Country music. For some, it conjures images of weeping guitars, heartbreak ballads, and perhaps, a somewhat traditional view of women. Recently, there’s been a spotlight shone on the representation of women in country music, sparked by discussions in publications like Jezebel and broadcasts like PBS NewsHour, questioning if female artists are getting the airplay they deserve. While these conversations raise important points about the industry, they sometimes overshadow a fundamental truth: country music is, and always has been, a powerful platform for Strong Female Songs and voices.
To suggest country music is somehow lacking in empowering female narratives is to overlook decades of incredible women who have not only graced the genre but have fundamentally shaped it. This isn’t about manufactured “girl power” anthems; it’s about authentic storytelling, raw emotion, and women fearlessly singing about the complexities of life, love, and everything in between. From challenging societal norms to celebrating independence, country music boasts a rich catalog of strong female songs that resonate deeply.
Perhaps the focus on radio play misses the bigger picture. Country music, at its heart, has always offered a space for women to be heard, to be real, and to be powerful. So, instead of dwelling on perceived shortcomings, let’s celebrate the enduring legacy of strong female songs in country music. Here are songs spanning seven decades that will make you appreciate the strength, resilience, and sheer talent of women in country.
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” – Kitty Wells (1952)
Kitty Wells wasn’t just a pioneer; she was a revolutionary. Her groundbreaking hit, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels,” wasn’t just the first number-one song by a woman on the country charts, it was a defiant response to male-dominated narratives. An answer song to Hank Thompson’s “The Wild Side of Life,” Wells’ track flipped the script, directly addressing the societal blame placed on women for infidelity and suggesting that men bear responsibility too.
The song’s unapologetic stance on female agency and its challenge to traditional morality was so controversial that many radio stations and even the Grand Ole Opry initially banned it. However, its immense popularity forced their hand, proving that audiences were hungry for strong female songs that spoke truth to power. “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” remains a timeless anthem of female defiance and a cornerstone of strong female songs in country music history.
“I Fall To Pieces” – Patsy Cline (1961)
Patsy Cline’s story is as powerful as her voice. She not only overcame personal obstacles, including a tumultuous first marriage and a near-fatal car accident, but she also defied societal expectations of women in the early 1960s. When her first husband tried to control her career ambitions, Cline chose divorce and pursued her musical dreams relentlessly. In a time when divorce carried significant social stigma for women, Cline’s actions were a testament to her independence and determination.
Her music was equally groundbreaking. Songs like “I Fall To Pieces” weren’t just about heartbreak; they explored female vulnerability and desire with an honesty rarely heard in mainstream music at the time. Cline dared to sing about the complexities of women’s emotions, paving the way for future generations of female artists to express themselves authentically. Her legacy is cemented as a vital voice in the canon of strong female songs, not just for her vocal prowess, but for her courageous spirit.
“Jackson” – June Carter and Johnny Cash (1967)
Country music has always been unafraid to delve into the realities of relationships, and “Jackson” by June Carter and Johnny Cash is a perfect example. While some country songs idealize marriage, many more, like this playful duet, explore the push and pull, the humor and the tensions that exist within partnerships. “Jackson” is a feisty back-and-forth between a couple who are going to “Jackson” to essentially cool off and perhaps find new flames, only to realize their bond is stronger than they thought.
June Carter’s spirited performance in “Jackson” showcases a woman who is not afraid to challenge her partner, to tease him, and to hold her own in the relationship. It’s a celebration of a dynamic partnership, where both individuals are strong-willed and independent. “Jackson” stands out as a strong female song through June Carter’s vibrant energy and portrayal of a woman who is an equal partner in love and life.
“I Beg Your Pardon, I Never Promised You A Rose Garden” – Lynn Anderson (1970)
Society often places unrealistic expectations on women to be perpetually cheerful and agreeable. Female sadness and anger are frequently dismissed or discouraged, a notion that Lynn Anderson directly confronts in “I Beg Your Pardon, I Never Promised You A Rose Garden.” This song is a powerful declaration of emotional honesty, acknowledging that life, and particularly relationships, are not always easy or perfect.
Anderson’s performance is both vulnerable and resolute. She’s not apologizing for her emotions or pretending to be someone she’s not. Instead, she sets boundaries and reclaims her right to experience the full spectrum of human feelings, not just the ones deemed “acceptable” for women. “I Beg Your Pardon, I Never Promised You A Rose Garden” is a significant entry in the catalog of strong female songs because it validates female emotional experiences and rejects the pressure to conform to unrealistic expectations of constant happiness.
“The Pill” – Loretta Lynn (1975)
Loretta Lynn was never one to shy away from controversial topics, and “The Pill” is perhaps her most audacious and impactful song. Released in 1975, it directly addressed the topic of birth control, celebrating the freedom it provided women to control their own bodies and destinies. At a time when discussions about reproductive rights were still largely taboo, Lynn sang openly and joyfully about the liberation afforded by the birth control pill.
