In the ‘90s, country music stood out in every way. You heard it in cars, at gatherings, and on the radio. Garth Brooks filled arenas with energy. Shania Twain gave everyone songs they could not stop singing.
These 58 artists and bands shaped the decade, bringing country music to life and making it unforgettable for all who listened.
Jump To
- Best Male Country Singers of the 90s
- Best Female Country Singers of the 90s
- Best Country Bands of the 90s
Best Male Country Singers of the 90s
1. Garth Brooks
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Friends in Low Places | 1990 |
| The Dance | 1990 |
| If Tomorrow Never Comes | 1989 |
| The Thunder Rolls | 1991 |
| Standing Outside the Fire | 1993 |
Garth Brooks became a massive force in country music during the ‘90s. Known for his energetic performances, he brought a new level of showmanship to the genre. His blend of traditional country with rock influences made him a household name. Brooks was the first artist to receive seven Diamond awards for albums, marking him as one of the top-selling musicians in history.
2. Alan Jackson
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Chattahoochee | 1993 |
| Don’t Rock the Jukebox | 1991 |
| Livin’ on Love | 1994 |
| Gone Country | 1994 |
| Drive (For Daddy Gene) | 2002 |
Alan Jackson stood out for his traditional sound and storytelling. He remained true to the roots of country music, delivering hits that connected with everyday life. Known for wearing a cowboy hat and always keeping it country, Jackson earned a reputation for keeping the classic country sound alive during a time when the genre was evolving into more pop-influenced territory.
He is also one of the singers with the deepest and unique voice that made country music even more special.
3. George Strait
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Amarillo by Morning | 1983 |
| I Cross My Heart | 1992 |
| Check Yes or No | 1995 |
| Carrying Your Love with Me | 1997 |
| Write This Down | 1999 |
George Strait, often called the “King of Country,” brought a smooth, consistent presence to country music. He had more number-one hits than any other artist in the genre’s history. Strait was known for staying true to his Texas roots and avoiding flashy stage gimmicks. His music spoke for itself, filled with timeless stories and simple melodies.
4. Brooks & Dunn (Duo)
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Boot Scootin’ Boogie | 1991 |
| Neon Moon | 1991 |
| My Maria | 1996 |
| Believe | 2005 |
| Red Dirt Road | 2003 |
Brooks & Dunn became one of the most iconic duos in country music history. Their combination of honky-tonk beats and heartfelt ballads made them a fan favorite. They ruled the charts throughout the ’90s, delivering hit after hit. They were also known for their high-energy performances and a style that balanced modern influences with traditional country roots.
5. Tim McGraw
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Don’t Take the Girl | 1994 |
| I Like It, I Love It | 1995 |
| It’s Your Love | 1997 |
| Live Like You Were Dying | 2004 |
| My Next Thirty Years | 2000 |
Tim McGraw rose to stardom with his relatable lyrics and smooth voice. He became a crossover sensation, blending country with a touch of pop. Known for his marriage to Faith Hill, McGraw not only found success as a solo artist but also as part of one of country music’s power couples. His career soared throughout the ’90s and beyond.
6. Travis Tritt
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Here’s a Quarter (Call Someone Who Cares) | 1991 |
| Anymore | 1991 |
| T-R-O-U-B-L-E | 1992 |
| It’s a Great Day to Be Alive | 2000 |
| Help Me Hold On | 1990 |
Travis Tritt brought a Southern rock influence to country music, making him stand out from many of his peers. Known for his strong vocals and energetic stage presence, Tritt blended classic country storytelling with a more modern, rock-infused sound. He won two Grammy Awards and helped pave the way for artists who were blending country with other genres.
7. Vince Gill
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| When I Call Your Name | 1990 |
| I Still Believe in You | 1992 |
| Don’t Let Our Love Start Slippin’ Away | 1992 |
| One More Last Chance | 1993 |
| Go Rest High on That Mountain | 1995 |
Vince Gill was not only a talented singer but also an incredibly skilled musician. His voice and guitar work earned him a reputation as one of the most respected artists in country music. Known for heartfelt ballads and meaningful lyrics, Gill won numerous awards, including more than 20 Grammys, making him one of the most decorated country artists of all time.
