My top ten favorite country songs. 1. George Jones. He stopped loving her today. 2. George Strait. You look so good in love. 3. Conway Twitty. That's my job 4. Alan Jackson. Wanted 5. Johnny Cash. Hurt 6. Brad Paisley. He didn't have to be 7. Willie Nelson. You're always on my mind 8. Garth Brooks. What shes doing now. 9. Dolly Parton. I will always love you. 10. Randy Travis. Forever and ever amen.
Songs I remember most - "Kiss an angle goodmorning" Charlie Pride. "North to Alaska" Johny Horton. "Yellow Rose of Texas" Mixed Artist. "Send me the pillow that you dream on" Hank Locklin. "I'm Sorry" Brenda Lee. "Ode to Billie Joe" Bobbie Gentry. "“Wichita Lineman” Glen Campbell. "Today I started loving you again" Merle Haggard.
@@philliprader6298 thank you for giving NIN the credit they deserve. I've been criticized plenty of times for trying to point this out. Not once saying Cash's version was bad, just that Hurt was a cover. Then again, a lot of songs are.
@@adamd5849 what the heck are you talking about? How old are you? First of all the guy is named Trent Reznor, I had the album when it came out. Cash's version came decades later.
20. El Paso 19. Good Bye Earl 18. Hello Darlin 17. Country Roads 16. Honkey Tonk Angels 15. Mommas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys 14. Where Were You When World Stopped Turning 13. Devil Went Down to Georgia 12. Coal Miner’s Daughter 11. Friends in Low Places 10. Always on My Mind 9. Amarillo By Morning 8. The Gambler 7. Stand By Your Man 6. Your Cheating Heart 5. Jolene 4. Mama Tried 3. Crazy 2. He Stopped Loving Her Today 1. I Walk the Line
He stopped loving her today, Amarillo by morning, you’re cheatin’ heart, remember when, were all better to me, along with the Gambler, I walk the line even.
@@ala-freaking-bama1750Reba as a pure vocalist for sure. Dolly as a writer and innovator though is undeniable. She and Loretta made it so women could be powerful voices and had control of their careers and content.
Whitney Houston was way better than Dolly her version was much softer than Whitney Houston I like the high vocal s in Whitney Houston version much better her version makes me cry every time I hear it
I would included "Forever and Ever Amen" by Randy Travis, "Independence Day" by Martina McBride, "Kiss An Angel Good Morning" by Charley Pride, "Come Monday" by Jimmy Buffett, "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" by The Carter Family, "All My Rowdy Friends (Have Settled Down)" by Hank Williams Jr, "Why Me Lord" by Kris Kistofferson, & "God Bless The USA" by Lee Greenwood. I think that all these songs are better than "GoodBy Earl".
There is a reason why George Strait is called “The King of Country”. He has over 60 number one singles, which is more than what any other artist in any genre has. Most importantly, his music is Pure Country.
@@lucypotato8793 You are so right, George Strait is Country, but many before him were too. I named a few in my other comment & you are right, Buck Owens, Waylon & Willie & Patsy as well …I prefer the older original classic country, as opposed to the newer stuff they are doing nowadays. There are a few good ones out there, but not too many of them.
What! No Jim Reeves on this list! No great country music list can be taken seriously without including Mr. Jim Reeves, period! I am from Jamaica and his country music was very popular in Jamaica and throughout the West Indies during the 60's and early 70's and not to mention his great repertoire of Country Gospel as well. I would also include Ms. Skeeter Davis on this list as well. She also sang great country Gospel.
Often when I go to bed I say “Alexa, play Jim Reeves”. I think they also could include a song from Ray Charles’ hit country album. Some country music fans are so stuck up.
For Me: Highwayman, Islands in the Stream, Let Me Be There, Poncho and Lefty, Sixteen Tons, Seven Year Ache, Angel in the Morning, and Lost in the 50's Tonight.
There ya go. Incredible lyrics, which so many of Kris' songs feature. For me it would replace "...Low Places" which I feel has kind of a gimmicky, almost novelty-esque vibe to it. Fun song to be sure. Not super impactful. To me, anyway.
Only Make Believe by Conway Twitty, Sunday Morning Coming Down by Johnny Cash, Help Me Make It Through The Night by Jim Reeves, God Bless the USA by Lee Greenwood, Counting Flowers on the Wall by Statler Brothers, Mountain Music by Alabama, Green Green Grass of Home by Porter Wagoner, Y’all Come Back Saloon by Oak Ridge Boys, Chiseled in Stone by Vern Gosdin, Till I an Make It on My Own by Tammy Wynette, Forever and Ever, Amen by Randy Travis, and too many more to name.❤
We all know that “never even called me by my name” is the perfect country and western song. Mama, trains, trucks, prison, getting drunk. It’s all there!
Good list. A few others to consider: "D-I-V-O-R-C-E," "Lost Highway," "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," "Coat of Many Colors," "Don't Rock the Jukebox," "Waiting for a Train," "Ode to Billie Joe," "Pancho and Lefty." Shawn R., Mo-Mutt Music-Sacred & Secular
"Go Rest High On That Mountain!" by Vince Gill should have been on this list. It's relatively young compared to others, but I believe it is a modern Country standard! It like George Jones's "He Stopped Loving Her Today." Also "Islands In The Stream" by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Written by the Bee Gees, it ranks among the biggest selling Country songs ever!.
It's older than Goodbye Earl a group that gets boos from country fans and I love John Denver but there was a lot of controversy about calling his music country...once again where is Reba!!!
I don’t see “Islands in the Stream” as a country song. It’s actually a pop song. It’s put in the country category simply because Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton sing it.
@@michaelmonthey5974 I understand your point. I based that on the Billboard Country Music charts and the acceptance of the song by Country Music fans of that time. Country Music of the 80's was receiving acceptance by a much wider audience because a lot of it crossed over to Top 40 charts as well. Fortunately artists like Dwight Yoakam, Foster & Lloyd, Randy Travis and George Strait maintained the traditional styles of Country alive.
I would have liked to see Waylon Jennings have a song by himself versus putting Willie Nelson technically 3x and I'm a huge Willie fan but Mama don't let.. and you were always on my mind and crazy are all his songs This should include honorable mentions
If this were a list from the past 30 years my list would include "Chattahoochee"- Alan Jackson, "A Thousand Miles From Nowhere" by Dwight Yoakam (my favorite),"Here's A Quarter Call Someone Who Cares"-Travis Tritt,"Down At The Twist And Shout"- Mary Chapin Carpenter. The early 1990's had some great songs!
As a lifelong country fan, I am very much with you on most of this list! However, my one beef is with Goodbye Earl. This might be my old school bias speaking, but, while I found the content understandable and sympathetic, I don't feel like it really represents a Top 20 Country song. Here are my choices for alternates: -Forever and Ever, Amen by Randy Travis -Kiss an Angel Good Morning by Charlie Pride -Amanda or Tulsa Time by Don Williams -Mountain Music by Alabama
Agreed. “Goodbye Earl”, or any Dixie Chicks songs, just simply should not be on this list. They haven’t had any song that can stand up to the classics on this list, or the dozens, if not hundreds, of impactful and influential classics that rightfully could’ve and should’ve taken their place on this list.
@Peggy Pflug you should check out the Don Williams version. It's a softer and prettier version. Both are great recordings and nothing against Waylon, I love some of his other stuff, but my preference is for the Gentle Giant's interpretation on this song.
It's Ms. MOJO...which basically means they had to put something in there that made people scratch their heads. I'm just glad they didn't put one of Beyoncé's songs on the list.
@@seanswinton6242 ..... Good group. But Statler Brothers he's more than a name on the wall is true emotion for us that have children serving in the military or have served in the military.
My top 12 favorite country songs 12 Nothing but the Tailights Clint Black 11 Tennessee Flattop Box Roseanne Cash 10 Burn One Done Clint Black 9 Kaw-Liga Hank Williams Jr. 8 Fancy Reba McEntire 7 Midnight in Montgomery Alan Jackson 6 The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia Reba McEntire 5 Independence Day Martina McBride 4 The Fear of Being Alone Reba McEntire 3 Come Crying to Me Lonestar 2 Life is a Highway Rascal Flatts Honorable Mentions You Know Me Better Than That George Strait, Broken Road Rascal Flatts, Five Minutes Lorrie Morgan, Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart Randy Travis, Watch Me Lorrie Morgan, I Told You So Randy Travis, Burning Bridges Garth Brooks, Pass It On Down Alabama, That Summer Garth Brooks, Song of the South Alabama, Is There Life Out There? Reba McEntire, and Fiddle in the Band Alabama 1 Standing Outside The Fire Garth Brooks
Idk if it's the saddest 😞 Beaches of Cheyenne by Garth, The Night the Lights went out in GA, She's gonna make it he never will, Country is swimming in sorrow especially the storytell songs oh don't forget Seven Spanish Angels or Three Crosses by Randy Travis or Poncho and Lefty
Back about 35 years ago I spent a month getting drunk,playing pool and listening to HE STOPPED LOVING HER TODAY. I was building pole barns in Western Michigan. My current girlfriend was wrecking me but I loved her. Greatest country love,sad ass song ever. Willie has got to be getting close to his due date. This whole country will mourn when that TRUE AMERICAN passes. True American artist, Twain, Lear, Pollack,Hendrix,Nelson. GOD I LOVE THIS COUNTRY!!!!😎😎😎
It’s impossible to include every great country song through history but I’m impressed with this list. Great job! The only one I was surprised about was “goodbye Earl” there are many many country songs much greater than that song…I wouldn’t even include it on a top 1000 list lol
When I think of great country songs, "Goodbye Earl" isn't a song that comes to mind. Even a few other (Dixie) Chicks songs would likely top Earl, but still wouldn't likely land on a top 20 list for me.
