Top 10 Country Songs You Forgot Were Awesome
#10: “I Hope You Dance” (2000)
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Lee Ann Womack feat. Sons of the Desert
A staple of the early 2000s music scene, “I Hope You Dance” and its accompanying album largely introduced Lee Ann Womack to audiences beyond her country music base. Her third album was released in the midst of a renaissance for country pop music, with this being one of a number of tracks to crossover to listeners less familiar with the genre. Womack’s musical prowess is immediately evident on this beautifully inspiring record. Her voice delivers the inspiring lyrics with wonderfully layered instruments behind her, setting a high bar for the decade to come. It eventually became a top-twenty pop hit and a Grammy-winning release.
#9: “If I Needed You” (1972)
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Townes Van Zandt
Some heroes of country music aren’t as well known as others, with Townes Van Zandt certainly being one of them. His compositions have inspired many successful covers, including the track “If I Needed You.” A country classic in its own right, the piece has come a long way since its first recording in 1972. Emmylou Harris and Joey + Rory have recorded versions of the ballad that reaches much deeper than the average love song. Its heartache and honesty gives it a timeless quality. In the hands of its original artist, the piece features all the authenticity of a gritty poem.
#8: “Over and Over” (2004)
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Nelly feat. Tim McGraw
After conquering the hip-hop world, the only thing left for Nelly to do was to venture into an entirely new genre. He teamed up with country superstar Tim McGraw to create this groundbreaking mashup. The verses evoke various musical styles, but the chorus is undeniably country to the core. McGraw meshes well with his rapper counterpart and brings along his trademark pristine vocals. Nelly brings his own swagger to this surprisingly engrossing tale about love and jealousy. It's also a moving track that was ahead of its time, laying a foundation for the likes of other eclectic collaborations to exist.
#7: “Fifteen” (2009)
Taylor Swift
Is any Taylor Swift song truly underrated? You could argue about this, but "Fifteen" sometimes feels like it's been lost between other more substantial hits from the artist. The track encapsulates the highs and lows of going to high school, in a universal story that’s relatable and captivating. It showcases the trademark sound that Swift built up from her earliest recordings to her eventual international superstardom. Off of her smash album "Fearless," this single deserves another listen for its simple and accessible structure. The composition also functions as a nostalgic look into her more country-centric catalog.
#6: “When You Say Nothing at All” (1995)
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Alison Krauss & Union Station
With well over twenty Grammys to her name, Alison Krauss is one of the most decorated country musicians of all time. Her ability to weave through different musical stylings and to make any song her own comes in handy for this track. Originally recorded by artists like Keith Whitley, "When You Say Nothing at All" is a deeply emotional experience that the singer elevates with her powerful performance. Every word and every note come together in a hit that arguably started her mainstream career. Fans of 90s country music might remember it, but it's worth revisiting for its straightforward and compelling production.
#5: “Slow Burn” (2018)
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Kacey Musgraves
As the opening track of her award-winning album "Golden Hour," Kacey Musgraves uses "Slow Burn" to set the tone for an exceptional and modern country record. Full of sharp details and visceral lyrics that nobody else could write, it emphasizes Musgraves' unique take on the genre. The production also has an accessible quality that can draw in fans of folk and rock music, without sacrificing any of its country charms. "Slow Burn" might not have been the lead single, but it does remind people of the musician's songwriting abilities and her innovative musical techniques.
#4: “When the Stars Go Blue” (2006)
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Tim McGraw
Tim McGraw ranks among the most popular and successful country stars of his era. He continuously proves that the cowboy hat isn't just for show, making tracks like "When the Stars Go Blue" special with an extra dose of country brilliance. His cover of this Ryan Adams tune is perfectly suited for his golden voice. McGraw's take on the intricate melody is a particular highlight of this version, with a vocal performance that never wavers or loses steam. This production comes together in an emotionally-resonant package. It might've had moderate success upon its initial release, but real fans have kept this one close to their heart for years.
#3: “Angel from Montgomery” (1974)
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Bonnie Raitt
John Prine's song "Angel from Montgomery" has arguably never been sung better than by Bonnie Raitt. She manages to sing Prine’s lyrics in such a way that it feels like it was written especially for her. Through her exceptional performance, the writing shines in a composition that's as richly-detailed as a lengthy novel. Raitt first recorded this version in the 1970s, carrying it with her through the decades and making it a staple of her live shows. She may be known for dabbling in rock and blues music, but on this track she shows off her country muscles in expert fashion.
#2: “Here You Come Again” (1977)
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Dolly Parton
There's arguably no more beloved singer in country music than Dolly Parton. Her ability to sell the genre better than just about anyone makes her an absolute legend in every respect. "Here You Come Again" is one such example of her showmanship as an artist, delivering an inviting tune in the heyday of her country-pop phase. The song lures in listeners with a complicated tale about relationships, finally hooking them with intimate lyrics about a love that never truly fades. Parton proves that she doesn't need to belt every note or show off her voice, coolly delivering a heartwarming ballad all its own.
#1: “God's Gonna Cut You Down” (2006)
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Johnny Cash
In a long list of country legends, Johnny Cash stands alone as an artist that was totally real and unpredictable. His interpretation of this folk song imbues it with a country flair that's both suspenseful and full of grit. Cash was a master at taking a simple chord structure and breathing new life into it. This is especially true with this track, which was released years after his death. Even in his latter days, the power of his voice brought out every ounce of pain and heartache that money can’t buy. It also shows that the icon was working on some of his best recordings at the end of his life.