8. Joe Diffie
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| John Deere Green | 1993 |
| Pickup Man | 1994 |
| Third Rock from the Sun | 1994 |
| If the Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets) | 1991 |
| Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die) | 1993 |
Joe Diffie was known for his playful, catchy songs and unmistakable voice. His songs often had a lighthearted, humorous tone, which made them fan favorites. Diffie’s career took off in the ’90s with several number-one hits, and he earned a reputation for being one of the most fun and entertaining performers in country music during that time.
9. John Michael Montgomery
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| I Swear | 1993 |
| I Can Love You Like That | 1995 |
| Sold (The Grundy County Auction Incident) | 1995 |
| Life’s a Dance | 1992 |
| Be My Baby Tonight | 1994 |
John Michael Montgomery became famous for his romantic ballads and heartfelt lyrics. Songs like “I Swear” and “I Can Love You Like That” not only topped country charts but also became crossover hits. His smooth voice and emotional delivery helped him connect with fans, making him one of the biggest stars of the ’90s.
10. Mark Chesnutt
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Bubba Shot the Jukebox | 1992 |
| Too Cold at Home | 1990 |
| I’ll Think of Something | 1992 |
| It’s a Little Too Late | 1996 |
| Almost Goodbye | 1993 |
Mark Chesnutt made his mark on country music with his honky-tonk sound and traditional approach. His voice and song choices reflected the classic country style, and he found success by sticking to that formula. Chesnutt consistently delivered hits during the ‘90s, and his no-frills style earned him a loyal fan base.
11. Clay Walker
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| What’s It to You | 1993 |
| Live Until I Die | 1993 |
| If I Could Make a Living | 1994 |
| Then What? | 1997 |
| This Woman and This Man | 1995 |
Clay Walker burst onto the country music scene with a series of number-one hits. His smooth voice and upbeat songs made him a standout artist during the ’90s. Walker’s ability to blend heartfelt ballads with more lighthearted, fun tracks helped him stay at the top of the charts throughout the decade.
12. Toby Keith
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Should’ve Been a Cowboy | 1993 |
| How Do You Like Me Now?! | 1999 |
| Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue | 2002 |
| I Wanna Talk About Me | 2001 |
| Who’s That Man | 1994 |
Toby Keith came on strong in the ‘90s, with his breakout hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” becoming one of the most-played country songs of the decade. His bold, confident style made him a favorite, and his songs often combined humor with a strong sense of patriotism. He became one of the most consistent hitmakers in country music, extending his success well into the 2000s.
13. Billy Ray Cyrus
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Achy Breaky Heart | 1992 |
| Some Gave All | 1992 |
| Could’ve Been Me | 1992 |
| Busy Man | 1998 |
| In the Heart of a Woman | 1993 |
Billy Ray Cyrus exploded onto the country music scene with “Achy Breaky Heart,” a song that became a worldwide phenomenon. The track’s catchy hook and Cyrus’s charismatic persona made him an instant star. Though he became somewhat of a one-hit-wonder in mainstream circles, his influence remained strong, and he has had a long-lasting career in both music and television.
14. Clint Black
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Killin’ Time | 1989 |
| A Better Man | 1989 |
| Like the Rain | 1996 |
| When I Said I Do | 1999 |
| Nobody’s Home | 1989 |
Clint Black emerged in the late ’80s but cemented his status as a top artist in the ’90s. His debut album, Killin’ Time, became a classic, with multiple hits and critical acclaim. Known for his smooth voice and traditional style, Black consistently produced chart-topping singles throughout the decade. His songwriting abilities also set him apart, making him one of the key figures in country music during the ‘90s.
15. Dwight Yoakam
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Fast as You | 1993 |
| A Thousand Miles from Nowhere | 1993 |
| Guitars, Cadillacs | 1986 |
| I Sang Dixie | 1988 |
| Streets of Bakersfield | 1988 |
Dwight Yoakam stood out with his blend of country and rockabilly influences. His unique voice and style helped him create a sound all his own, one that resonated deeply with both country and rock fans. Yoakam’s edgy persona and throwback style kept him relevant through the ’90s, making him a standout in a decade dominated by more mainstream sounds.