I grew up with Marty Robbins, Glen Campbell, Charlie Pride, I was very surprised that Lorne Greene never made your list. But he was a true cowboy storyteller.
IF you include any TDC songs Wide Open Spaces was their best...but none are all-time greats worthy of this list. I think this was a nod to their political stances that eventually got them tossed from the mainstream country scene and embraced by Hollywood. This list wasn't called most controversial or best political statement.
With the exception of “Goodbye Earl” by the Dixie Chicks, this is a pretty solid list. Some songs I think are classic and would include on a personal list, (any of which could’ve/should’ve taken the place of, “Goodbye Earl” on this list), are, (in no particular order): “Old Dogs, Children & Watermelon Wine” by Tom T. Hall “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” by Barbara Mandrel “Act Naturally” by Buck Owens “Rhinestone Cowboy” by Glen Campbell “If You Love Me (Let Me Know)” by Olivia Newton-John “East Bound and Down” by Jerry Reed “Forever and Ever, Amen” by Randy Travis “Smoky Mountain Rain” by Ronnie Milsap “Tennessee River” or “Mountain Music” by Alabama “Take This Job and Shove It” by Johnny Paycheck “Country Is” by Tom T. Hall …And of course, Alan Jackson and Dolly Parton basically would need lists all their own.
The older tunes are so much better than most of today's somewhat bland country music which is more like watered down pop. I find a lot of the current singers tend to sound alike, whereas the old school artists tended to have their own style.
Radio stations are mostly owned by like 4 record labels now. Their pushing artist they have signed. Check out Red Dirt, Americana, and the red dirt scene. That’s where all the good artist are now.
Johnny Cash was my first introduction to country music. His deep baritone vocals, mesmerizing and inspirational songs, and outlaw image made him stand out not just in country music, but music in general.
"Take Me Home, Country Roads" was kinda used as a corner stone for the anime film "Only Yesterday" (one of the plot threads is that the heroine was assigned in her last year of High School to translate and change the song to fit her life as the graduation ceremony). Another anime/manga thing, "Joline" inspired the name of the Jojo's Bizarre Adventure protagonist Jolyne Cujo (the hero of part 5, Stone Ocean).
The number of people who have no idea that I Will Always Love You is a Dolly Parton (and therefore a country) song alternately amuses and astonishes me. But then, I remember when Dolly first sang it. She once said that when the song first came out she started a nice little bank account. When she and Vince Gill covered it, the bank account got bigger. When Whitney Houston released it, Dolly bought the bank. (Edited based on Laura's comment, thanks Laura!)
I remember once getting in an argument with a teacher over who did it first. I may not be able to match every song to every artist every time, but I know and love my classic country. It's Dolly, and in my opinion- no one will ever be able to do it better than her.
Have to say I stopped after 20 and 19. "Earl" was a clever novelty song that was largely forgotten the year after it was released. El Paso is a timeless piece of epic poetry. It isn't just for "old timers". It's for anyone who loves incredibly concise, memorable and poetic expression. Sigh, I guess The Iliad and The Odyssey are for old-timers too and Shakespeare probably is not as good as whatever pop song just came out this week either.
The Top 20 👍 Greatest Country Songs of All-Time: 20. "El Paso" (1959) Marty Robbins™ 19. "Good-bye, Earl" (1999) The Dixie 🚺 Chicks™ 18. "Hello, Darlin'" (1970) Conway Twitty™ (Commercial Break) 17. "Take Me 🏡 Home, Country Roads" (1971) John Denver™ 16. "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk 👼 Angels" (1952) 😺 Kitty Wells™ 15. "Mommas, Don't Let Your 👶 Babies Grow ☝ Up To Be 🐄 Cowboys" (1978) Waylon Jennings™ & Willie Nelson™ 14. "Where Were You (When the 🌎 World ✋ Stopped Turning)?" (2001) Alan Jackson™ 13. "The 😈 Devil Went Down to Georgia" (1979) The Charlie Daniels Band™ (Commercial Break) 12. "Coal Miner's Daughter" (1970) Loretta Lynn™ 11. "(I've Got) Friends in Low Places" (1990) Garth Brooks™ 10. "Always on My Mind" (1982) Willie Nelson™ 9. "Amarillo by 🌄 Morning" (1983) George Strait™ 8. "The Gambler" (1978) Kenny Rogers™ (Commercial Break) 7. "Stand by Your 👨 Man" (1968) Tammy Wynette™ 6. "Your Cheatin' ❤ Heart" (1952) Hank Williams with His Drifting 🐄 Cowboys™ 5. "Jolene" (1973) Dolly Parton™ 4. "Mama Tried" (1968) Merle Haggard and the Strangers™ (Commercial Break) 3. "Crazy" (1961) Patsy Cline™ 2. "He ✋ Stopped 💘 Loving Her Today" (1980) George Jones™ 1. "I 🚶 Walk the Line" (1956) Johnny 💸 Cash™
Yes, now there's a real country singer, and of course , there were many singers you left out, such as Porter Wagoner ,George Strait, Conway Twitty, , Loretta Lynn , Kitty Wells , Ernest Tubb, , Jim Reeves Chrystal Gayle , Ray Price( For the Good Times & Heartaches by the Number), Hank Snow, Lefty Frizzel, Hank Thompson, Stonewall Jackson, Sons of the Pioneers, Hank Locklin, The Browns, Roy Rogers & Dale Evans & many more!
Amen! For me at least, Charlie Rich - Rollin with the Flow, Glen Campbell, maybe Gentle on my Mind, and Charlie Pride, could be any number, but I'll go with Mountain of Love
@@robtaylor2434 I have to agree with your choice for Glen though lineman is a close second. For Charley I have to give it to kiss an angel goo morning with his version of Hank Williams kaw-liga second. And for Charlie I would say Behind Closed Doors. There's just so much to choose from.
"Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning" to me is one of the most important songs every created in American history. Hundreds of years from now when people look back on one of the most painful and tragic events in American and World history, people can look back on that song and see how we were feeling at that time in such a beautiful and haunting way. And to think, that song was released *after* an already incredible career. Love you Alan!
Love that song. One of my favorite things to say about people when I’m implying they are off in their own world is that they are probably “smoking cigarettes and watching Captain Kangaroo” and I know no one else gets the reference.
All I could think is they didn't think they'd avoid a copyright strike because he's notorious about not letting his music be used. But then they played the clip from the Kelly Clarkson show, so why not just play that the whole time?!
The Doctrine of Fair Use would allow for clip as short as the one they used. However, due to the fact that Garth is so protective with his music, they likely were unable to download an actual Garth Brooks version of the song. However, the worst part is that while a good song, "Friends in Low Places" isn't even his best song. That should have been "The Dance."
Roy Clark - Yesterday When I was Young Buck Owens - Streets of Bakerfield Garth Brooks - If Tomorrow Never Comes Merle Haggart - Sing Me Back Home George Strait - I Can Still Make Cheyanne Jim Reeves - Lay Your Head Upon My Pillow Glen Campbell - Wichita Lineman Lefty Frizzle and Shelly West - You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma Waylon Jennings - I Don't Think Hank Done it This Way Brad Paisley - The Man He Didn't Have to Be Colin Raye - Love Me Dan Seals - If I only Had one Friend Left Linda Ronstadt - I'm Gonna Love You a Long, Long Time Randy Travis - 1982 Roger Miller - King of the Road Ray Charles and Wyllie Nelson - Seven Spanish Angels Bobbie Gentry - Ode to Billie Joe Kenny Rodgers - Coward of the County Hugo Montenegro - The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly theme song This is my Top 20
Goodbye Earl is an awful song. Crazy, because the chicks did have some fantastic songs. Top 20 all time??? probably not, but any of them could be bought over Goodbye Earl.
