Country music has been growing as an art from since Eck Robertson’s recording of “Arkansas Traveler” in 1922. From the days of 78RPM vinyl to digital downloads, fans continue to flock to the format. So who are the 25 greatest country artists of all time? That list might very well be subject to conjecture as the definition of country, but here are the acts that have made an immeasurable mark on the genre. In compiling this list, we took into consideration sales, airplay, and influence upon the genre —and outside of it. Let the debates commence!
Country music has been growing as an art from since Eck Robertson’s recording of “Arkansas Traveler” in 1922. From the days of 78 RPM vinyl to digital downloads, fans continue to flock to the format. So who are the 25 greatest country artists of all time? That list might very well be subject to conjecture as the definition of country, but here are the acts that have made an immeasurable mark on the genre. In compiling this list, we took into consideration sales, airplay, and influence upon the genre — and outside of it. Let the debates commence!
greatest-of-all-time-country-goat-billboard-650
Country music has been growing as an art from since Eck Robertson’s recording of “Arkansas Traveler” in 1922. From the days of 78 RPM vinyl to digital downloads, fans continue to flock to the format. So who are the 25 greatest country artists of all time? That list might very well be subject to conjecture as the definition of country, but here are the acts that have made an immeasurable mark on the genre. In compiling this list, we took into consideration sales, airplay, and influence upon the genre — and outside of it. Let the debates commence!
30. Vern Gosdin
His nickname was "The Voice" — long before the NBC series. We don't know how more definitive that needs to be. Gosdin's phrasing was on par with anyone — Jones or Haggard, who both considered themselves among the singer's biggest fans. Always something of an underdog in the business, the bulk of Gosdin's recorded output came fromsmaller, independent labels. But, when you heard him on slices of real country such as "If You're Gonna Do Me Wrong (Do It Right)" or "Today My World Slipped Away," record companies were of no major importance. He sang each song like it would be his last, and inspired a generation in the process.
Vince-Gill-Wisconsin-1998-Billboard-450
With the possible exception of Marty Robbins, Vince Gill stands as one of the most musically diverse artists of the format. Whether it be pop, rock, country, gospelor bluegrass, he does it all –- and does it with as much musical precision and dedication than anyone else ever has. As a singer, a songwriter, or a picker, Vince Gill has few peers.
28. Keith Whitley
In 1986, when he broke onto the scene, Whitley's star was somewhat overshadowed by Randy Travis and Dwight Yoakam. But, his second album — 1988's Don't Close Your Eyes — helped to establish him as one of the dominant balladeers of his day. Sadly, a long career wasn't meant to be — as his May 1989 death stilled his voice. But, talk to any singer who has come along since — such as Tim McGraw, Chris Young, or Alan Jackson, and they will tell you just how deep his influence still runs — even after 25 years.
(Video) Making Man - SNLDixie-Chicks-CD-Release-Billboard-450
All controversy aside, the trio of Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire, and Emily Robison managed to create a musical sound that appealed to a mixture of traditional minded fans, as well as newcomers to the format. In a time period where many artists were starting to sound alike, the Dixie Chicks managed to stay true to their Texas sound –- giving the country format some of its’ most outstanding music of the period.
See AlsoThe 50 Greatest Album Covers of All TimeTaylor Swift, The Beatles, Elvis & More Artists With the Most Weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200: Full ListThe 35 Greatest R&B Artists of All TimeAuthentic Brands Group Forms Authentic Studios, Home to Shaquille O’Neal’s Jersey Legends and David Beckham’s Studio 9926. Tim McGraw
One of the most versatile artists on this list, McGraw's career stretches from '90s dance numbers like "Indian Outlaw" to tear-jerking ballads like "Don't Take The Girl" and the powerful "Live Like You Were Dying." He isn't afraid to expand his boundaries, either, with collaborations with such artists as hip-hop star Nelly. McGrawhas also made a name for himself as an actor in Hollywood, delivering fine performances in movies such as Friday Night Lightsand Oscar-winning The Blind Side,going far and beyond simply playing a singer on screen like many of his peers.