The lyrics are humorous and celebratory, but the message was profoundly serious. “The Pill” challenged the stereotype of country women as being solely defined by motherhood and domesticity. It empowered women to make choices about their own families and futures, sparking both controversy and widespread acclaim. “The Pill” is undeniably a strong female song for its direct confrontation of social norms and its championing of female reproductive freedom.
“Womanhood” – Tammy Wynette (1978)
While Tammy Wynette is often most remembered for “Stand By Your Man,” her catalog is filled with songs that explore the complexities of women’s lives with remarkable honesty and depth. “Womanhood” is a prime example, delving into the multifaceted roles and expectations placed upon women. This song specifically addresses the internal conflicts a young woman faces as she tries to reconcile her religious beliefs and family expectations with her own burgeoning sexuality and desires.
“Womanhood” is a nuanced portrayal of the challenges women face in navigating societal and personal pressures. It acknowledges the internal struggle and the often-conflicting messages women receive about their roles and identities. Wynette’s vulnerable delivery adds to the song’s impact, making it a relatable and powerful exploration of female identity. “Womanhood” is a testament to the depth and complexity found within strong female songs in country music.
“9 to 5” – Dolly Parton (1980)
Dolly Parton is a force of nature – a songwriter, singer, actress, businesswoman, and cultural icon. “9 to 5” is just one facet of her multifaceted brilliance. This upbeat and catchy song, written for the film of the same name, tackles the very real challenges women faced in the workplace during the 1970s and 80s – and, frankly, many still face today. “9 to 5” shines a light on issues of unequal pay, lack of recognition, and the everyday frustrations of office life from a woman’s perspective.
Beyond the catchy melody, “9 to 5” is a song of solidarity and empowerment for working women. It acknowledges the daily grind and the feeling of being undervalued, but it also injects humor and resilience into the narrative. Parton’s signature wit and charisma make “9 to 5” both an anthem of workplace frustration and a celebration of female camaraderie. It’s a quintessential strong female song that remains relevant and resonant decades later.
“I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” – Barbara Mandrell (1981)
Barbara Mandrell broke barriers in country music, becoming the first person, male or female, to win the Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year award twice, in 1980 and 1981. “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” is her signature song, and it’s a joyful celebration of authenticity and staying true to your roots, regardless of trends. The song proudly embraces country identity, even when it wasn’t considered mainstream or fashionable.
While not explicitly feminist, “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” embodies a spirit of independence and self-acceptance that aligns with strong female narratives. It’s about owning your identity and not conforming to external pressures. Mandrell’s confident delivery and the song’s upbeat message make it an empowering statement of self-possession. It stands as a strong female song in its celebration of individuality and staying true to oneself.
“Why Not Me” – The Judds (1984)
In 1989, “Judd” might bring to mind different names, but back in 1984, The Judds were the mother-daughter duo Wynonna and Naomi, dominating the country music scene. “Why Not Me” is a standout example of a confident woman taking initiative in romance. It’s a playful and assertive song about a woman making her interest in a man known, without resorting to desperation or playing coy.
Wynonna Judd’s powerful vocals convey a sense of self-assuredness and playful flirtation. “Why Not Me” flips the traditional script where women are expected to wait for men to initiate. It’s a refreshing and empowering portrayal of female desire and agency in relationships. This song is a prime example of strong female songs that celebrate female confidence and assertiveness in matters of the heart.
“Fancy” – Reba McEntire (1990)
Some might question if Reba McEntire’s “Fancy” is a feminist anthem, but it undeniably celebrates a woman’s resourcefulness and determination to overcome difficult circumstances. “Fancy” tells the story of a young woman from poverty who is given a “second chance” by her mother, essentially being pushed into using her beauty and charm to escape their desperate situation.
The song’s narrative is complex and morally ambiguous, but Fancy’s agency is undeniable. She takes the tools she’s given and uses them to build a better life for herself. Whether you agree with her methods or not, “Fancy” showcases a woman who takes control of her destiny and uses every weapon at her disposal to escape a difficult situation. In its portrayal of female resilience and strategic thinking, “Fancy” earns its place among strong female songs.
“He Thinks He’ll Keep Her” – Mary Chapin Carpenter (1992)
Mary Chapin Carpenter’s “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her” offers a different kind of female strength – the quiet power of leaving. The song tells the story of a woman who has dedicated herself to being the “good wife,” only to find her efforts unappreciated and her own needs neglected. While the narrator initially appears to be the “good girl who tries hard,” the song culminates in her realization that she deserves more and her decision to leave.
