10 Unforgettable 80s Country Music Artists: Still Resonating Today

The 1980s was a golden era for country music, with a wave of talented artists emerging and leaving an enduring mark on the genre. In this article, we will revisit 10 legendary 80s country music artists and explore their iconic works, enduring legacy, and lasting impact on the industry.

1. George Strait – The King of Country Music

George Strait emerged as a dominant force in 80s country music, earning the moniker "The King of Country Music." With his distinctive baritone vocals and timeless songs, Strait sold over 100 million records worldwide and won numerous awards, including 33 Academy of Country Music Awards and 8 Country Music Association Awards.

2. Reba McEntire – The Queen of Country Music

Reba McEntire cemented her status as "The Queen of Country Music" in the 80s with her powerful vocals and relatable lyrics. She broke sales records and became one of the best-selling female country music artists of all time, with over 56 million albums sold. McEntire is also renowned for her acting career, having starred in several successful television shows and films.

3. Alan Jackson – The Man in Black

Alan Jackson emerged as a formidable talent in the late 80s, known as "The Man in Black" due to his signature black cowboy hat. With his traditional country sound and heartfelt lyrics, Jackson has sold over 10 million albums in the United States alone and won multiple awards for his artistry.

4. Garth Brooks – The Best-Selling Country Artist of All Time

Garth Brooks catapulted to fame in the early 90s, quickly becoming the best-selling country artist of all time. With his energetic stage presence and chart-topping hits, Brooks has sold over 157 million records worldwide and has won countless awards, including a record-breaking 21 Academy of Country Music Awards.

5. Wynonna Judd – The Judds

Wynonna Judd rose to prominence as one half of the legendary duo The Judds, alongside her mother, Naomi. Known for their soaring harmonies and deeply personal songs, The Judds dominated the country charts throughout the 80s and early 90s, winning five Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

6. The Highwaymen – Supergroup of Country Legends

The Highwaymen, a supergroup formed in 1985, featured four legendary country artists: Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Their collaborations resulted in three acclaimed albums and spawned numerous hit singles, solidifying their status as country music icons.

7. Dolly Parton – Iconic Songwriter and Performer

Dolly Parton is an enduring icon of country music, renowned for her songwriting prowess and distinctive vocal style. In the 80s, she continued to release chart-topping hits, including "9 to 5" and "Two Doors Down," which showcased her diverse musical range and storytelling abilities.

8. Hank Williams Jr. – The Rowdy Rambler

Hank Williams Jr., the son of country music legend Hank Williams Sr., made a name for himself as "The Rowdy Rambler" with his rebellious and energetic performances. In the 80s, he released several successful albums, including "High Notes" and "Montgomery in the Rain," which showcased his unique blend of country, rock, and blues.

9. Alabama – The Country Boys

Alabama, a four-member band from Fort Payne, Alabama, dominated the country charts in the 80s and 90s with their signature blend of traditional country and Southern rock. Their string of hit singles, including "Love in the First Degree" and "Mountain Music," earned them multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.

10. Kenny Rogers – The Ballad Singer

Kenny Rogers established himself as one of the most successful and celebrated country artists of the 80s. Known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt ballads, Rogers released several chart-topping hits, including "The Gambler" and "Lady," which became signature songs for the artist.

Enduring Legacy and Impact

The 80s country music artists showcased in this article have had a profound and enduring impact on the genre and the music industry as a whole. Their contributions have transcended decades, inspiring and influencing generations of artists and fans alike.

According to the Country Music Association, the top-selling country album of all time is "Ropin' the Wind" by Garth Brooks, released in 1991 and selling over 10 million copies in the United States alone.

The RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) reports that the best-selling country single of the 80s is "Islands in the Stream" by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, which was certified triple platinum and has sold over 3 million copies in the United States.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Underestimating the Power of Tradition: 80s country music artists successfully blended traditional country sounds with contemporary influences, showcasing the enduring appeal of classic melodies and timeless lyrics.

2. Neglecting Storytelling: These artists excelled at crafting songs that told compelling stories and evoked emotional responses from listeners, connecting with audiences on a personal level.

3. Overlooking the Importance of Collaboration: The supergroup The Highwaymen demonstrated the power of collaboration, bringing together diverse talents to create memorable and impactful music.

Benefits of Revisiting 80s Country Music

1. Nostalgia and Connection: Listening to 80s country music can evoke feelings of nostalgia and connect us to a specific time and place, creating a sense of comfort and familiarity.

2. Artistic Inspiration: The songwriting and performances of these artists can inspire aspiring musicians, providing valuable lessons in technique, songwriting, and stage presence.

3. Historical and Cultural Value: 80s country music is a valuable part of our cultural heritage, reflecting the social and cultural landscape of the era and offering insights into the evolution of the genre.

How to Step-by-Step

1. Listen to Original Recordings: Immerse yourself in the original recordings of these iconic artists to appreciate their unique styles and performances firsthand.

2. Explore Documentaries and Interviews: Discover the behind-the-scenes stories and personal anecdotes about these artists through documentaries, interviews, and biographies.

3. Attend Tribute Concerts: Experience the live performances of tribute bands or artists who specialize in the music of these legends, keeping their songs and legacy alive.

Conclusion

The 80s country music artists featured in this article have left an indelible mark on the genre, crafting songs that have become part of our collective musical heritage. Their enduring legacy and impact continue to inspire and resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the timeless appeal of well-crafted country music.