Kenny-Rogers-Rosemount-Horizon-1982-Billboard-650
Other artists had been successful crossing over before Kenny Rogers, but he made it an art form. As a member of the First Edition, several of the band’s pop records crossed over to country, and as a solo artist, he notched some of the biggest hits in both markets from 1977-1987. As a touring artist, he was the first country performer to consistently sell out arenas night after night, with only his recent announcement of retirement bringing that segment of his career to a close.
Randy-Travis-1980-Billboard-650
In the fall of 1985, The New York Times proclaimed traditional country music as “dead.” Just a few months later, this North Carolina native burst upon the scene that owed as much to Lefty and Hank as it did anyone currently on the radio. His Always and Forever album stayed at the top of the Billboard Country Albums chart for an astonishing 43 weeks -– and hit the top 20 on the Billboard 200 long before Soundscan -– unheard of for a traditional-based artist. Randy Travis rewrote the rules for the format – with a pen of classic-inspired ink.
Eddy-Arnold-Guitar-1950-Billboard-450
Though some younger fans might not truly appreciate just what Eddy Arnold brought to the format, his down-home personality along with his slightly more sophisticated tone made him one of the format’s most bankable crossover stars. With a reign on the country top40 that lasted for close to four decades, Arnold managed to keep a career going from the days of 78 RPM to the digital age.
Hank-Williams-Jr-1980-Billboard-450
Though his father was one of the first major superstars of the genre, Hank Williams, Jr. marches to the beat of his own drummer. Much of his early hit output was in a traditional style, such as 1972’s “Eleven Roses,” but it was later southern rock-inspired hits such as “Family Tradition” and “Women I’ve Never Had” that proved that Junior was in a league of his own. Also adding to his legend was his stage show, which inspired a generation — including Garth Brooks.
21. Ray Price
In a recording career that spanned over six decades, "The Cherokee Cowboy" possessed a voice that never seemed to age. If anything, his warm crooning tone only got better with time. Price's early hits were textbook performances in the honky-tonk vein, while 1967's "Danny Boy" ushered in a more uptown vibe that he expanded on in hits such as Kris Kristofferson's "For The Good Times." Price also had a keen ear for other talent, giving early jobs to Willie Nelson and Roger Miller, among others.
(Video) Target Lady: Meets Her First Lesbian - SNLPatsy-Cline-1970-Billboard-450
Though she hit first with “Walkin’ After Midnight” in 1957, Cline’s true influence as an artist stems from only a three-year recording career (1960-1963). However, what she did with that time period continues to inspire countless artists around the world. Take a walk to Nashville’s lower Broadway on any given night, and you will likely hear a rising female singer doing “Crazy” -– something that will likely be the case for another 50 years or so.
Tammy-Wynett-1972-Grammy-Awards-Billboard-450
Just as Loretta Lynn sang about female empowerment in the 1960s, so did Tammy Wynette. The one-time hairdresser turned her marital strife into musical gold via such classics as “Apartment # 9,” “D-I-V-O-R-C-E,” and “Stand By Your Man” –- and that was beforeshe married George Jones. No other female singer sang about heartbreak with as much conviction and power — influencing generations to come in the process.
Taylor-Swift-ACM-Awards-2007-Las-Vegas-Billboard-650
Even though her hit album1989has taken her on a pop path,you simply can’t argue the impact of the singer on the country format. The moment the industry heard her debut single “Tim McGraw,” it was apparent that she was onto something. Swift also displays a strong awareness of who she is as a songwriter –- knowing also who her audience is. She is as much of a juggernaut as Garth Brooks in terms of her success – and how she treats people in the industry.
Alabama-Sitting-Three-Members-Billboard-650
The idea of a band in country music had never really succeeded on a commercial level — until Alabama kicked in the door in 1980. RCA rolled the dice on them, and it was an investment that paid off quite well –- over 30 No. 1 singles, 75 million in album sales, and the only band (so far) to win the CMA Entertainer of the Year award three times. To further underscore their success story, all of their singles for RCA in the 1980s -– save 1987’s “Tar Top” — found their way to the pinnacle of the charts.