Hey lorireel Apologies for dropping this here I came across your you Tube channel and I would love to know more better if you don't mind, I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be a nice and respectful person.if it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend with you, but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying.hope you're having a wonderful day with your family may God bless you all
I prefer the older country music. My favourite Garth Brooks song is "If Tomorrow Never Comes" Some of my other favourites not mentioned on this list: 1) Me and Bobby McGee - Kris Kristofferson 2) Pancho and Lefty - Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson 3) Falling Leaves - Grandpa Jones 4) Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain 5) Wildwood Flower - The Carter Family
@@M1R2S I like them both, but Janis Joplin did make that song her own, but it isn't the country version of it, Kris Kristofferson 's is, & I believe he also wrote the song. We are talking about the best Country songs here! Hers is the rock version & it is probably one of the best rock songs there ever was....
@@kittywetzel92 I like the song as well. But saying that it needs to be on the list because it deals with domestic abuse is really overstating things. Yes, it is about that to some degree, but it's not taking it seriously at all.
I've never loved "Always On My Mind" but so many songs from Red Headed Stranger could be on this list. And, of course, Willie wrote "Crazy." Also, about 5 songs written by Kris Kristofferson could be on this list like "Sunday Morning Comin' Down", "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Why Me Lord." Add a few from Waylon Jennings and how about "Mule-Skinner Blues" by Jimmie Rodgers or "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" by The Carter Family? Certainly those last 2 are more important to the history and fabric of country music than "Goodbye Earl", "Devil Went Down to Georgia" or "Friends In Low Places."
This is my List: 1. "Today I Started Loving You Again" by Merle Haggard 2. "All I Have To Offer You Is Me" by Charley Pride 3. "Mama Tried" by Merle Haggard 4. "Take It Easy" by The Eagles 5. "Remember When" by Alan Jackson 6. "I'll Leave This World Loving You" by Ricky Van Shelton 7. "Friends in Low Places" by Garth Brooks 8. "Folsom Prison Blues" by Johnny Cash 9. "Here In The Real World" by Alan Jackson 10. "I Cross My Heart" by George Strait 11. "Tulsa Time" by Don Williams 12. "Crazy"by Patsy Cline 13. "Your Man" by Josh Turner 14. "Best of Intentions" by Travis Tritt 15. "Let Me Be There" by Olivia Newton John 16. "Silver Wings" by Merle Haggard 17. "The Dance" by Garth Brooks 18. "God Gave Me You" by Bryan White 19. "Neon Moon" by Brooks & Dunn 20. "Boot Scootin' Boogie" by Brooks & Dunn 21. "I Fall To Pieces" by Patsy Cline 22. "Forever and Ever, Amen" by Randy Travis 23. "Amarillo By Morning" by George Strait 24. "I Wouldn't Have Missed It" by Ronnie Milsap 25. "How Do I Live" by Trisha Yearwood 26. "Save The Last Dance For Me" by Emmylou Harris 27. "Let Your Love Flow" by Bellamy Brothers 28. "Looking For Love" by Johnny Lee 29. "Carrying Your Love With Me" by George Strait 30. "The Girl From Yesterday" by The Eagles 31. "Good Morning Beautiful" by Steve Holy 32. "She's Not Cryin' Anymore" by Billy Ray Cyrus 33. "Me and You" by Kenny Chesney 34. "It's Your Love" by Tim McGraw 35. "Why Not Me" by The Judds 36. "Everything That Glitters Is Not Gold" by Dan Seals 37. "Blue Kentucky Girl" by Loretta Lynn 38. "One Boy, One Girl" by Collin Raye 39. "Meet Me In Montana" by Dan Seals ft. Marie Osmond 40. "I'm A Lonesome Fugitive" by Merle Haggard 41. "Amazed" by Lonestar 42. "There You'll Be" by Faith Hill 43. "The Cowboy Rides Away" by George Strait 44. "Drive" by Alan Jackson 45. "Where Were You When The World Stopped Turning" by Alan Jackson 46. "Whose Bed Have Your Boots In Under" by Shania Twain 47. "Always On My Mind" by Willie Nelson 48. "Don't Toss Us Away" by Patty Loveless 49. "The Gambler" by Kenny Rogers 50. "When You Say Nothing At All" by Keith Whitley
Alan, Wilie, George Straight and Kenny Rogers along with the Charlie Daniels band are all the greatest of country. But to me, George Jones is the king of country, and White Lighting is his best.
That bit about the wild side of life wasn’t quoted by Hank Williams. That was the original song by Hank Thompson which Kitty Wells turned into her own song about six months after his version was on the country charts.
here is a fun fact: Denver never stepped foot in West Virginia before recording that. also, Starland Vocal Band, who wrote the song, had never been before writing it.
Some I would've considered: "Coat of Many Colors" - Dolly Parton "Move It On Over" - Hank Williams (a song that anticipated rock and roll several years ahead of its time!) "You Ain't Woman Enough" - Loretta Lynn "Daddy's Hands" - Holly Dunn (80s country often gets a bum rap) "Deeper Than The Holler" - Randy Travis "Anymore" - Travis Tritt "Travelin' Soldier" - The (Dixie) Chicks "When You Say Nothing At All" - Alison Krauss and Union Station "The Dance" - Garth Brooks "The Ride" - David Allan Coe "A Country Boy Can Survive" - Hank Williams Jr. "Love at the Five and Dime" - Kathy Mattea (one of her many Nanci Griffith covers) "A Thousand Miles from Nowhere" - Dwight Yoakam "Don't Cry Joni" - Conway Twitty feat. Joni Lee "Like We Never Had A Broken Heart" - Trisha Yearwood feat. Garth Brooks "I'm No Stranger to the Rain" - Keith Whitley "Better Off in a Pine Box" - Doug Stone "Strong Enough To Bend" - Tanya Tucker
There’s a reason why Merle Haggard was called “The Poet of the Common Man”. He wrote an endless number of songs that were about his own life and how others were living. All of his songs are honest, relatable and legendary.
“Mama’s Hungry Eyes”, “I’m A Lonesome Fugitive”, “Sing Me Back Home”, “If We Make It Through December”, “Are The Good Times Really Over For Good”, “Branded Man”, “Holding Things Together”, “Today I Started Loving You Again”, “Silver Wings”, “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here And Drink”, “All In The Movies”, “Ramblin’ Fever”, “The Bottle Let Me Down”, “Going Where The Lonely Go”, “My Favorite Memory”, “Yesterday’s Wine”, “Big City”, “The Way I Am”, and 30 others songs by Merle Haggard.
John commented at his concerts more than once that he didn't consider himself a country singer. He apparently didn't like the idea of being put in any particular category of music. I do agree he was the best singer/song write/story teller.
Hey alabamahome Apologies for dropping this here I came across your you Tube channel and I would love to know more better if you don't mind, I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be a nice and respectful person.if it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend with you, but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying.hope you're having a wonderful day with your family may God bless you all
I’m not a big country fan but I have a ton of respect for Garth Brooks, his daughters wanted more time with him and he gave up touring so he could be at home with his family.
@@melissacooper8724 .... He's not the only that did that. Ricky Van Shelton did that and should be on this list. Such a awesome voice. He quit music completely pretty much.
John Denver was my childhood, even if he did die when I was only 7. I still have the CD that was released shortly after his death. 90s country was what I grew up with, like Jo Dee Messina and Martina McBride.
I grew up on 80s/90s country and it really gets a bum rap, with Sweethearts of the Rodeo, Holly Dunn, and Baillie and the Boys being all but forgotten. Also, Nanci Griffith, who was years ahead of her time by giving "From a Distance" a chance.
Absolute classic! I have met and interviewed, Waylon, Willy, Loretta, Willie, Dolly, and Jackson in BVDs. Great entries... However, where are: Emmylou, Loveless, Gill, Reba, Owens, Dwight, Tanya, Alabama. Of course, you have yours and I have mine. Thank you for the shout-out of Classic Country country Music!
The Gambler is to me everything country music should be, there's something so tragic and beautiful about that song and how it's sung. Have absolutely loved it since the first time I ever heard it.
Friends in Low Places actually got me in trouble when I was three years old. I started singing it because everyone else had stopped singing. Unfortunately, we were at church. Try to hide your shock.
You can honestly say you were moved by the spirit - Jesus didn’t have problems with others, therefore He is the most loving of all - despite your young age at the time, neither did you 😊
Ronnie is not only the best country singer ever his voice is as good as any singer in any genre. Watch some of TH-cam tube videos of him in the early 80's. My favorite is "It Was Almost Like a Song".
@@lindatimmons3675 Lost in the 50's/ Still of the Night. That is another great song by Ronnie. Honestly I could name about 15 totally awesome songs by him and another 20 that are great. I regret that I really didnt appreciate him back in his prime days because I was young and stupid. I was too busy listening to Van Halen back then. Lol
Great list, so many amazing songs! Was disappointed thought to see that my all-time favorite Country song, You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma, didn't make the top 20...Impossible to include all the greats in just 20 songs...so much incredible music to choose from...
WHAT?! Harper Valley PTA and Rhinestone Cowboy don’t get at least an honorable mention? I guess I’ve heard these so much in my childhood, I expected them to be on this list. I’m not a country music expert.