16. Tracy Lawrence
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Time Marches On | 1996 |
| Alibis | 1993 |
| Sticks and Stones | 1991 |
| Texas Tornado | 1995 |
| Paint Me a Birmingham | 2004 |
Tracy Lawrence became known for his ability to tell stories through his music, with hits like “Time Marches On” reflecting both his talent and deep connection to country’s traditional roots. His songs often touched on themes of love, heartbreak, and life’s struggles, making him one of the most relatable artists of the decade.
17. Kenny Chesney
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| She’s Got It All | 1997 |
| How Forever Feels | 1998 |
| You Had Me from Hello | 1999 |
| Me and You | 1996 |
| She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy | 1999 |
Kenny Chesney found his footing in the late ’90s and quickly became a country star with his laid-back style and beach-themed songs. Known for blending country with pop and rock elements, he appealed to a wide audience. His high-energy live shows and relatable lyrics helped him grow into one of the biggest names in country music.
18. Sammy Kershaw
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful | 1993 |
| Third Rate Romance | 1994 |
| Cadillac Style | 1991 |
| Queen of My Double Wide Trailer | 1993 |
| National Working Woman’s Holiday | 1994 |
Sammy Kershaw rose to fame with his traditional country sound and strong vocals. His ability to connect with everyday people through his storytelling made him a staple on country radio during the ‘90s. Songs like “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful” and “Queen of My Double Wide Trailer” captured both the humor and heart of the genre during this period.
19. Doug Stone
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| I’d Be Better Off (In a Pine Box) | 1990 |
| A Jukebox with a Country Song | 1991 |
| In a Different Light | 1991 |
| Why Didn’t I Think of That | 1993 |
| Too Busy Being in Love | 1992 |
Doug Stone became known for his smooth ballads and emotionally charged songs. His voice carried a lot of emotion, and he connected deeply with listeners through songs about love and loss. Stone’s ability to deliver heartfelt performances made him a key figure in the ’90s country scene, with several number-one hits to his name.
20. Aaron Tippin
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| You’ve Got to Stand for Something | 1991 |
| There Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong with the Radio | 1992 |
| Kiss This | 2000 |
| Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagle Fly | 2001 |
| I Wouldn’t Have It Any Other Way | 1992 |
Aaron Tippin became known as the “Hillbilly Hercules” thanks to his muscular build and no-nonsense songs about working-class values and patriotism. His debut single, “You’ve Got to Stand for Something,” quickly became an anthem. Tippin’s tough-guy persona and straightforward lyrics resonated with audiences, making him a standout in the country world.
21. Collin Raye
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Love, Me | 1991 |
| In This Life | 1992 |
| My Kind of Girl | 1994 |
| I Can Still Feel You | 1998 |
| Little Rock | 1994 |
Collin Raye was known for his ballads and emotional delivery. His songs often dealt with love, faith, and family, making him one of the more sentimental artists of the decade. Raye’s ability to tap into deep emotions through his music led to several number-one hits and a lasting impact on ’90s country music.
22. Ty Herndon
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| What Mattered Most | 1995 |
| Living in a Moment | 1996 |
| It Must Be Love | 1998 |
| A Man Holdin’ On (To a Woman Lettin’ Go) | 1998 |
| Hands of a Working Man | 1999 |
Ty Herndon quickly found success in the ’90s with a string of number-one hits. Known for his smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics, he became one of the top male vocalists of the time. His songs often centered on love and relationships, making him a favorite among fans who appreciated his emotional depth.
23. David Lee Murphy
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Dust on the Bottle | 1995 |
| Party Crowd | 1995 |
| Every Time I Get Around You | 1996 |
| The Road You Leave Behind | 1996 |
| Loco | 2004 |
David Lee Murphy had a few huge hits in the ’90s, with “Dust on the Bottle” being a signature song that continues to resonate with country fans. Known for his laid-back style and relatable lyrics, Murphy’s songs captured the spirit of small-town life and good times. He later became a successful songwriter for other artists as well.
24. Neal McCoy
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| No Doubt About It | 1994 |
| Wink | 1994 |
| The Shake | 1997 |
| You Gotta Love That | 1995 |
| For a Change | 1994 |
Neal McCoy brought a fun, lighthearted vibe to country music in the ’90s. His energetic stage presence and catchy songs made him a favorite with fans. With hits like “Wink” and “The Shake,” McCoy delivered playful, upbeat tracks that became staples on country radio during the decade.
