12 country songs that will make you love the genre

As a lifelong lover of music, I must say this journey through country music has been nothing short of enlightening! From the raw, rugged charm of Billy Joe Shaver to the smooth, soulful tones of Loretta Lynn, each song has added a unique flavor to the rich tapestry that is country music.

During my teenage years that shaped my identity, I lived in a time period – the 1970s – when rock and roll music experienced its zenith before gradually dwindling. This region was the Mid-Atlantic United States, situated at the junction of the North and South, specifically Maryland where I hail from. Although Maryland is technically considered part of the South due to being south of the Mason-Dixon line, it’s a state that tends to be influenced by various directions – both north and south, as well as being close to Washington D.C., which exerts an impact from whichever direction the national political climate may be blowing.

Regardless of our varying musical tastes, there was a shared agreement among us: we weren’t fond of country music. Instead, we were into rock ‘n’ roll, encompassing various styles such as hard, heavy, progressive, or pop. We also explored soul and funk, embraced punk early on, and secretly enjoyed bubblegum and disco tunes from time to time. However, there was not a single one of us who appreciated country music.

Growing up, I was deeply into what I thought was pure rock – the Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet, among others. We didn’t categorize them as country. They were more like hard-rock bands with a hint of twang. In hindsight, it’s clear that one of our beloved bands from back then, Little Feat, was blending rock, country, and funk in their music. I used to belt out “Willin'” without giving country music a second thought! Now I wonder how I could have been such a devout fan while proclaiming my dislike for country tunes.

12 fantastic songs that will make you love country music

Alas, we were young.

Indeed, there were many valid criticisms against country music during the 1970s. Many people who still don’t appreciate it today share similar views. They argue that the songs were repetitive, focusing primarily on heartache. If sung by a woman, she would express her sorrow through tears; if sung by a man, he would drown his sorrows in drink. However, the recurring theme of heartbreak became overbearing and, to be honest, it became rather sentimental.

The most popular examples we heard were soft and bathetic. They were bathed in strings and rinsed in choirs. The drums were metronomic and the guitars rarely grabbed attention. This was Countrypolitan country – Nashville’s corporate-conceived attempt to win widespread popularity by appealing to the broadest and blandest. It was the result of one area’s iron-fisted control of the product.

Initially, Motown held sway over soul music, while New York gave birth to hip hop. However, within a brief span, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta, among others, each created their unique variations of these genres. This rich diversity played a significant role in the growth of the music.

However, initially, Nashville wasn’t a part of it. Instead, country music originated there, serving as the blueprint that the city’s power brokers used to define the scope and evolution of the genre.

Despite its humble beginnings, country music has produced a wealth of extraordinary tunes from all directions. Both traditional singers and trailblazers have gifted us with countless melodies that stand tall among the best in any musical category. Today, I’ll provide you with a playlist designed to achieve one goal: to convert anyone who isn’t already a fan of country music into an ardent supporter. The playlist will be segmented, but each song shares the same mission – to captivate listeners and turn them into dedicated fans.

In conclusion, you’ll find yourself with a collection of 36 tracks. In this initial segment, we delve into the formative years, tracing the path from before rock ‘n’ roll made its debut, all the way to the emergence of the outlaw movement that challenged Nashville’s dominance.

Pre-1960s – From roots to rockabilly

Country tunes originated from the mountains and gained popularity with the expansion of radio broadcasting. Around a century ago, in the 1920s, Vernon Delhart’s “The Wreck of the Old 97” song sold over a million copies, making it a massive hit. Jimmy Rodgers was the first true country music icon to emerge at that time. Let’s move forward a few decades instead.

In the 1940s, there was a remarkable blossoming of musicianship that adorned old-time melodies. The piano of Moon Mullican, the guitar of Maybelle Carter, and the voice of Hacksaw Hawkins – among many others – played crucial roles in shaping country music’s development. To start off, we’ll pay homage to this heritage before delving into the 1950s, when country music truly gained mainstream popularity.

