What if all country musicians stopped focusing on proving they’re “country” and started focusing on making killer country music? Wouldn’t that be nice? Killer list by the way. 👍🏻
"I'm a product of my time" exactly. My time (born 1992) is Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Shania Twain, Jo Dee Messina. While my dad played John Denver, Glenn Campbell, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, I'd hardly say that's what I grew up on. It cracks me up hearing people my age and younger say they grew up on music from the 60s-70s. Liking it and growing up on it are two separate things in my eyes.
I was born in '79 and grew up on songs from the 50s and 60s. That's what my parents played, so that's what I knew. Yes, it was before my time, but I literally grew up listening to Hank, Waylon, Johnny, Merle, Patsy, etc. and then George.
blond3grl born in 99 and grew up listening to bocephus, Waylon, Willie, Jonny, Merle, and so on. Outlaw and traditional country is what I grew up on as well!
The thing is, they grew up in it because that’s what they heard, not what was being released at the time. Especially now when you can access any kind of music you want, don’t be surprised to hear future generations say they grew up in old music. (I grew up on mom’s Christian music from the 2000s, dads surf rock from the 80s, and grandad’s bluegrass from whenever. I now prefer outlaw country but I did grow up on music “before my time”)
My time (born 1980) is Highway 101, Sweethearts of the Rodeo, Shenandoah, Holly Dunn, Patty Loveless, Reba McEntire, Randy Travis, Keith Whitley and Alison Krauss. But just as much I'd hear Hank Jr. and Sr., Willie and Waylon, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard or any number of classic names.
What's up, y'all!! So depending on who I'm talking to, I sometimes feel a lot of pressure to like the "right" country music and appease certain people, and this video is just unpacking that. I was trying to put a fun spin on a subject people get sensitive about. Enjoy!
This is the first time as far as I’m concerned you got really into today’s questions about country music. Most are complaining that today’s stuff is a joke, me included.
I completely agree though just because you don't love some of the older country doesn't mean your not a major country fan. I don't like a lot of older stuff past the 80's. I know the hits but I generally don't listen to it. That doesn't mean I am not a true fan of country music any less than someone who does listen to Haggard on the regular . Cause I could probably name 10 new artists who sound more traditional and they might like but don't know about. There is just a lot of beating the drum in country about well if you don't listen to the oldies or you don't like artists such as Hays Carll or Ryan Bingham or Sturgill your not really a true fan. I disagree with that logic and like where your coming from on this because I often feel like I have to defend my tastes as well.
@@ericpeterson8732 It was Earl Thomas Conley, but I agree it is brilliant. Killer solo by Kenny Greenberg. But, yes, Keith Whitley achieved legendary status in a short period of time.
Tony Davis Yup, he only recorded it because he knew it was going to be a hit. His biggest issue was with how slow the song was and if you watch a live performance of the song you’ll notice he typically speeds it up.
Outlaw country? You need to make an Outlaw Country video! Willie, Waylon and Merle were mentioned, yes, but Kris and Gram Parsons and The Fallen Angels and The Flying Burrito Brothers? Emmylou? Townes? Guy Clark? David Allan Coe? Neil Young? Buck Owens? Cash? Sturgill? Ry Cooder? Mary Robbins (one of the best story tellers in music history!), Leon Russell, Kurt Vile, Jimmie Rodgers! Gary Stewart, Roger Miller...even The Grateful Dead and Rolling Stones? Hank III? Anyway, keep up the good work! (This is only a ploy to see more and more rich history added to the conversation. The rock n' roll and blues and psychedelic snd folk (Woody Guthrie) and Americana influences in country are everywhere--not just trap. The poets in country music (Arlo Guthrie and Bob Dylan can be included) are what make it the true and undying art form it is. Country is indelible to the American consciousness, and the well is virtually endless. I love that you introduce us "ol' heads" to the new stuff, even though it can be painful at times. I do appreciate it. However, the young fans are capable of so much more if you give them a chance. Even you, Grady! Explore the 50s-70s off-the-beaten path records. You will never be disappointed! John Prine! Charlie Daniels. Brent Cobb.
