female collaboration in music and their power to promote positive messages.
5. “Once”
“Once” delves into the emotional depths of heartbreak with raw vulnerability and poignant lyrics. Simply reading the lyrics, such as “When it’s all said and done, don’t forget that you loved me once,” evokes a sense of profound sadness and reflection on lost love. Combined with Morris’s soaring and emotive vocals, the song becomes an intensely moving experience, resonating deeply with anyone who has navigated the pain of heartbreak. “Once” is a cathartic and therapeutic ballad that showcases Morris’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level, solidifying her reputation as a storyteller who isn’t afraid to explore vulnerability.
4. “I Could Use A Love Song”
Ironically, “I Could Use A Love Song,” one of Morris’s most beautiful compositions, is born from a place of cynicism and longing. Despite its initial skepticism about love, the song evolves into a hopeful exploration of the enduring search for genuine connection. Lines like, “Yeah it’s hurting but it ain’t dead,” in the pre-chorus, reveal an underlying optimism that resonates with listeners who may be jaded but still hopeful about finding love. This relatable message propelled “I Could Use a Love Song” to become her first No. 1 hit on the Country Airplay chart, proving its widespread appeal and emotional resonance. It’s a testament to Morris’s songwriting ability to capture complex emotions in a universally relatable way.
3. “Girl”
Following the massive crossover success of “The Middle,” Maren Morris embraced a newfound sense of artistic bravery, which is palpably felt in “Girl.” The title track from her sophomore album is an empowering anthem that exudes confidence and self-assurance. Fueled by a driving bass line and Morris’s commanding vocals, “Girl” feels like a sonic manifestation of empowerment. It encourages listeners, especially women, to embrace their strength and resilience. “Girl” is a powerful and uplifting track that marks a significant point in Morris’s career, showcasing her growth as an artist and her commitment to creating music that inspires and empowers.
2. “Rich”
“Rich,” from her debut album Hero, offers a blend of humor and sharp social commentary wrapped in an endearing country tune. On the surface, the song is lighthearted, detailing a woman who recognizes she would be better off financially and emotionally by ending a draining relationship. However, digging deeper reveals a clever metaphor for a love that feels cheap and unfulfilling. The line, “all the times that you make my heart feel cheap I might as well have won the lottery,” exemplifies her witty songwriting and her ability to use relatable metaphors to express complex emotions. “Rich” is a standout track that highlights Morris’s storytelling talent and her ability to infuse humor and depth into her music.
1. “My Church”
Topping our list is “My Church,” Maren Morris’s groundbreaking breakout hit that introduced her to a global audience and earned her a Grammy Award. This song is a powerful and passionate ode to the spiritual and emotional connection found in music, comparing the feeling of listening to country songs while driving to the solace and inspiration of a church. “My Church” is a deeply personal yet universally relatable anthem for music lovers, explaining the profound impact music has on our lives. The raw passion and vocal power in “My Church” propelled Morris from a promising artist to a critically acclaimed star, establishing her as a significant voice in contemporary country music. It remains her signature song, perfectly encapsulating her artistry and the transformative power of music.
Maren Morris’s journey is a testament to her evolving artistry and her ability to seamlessly blend genres while staying true to her country roots. Her songs resonate because of their honesty, wit, and emotional depth, establishing her as a leading voice in modern music. From empowering anthems to heartfelt ballads, her discography offers something for every listener, solidifying her status as a true crossover star.