Best Female Country Singers of the 90s
25. Shania Twain
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Any Man of Mine | 1995 |
| Man! I Feel Like a Woman! | 1997 |
| You’re Still the One | 1998 |
| From This Moment On | 1997 |
| That Don’t Impress Me Much | 1997 |
Shania Twain became a global sensation in the ‘90s, blending country with pop and making the genre more accessible to mainstream audiences. Her album Come On Over remains the best-selling studio album by a female artist in any genre. Twain’s bold, confident style and catchy songs helped redefine country music for a new generation.
26. Reba McEntire
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Fancy | 1990 |
| The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia | 1991 |
| Is There Life Out There | 1992 |
| Does He Love You | 1993 |
| The Greatest Man I Never Knew | 1991 |
Reba McEntire ruled country music in the ’90s with her powerful voice and emotional songs. She became known for her storytelling ability, and tracks like “Fancy” turned into iconic anthems. Reba also expanded her career into acting, further cementing her status as one of the most influential women in country music history.
27. Faith Hill
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| This Kiss | 1998 |
| Breathe | 1999 |
| It Matters to Me | 1995 |
| Wild One | 1993 |
| The Way You Love Me | 2000 |
Faith Hill soared to the top of the charts in the ‘90s, with her crossover appeal making her a pop-country superstar. Songs like “This Kiss” and “Breathe” dominated both country and pop radio, helping her become one of the best-selling female country artists of all time. Hill’s polished image and powerful vocals made her a fan favorite.
28. Trisha Yearwood
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| She’s in Love with the Boy | 1991 |
| How Do I Live | 1997 |
| Walkaway Joe | 1992 |
| The Song Remembers When | 1993 |
| Believe Me Baby (I Lied) | 1996 |
Trisha Yearwood became a leading voice in ‘90s country with her emotional ballads and strong vocals. Her breakout hit “She’s in Love with the Boy” catapulted her into stardom. Yearwood’s ability to deliver deeply emotional performances made her one of the most respected artists of her time, and she found continued success throughout her career.
29. Martina McBride
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Independence Day | 1994 |
| A Broken Wing | 1997 |
| My Baby Loves Me | 1993 |
| Concrete Angel | 2001 |
| Wild Angels | 1995 |
Martina McBride became known for her powerful voice and socially conscious songs. “Independence Day” and “A Broken Wing” are two of her most iconic tracks, both dealing with themes of strength and resilience. McBride’s vocal range and ability to tackle tough topics in her music made her stand out in the ‘90s, and she remains one of country music’s most respected singers.
30. Patty Loveless
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Blame It on Your Heart | 1993 |
| How Can I Help You Say Goodbye | 1994 |
| You Don’t Even Know Who I Am | 1995 |
| I Try to Think About Elvis | 1994 |
| Chains | 1989 |
Patty Loveless brought a traditional, bluegrass-tinged sound to ‘90s country. Her strong Appalachian roots and emotional delivery made her a standout in the genre. Known for her soulful ballads and honky-tonk hits, Loveless captured the hearts of country fans with her blend of classic and contemporary styles.
31. Lee Ann Womack
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| I Hope You Dance | 2000 |
| The Fool | 1997 |
| A Little Past Little Rock | 1998 |
| Never Again, Again | 1997 |
| I’ll Think of a Reason Later | 1999 |
Lee Ann Womack gained attention in the late ’90s, but her song “I Hope You Dance” became an anthem across genres in 2000. Known for her traditional country sound and heartfelt ballads, Womack struck a balance between honoring classic country and appealing to modern audiences. Her timeless voice and emotional depth helped her stand out during a time when country music was evolving.
32. Deana Carter
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Strawberry Wine | 1996 |
| We Danced Anyway | 1996 |
| Did I Shave My Legs for This? | 1995 |
| How Do I Get There | 1997 |
| Count Me In | 1997 |
Deana Carter burst onto the scene with her massive hit “Strawberry Wine,” a song that captured the nostalgia of young love. Carter’s blend of country-pop and relatable lyrics made her a standout in the ‘90s. Though her career peaked with her debut album, her songs left a lasting impact on the decade’s country music.