Conway-Twitty-1987-California-Performance-Billboard-450
While some might argue that Twitty didn’t change the rules of the format like a Haggard or Jones, his influence on the format can’t be understated. From 1968 until his passing in 1993, Twitty charted hit after hit. His 40 No. 1 hits on the Billboard charts was a record that held firm for years until George Strait broke it. From “Hello Darlin” to “Don’t Take It Away,” and all the way through to “She’s Got A Single Thing In Mind,” Twitty was the perfect example of the word evolution.
Shania-Twian-1999-Grammy-Awards-Billboard-450
Twain parlayed her movie-star looks into becoming one of the most popular female vocalists of the video age -– a la such clips as “Any Man of Mine” and “I’m Gonna Getcha Good.” It also helped that (along with former husband/producer Mutt Lange) she created some of the most intriguing music of the time period, along with some mind-bending arrangements that fused country with rock as seamlessly as anyone had ever done.
Charley-Pride-1970-Billboard-450
RCA released his first single in 1965 without the obligatory publicity photo -– unheard of for a new artist. But, Pride was unheard of — an African-American man singing country music. However, it wasn’t before long that Pride quickly became one of the biggest stars in the format. He won the 1971 Entertainer of the Year award from the CMA, and his sales eclipsed everyone else on the RCA label for a time in the 1970s -– even Elvis Presley.
(Video) All About That Bass - Postmodern Jukebox European Tour Version13. Kenny Chesney
If there has ever been a manual on how to build a career, Kenny Chesney would be its case study. He started slow — earning his first top 10 hit in 1995 — but by the early part of the next decade, Chesney was in the fast lane. He hasn't pulled over since. His records run the gamut from tropical-based hits as "No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems" to thought-provoking slices of life as "When I Close My Eyes" or "Don't Blink." Whether it's on record or his stage show,nobody works harder than Kenny Chesney.
Reba-McEntire-Chicago-1990-Billboard-450
Borrowing a page from the textbook of Dolly Parton, the former elementary school teacher from Oklahoma became one of the first female artists to sell albums and concert tickets on a level with the male artists. In addition to her music, she helped to shape the format with ground-breaking videos such as “Whoever’s In New England.” Along the way, she built an empire called Starstruck that is one of the biggest success stories the format has ever seen — for any gender.
Buck-Owens-Portrait-Guitar-Billboard-450
Some might recognize Owens better for his 17-year run as the host of Hee Haw.While his run in Kornfield Kounty did make him a household name, Owens was a musical maverick in the 1960s. His Bakersfield style — a mixture of pure honky-tonk and California rock-and-roll attitude — served in stark contrast to the more smooth sounds coming out of Nashville at the time. He influenced not just country artists, but also John Fogerty, Ray Charles -– who recorded eight of his classics —and The Beatles, who requested that Capitol send them each an Owens album upon itsrelease.
Garth-Brooks-Indianapolis-1990-Billboard-450
Brooks shattered the blueprint for what a country singer should sound like -– on stage and off. His music was a fusion of George Jones and James Taylor, and his concerts are like nothing a country fan has seen before or since. Brooks also changed the way that the format was thought about from a sales standpoint -– selling well over 100 million copies of his music, making a Brooks release date seem something akin to a national holiday for retailers across the globe.
Loretta-Lynn-Long-Dress-1982-Billboard-450
Breaking through in the traditional era of the 1960s, Lynn was anything but conventional. She wrote and performed songs that were very much different from the other women of the time. Hits like “Don’t Come Home A’Drinkin” and “The Pill” spoke to a generation that was going through the same exact thing. Her success with a more feisty approach led to her becoming the first female winner of the CMA’s Entertainer of the Year award -– as well as the cover of Newsweek —and her influence can still be heard today from such artists as Miranda Lambert and Kacey Musgraves.
George-Straight-Oakland-1998-Billboard-650
There’s nothing really flashy to say about the career of George Strait. He didn’t really break any musical ground nor did he become a trend-setter in how his music was made or marketed. But, he proved that there has always been a market for knowing what you do –- and doing it well. To this day, he has had more singles top the charts than any other country performer, and his recent string of sell-outs in Las Vegas for 2016 shows prove that audiences are still clamoring for hits like "All My Ex's Live in Texas."