“He Thinks He’ll Keep Her” is a powerful statement about female self-worth and the courage to leave a relationship that no longer serves you. It challenges the notion that women should endure unhappiness for the sake of maintaining a marriage. The song’s strength lies in its quiet defiance and the narrator’s eventual assertion of her own needs and desires. It’s a poignant and relatable example of strong female songs that address the complexities of marriage and female agency.
“Independence Day” – Martina McBride (1993)
Country music, surprisingly, offers a space to explore difficult topics like abuse, often from a female perspective. Martina McBride’s “Independence Day” is a stark and powerful example. The song tells the story of a woman trapped in an abusive marriage who, in a desperate act of self-preservation and protection for her child, sets fire to her house, killing her abuser.
“Independence Day” is a harrowing and unflinching portrayal of domestic violence and the extreme measures a woman might take when pushed to her breaking point. While the act of arson is not condoned, the song evokes empathy for the woman’s desperate situation and highlights the devastating consequences of abuse. It’s a chilling and necessary example of strong female songs that tackle difficult social issues and give voice to female experiences of trauma and resilience.
“Man! I Feel Like A Woman” – Shania Twain (1997)
Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like A Woman” is pure, unadulterated celebration of female freedom and embracing one’s wild side. This iconic anthem rejects slut-shaming and celebrates female desire and enjoyment without apology. It’s about women feeling empowered to let loose, have fun, and express themselves authentically, without societal constraints.
The song’s infectious energy and playful lyrics are a declaration of female liberation. It’s about breaking free from expectations of demureness and embracing a more assertive and joyful expression of womanhood. “Man! I Feel Like A Woman” is a definitive strong female song for its unapologetic celebration of female desire, fun, and freedom of expression.
“Goodbye Earl” – The Chicks (1999)
The Chicks (formerly the Dixie Chicks) are known for their fearless music and willingness to tackle controversial topics. “Goodbye Earl” is a darkly comedic and empowering song about female friendship and standing up against abuse. The song tells the story of two friends who take matters into their own hands to protect one of them from an abusive husband named Earl.
While the song’s approach is humorous and even over-the-top, the underlying message about female solidarity and rejecting abuse is powerful. “Goodbye Earl” celebrates female friendship as a source of strength and support, and it sends a clear message that abuse will not be tolerated. It’s a bold and unforgettable example of strong female songs that address serious issues with a dose of dark humor and unwavering female solidarity.
“Girls Lie Too” – Terri Clark (2000)
Terri Clark’s “Girls Lie Too” is a fun and honest take on relationship dynamics and the double standards that often exist. The song playfully acknowledges that women aren’t always paragons of virtue and that honesty and realistic expectations are a two-way street in relationships. It challenges the idealized image of women and admits that “girls lie too,” just like guys do.
“Girls Lie Too” is refreshing for its candidness and its rejection of unrealistic expectations placed on women. It’s a humorous and relatable song that acknowledges female imperfections and promotes a more balanced view of relationships. In its playful challenge to gender stereotypes and its embrace of female honesty, “Girls Lie Too” can be considered a strong female song with a lighthearted but insightful message.
“Suds In The Bucket” – Sara Evans (2003)
Sara Evans’ “Suds In The Bucket” is a bittersweet coming-of-age story about a young woman choosing her own path, even if it deviates from her parents’ expectations. The song tells the story of a girl who runs off to get married, leaving behind the “suds in the bucket” and the life her parents had envisioned for her.
“Suds In The Bucket” celebrates female independence and the courage to forge one’s own destiny. It’s about breaking free from parental expectations and choosing a different future. While the song has a touch of melancholy, it ultimately emphasizes the importance of following your own heart and making your own choices. It’s a poignant and relatable example of strong female songs that explore themes of independence and self-determination.
“Redneck Woman” – Gretchen Wilson (2004)
Gretchen Wilson’s “Redneck Woman” is an unapologetic anthem of female pride and celebrating one’s roots. The song embraces a “redneck” identity, rejecting elitism and celebrating a down-to-earth, authentic way of life. It’s about female empowerment through self-acceptance and pride in where you come from.
“Redneck Woman” is a bold statement of female identity that challenges conventional notions of femininity. It’s about being comfortable in your own skin, regardless of societal judgments. Wilson’s powerful vocals and the song’s defiant lyrics make it a potent anthem of female self-acceptance and pride in one’s background. It firmly establishes itself as a strong female song that celebrates individuality and challenges narrow definitions of womanhood.
“Incredible Machine” – Sugarland (2010)
Sugarland’s “Incredible Machine” is a unique and empowering song that speaks to the objectification of women’s bodies. The lyrics use the metaphor of a machine to describe the female body, highlighting how women are often reduced to their physical attributes and treated as commodities. However, the song ultimately reclaims this metaphor, celebrating the complexity and wonder of the “incredible machine” that is a woman’s body.