“Blue Smoke” by Merle Travis (1946)

If you appreciate the guitar skills of Mark Knopfler or Derek Trucks, consider checking out Merle Travis. Known for adapting finger-picking techniques typically associated with the banjo to the guitar, he boasts an impressive collection of guitar tunes – “Blue Smoke” being a personal favorite of mine at present. Notably, he is also credited for “16 Tons,” which became a major hit for Tennessee Ernie Ford in the 1950s and remains one of his original country classics.

“Your Cheatin’ Heart” by Hank Williams (1952)

I plan on mixing some well-loved classics and lesser-appreciated treasures in my playlist. Hank Williams falls into the category of widely recognized hits. Even seventy years since his passing, he continues to be a significant influence in the world of country music, being hailed as one of its most influential figures. “Your Cheatin’ Heart” is arguably his most famous tune, soaring to popularity following his death shortly after its initial release.

Instead of dwelling on the self-explanatory aspects, let me highlight some songs that could have been part of my list but weren’t: “The Night Hank Williams Came to Town” (Johnny Cash), “The Ghost of Hank Williams” (David Allan Coe), “The Great Hank” (Robert Earl Keen), and “Are You Sure Hank Done it This Way” (Waylon Jennings, among many others). It’s worth noting that Hank Williams has inspired a remarkable number of great songs – more so than most artists have ever recorded.

“Can’t Hardly Stand It” by Charlie Feathers (1956)

Charlie Feathers seamlessly blends country and rockabilly, two genres, as he was one of the pioneers who infused traditional mountain music with elements from rock & roll. The rhythmic blues shuffle found in “Can’t Hardly Stand It” is given a unique twist by Feathers’ distinctive voice, which occasionally incorporates yodeling, much like Dolores O’Riordan later developed a new style of rock singing by combining influences from the past and future.

“Cash on the Barrel Head” by the Louvin Brothers (1956)

In the aftermath of Hank Williams’ passing in the late 1950s, the Louvin Brothers transitioned from gospel to the emerging style of country music. Their impeccable harmonies, accompanied by Don Helms’ traditional steel guitar, tell a lively honky tonk tale about a judge who refuses to acknowledge debts today.

“Oh, Lonesome Me” by Don Gibson (1957)

In a fresh twist to traditional country music, Gibson infused a contemporary flair, thereby making him one of the pioneers in crossing over genres. His songs found success on both country and pop charts. The song “Oh Lonesome Me” became a timeless classic, frequently covered by others, yet none could quite match the original’s charm. This was partly due to Gibson’s early collaborator and co-writer, Chet Atkins, who skillfully played the guitar in their performances. The combination of sorrowful lyrics with cheerful tunes is reminiscent of a modern mix of gin and tonic – an unusual yet harmonious blend that science still struggles to fully understand.

“I Wanna Waltz” by Wanda Jackson (1958)

Similar to numerous other artists in this collection, Wanda Jackson demonstrated versatility, as she masterfully sang pop and gospel tunes while exhibiting both wild and sentimental sides. However, it was her rockabilly performances that truly shone. Influenced by Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly, Jackson showcased her exceptional vocal abilities on her self-titled debut album. While many of her songs, such as “Let’s Have a Party,” were undeniably rockabilly, she skillfully blended traditional country rhythms with her upbeat style in tracks like “I Wanna Waltz,” creating a delightful medley of musical personalities.

1960s/1970s – The birth of the outlaws

The initial challenge to Nashville’s dominance originated from some seasoned country music artists who felt suffocated by Music Row’s authority and had the influence to take a stand. Willie Nelson, with a decade of songwriting and album releases under his belt, and Kris Kristofferson, a rising artist trying to find his footing, were among them. Observing what Bob Dylan was accomplishing, they sought to join the movement.

As a rising country star, I found myself yearning for more of a rock and roll edge in my music, which was a struggle given the constraints imposed by the Nashville music scene. Feeling confined, I sought greener pastures and made Austin my new home. This move, along with others who followed suit, marked the beginning of the outlaw movement – country artists refusing to bow down to Nashville’s expectations. However, it wasn’t a sudden occurrence; there were hints of rebellion throughout the 1960s that paved the way for this change in the country music landscape.