Waylon-Jennings-NY-1980-BIllboard-650
In the early 1970s, Jennings fought Nashville for creative control to make his music the way he saw fit. Though he had been a consistent hitmaker for close to a decade by this point, you could hear a difference on such songs as “This Time” and “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way.” He was called an outlaw,though he tended to rebel against that word as wellover the years. Looking back, Jennings simply wanted to be himself –- ranging from covers of such current hits as “Can’t You See” to stunning ballads like “Dreaming My Dreams With You.”
(Video) Top 20 Worst TV Shows of the Century (So Far)George-Jones-1970-Tree-Billboard-450
In his song “It’s Alright,” Waylon Jennings stated ‘If we all sounded like we wanted to, we’d all sound like George Jones.” Truer words were never spoken. Jones’ unique phrasing and heartfelt delivery kept him a viable commercial force for well over five decades.
Dolly-Parton-NYC-1978-Billboard-650
Along with Johnny Cash, there may not be any other country performer who is as well-known across the world as Dolly Parton. Whether it be for her music or her acting, she continues to reign as an entertainment icon. She also ranks as one of the best songwriters in any format — with compositions ranging from her life growing up in Appalachia to emotional songs of farewell, such as the timeless “I Will Always Love You.”
Hank-Williams-Nashville-1978-Billboard-450
Williams’ recording career only lasted five years. But, his recordings and compositions are simply about quality over quantity. When he sang of sadness and love lost, you felt each and every line. Though his passing took place over 60 years ago, no country songwriter continues to be as revered as Hank Williams –- as it should be.
Willie-Nelson-30th-Anniversary-Woodstock-NY-Billboard-650
Quite possibly, no artist on this list manages to have the universal appeal of Willie Nelson. The legendary figure has been able to make believable his recordings of compositions from Lefty Frizzell, Irving Berlinand Paul Simon -– and sound authentic on each one. He qualifies as the ultimate curveball. You never know what to expect from him, only that it will find favor with the public.
Johnny-Cash-Johnny-Cash-Show-1969-Billboard-450
He changed the rules at Sun in the '50s, and recorded some groundbreaking records for Columbia in the '60s, but Cash was still shattering musical boundaries in the '90s and 2000s with his American Recordings series. The Man in Black's influence stretches not only through country music, but in just about every other genre.
Merle-Haggard-1970-Billboard-450
Jimmie Rodgers and Johnny Cash sang about the prison experience, but Merle Haggard lived it. A singer/songwriter who made his mark with songs about the common men and women, his music ran the gamut –- from songs of love and heartbreak to unabashed patriotism.
FAQs
Who is the most popular country artist of all time? ›
1. Tim McGraw. What is this? Along with being one of the most famous and influential country singers, Tim McGraw is also a talented actor, guitarist, and record producer.
Who is the number one country artist in the world right now? ›Grab some whiskey glasses, because it's been a really exciting week for Morgan Wallen! The country music star has officially scored the title as the No. 1 album in the country (all genres).
Who has the most #1 country hits? ›As of 2015, George Strait holds the record for the most country number-one singles with 44.
Who is the king of country music of all time? ›1. George Strait was born on May 18, 1952, in Poteet, Texas. The “King of Country Music” married his high school sweetheart Norma in 1971 and they remain married to this day. 2.
Who is the most popular singer in history? ›Eighteen times Grammy Award winner Loretta Lynn's long and successful career began in the 1950s when she began singing in small clubs in her area. Six decades of performing later, Lynn is the most awarded female country recording artist of all time.
Who is the number 1 artist in America? ›As of May 19, 2023, The Beatles have the highest total certified albums and Drake has the highest total certified digital singles. Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, Eminem, and Taylor Swift are the only acts in the top 30 of both lists.
Who is the most popular current male singer? ›- DÁKITI. Bad Bunny, Jhayco.
- Fair Trade (with Travis Scott) Drake, Travis Scott.
- Peaches (feat. Daniel Caesar & Giveon) ...
- Save Your Tears. The Weeknd.
- In Da Getto. J Balvin, Skrillex.
- Come & Go (with Marshmello) Juice WRLD, Marshmello.
- Cúrame. Rauw Alejandro.
- Overpass Graffiti. Ed Sheeran.