I respect many of the choices on this list, but am surprised that "Whiskey Lullaby" by Brad Paisley featuring Allison Krauss is no where to be found. The song is absolutely a masterpiece, with both talented singers telling a beautiful (albeit sad) story with their voices and harmonies.
The Gambler is one of my favorite songs ever! My Mom was a MASSIVE Rodgers fan and growing up I remember The Gambler was the only song I was excited to hear every time.
Did we leave out your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
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Fancy by Reba McEntire!
old town road by little nas x and wake me up by avicii
Good list but I would switch 1 and 2
Stand by your man by Tammy Wynette
@@evanfeit2609 is wake me Up a country Song?
My top ten favorite country songs.
1. George Jones. He stopped loving her today.
2. George Strait. You look so good in love.
3. Conway Twitty. That's my job
4. Alan Jackson. Wanted
5. Johnny Cash. Hurt
6. Brad Paisley. He didn't have to be
7. Willie Nelson. You're always on my mind
8. Garth Brooks. What shes doing now.
9. Dolly Parton. I will always love you.
10. Randy Travis. Forever and ever amen.
Johnny cash hurt was a cover of a rock song. If I’m picking a cash song I’m going Folsom prison blues or Delia’s gone
Very good list....
Thats a good list.
@@jacobhammock3355 appreciate it.
@@Kenjames7936 appreciate it
I definitely would’ve included a Randy Travis song. “Three Wooden Crosses” and “Forever and Ever, Amen” are both masterpieces.
Any song sung by Randy Travis is a masterpiece.
Should have replaced good bye. Earl
I agree
@@Jon-co1xg Just about any country song ever written should’ve replaced Goodbye Earl.
I imediatly thought of forever and ever amen
Songs I remember most - "Kiss an angle goodmorning" Charlie Pride. "North to Alaska" Johny Horton. "Yellow Rose of Texas" Mixed Artist. "Send me the pillow that you dream on" Hank Locklin. "I'm Sorry" Brenda Lee. "Ode to Billie Joe" Bobbie Gentry. "“Wichita Lineman” Glen Campbell. "Today I started loving you again" Merle Haggard.
A great songs
Lay your head up on mypillow
My Grandmother's favorite. Kiss an Angel... ❤
Finally Johnny Horton gets recognized somewhere.
Help Me Make it Through the Night
Johnny cash is " hurt" always make me cry every single time i listen, what a legend
Cover from Nine inch Nails. Amazing song. Yes very sad.
Same
@@philliprader6298 thank you for giving NIN the credit they deserve. I've been criticized plenty of times for trying to point this out. Not once saying Cash's version was bad, just that Hurt was a cover.
Then again, a lot of songs are.
@@philliprader6298 yep. And I believe that the Nine Inch Nails front man said that it was Cash's song after hearing it
@@adamd5849 what the heck are you talking about? How old are you? First of all the guy is named Trent Reznor, I had the album when it came out. Cash's version came decades later.
20. El Paso
19. Good Bye Earl
18. Hello Darlin
17. Country Roads
16. Honkey Tonk Angels
15. Mommas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys
14. Where Were You When World Stopped Turning
13. Devil Went Down to Georgia
12. Coal Miner’s Daughter
11. Friends in Low Places
10. Always on My Mind
9. Amarillo By Morning
8. The Gambler
7. Stand By Your Man
6. Your Cheating Heart
5. Jolene
4. Mama Tried
3. Crazy
2. He Stopped Loving Her Today
1. I Walk the Line
#9 is Amarillo By Morning, by George Strait
#1 should be #3-4. Jolene should be lower. He stopped loving her today is Jones’s signature song, it should be #1.
Coal Miner's Daughter should be number 2
This list is woke
@@JR-rn5shyall are psychotic lol
"I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU" ... DOLLY PARTON. All time #1 song, Dolly is ONE OF A KIND. Her voice is angelic because she sings from her soul. My opinion.
He stopped loving her today, Amarillo by morning, you’re cheatin’ heart, remember when, were all better to me, along with the Gambler, I walk the line even.
@@ala-freaking-bama1750Reba as a pure vocalist for sure. Dolly as a writer and innovator though is undeniable. She and Loretta made it so women could be powerful voices and had control of their careers and content.
TOTALLY! I always say her version is so much more emotional.
You will never beat the king, Johnny Cash
Whitney Houston was way better than Dolly her version was much softer than Whitney Houston I like the high vocal s in Whitney Houston version much better her version makes me cry every time I hear it
I would included "Forever and Ever Amen" by Randy Travis, "Independence Day" by Martina McBride, "Kiss An Angel Good Morning" by Charley Pride, "Come Monday" by Jimmy Buffett, "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" by The Carter Family, "All My Rowdy Friends (Have Settled Down)" by Hank Williams Jr, "Why Me Lord" by Kris Kistofferson, & "God Bless The USA" by Lee Greenwood. I think that all these songs are better than "GoodBy Earl".
Will The Circle Be Unbroken and Independence Day are honestly bangers
Yes such better choices than any Chick's song!
Yes
Come Monday is a great song, but not really country.
@@scottcurry479 .Yeah a truly great song but you could be right.
There is a reason why George Strait is called “The King of Country”. He has over 60 number one singles, which is more than what any other artist in any genre has. Most importantly, his music is Pure Country.
?Listen to Hank's, Patsy & Johnny? Listen to Buck Owens?, Waylon, Willy? George is ok I'm sure Michael...
No he's not, Slim Dusty is the King of Country
meh, he got a little too poppy after "Pure Country."
@@lucypotato8793 You are so right, George Strait is Country, but many before him were too. I named a few in my other comment & you are right, Buck Owens, Waylon & Willie & Patsy as well …I prefer the older original classic country, as opposed to the newer stuff they are doing nowadays. There are a few good ones out there, but not too many of them.
@@chris_scott Never even heard of that one!
What! No Jim Reeves on this list! No great country music list can be taken seriously without including Mr. Jim Reeves, period! I am from Jamaica and his country music was very popular in Jamaica and throughout the West Indies during the 60's and early 70's and not to mention his great repertoire of Country Gospel as well. I would also include Ms. Skeeter Davis on this list as well. She also sang great country Gospel.
Jim Reeves had the best voice ever!
Often when I go to bed I say “Alexa, play Jim Reeves”. I think they also could include a song from Ray Charles’ hit country album. Some country music fans are so stuck up.
For Me: Highwayman, Islands in the Stream, Let Me Be There, Poncho and Lefty, Sixteen Tons, Seven Year Ache, Angel in the Morning, and Lost in the 50's Tonight.
Highwayman is a masterpiece. 4 country legends all in one song? No debate
"Sunday Morning Coming Down"... That's my most classic Country song...
There ya go. Incredible lyrics, which so many of Kris' songs feature. For me it would replace "...Low Places" which I feel has kind of a gimmicky, almost novelty-esque vibe to it. Fun song to be sure. Not super impactful. To me, anyway.
This guy talks too much. Just play the songs.
Only Make Believe by Conway Twitty, Sunday Morning Coming Down by Johnny Cash, Help Me Make It Through The Night by Jim Reeves, God Bless the USA by Lee Greenwood, Counting Flowers on the Wall by Statler Brothers, Mountain Music by Alabama, Green Green Grass of Home by Porter Wagoner, Y’all Come Back Saloon by Oak Ridge Boys, Chiseled in Stone by Vern Gosdin, Till I an Make It on My Own by Tammy Wynette, Forever and Ever, Amen by Randy Travis, and too many more to name.❤
We all know that “never even called me by my name” is the perfect country and western song. Mama, trains, trucks, prison, getting drunk. It’s all there!
Yes it is.
Agreed ! I think the problem there is he's not accepted by many in the country music industry because of his raunchy side.
@@LacyLane1050
CHILE ARGENTINA
THE SCANDINAVIA OF THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE
Good list. A few others to consider: "D-I-V-O-R-C-E," "Lost Highway," "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," "Coat of Many Colors," "Don't Rock the Jukebox," "Waiting for a Train," "Ode to Billie Joe," "Pancho and Lefty." Shawn R., Mo-Mutt Music-Sacred & Secular
“I’m so Lonesome I Could Cry” is my favourite Hank Williams song and would be in my top 5 of all time.
My dad and I are huge fans of Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash and John Denver, but Dolly Parton is my Country Queen
Love Dolly but Loretta Lynn my queen of country misic
I was 12 years old in ‘52 and remember a girl singing ‘Crazy’ and never forgot her…Miss Patsy Cline❣️
"Go Rest High On That Mountain!" by Vince Gill should have been on this list. It's relatively young compared to others, but I believe it is a modern Country standard! It like George Jones's "He Stopped Loving Her Today." Also "Islands In The Stream" by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. Written by the Bee Gees, it ranks among the biggest selling Country songs ever!.
The first verse is such a wonderful tribute to Keith Whitley.