Bonaldi I think some of those names are reaching a bit and getting a little too inclusive....if Sturgill wants to keep his country cred he better change directions, cuz the one he's on ain't doing him any favors
The problem with Outlaw Country is defining Outlaw Country. Many of the people associated with it did a lot of work that was not outlaw, even Waylon, but was obviously done in the overproduced Nashville Sound genre. Second, when outlaw became popular, everyone and their dog tried to jump on the band wagon. Doing a few outlaw style sonds did not make you outlaw. When outlaw became unpopular in the late 80s a lot associated people moved on from the genre.
Nailed it! Jimmie Rodgers was the granddaddy of them all. He inspired all the greats including Hank. Kris wrote some of the greatest songs of all time.
@@GradySmith that's rude😂 I have a video suggestion how about the best or worst singer and songwriter. Alan Jackson definitely would be on top there with his hooks lol.
If you wanna be a super-hipster you gotta mention Colter Wall. Also, I feel slightly called out that when you mentioned hipster cred I immediately thought Jason Isbell. #old
If there was a category called “real cowboys” Chris LeDoux would have been on top of that list. His name holds a lot of street credibility among rodeo folks and cowboys
Don't forget the standard country jokes, too! "Luke Bryan? Never heard of her!" and "Florida Georgia Line? I stopped there to take a piss once!" - Country as cornbread!
J Mit ooh, somebody got a little shame wedgie stuck in their asscrack cuz somebody made fun of your oh so precious contemporary country artists? How dare somebody speak of the "saviors" that way! Take a joke lol
“Are You Sure Hank Done it This Way?” is great, but since you referenced King George AND the Texas scene, another Waylon song you can’t go wrong with is “Bob Wills is Still the King”!
It’s hard to pick a list but here. Statue of A Fool, Jack Greene, He Stopped Loving Her Today, If Tomorrow Never Comes, Moving On, Country Bumpkin, Faded Love, Crazy, I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry, Faithless Love, Desperado, Silver Wings. And I can add twenty more. Like Stand By Your Man.
Johnny Cash goes beyond just solid country gold. He is very genre bending and has made just so much stuff it's hard to pinpoint his best years, songs or even albums.
@@Zacon2mlg 50's for Johnnys rockabilly 60's for his outlaw 70's still outlaw but also slower songs 80's and early 90's for his gospel. Late 90's early thousands for his really heartbreaking songs
He probably didn't mention Johnny Cash because everyone has heard of him. Even people who don't listen to country know who he is so mentioning him wouldn't really prove your country street cred.
@@user-wv2qd1vs2h Yeah that is one of the best country songs ever. I just personally prefer "Are the good times really over." He has made some of the best songs ever like, "I'm a lonesome fugitive, Mama Tried, Big Wheels keep on rollin, Big City, Sing Me Back Home, Okie from muskokee, walkin on the fight'n side of me, Daddy Frank, working man blues and the list goes on and on and on...
I like that you put Amarillo by morning on here. My fav George song. I saw that thing for upchurch. Upchurch will be releasing a country album. In a couple of months. I will tell you when he does.
Putaspellonyou listen to him over Luke Bryan any day.... And since I'm here after his album came out, I can tell you Grady likes some of the tracks on it.
I had my CD player playing Hank Williams and my little sister heard it (who is 11 years old), asked who it is, and I said Hank williams and she was like "wow I like Hank Williams" lol. and she doesn't even listen to country.
You should check out Colter Wall, a literal rancher and cowboy from Alberta. Very acoustic, sort of a folk-country sound with a voice that reminds some people of Johnny Cash.
Grady, I appreciate the thought you put into this video. You don’t need “street cred,” you just have to be VERY careful making a Top Ten Greatest Ever list...........especially if you’re young AND didn’t grow up with adults who exposed you to their generation of country. Had you simply made a Grady’s Top Ten list you’d have been bombarded with suggestions for some GREAT older stuff you should explore. You’re spot-on with your complaints and reviews of today’s “music” that’s coming from Nashville, and that’s why you channel is growing. But true country fans who’ve been listening to quality music for decades have a whole ‘mother level of hate for this new noise. It’s not above “proving our country cred,” it’s about today’s music sucking, having nothing in common with country music, but being labeled and then PUSHED on the public. I watch your channel for your insights and because I know there are a few new artists out there who understand what country music is, and you’ll probably find them and introduce them to us.
I thought Aaron Watson would for sure be mentioned with the Texas scene. My go to for old country is Randy Travis, he is one of the gods of country music.