33. LeAnn Rimes
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Blue | 1996 |
| How Do I Live | 1997 |
| One Way Ticket (Because I Can) | 1996 |
| The Light in Your Eyes | 1996 |
| Commitment | 1998 |
LeAnn Rimes made a huge splash in the country music world at the young age of 13 with her hit “Blue.” Her powerful voice and emotional depth belied her age, and she quickly became a star. Rimes achieved crossover success with “How Do I Live,” solidifying her place as a top artist in both country and pop music.
34. Pam Tillis
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Maybe It Was Memphis | 1991 |
| Shake the Sugar Tree | 1992 |
| Mi Vida Loca (My Crazy Life) | 1994 |
| Spilled Perfume | 1994 |
| Don’t Tell Me What to Do | 1991 |
Pam Tillis, daughter of country legend Mel Tillis, carved out her own path in the country music scene during the ‘90s. With hits like “Maybe It Was Memphis,” she blended traditional country with a contemporary flair. Tillis’s strong voice and heartfelt songs earned her a dedicated following and cemented her as a key figure in the decade’s country music.
35. Terri Clark
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Better Things to Do | 1995 |
| Poor, Poor Pitiful Me | 1996 |
| When Boy Meets Girl | 1995 |
| Now That I Found You | 1998 |
| Girls Lie Too | 2004 |
Terri Clark brought a strong, independent attitude to country music in the ’90s. Known for her upbeat songs and cowboy hat, Clark stood out as one of the few female artists with a more traditional, honky-tonk sound. Her mix of fun, energetic songs and emotional ballads made her a fan favorite throughout the decade.
36. Lorrie Morgan
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| What Part of No | 1992 |
| Something in Red | 1991 |
| I Didn’t Know My Own Strength | 1995 |
| Five Minutes | 1990 |
| Except for Monday | 1991 |
Lorrie Morgan’s soulful voice and emotional delivery made her one of the top female country artists of the ’90s. Known for songs that dealt with heartbreak and resilience, Morgan connected deeply with her fans. Her personal struggles and triumphs were often reflected in her music, giving her songs a raw authenticity that resonated with listeners.
37. Mary Chapin Carpenter
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Passionate Kisses | 1993 |
| I Feel Lucky | 1992 |
| He Thinks He’ll Keep Her | 1993 |
| Down at the Twist and Shout | 1991 |
| Shut Up and Kiss Me | 1994 |
Mary Chapin Carpenter brought a thoughtful, introspective style to ‘90s country music. Known for her storytelling and folk influences, Carpenter’s songs often explored deeper emotional themes. Hits like “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her” and “Passionate Kisses” made her one of the most respected songwriters of the decade.
38. Wynonna Judd
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| No One Else on Earth | 1992 |
| She Is His Only Need | 1992 |
| I Saw the Light | 1992 |
| To Be Loved by You | 1996 |
| Tell Me Why | 1993 |
Wynonna Judd launched her solo career in the early ‘90s after achieving fame as part of The Judds with her mother Naomi. With a powerful voice and a mix of rock and country influences, Wynonna quickly became a solo star. Her passionate performances and deep emotional connection with her songs made her one of the standout female artists of the decade.
39. Jo Dee Messina
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Heads Carolina, Tails California | 1996 |
| Bye, Bye | 1998 |
| I’m Alright | 1998 |
| Lesson in Leavin’ | 1999 |
| Stand Beside Me | 1999 |
Jo Dee Messina burst onto the country scene with her hit “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” which became an anthem of the ‘90s. Known for her energetic personality and powerful voice, Messina delivered a string of hits throughout the decade. Her music often reflected a sense of independence and resilience, making her a role model for many fans.
40. Suzy Bogguss
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Outbound Plane | 1991 |
| Aces | 1991 |
| Letting Go | 1992 |
| Hey Cinderella | 1993 |
| Drive South | 1992 |
Suzy Bogguss became known for her smooth voice and mix of contemporary and traditional country. Her songs often dealt with themes of love and self-discovery, resonating with listeners across the country. Bogguss’s ability to blend a variety of styles into her music made her one of the most versatile female artists of the ‘90s.
Best Country Bands of the 90s
41. Alabama
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| I’m in a Hurry (And Don’t Know Why) | 1992 |
| Mountain Music | 1982 |
| Song of the South | 1988 |
| Angels Among Us | 1993 |
| If You’re Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band) | 1984 |
Alabama dominated country music from the ’80s into the ’90s with their unique blend of country, Southern rock, and pop. Known for their harmonies and consistent chart-toppers, they were one of the most successful bands in country music history. Songs like “Mountain Music” and “Song of the South” became anthems, and their influence extended well beyond the decade.