It's older than Goodbye Earl a group that gets boos from country fans and I love John Denver but there was a lot of controversy about calling his music country...once again where is Reba!!!
I don’t see “Islands in the Stream” as a country song. It’s actually a pop song. It’s put in the country category simply because Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton sing it.
@@michaelmonthey5974 I understand your point. I based that on the Billboard Country Music charts and the acceptance of the song by Country Music fans of that time. Country Music of the 80's was receiving acceptance by a much wider audience because a lot of it crossed over to Top 40 charts as well. Fortunately artists like Dwight Yoakam, Foster & Lloyd, Randy Travis and George Strait maintained the traditional styles of Country alive.
@@michaelmonthey5974 Yup! And both artists openly courted a mainstream audience at the time it was released.
Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton and so many other legendary country artists each deserve Top 10 Songs videos of their own.
I could list a top 10 for Alan Jackson Garth Brooks and George Strait
@@darkstarmoonshadow you should post them to the channel.
@@darkstarmoonshadow A J. And George Strait. 👍
I would have liked to see Waylon Jennings have a song by himself versus putting Willie Nelson technically 3x and I'm a huge Willie fan but Mama don't let.. and you were always on my mind and crazy are all his songs
This should include honorable mentions
Garth brooks ain’t no country
Imagine hearing a huge German Oktoberfest tent singing "Take Me Home, Country Roads" at the top of their voices. It. Was. Glorious!
Only 6 songs from the 70s im bummed lol
If this were a list from the past 30 years my list would include "Chattahoochee"- Alan Jackson, "A Thousand Miles From Nowhere" by Dwight Yoakam (my favorite),"Here's A Quarter Call Someone Who Cares"-Travis Tritt,"Down At The Twist And Shout"- Mary Chapin Carpenter. The early 1990's had some great songs!
As a lifelong country fan, I am very much with you on most of this list! However, my one beef is with Goodbye Earl. This might be my old school bias speaking, but, while I found the content understandable and sympathetic, I don't feel like it really represents a Top 20 Country song. Here are my choices for alternates:
-Forever and Ever, Amen by Randy Travis
-Kiss an Angel Good Morning by Charlie Pride
-Amanda or Tulsa Time by Don Williams
-Mountain Music by Alabama
Agreed. “Goodbye Earl”, or any Dixie Chicks songs, just simply should not be on this list. They haven’t had any song that can stand up to the classics on this list, or the dozens, if not hundreds, of impactful and influential classics that rightfully could’ve and should’ve taken their place on this list.
@@bendyparanormal .....
Agree
I only recall Waylon Jennings singing, Amanda."
@Peggy Pflug you should check out the Don Williams version. It's a softer and prettier version. Both are great recordings and nothing against Waylon, I love some of his other stuff, but my preference is for the Gentle Giant's interpretation on this song.
I think that Alabama should have Ben on the list
Kris Kristofferson, Tanya Tucker, Patsy Cline, Box Car Willie, Alabama and many other fantastic artists will be played forever too.
Boxcar Willie is one of a kind as is Red Sovine.
Little Tanya Tucker singing Delta Dawn with that amazing voice somehow never got the appreciation that she deserved.
ditto for Toby Keith...
The greatest country song will always be “You Never Even Called Me by My Name” by David Allen Coe to me
Not the greatest. But it is the perfect country western song
"I was drunk the day my momma got out of prison" is perfection!
No Darlin?
Hell yeah
It was all I could do to keep from cryin'
With the exception of “Goodbye, Earl”, great list.
Yes. They could've had anything by Alabama, Randy Travis, Reba McEntire, and Rascal Flatts to name but four. ANYTHING but that trash.😊
that song doesn't belong anywhere near this list. Maybe one of their other songs, but not that one.
It's Ms. MOJO...which basically means they had to put something in there that made people scratch their heads. I'm just glad they didn't put one of Beyoncé's songs on the list.
First time I’ve heard Patsy Cline, I fell inlove. I’m a millenial but I love classic jazz and country nusic.
When it comes to country music, I actually prefer the older or classic stuff, just my taste nothing against today's artists
Me too. Merle has always been my main man! Lol.
Same
That is the country music of my youth.
Couldn't agree more.
@@williamsummerson1204 I grew up on it.
I always find it funny how the single biggest country act of the 1980s never gets mentioned on lists like this.. what the hell happened to Alabama?
Agree! They had a very nice long list of great songs! Like "Mountain Music", "Love In The First Degree" and "Closer You Get".
Good question!
Feels So Right
True and also The Judds~!
@@seanswinton6242 .....
Good group. But Statler Brothers he's more than a name on the wall is true emotion for us that have children serving in the military or have served in the military.
My top 12 favorite country songs
12 Nothing but the Tailights Clint Black
11 Tennessee Flattop Box Roseanne Cash
10 Burn One Done Clint Black
9 Kaw-Liga Hank Williams Jr.
8 Fancy Reba McEntire
7 Midnight in Montgomery Alan Jackson
6 The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia Reba McEntire
5 Independence Day Martina McBride
4 The Fear of Being Alone Reba McEntire
3 Come Crying to Me Lonestar
2 Life is a Highway Rascal Flatts
Honorable Mentions You Know Me Better Than That George Strait, Broken Road Rascal Flatts, Five Minutes Lorrie Morgan, Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart Randy Travis, Watch Me Lorrie Morgan, I Told You So Randy Travis, Burning Bridges Garth Brooks, Pass It On Down Alabama, That Summer Garth Brooks, Song of the South Alabama, Is There Life Out There? Reba McEntire, and Fiddle in the Band Alabama
1 Standing Outside The Fire Garth Brooks
Whiskey Lullaby deserves to be on this list--as the saddest country tune ever!
ABSOLUTELY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That honor goes to “He Stopped Loving Her Today” by George Jones
Hard to argue with that.
i had never heard of that song the whisky lullaby until you mentioned it i listened to it just them heck you are so right mark
Idk if it's the saddest 😞 Beaches of Cheyenne by Garth, The Night the Lights went out in GA, She's gonna make it he never will, Country is swimming in sorrow especially the storytell songs oh don't forget Seven Spanish Angels or Three Crosses by Randy Travis or Poncho and Lefty
I am so happy you had Marty Robbins on this list!!!! His music was a big part of my past, in a great way.
I know! I LOOOVVVE him. “Big Iron” is my favorite!
Randy Travis has to be in this. He single handedly brought country back in the mid 80’s
He and George were the revival of country to its more traditional sound.
Agreed. Amazing voice and songs.
Back about 35 years ago I spent a month getting drunk,playing pool and listening to HE STOPPED LOVING HER TODAY. I was building pole barns in Western Michigan. My current girlfriend was wrecking me but I loved her. Greatest country love,sad ass song ever. Willie has got to be getting close to his due date. This whole country will mourn when that TRUE AMERICAN passes. True American artist, Twain, Lear, Pollack,Hendrix,Nelson. GOD I LOVE THIS COUNTRY!!!!😎😎😎
Just the thought of that song brings me to tears 😭
Ironic you mention Shania Twain because she's Canadian ;)
Who’s Gonna Fill There Shoes by George Jones
It’s impossible to include every great country song through history but I’m impressed with this list. Great job!
The only one I was surprised about was “goodbye Earl” there are many many country songs much greater than that song…I wouldn’t even include it on a top 1000 list lol
I agree whole heartedly
Left out Patty Loveless and Reba~!!!!!
When I think of great country songs, "Goodbye Earl" isn't a song that comes to mind. Even a few other (Dixie) Chicks songs would likely top Earl, but still wouldn't likely land on a top 20 list for me.
It is not even top 10,000 for me, the damn cowbell lowers it for me.
Yeah, I have always hated that song. Many more better ones out there. But most of these I agree with.
I grew up with Marty Robbins, Glen Campbell, Charlie Pride, I was very surprised that Lorne Greene never made your list. But he was a true cowboy storyteller.
I’m stunned that Goodbye Earl was included amongst these legends. Speechless 😶.
I agree.
Not Ready to Make Nice or Gaslighter would have been the better choice
The Dixie Chicks?? Seriously, none of their songs should be elevated to any pedestal. IMHO
Same
IF you include any TDC songs Wide Open Spaces was their best...but none are all-time greats worthy of this list. I think this was a nod to their political stances that eventually got them tossed from the mainstream country scene and embraced by Hollywood. This list wasn't called most controversial or best political statement.
With the exception of “Goodbye Earl” by the Dixie Chicks, this is a pretty solid list.
Some songs I think are classic and would include on a personal list, (any of which could’ve/should’ve taken the place of, “Goodbye Earl” on this list), are, (in no particular order):
“Old Dogs, Children & Watermelon Wine” by Tom T. Hall
“Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” by Barbara Mandrel
“Act Naturally” by Buck Owens
“Rhinestone Cowboy” by Glen Campbell
“If You Love Me (Let Me Know)” by Olivia Newton-John
“East Bound and Down” by Jerry Reed
“Forever and Ever, Amen” by Randy Travis
“Smoky Mountain Rain” by Ronnie Milsap
“Tennessee River” or “Mountain Music” by Alabama
“Take This Job and Shove It” by Johnny Paycheck
“Country Is” by Tom T. Hall
…And of course, Alan Jackson and Dolly Parton basically would need lists all their own.