Jennifer Nettles’ powerful vocals convey both vulnerability and strength, emphasizing the song’s message of female empowerment and self-acceptance. “Incredible Machine” is a thought-provoking and moving song that encourages women to see their bodies as more than just objects and to appreciate their own inherent worth and complexity. It stands out as a strong female song for its insightful commentary on female objectification and its message of self-love.
“Only Prettier” – Miranda Lambert (2010)
Miranda Lambert’s “Only Prettier” is a sassy and humorous song that tackles intrasexual competition and celebrates women who don’t fit into traditional “ladylike” molds. The song is a playful jab at women who are overly concerned with appearances and social expectations, while embracing a more authentic and perhaps “unladylike” persona.
“Only Prettier” is a celebration of female individuality and rejecting the pressure to conform to narrow definitions of femininity. Lambert’s signature attitude and the song’s witty lyrics make it a fun and empowering anthem for women who embrace their imperfections and challenge societal expectations. It’s a clear example of strong female songs that celebrate female authenticity and individuality.
“Blown Away” – Carrie Underwood (2012)
Carrie Underwood’s “Blown Away” is another country song that addresses the dark topic of abuse, this time with a dramatic and almost gothic twist. The song tells the story of a woman who escapes an abusive father with a little help from a tornado. The storm becomes a metaphor for liberation and escape from a dangerous situation.
“Blown Away” is a powerful and cinematic portrayal of survival and escape from abuse. While the use of a tornado is dramatic, it underscores the desperate circumstances and the need for drastic measures to break free from violence. Underwood’s commanding vocals amplify the song’s intensity and message of resilience. It’s a compelling example of strong female songs that tackle the difficult topic of abuse with dramatic storytelling and a message of survival.
“Follow Your Arrow” – Kacey Musgraves (2013)
Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow” is a song about rejecting societal expectations and living life on your own terms. It encourages listeners, particularly women, to ignore the conflicting messages and pressures they receive and to simply “follow your arrow,” meaning to live authentically and according to their own values.
“Follow Your Arrow” is a message of self-acceptance and empowerment, particularly relevant for women who often face immense pressure to conform to societal norms. Musgraves’ gentle vocals and the song’s inclusive message make it a comforting and inspiring anthem for individuality. It’s a significant addition to the collection of strong female songs for its message of self-determination and rejecting external pressures.
“Chainsaw” – The Band Perry (2013)
The Band Perry’s “Chainsaw” offers a humorous and cathartic take on heartbreak and moving on. The song embraces the “Bitchez Be Crazy” trope, but with a twist. It celebrates the alternative to the “happily ever after,” suggesting that sometimes the “handsome prince” is really just “dead wood” that needs to be cut away.
“Chainsaw” is a playful and unapologetic celebration of female anger and moving on from a bad relationship. It’s about reclaiming power after heartbreak and not being afraid to be a little “crazy” in the process of healing. While the “crazy ex-girlfriend” trope can be problematic, “Chainsaw” uses it in a way that feels more empowering and cathartic than negative. It offers a different kind of strong female song – one that embraces female anger and the messy process of moving on.
“Heart Break” – Lady Antebellum (2017)
Lady Antebellum’s “Heart Break” addresses the societal pressure on women to always be in relationships. The song celebrates taking a break from dating and relationships, emphasizing the value of self-care and independence. It’s about rejecting the pressure to constantly seek romantic validation and embracing a period of singledom.
“Heart Break” is a refreshing and relatable anthem for women who are tired of the pressure to be in a relationship. It validates the desire to take time for oneself and prioritize personal well-being over romantic pursuits. The song’s message of self-sufficiency and rejecting societal expectations makes it a valuable addition to the collection of strong female songs.
“Girl In A Country Song” – Maddie & Tae (2014)
Maddie & Tae’s “Girl In A Country Song” is a clever and satirical critique of stereotypical portrayals of women in contemporary country music. The song directly addresses the clichés of women being reduced to objects, wearing Daisy Dukes and drinking beer in pickup trucks, often in songs sung by men. It’s a witty and insightful commentary on gender representation within the genre itself.
“Girl In A Country Song” is a meta-commentary that reclaims agency for women within country music. By directly calling out the stereotypes, Maddie & Tae are demanding more nuanced and respectful portrayals of women in the genre. It’s a smart and impactful example of strong female songs that are not just about female experiences, but also about challenging and changing the industry itself.
This is just a glimpse into the vast and rich world of strong female songs in country music. From pioneers like Kitty Wells and Patsy Cline to contemporary voices like Kacey Musgraves and Maddie & Tae, women have consistently used country music to tell their stories, challenge norms, and empower themselves and their listeners. So, the next time you hear someone question the presence of strong women in country, remember this list, and remember the countless other women who have made country music a powerful and enduring platform for female voices.