- PBR Allstars. 72 listeners.
- Brooks Garth. 74 listeners.
- YOUNG MISSIONARIES. 9 listeners.
- Jesse Brand. 33 listeners. ...
- Eric Ekman. 24 listeners. ...
- Darryl Worley. 177,604 listeners. ...
- Richie Fields. 679 listeners. ...
- Matt Gary. 1,169 listeners.
- Ed Sheeran. Ed Sheeran is one of the most popular musicians in the world, and it's no surprise why. ...
- The Weeknd. ...
- Justin Bieber. ...
- Harry Styles. ...
- Bruno Mars. ...
- Shawn Mendes. ...
- Nick Jonas. ...
- Post Malone.
What is the biggest selling country song of all time? ›
- I Hope You Dance, Lee Ann Womack.
- Jolene, Dolly Parton.
- Live Like You Were Dying, Tim McGraw.
- Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning), Alan Jackson.
- Concrete Angel, Martina McBride.
- Choices, George Jones.
- Friends in Low Places, Garth Brooks.
- I Walk the Line, Johnny Cash.
This makes Wallen's 'Last Night' the longest-running No. 1 country song in Billboard Hot 100 history. The previous record-holder was Kenny Rogers' 'Lady', which enjoyed a six-week spell atop the chart in 1980.
Who has written the most hit country songs? ›Topping off our list of the most prolific country songwriters is the undisputed number one in the genre, Hank Williams.
Why did George Strait decline Grand Ole Opry? ›There's actually a pretty simple explanation for Strait's absence from Opry membership. As a Texas resident who has remained living outside of San Antonio throughout his illustrious career, it just wasn't feasible for George Strait to become a Grand Ole Opry member.
Who is the real queen of country music? ›But Loretta Lynn wasn't just the “Queen of Country Music,” she was among the greatest of all songwriters.
Who is the all time queen of country music? ›1 - Dolly Parton
Dolly has been the Queen of Country Music for generation. Although Loretta came before her, Dolly has sold more than 100 million albums in her long career, which started when she moved to Nashville straight out of high school at age 18.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, British rock band The Beatles are top of the list for best-selling artists worldwide, with 183 million units certified sales. Second is Garth Brooks with over 157 million units sales, followed by Elvis Presley with 139 million units.
What is the worlds most famous song? ›According to Guinness World Records, Irving Berlin's "White Christmas" (1942) as performed by Bing Crosby is the best-selling single worldwide, with estimated sales of over 50 million copies.
Who is the most famous singer alive? ›| Popularity ranking | Artist | |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Rihanna | Track artist |
| 02 | Drake | Track artist |
| 03 | Coldplay | Track artist |
| 04 | Eminem | Track artist |
John Rich (born January 7, 1974) is an American country music singer-songwriter.
Who is the richest female singer? ›
Rihanna – $1.7 Billion
Rihanna is by far the wealthiest female singer on the planet and is a recent addition to Forbes' list of billionaires. She has done so well that only one other woman who has a higher net worth than her is Oprah Winfrey.
Aretha Franklin
The Queen of Soul was unrivalled for decades when it came to having the best singing voice on the planet.
Canadian Shania Twain's 77.4 million global sales make her the bestselling female country artist of all time.
What female country singer has won the most awards? ›Miranda Lambert is the most awarded female vocalist with seven wins. 2009 honoree Taylor Swift has also won Entertainer of the Year twice. Faith Hill won the award in 2000. Four-time winner Martina McBride.
Who has the most diamond certified songs? ›Post Malone holds the record for the most diamond-certified songs in history with eight to his name. He earned his first in 2019 for "Congratulations." He received two more awards in 2020 (for "Rockstar" and "Sunflower") and an additional two in 2022 (for "White Iverson" and "Psycho" featuring Ty Dolla $ign).
What is the most platinum song? ›1. "Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus.
What singer has the most gold records? ›Elvis's First Gold (of Many)
With 146.5 million cumulative Album Awards, spanning 101 separate Gold (or higher) albums, Elvis has earned the most Gold Album Awards of any artist in RIAA history. Did You Know?
- Celine Dion. The inspiration behind this list is the fabulous Celion Dion, of course. ...