Your list is not above and beyond what good country music is. They are all familiar traditional country music that are not just good. But fantastic 👏
"Ravishing Ruby" by Tom T. Hall is one of my all time favorite songs.
@@G0Chiefs .....
I remember the year Claton Delaney died. Good Tom t hall song
Such a great list! Reminds me of when my roommate at Ft Bliss TX who brainwashed me by playing Country music while we slept. Such good music!
John anderson “Seminole wind” is iconic.
Hello luci 👋🌹
💯
RIP Johnny, you will never be forgotten brother.
Amen
"He stopped loving her today" breaks my heart every time. It played on the radio on my way home from the cemetery from burying my husband.
The older tunes are so much better than most of today's somewhat bland country music which is more like watered down pop. I find a lot of the current singers tend to sound alike, whereas the old school artists tended to have their own style.
Radio stations are mostly owned by like 4 record labels now. Their pushing artist they have signed. Check out Red Dirt, Americana, and the red dirt scene. That’s where all the good artist are now.
Today's country is mostly tractor rap
Johnny Cash was my first introduction to country music. His deep baritone vocals, mesmerizing and inspirational songs, and outlaw image made him stand out not just in country music, but music in general.
"Take Me Home, Country Roads" was kinda used as a corner stone for the anime film "Only Yesterday" (one of the plot threads is that the heroine was assigned in her last year of High School to translate and change the song to fit her life as the graduation ceremony).
Another anime/manga thing, "Joline" inspired the name of the Jojo's Bizarre Adventure protagonist Jolyne Cujo (the hero of part 5, Stone Ocean).
The number of people who have no idea that I Will Always Love You is a Dolly Parton (and therefore a country) song alternately amuses and astonishes me. But then, I remember when Dolly first sang it. She once said that when the song first came out she started a nice little bank account. When she and Vince Gill covered it, the bank account got bigger. When Whitney Houston released it, Dolly bought the bank. (Edited based on Laura's comment, thanks Laura!)
@Laura Bell You are correct. My brain got ahead of my fingers. Thanks.
Nah, that song earned Dolly Parton her own place in Fort Knox because of too many BRINKS trucks!😂😂
@@seanswinton6242 I wonder if she sings that song to that song.
I prefer Dolly's version by a mile!!
I remember once getting in an argument with a teacher over who did it first. I may not be able to match every song to every artist every time, but I know and love my classic country. It's Dolly, and in my opinion- no one will ever be able to do it better than her.
Things I think deserve to be in the top 20
The Judds - Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout The Good Old Days)
Reba- The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia
Either of those songs and lots of others done by these ladies is infinity better than any that th Dixie chicks ever did.
Have to say I stopped after 20 and 19. "Earl" was a clever novelty song that was largely forgotten the year after it was released. El Paso is a timeless piece of epic poetry. It isn't just for "old timers". It's for anyone who loves incredibly concise, memorable and poetic expression. Sigh, I guess The Iliad and The Odyssey are for old-timers too and Shakespeare probably is not as good as whatever pop song just came out this week either.
Tammy Wynette reckoned "Stand by Your Man" was a song she spent 20 minutes writing and the next 20 years explaining the lyrics.
The Top 20 👍 Greatest Country Songs of All-Time:
20. "El Paso" (1959) Marty Robbins™
19. "Good-bye, Earl" (1999) The Dixie 🚺 Chicks™
18. "Hello, Darlin'" (1970) Conway Twitty™
(Commercial Break)
17. "Take Me 🏡 Home, Country Roads" (1971) John Denver™
16. "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk 👼 Angels" (1952) 😺 Kitty Wells™
15. "Mommas, Don't Let Your 👶 Babies Grow ☝ Up To Be 🐄 Cowboys" (1978)
Waylon Jennings™ & Willie Nelson™
14. "Where Were You (When the 🌎 World ✋ Stopped Turning)?" (2001) Alan Jackson™
13. "The 😈 Devil Went Down to Georgia" (1979)
The Charlie Daniels Band™
(Commercial Break)
12. "Coal Miner's Daughter" (1970)
Loretta Lynn™
11. "(I've Got) Friends in Low Places" (1990)
Garth Brooks™
10. "Always on My Mind" (1982) Willie Nelson™
9. "Amarillo by 🌄 Morning" (1983) George Strait™
8. "The Gambler" (1978) Kenny Rogers™
(Commercial Break)
7. "Stand by Your 👨 Man" (1968)
Tammy Wynette™
6. "Your Cheatin' ❤ Heart" (1952) Hank Williams with His Drifting 🐄 Cowboys™
5. "Jolene" (1973) Dolly Parton™
4. "Mama Tried" (1968) Merle Haggard and the Strangers™
(Commercial Break)
3. "Crazy" (1961) Patsy Cline™
2. "He ✋ Stopped 💘 Loving Her Today" (1980)
George Jones™
1. "I 🚶 Walk the Line" (1956) Johnny 💸 Cash™
One glaring omission is Glen Campbell's, "Wichita Lineman"
Ring of fire by Johnny Cash and Highwayman by the Highwaymen also
HUGE omission!!
Ladies and gentlemen…Mr. Conway Twitty.
P.s. conway twitty says "cut it out; just write a joke" 😅
From Family Guy, classic
My grand mother's favorite
Right up there with mac and me joke Coman
Yes, now there's a real country singer, and of course , there were many singers you left out, such as Porter Wagoner ,George Strait, Conway Twitty, , Loretta Lynn , Kitty Wells , Ernest Tubb, , Jim Reeves Chrystal Gayle , Ray Price( For the Good Times & Heartaches by the Number), Hank Snow, Lefty Frizzel, Hank Thompson, Stonewall Jackson, Sons of the Pioneers, Hank Locklin, The Browns, Roy Rogers & Dale Evans & many more!
This list can never be complete without entries from Glen Campbell, Charley Pride and Charlie Rich.
Amen! For me at least, Charlie Rich - Rollin with the Flow, Glen Campbell, maybe Gentle on my Mind, and Charlie Pride, could be any number, but I'll go with Mountain of Love
@@robtaylor2434 I have to agree with your choice for Glen though lineman is a close second. For Charley I have to give it to kiss an angel goo morning with his version of Hank Williams kaw-liga second. And for Charlie I would say Behind Closed Doors. There's just so much to choose from.
Remember, this is Mojo's list and there's so much Country legends
Well…maybe not Charlie Rich…a mean spirited,jealous has been.
I do not know how Dolly Parton plays guitar like that without breaking those long nails right off…..an amazing woman in so many way! Go, Dolly!
"Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning" to me is one of the most important songs every created in American history.
Hundreds of years from now when people look back on one of the most painful and tragic events in American and World history, people can look back on that song and see how we were feeling at that time in such a beautiful and haunting way.
And to think, that song was released *after* an already incredible career.
Love you Alan!
Remember When. Alan is arguably one of the best songwriter of his generation.
I actually never liked that song. It felt emotionally manipulative. Alan Jackson certainly deserves a spot in the top 20, but not for Where Were You.
@@Kimnicpat .....
Apparently you have forgotten what happened that day.....
Not a smart comment.......but it's your opinion......
@@lindatimmons3675 "Not a smart comment." Smug much? Just because I'm not taken in by emotionally manipulative songs doesn't mean my opinion is dumb.
It should be top 3 for me
I was hoping that Johnny Cash's "Boy Named Sue" written by Shel Silverstein would have made the list, but I was glad to see Johnny Cash at #1. Thanks!
Garth Brooks' The Dance never fails to make me tear up
I went thru a divorce listening to that song. Made me cry everytime.
Same
Same
So does The River. That's my favorite.
One of my all time favorite songs. It's the ring tone on my phone!
Flowers on the Wall is timeless.
Love that song. One of my favorite things to say about people when I’m implying they are off in their own world is that they are probably “smoking cigarettes and watching Captain Kangaroo” and I know no one else gets the reference.
The melody of Flowers on the Wall is static, unattractive and pointless.
Alan Jackson has written and recorded so many iconic songs, he deserves a Top 10 list of his own.
Agree! Same with Vince Gill and George Strait.
I give a YAAAAYEEE to that
Top 20. He's got enough songs in his repertoire.
@@SBR2687 Top 20 is even better!
Remember When could easily be on the top of my country list.
They have Garth Brooks at #11 with Friends in Low Places yet don't have him singing the song.
Came here to say this. That is NOT him singing…a cover, not even a good one.
All I could think is they didn't think they'd avoid a copyright strike because he's notorious about not letting his music be used. But then they played the clip from the Kelly Clarkson show, so why not just play that the whole time?!