“I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail” by Buck Owens (1964)

Buck Owens embodied pure country music. During the 1970s, he shared hosting duties on the widely acclaimed television show dedicated to country music, known as Hee Haw. However, unlike many other popular country artists, Owens was often linked with places beyond Nashville. In collaboration with Merle Haggard, Owens played a significant role in developing the rock-influenced, guitar-centric “Bakersfield Sound.” This unique sound, characterized by its honky tonk rhythm, laid the foundation for future outlaw artists. One of many hits showcasing Owens’ witty humor and infectious beats was “I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail.

“Jackson” by Johnny Cash and June Carter (1967)

After they got married, June Carter was set to become known as June Carter Cash. Hailing from the esteemed family of country music, the Carters, June was a respected figure in the genre. However, Johnny Cash, an unconventional outsider, often challenged the norms of country music. Their union proved to be enchanting. “Jackson,” a track from their debut album of duets, showcased their playful and humorous side. While other notable artists like bluegrass legends Flatt and Scruggs had also covered this song, Johnny and June’s rendition stood out as the best.

“Fist City” by Loretta Lynn (1968)

In a significant shift for female musicians in Nashville’s country music scene, a woman often referred to as “the coal miner’s daughter” made a powerful statement with her recording – keep your distance from my man. This song was one of the most defining moments in country music history. A decade prior, Jean Shepard expressed frustration over the limited roles for women in her song “Two Whoops and a Holler.” However, the 1960s brought about transformative changes.

Loretta Lynn expressed that women should take on greater roles, albeit not in an entirely empowering manner; they could show strength while defending their role as a man’s companion. Nevertheless, her statement made an impact, and it paved the way for even more significant change seven years later when she released “The Pill.

“Good Hearted Woman” by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson (1971/’76)

The song “Good Hearted Woman” originally appeared on Waylon’s self-titled album from 1971, and five years later, he re-recorded it as a live track for their outlaw album. Both singers have an extensive collection of country songs, including soft ballads and energetic rockabilly tunes. “Good Hearted Woman,” which was inspired by a nod to Tina Turner, is a lively creation that addresses the age-old country stereotype often explored by female artists.

In this setting, you find these two notable outlaws of country music in a more laid-back mood. Over a decade later, they would reunite as part of the Highwaymen, marking one of the earliest instances of a country music supergroup.

“I’ve Been to Georgia on a Fast Train” by Billy Joe Shaver (1973)

Billy Joe Shaver was part of the emerging group of rebels who persuaded Waylon Jennings to perform his compositions, thereby kickstarting his own successful career. Tales of Billy Joe’s daring adventures would make up multiple books in any account of country music history. Moreover, his songwriting talent was second to none. The lyrics, “I’ve been to Georgia on a fast train – I wasn’t born yesterday – I got a good Christian upbringing and an eighth-grade education – There’s no explanation for the way you’re treating me,” might hold even more relevance today than when he first penned them half a century ago.

“Dallas” by the Flatlanders (1974)

For quite some time, they were considered as mere folklore. However, it wasn’t until approximately two decades later with the unveiling of the fittingly-named album “More a Legend Than a Band” that they truly emerged. Yet, The Flatlanders – Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Joe Ely, and Butch Hancock – were already producing neo-traditional country music well before it became popular. “Dallas” is a stunning country composition, beautifully crafted around Gilmore’s fragile tenor and Ely’s unique guitar play.

Here’s another suggestion for you: I’ve got an extra recommendation – it’s not a song, but a movie and its soundtrack. In 1975, Robert Altman premiered the American classic, Nashville. The plot revolves around a multitude of diverse characters from Nashville who find common ground during a presidential campaign, in the year marking the nation’s 200th anniversary.

The album accompanying the film includes original tunes, many penned by the actors for their on-screen performances, contributing to the continuous rhythm of music driving the plot. These songs generally align with the countrypolitan style popularized in Nashville during that era. Some tracks are strong, while others might not resonate as much, but collectively, they encapsulate the essence of Nashville in the mid-’70s. If you have the chance to watch the movie, do so; however, the soundtrack can be enjoyed independently if necessary.

Alright, here’s a baker’s dozen of tunes, along with an album, to kickstart your journey into the world of country music. On our next meeting, we’ll delve into another batch of 12 songs from late in the century, a time marked by both fresh beginnings and revivals within the country music industry.

2024-11-24 14:01