- Etta James. ...
- Madonna. ...
- Adele. ...
- Aretha Franklin. ...
- Cher. ...
- Whitney Houston. ...
- Mariah Carey.
As of May 2023, English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran is the most-followed artist on Spotify, while American singer-songwriter Ariana Grande is the most-followed female artist.
Who is the best singer team in the world? ›#1 – The Beatles.
Who is the most famous black country singer? ›
Charley Pride
Within country music, Charley Pride is the most successful black country musician to date. After Elvis Presley, Pride is the second best-selling artist at RCA Records. One of the most interesting aspects of his musical success is that it is actually his second career.
Merle Haggard
This bad boy from Bakersfield was known as the “poet of the common man.” A rebel in his youth, he channeled his energy and musical talent into defining the honky-tonk sounds coming out of Bakersfield that were nothing like the smooth “Nashville Sound” at the time.
Yes, Indeed, Billy Gilman was the youngest singer in the history of Country Music.
Who is the number one singer in the world 2023? ›Abel Tesfaye, more commonly known as The Weeknd, is statistically the most popular musician on the planet, and no one else even comes close. The 33-year-old Canadian singer's success has seen him set two new Guinness World Records titles: Most monthly listeners on Spotify – 111.4 million (as of 20 March 2023)
What singing voice do most men have? ›Baritones. The most common of all male voices, this category occupies the wide range of vocal timbres between the tenor and the bass.
What is the #1 country album of all time? ›1. Come On Over, Shania Twain (1997)
Who is regarded as the king of the singing cowboys? ›Although Autry continued as the reigning singing cowboy of the 1930s, Roy Rogers became the “King of the Cowboys” in the 1940s.
What is the number one country song on the charts? ›1. Heart Like A Truck – Lainey Wilson.
Who has written the best song ever? ›| "Best Song Ever" | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3:22 |
| Label | Syco Columbia |
| Songwriter(s) | Wayne Hector John Ryan Ed Drewett Julian Bunetta |
| Producer(s) | Julian Bunetta John Ryan Matt Rad |
Paul McCartney (32) and John Lennon (26), of The Beatles, rank first and second, respectively, for having written the most Hot 100 No. 1s, thanks to their respective group and solo outputs.
Who has the most number 1 songs? ›
The Beatles have the most No. 1 hits of all time: 20. Though unclear for how long, the Beatles still reign supreme as the artist with the most No. 1 songs of all time.
What is the top selling country album of all time? ›It is impossible for a country album to post huge sales if it does not top the sales charts for several weeks, or in a few cases, many months. The top-selling country music album of all time is “Double Live” by Garth Brooks. Here are the details: Release date: November 17, 1998.
What is the longest #1 country song of all time? ›"Body Like a Back Road" by Sam Hunt spends a record-breaking 34 consecutive weeks at number one on the Hot Country Songs chart.
Which song has been number 1 the longest? ›"Old Town Road" holds the record for the longest stretch at No. 1 with 19 weeks. It also became the fastest song in history to be certified diamond. "The Box" charted at No.
Who is the number 1 male country singer? ›1. George Strait. With over 70 million records sold, George Strait is one of the most successful country singers of all time. He's had 44 number one hits and has won numerous awards.
Who is the richest female country singer of all time? ›1. Dolly Parton, $650 Million. Everything Dolly touches turns to gold. She's a singer, songwriter, actress, author, and entrepreneur with her own theme park, Dollywood.
What is the #1 selling album ever in the USA? ›Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975) by the Eagles is the best-selling album of all time in the U.S.
Which country singer has the most gold records? ›Honors and awards
Strait is third only to Elvis Presley and The Beatles with the most gold and platinum albums in the history of music. Strait has been certified as the 12th-best selling artist in American history, with career record sales of 70 million in the United States.
Madonna. The Queen of Pop, Madonna, is the bestselling female artist of all time. She's released 14 studio albums, three soundtracks, five live albums and six compilations, plus 63 UK Top 10 singles. Since 1983, she's sold an estimated 335 million albums and singles worldwide.
Who sold more records Garth Brooks or George Strait? ›According to our rankings, Garth has sold 88 million more units than George Strait, who currently ranks second.