42. Diamond Rio
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Meet in the Middle | 1991 |
| One More Day | 2000 |
| Beautiful Mess | 2002 |
| How Your Love Makes Me Feel | 1997 |
| Norma Jean Riley | 1992 |
Diamond Rio burst onto the scene in the ’90s with their debut single “Meet in the Middle,” which made them the first country group to have a debut single reach number one. Known for their tight harmonies and mix of bluegrass with mainstream country, Diamond Rio enjoyed continued success throughout the decade with hits that blended emotion and energy.
43. Little Texas
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| God Blessed Texas | 1993 |
| What Might Have Been | 1993 |
| My Love | 1994 |
| Kick a Little | 1994 |
| Amy’s Back in Austin | 1995 |
Little Texas brought a youthful, energetic sound to country music in the early ’90s. Known for their mix of rock and traditional country influences, they quickly gained a following with hits like “God Blessed Texas” and “What Might Have Been.” Their upbeat style and catchy songs made them stand out in a crowded field of country bands.
44. Lonestar
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Amazed | 1999 |
| No News | 1995 |
| What About Now | 1999 |
| I’m Already There | 2001 |
| Smile | 1999 |
Lonestar found massive success in the late ‘90s with their crossover hit “Amazed,” which topped both the country and pop charts. Known for their ballads and heartfelt songs, Lonestar blended country and pop elements to appeal to a broad audience. Their emotional lyrics and strong melodies helped them become one of the most successful country bands of the late ‘90s and early 2000s.
45. BlackHawk
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Goodbye Says It All | 1994 |
| Every Once in a While | 1994 |
| I’m Not Strong Enough to Say No | 1995 |
| There You Have It | 1998 |
| Like There Ain’t No Yesterday | 1995 |
BlackHawk brought a fresh sound to ’90s country, combining rock influences with their smooth harmonies. Their debut single “Goodbye Says It All” became an instant hit, and they followed it up with a string of successful songs. Known for their emotional ballads and catchy hooks, BlackHawk became a fan favorite during the decade.
46. Sawyer Brown
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Some Girls Do | 1992 |
| The Walk | 1991 |
| Thank God for You | 1993 |
| Six Days on the Road | 1997 |
| All These Years | 1992 |
Sawyer Brown had already been around for years, but the ’90s brought them even more success with hits like “Some Girls Do” and “The Walk.” Their energetic stage performances and mix of humor and heart in their songs kept them relevant throughout the decade. With a career spanning multiple decades, Sawyer Brown remained a consistent presence in the country music world.
47. Shenandoah
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Two Dozen Roses | 1989 |
| Next to You, Next to Me | 1990 |
| Church on Cumberland Road | 1989 |
| I Want to Be Loved Like That | 1993 |
| If Bubba Can Dance (I Can Too) | 1994 |
Shenandoah delivered a mix of heartfelt ballads and upbeat honky-tonk songs, making them a key band of the ’90s. With hits like “Next to You, Next to Me” and “I Want to Be Loved Like That,” they brought a traditional country sound that resonated with fans. Their songs often dealt with love and small-town life, capturing the spirit of the decade.
48. The Mavericks
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down | 1996 |
| Dance the Night Away | 1998 |
| Here Comes the Rain | 1995 |
| O What a Thrill | 1994 |
| There Goes My Heart | 1994 |
The Mavericks brought a unique blend of country, rock, and Latin influences to the ‘90s country scene. Their upbeat, danceable songs and eclectic sound made them stand out from other country bands of the time. Led by Raul Malo’s powerful vocals, the band found success with hits like “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down” and “Dance the Night Away.”
49. The Dixie Chicks (now The Chicks)
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Wide Open Spaces | 1998 |
| Cowboy Take Me Away | 1999 |
| Goodbye Earl | 2000 |
| There’s Your Trouble | 1998 |
| Ready to Run | 1999 |
The Dixie Chicks broke into the country scene in the late ’90s with their fresh, modern sound. Their album Wide Open Spaces became a massive success, blending traditional country with a pop sensibility. Known for their strong harmonies and unapologetic lyrics, they quickly became one of the most successful country groups of the decade.