They are likely not allowed. Garth won’t even let his songs be on Spotify 😔
The Doctrine of Fair Use would allow for clip as short as the one they used. However, due to the fact that Garth is so protective with his music, they likely were unable to download an actual Garth Brooks version of the song. However, the worst part is that while a good song, "Friends in Low Places" isn't even his best song. That should have been "The Dance."
That’s because Garth Brooks is such a d*ck about his freakin music. They don’t want to be sued!
Roy Clark - Yesterday When I was Young
Buck Owens - Streets of Bakerfield
Garth Brooks - If Tomorrow Never Comes
Merle Haggart - Sing Me Back Home
George Strait - I Can Still Make Cheyanne
Jim Reeves - Lay Your Head Upon My Pillow
Glen Campbell - Wichita Lineman
Lefty Frizzle and Shelly West - You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma
Waylon Jennings - I Don't Think Hank Done it This Way
Brad Paisley - The Man He Didn't Have to Be
Colin Raye - Love Me
Dan Seals - If I only Had one Friend Left
Linda Ronstadt - I'm Gonna Love You a Long, Long Time
Randy Travis - 1982
Roger Miller - King of the Road
Ray Charles and Wyllie Nelson - Seven Spanish Angels
Bobbie Gentry - Ode to Billie Joe
Kenny Rodgers - Coward of the County
Hugo Montenegro - The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly theme song
This is my Top 20
How did Reba and Fancy not make the list??
What the hell? I love that song
I said the same thing!!
Reba is a legend!!
because that's by Bobbie Gentry...
@@kenisme1000 There are other remakes on the list.
Whiskey lullaby is my favorite, just heartbreaking
I am 52 my daddy taught me the good stuff. Marty Robbins was amazing and yeah Goodbye Earl is NOT even worth mention.
Thank you. The Dixie Chicks had a number of decent songs in their heyday. Wide Open Spaces is a classic. But Goodbye Earl? Excuse me?
Blah chicks
Could not disagree more..amazing song!
Goodbye Earl is an awful song. Crazy, because the chicks did have some fantastic songs. Top 20 all time??? probably not, but any of them could be bought over Goodbye Earl.
Hey lorireel Apologies for dropping this here I came across your you Tube channel and I would love to know more better if you don't mind, I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be a nice and respectful person.if it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend with you, but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying.hope you're having a wonderful day with your family may God bless you all
I prefer the older country music. My favourite Garth Brooks song is "If Tomorrow Never Comes" Some of my other favourites not mentioned on this list:
1) Me and Bobby McGee - Kris Kristofferson
2) Pancho and Lefty - Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson
3) Falling Leaves - Grandpa Jones
4) Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
5) Wildwood Flower - The Carter Family
Janis' version is better IMO also Townes Van Zandt for Pancho and Lefty
@@M1R2S I like them both, but Janis Joplin did make that song her own, but it isn't the country version of it, Kris Kristofferson 's is, & I believe he also wrote the song. We are talking about the best Country songs here! Hers is the rock version & it is probably one of the best rock songs there ever was....
@@latachia_2981 ....
Nights in white satin is another one of the all time best rock songs imo.
That is a classic.....
@@lindatimmons3675 Yes, it is!
I'm not sure that "Goodbye, Earl" is even the Dixie Chicks best song, let alone one of the top 20 ever.
Thank you! I don't hate the song, but I definitely don't think it belongs on this list in the least!
I love the song childhood memories of listening to it
@@kittywetzel92 I like the song as well. But saying that it needs to be on the list because it deals with domestic abuse is really overstating things. Yes, it is about that to some degree, but it's not taking it seriously at all.
Politics.
Should've been "Wide Open Spaces" or "Cowboy Take Me Away."
I've never loved "Always On My Mind" but so many songs from Red Headed Stranger could be on this list. And, of course, Willie wrote "Crazy." Also, about 5 songs written by Kris Kristofferson could be on this list like "Sunday Morning Comin' Down", "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Why Me Lord." Add a few from Waylon Jennings and how about "Mule-Skinner Blues" by Jimmie Rodgers or "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" by The Carter Family? Certainly those last 2 are more important to the history and fabric of country music than "Goodbye Earl", "Devil Went Down to Georgia" or "Friends In Low Places."
Hank Williams wrote and recorded so many legendary songs, he deserves a top 10 list of his own.
I agree!
I love his music! I wonder what he would think if he knew that my dog "Hank" was named after him?
@@melissacooper8724 Think he would say"At least Im not the only Hank always in the doghouse!!".,🤣👍.
A top 10 wouldn’t do him justice.
@@djmegnin3188 Top 20, then!
Jim Reeves completely under-rated
This is my List:
1. "Today I Started Loving You Again" by Merle Haggard
2. "All I Have To Offer You Is Me" by Charley Pride
3. "Mama Tried" by Merle Haggard
4. "Take It Easy" by The Eagles
5. "Remember When" by Alan Jackson
6. "I'll Leave This World Loving You" by Ricky Van Shelton
7. "Friends in Low Places" by Garth Brooks
8. "Folsom Prison Blues" by Johnny Cash
9. "Here In The Real World" by Alan Jackson
10. "I Cross My Heart" by George Strait
11. "Tulsa Time" by Don Williams
12. "Crazy"by Patsy Cline
13. "Your Man" by Josh Turner
14. "Best of Intentions" by Travis Tritt
15. "Let Me Be There" by Olivia Newton John
16. "Silver Wings" by Merle Haggard
17. "The Dance" by Garth Brooks
18. "God Gave Me You" by Bryan White
19. "Neon Moon" by Brooks & Dunn
20. "Boot Scootin' Boogie" by Brooks & Dunn
21. "I Fall To Pieces" by Patsy Cline
22. "Forever and Ever, Amen" by Randy Travis
23. "Amarillo By Morning" by George Strait
24. "I Wouldn't Have Missed It" by Ronnie Milsap
25. "How Do I Live" by Trisha Yearwood
26. "Save The Last Dance For Me" by Emmylou Harris
27. "Let Your Love Flow" by Bellamy Brothers
28. "Looking For Love" by Johnny Lee
29. "Carrying Your Love With Me" by George Strait
30. "The Girl From Yesterday" by The Eagles
31. "Good Morning Beautiful" by Steve Holy
32. "She's Not Cryin' Anymore" by Billy Ray Cyrus
33. "Me and You" by Kenny Chesney
34. "It's Your Love" by Tim McGraw
35. "Why Not Me" by The Judds
36. "Everything That Glitters Is Not Gold" by Dan Seals
37. "Blue Kentucky Girl" by Loretta Lynn
38. "One Boy, One Girl" by Collin Raye
39. "Meet Me In Montana" by Dan Seals ft. Marie Osmond
40. "I'm A Lonesome Fugitive" by Merle Haggard
41. "Amazed" by Lonestar
42. "There You'll Be" by Faith Hill
43. "The Cowboy Rides Away" by George Strait
44. "Drive" by Alan Jackson
45. "Where Were You When The World Stopped Turning" by Alan Jackson
46. "Whose Bed Have Your Boots In Under" by Shania Twain
47. "Always On My Mind" by Willie Nelson
48. "Don't Toss Us Away" by Patty Loveless
49. "The Gambler" by Kenny Rogers
50. "When You Say Nothing At All" by Keith Whitley
Alan, Wilie, George Straight and Kenny Rogers along with the Charlie Daniels band are all the greatest of country. But to me, George Jones is the king of country, and White Lighting is his best.
I was singing Jolene when I was around 5-6 years old at my mom’s job. It’s still one of my all time favorite songs.
That bit about the wild side of life wasn’t quoted by Hank Williams. That was the original song by Hank Thompson which Kitty Wells turned into her own song about six months after his version was on the country charts.
As being born and raised in West Virginia. Hearing John Denver sing take me home country roads brings a tear to my eyes...
How is it not higher on the list though. I know this is iconic but some of the songs above it are not as big as this one.
here is a fun fact: Denver never stepped foot in West Virginia before recording that. also, Starland Vocal Band, who wrote the song, had never been before writing it.
It really is a special song
The Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah River are not in West Virginia! They are in Virginia. ( John Denver's
@@peggypflug9939 .....
To me the so g does indicate they are in west Virginia, it indicates they are along the drive to west virginia
Now if Todays so called Country Music singers would take a clue from this, The Older country sound and style is the Best way to Preform Country Music
Don't blame the singers blame the corporations/industry .RBC
@@nkbemby .....
Yes true
Great list, but I can't believe that Reba didn't make the list!
You ain't the only one with the likes of Fancy or my favourite Heart is a Lonely Huntee
@@eleanorwatson8239Whoever’s in New England, The night the lights went out in Georgia, Is there life out there.
100% agree
Definitely would have included her over "the chicks".
Where was Reba?! Fancy should have been in there.... Or The Lights Went Out In Georgia
Agreed. Replace the song from the Dixie Chicks.
Vicki Lawrence sang it first and it was a huge hit.
Some I would've considered:
"Coat of Many Colors" - Dolly Parton
"Move It On Over" - Hank Williams (a song that anticipated rock and roll several years ahead of its time!)
"You Ain't Woman Enough" - Loretta Lynn
"Daddy's Hands" - Holly Dunn (80s country often gets a bum rap)
"Deeper Than The Holler" - Randy Travis
"Anymore" - Travis Tritt
"Travelin' Soldier" - The (Dixie) Chicks
"When You Say Nothing At All" - Alison Krauss and Union Station
"The Dance" - Garth Brooks
"The Ride" - David Allan Coe
"A Country Boy Can Survive" - Hank Williams Jr.
"Love at the Five and Dime" - Kathy Mattea (one of her many Nanci Griffith covers)
"A Thousand Miles from Nowhere" - Dwight Yoakam
"Don't Cry Joni" - Conway Twitty feat. Joni Lee
"Like We Never Had A Broken Heart" - Trisha Yearwood feat. Garth Brooks
"I'm No Stranger to the Rain" - Keith Whitley
"Better Off in a Pine Box" - Doug Stone
"Strong Enough To Bend" - Tanya Tucker
ANY of those would've been better than Goodbye Earl.
@@ChibiProwl Hell, "Callin' Baton Rouge" - same writer as Goodbye Earl! - would be better.
@@fnjesusfreak Yep
Ronny Milsap should be recognized, love his music..
Definitely, he is one of the best country singer of all time, my favorite song from him is *I wouldn't miss it for the world*
Ronnie is my all time favorite, there are too many to list to pick just one for a top 10 list like this. My pick would be Smoky Mountain Rain.
Some of my favorite songs of his are Smoky Mountain Rain, Daydreams About Night Things, and What Goes On When The Sun Goes Down.
Smoky Mountain Rain❤
There’s a reason why Merle Haggard was called “The Poet of the Common Man”. He wrote an endless number of songs that were about his own life and how others were living. All of his songs are honest, relatable and legendary.
The Fightin' Side Of Me !
@@TS-wh4ey I love that song!
@@michaelmonthey5974
Sung by the original.......
Okie From Muskogee, Merl Haggard
He was great, may he RIP 🇺🇸 👍
“Mama’s Hungry Eyes”, “I’m A Lonesome Fugitive”, “Sing Me Back Home”, “If We Make It Through December”, “Are The Good Times Really Over For Good”, “Branded Man”, “Holding Things Together”, “Today I Started Loving You Again”, “Silver Wings”, “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here And Drink”, “All In The Movies”, “Ramblin’ Fever”, “The Bottle Let Me Down”, “Going Where The Lonely Go”, “My Favorite Memory”, “Yesterday’s Wine”, “Big City”, “The Way I Am”, and 30 others songs by Merle Haggard.
John Dever IS THE Man... no one comes close yo his story telling & great SONGS
John commented at his concerts more than once that he didn't consider himself a country singer. He apparently didn't like the idea of being put in any particular category of music. I do agree he was the best singer/song write/story teller.
@@grandmaj5046 honestly there are only to different genre of music GOOD or Bad! I totally agree with J.D. 💟👈
You can keep Goodbye Earl. Chris Stapleton's version of Tennessee Whiskey should be on this list somewhere.
Hey alabamahome Apologies for dropping this here I came across your you Tube channel and I would love to know more better if you don't mind, I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be a nice and respectful person.if it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend with you, but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying.hope you're having a wonderful day with your family may God bless you all
I’m not a big country fan but I have a ton of respect for Garth Brooks, his daughters wanted more time with him and he gave up touring so he could be at home with his family.
I'm glad that he put his family first!
@@melissacooper8724 ....
He's not the only that did that.
Ricky Van Shelton did that and should be on this list. Such a awesome voice. He quit music completely pretty much.
John Denver was my childhood, even if he did die when I was only 7. I still have the CD that was released shortly after his death. 90s country was what I grew up with, like Jo Dee Messina and Martina McBride.
Same. Along with Toby Keith and Montgomery Gentry
Don’t forget Shania Twain
If you haven’t heard him sing And So It Goes from the Dirt Band’s Will the Circle be Unbroken go listen to it now. Smooth as silk and just so good.
I grew up on 80s/90s country and it really gets a bum rap, with Sweethearts of the Rodeo, Holly Dunn, and Baillie and the Boys being all but forgotten.
Also, Nanci Griffith, who was years ahead of her time by giving "From a Distance" a chance.
I saw John Denver in concert, I can honestly say that was one of the best concerts I’ve been too
Absolute classic! I have met and interviewed, Waylon, Willy, Loretta, Willie, Dolly, and Jackson in BVDs. Great entries... However, where are: Emmylou, Loveless, Gill, Reba, Owens, Dwight, Tanya, Alabama. Of course, you have yours and I have mine. Thank you for the shout-out of Classic Country country Music!
The Gambler is to me everything country music should be, there's something so tragic and beautiful about that song and how it's sung. Have absolutely loved it since the first time I ever heard it.
Friends in Low Places actually got me in trouble when I was three years old. I started singing it because everyone else had stopped singing. Unfortunately, we were at church. Try to hide your shock.
You poor thing!🤣
You can honestly say you were moved by the spirit - Jesus didn’t have problems with others, therefore He is the most loving of all - despite your young age at the time, neither did you 😊
@@lisarice4402 Jeusus had a lot of friends in low places, "i come to call the sinner to repent not call up the righteous
Would Jesus wear a Rolex or Mississippi Squirrel Revival would have fit.
I was born in 1965 but I was raised with all of these songs
Hi there
I too
1962
Happy holidays to all
This is the country music I grew up with, and I miss it dearly.
The fact that Ronnie Millsap's Smokey Mountain Rain or Stranger in my House are not on this list is a travesty.
No but they both are great. I believe Independence day should have been #3 instead of Crazy. Crazy just isn't my thing.
Yes, it is!
Ronnie is not only the best country singer ever his voice is as good as any singer in any genre. Watch some of TH-cam tube videos of him in the early 80's. My favorite is "It Was Almost Like a Song".
@@bobbywise2313 ....
Yes a d lost in the 50s
@@lindatimmons3675 Lost in the 50's/ Still of the Night. That is another great song by Ronnie. Honestly I could name about 15 totally awesome songs by him and another 20 that are great. I regret that I really didnt appreciate him back in his prime days because I was young and stupid. I was too busy listening to Van Halen back then. Lol
Ode to Billy Joe. Also Harper Valley PTA - was a huge crossover hit, even easy listening stations were playing it.
Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.
George Jones is the greatest country artist of all time. True emotion, talent and the ability to twist your heart strings. The voice of an angel.
I prefer Ronnie Millsap
@@bobbywise2313 ...
Ricky Van Shelton .....
FOR ME A COUNTRY FAN OF 60+ YEARS MY PICK IS CHRIS STAPLETON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love them all! Chris Stapleton is terrific and I love Fire Away. Drink a Beer by Luke Bryan. He’ll Have To Go by Jim Reeves
Hank Snow's "Moving On" spent 21weeks at Number One and deserves a place on this list... even just to hold a spot for a classic "road song".
I was hoping you would have included Ode to Billy Joel by Bobbie Gentry.
I’m a little surprised He Stopped Loving Her Today wasn’t number one and even more surprised Jim Reeves He’ll Have To Go didn’t make the list.
Trailers for sale or rent....King of the Road!!!
@@darrinsiembal7461 lol. Another great one! Dolly and Porters Run That By Me One More Time too!
It should’ve been #1
I'm Surprised on both counts! How could they forget Jim Reeves?
Great list, so many amazing songs! Was disappointed thought to see that my all-time favorite Country song, You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma, didn't make the top 20...Impossible to include all the greats in just 20 songs...so much incredible music to choose from...
Yes I agree
WHAT?! Harper Valley PTA and Rhinestone Cowboy don’t get at least an honorable mention? I guess I’ve heard these so much in my childhood, I expected them to be on this list. I’m not a country music expert.
Rhinestone Cowboys... is my L💘ve!!!
Isn't harper valley pta on this list
Love all the old country on this list. It really does show how amazing the genre was in the early years. 😍
BARILOCHE
SAN MARTIN DE LOS ANDES
USHUAIA
A R G E N T I N A
I respect many of the choices on this list, but am surprised that "Whiskey Lullaby" by Brad Paisley featuring Allison Krauss is no where to be found. The song is absolutely a masterpiece, with both talented singers telling a beautiful (albeit sad) story with their voices and harmonies.
Agree
The Gambler is one of my favorite songs ever! My Mom was a MASSIVE Rodgers fan and growing up I remember The Gambler was the only song I was excited to hear every time.
George Strait’s The Chair is definitely one of the Top 20 greatest country songs of all time
As an El Pasoan, El Paso is one of those songs that colored my life. I believe it's even UTEP's fight song. It's so good.