50. Brooks & Dunn
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Boot Scootin’ Boogie | 1991 |
| My Maria | 1996 |
| Neon Moon | 1992 |
| Believe | 2005 |
| Red Dirt Road | 2003 |
Brooks & Dunn were the most successful country duo of the ’90s, combining honky-tonk rhythms with emotional ballads. “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” helped reignite interest in line dancing, while songs like “Neon Moon” became timeless country classics. Their strong chemistry and ability to blend upbeat hits with emotional tunes made them legendary.
51. The Desert Rose Band
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| One Step Forward | 1987 |
| Love Reunited | 1987 |
| He’s Back and I’m Blue | 1988 |
| Summer Wind | 1990 |
| Story of Love | 1990 |
The Desert Rose Band blended traditional country with California rock influences, fronted by former Byrds member Chris Hillman. Their smooth harmonies and clean instrumental sound gave them a unique place in ’90s country. Hits like “One Step Forward” brought a fresh sound to the charts during a time of major transitions in country music.
52. Ricochet
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Daddy’s Money | 1996 |
| He Left a Lot to Be Desired | 1997 |
| What Do I Know | 1996 |
| Love Is Stronger Than Pride | 1996 |
| Connected at the Heart | 1998 |
Ricochet gained attention in the mid-’90s with their energetic sound and vocal harmonies. Their hit “Daddy’s Money” made them a household name, and they followed up with several more successful singles. Known for their blend of traditional country and catchy, radio-friendly songs, Ricochet made a mark on the ‘90s country scene.
53. The Tractors
| Song Title | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Baby Likes to Rock It | 1994 |
| Tryin’ to Get to New Orleans | 1994 |
| Badly Bent | 1994 |
| Tulsa Shuffle | 1994 |
| The Little Man | 1998 |
The Tractors brought a fun, rockabilly-tinged sound to country music in the mid-’90s. Their hit “Baby Likes to Rock It” became a party anthem, and their blend of swing, honky-tonk, and country rock set them apart from other bands of the time. The Tractors had a unique sound that resonated with fans looking for something a little different.
FAQs
How did 90s country music influence modern country music?
The 90s played a huge role in shaping today’s country sound by blending traditional elements with pop, rock, and even folk influences. Artists like Garth Brooks and Shania Twain brought a more mainstream appeal to the genre, setting the stage for modern country artists to experiment with crossover sounds. The 90s opened doors for the genre to reach wider audiences without losing its roots.
What role did music videos play in the popularity of 90s country artists?
Music videos became a powerful tool in the 90s for country artists. With the rise of CMT (Country Music Television), artists gained exposure far beyond radio play. Videos allowed fans to connect with the personalities behind the songs, making artists like Reba McEntire and Brooks & Dunn even more popular. The visual storytelling aspect of country music was heightened, adding another layer to the genre’s appeal.
Were there any significant changes in the way country music was produced during the 90s?
Yes, the 90s saw a shift toward slicker, more polished production in country music. Many artists began incorporating elements of pop and rock, not only in songwriting but also in production techniques. This era saw the use of layered vocal harmonies, electric guitars, and bigger, more cinematic sounds. This change helped country music cross over into mainstream charts more easily.
What were some common themes in 90s country music?
Many 90s country songs focused on themes of love, heartbreak, and small-town life. While these had always been staples of the genre, the 90s saw a mix of lighthearted party anthems, introspective ballads, and socially conscious songs. Themes of personal resilience, patriotism, and nostalgia were also prominent in the lyrics during this decade.
Why did many country artists in the 90s achieve crossover success?
Crossover success became more common in the 90s as artists embraced pop-friendly melodies and production. Shania Twain, for example, reached audiences far beyond country music fans with her catchy hooks and universal lyrics. This was a time when the line between country and pop began to blur, allowing for greater mainstream appeal and more significant success on the charts.
Last Words
The 90s changed country music forever, bringing in a sound that could reach everyone. The decade mixed tradition with something new, and the songs from that time still have a hold today. It was a time when country music felt real, simple, and honest.
Those years shaped the way the genre sounds now, proving that the heart of country music can always adapt but never loses what made it great to begin with.