The omission of Johnny Cash was an EXCELLENT decision here! Nothing screams lack of country cred more than ONLY citing Johnny Cash because your favorite rapper or rocker thought he was bad-ass in an interview so now you have to like him too. When I feel the need to prove some country cred though I generally throw in a few obscurities from the past and present. Let's say David Allan Coe (and you'd better spell it right!), Cal Smith, Gram Parsons, Don Williams, Lefty Frizzel, etc for older and on the present front Jamie Lin Wilson, Courtney Patton, maybe even Allison Moorer etc. Also as someone has mentioned John Denver is often overlooked as a great country artist, a different flavor but one of the greats of our time, check out some of his live recording like Wild Montana Skies with Emmylou singing backup vocals, amazing stuff, he only got better with age. Your videos are very entertaining Grady!
I prove my country street cred is my massive knowledge of Country Music from its beginnings in 1923 < 6/14/1923 to be exact with Little log cabin in the lane by Fiddlin John Carson to the latest Tanya Tucker cd in 2019.... Artists like Merle Haggard or Hank Snow or recently with Alan Jackson have introduced their fans to their idols like Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell, Jimmie C Rodgers and Will the Circle be unbroken came out in the later part of the Original Carter Family's career in 1936----- Wildwood Flower came out in 1928 and at their first recording session in Aug 1927 during the Bristol Sessions , the big bang of Country music recordings was Single Girl/Married Girl which was their first hit of sorts. I have collected all sorts of Country Music to cover all types of country in my vast multimedia collection.
As a songwriter I would suggest mentioning the songwriters, especially if you're going to speak of the power of the lyrics. It all starts with a song! Thanks for what you do.
@@retrobeast2745 I like country music but I'm not "country" I just like the music. Also I find the use of the word ain't funny because it implies you are country a little.
I appreciate the shoutout to Bristol, and both sides have a legitimate claim. The Carter Family lived near Mendota, VA so their origin is without a doubt Virginian. However, the building where Ralph peer held the recording sessions considered as the “Big Bang” of country music was on the Tennessee side of state street. If you ever get the chance to come to Bristol, I would really recommend seeing the Birthplace of Country Music museum less than a mile from the original site.
A friend of mine joked that the guy in the song was the son of the farmer and married the farmer's daughter, so he would sing "incestual harvester". Can listen to that song without hearing that now.
Grady just for FUN. I hope everybody listens at least once in their COUNTRY life to these Saloon Sing-along Songs 1 The Rodeo Song 2 I Like Beer 3 Louisiana Saturday Night 4 Hot Rod Lincoln 5 Lord it's hard to be humble 6 Take This job & Shove it 7 Elvira 8 Polk Salad Anne 9 Crawfish 10 Why don't we get drunk and screw
19 year old old soul here. Brought up listening to Merle, he has to be my all time favorite (even saw him in concert as as 7 year old!) i would have to say "Today I started loving you again" might be the Hag's greatest lyric ever (check it out). Waylon and George Jones are up there as well "Lonesome On'ry and mean" by Waylon and "Still doin time" by George Jones are awesome. Also a guy that does not get a lot of credit and in my personal opinion has the greatest country voice of all time is Travis Tritt, I mean come on the guy has some of the best pipes ever. Also suprised to not see Aaron Watson under the Texas scene Colter Wall is another up and comer that is great (more of a americana/country sound) And a huge sleeper, especially for the "hipster" category is, Paul Cauthen. The guy is yet to make a bad song. I encourage all to listen to the above, I guarantee you will not regret. Great Video!
Fun video. No matter what video you put out, especially when you start making lists, you are going to get people complaining their favorites aren't included while failing to read the list was according to you personally. Love your videos, keep doing you.
Appreciate that perspective, Justin! My UA-cam channel used to have like 8 people that cared, and I think I'm still adjusting to the opinion tidal wave sometimes!
10. Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain--Willie Nelson 9. Green Green Grass of Home--Charley Pride 8. Sixteen Tons--Tennessee Ernie Ford 7. I Don't Wanna Play House--Tammy Wynette 6. Luckenbach, Texas--Waylon Jennings 5. Behind Closed Door--Charlie Rich 4. Lesson In Leavin'--Dottie West 3. One's On The Way--Loretta Lynn 2. Jambalaya--Hank Williams Sr 1. Amarillo By Morning--George Strait Try those for street cred if you want to go hardcore.
Have known Brantley since he was a snot nosed brat in Jefferson, Georgia. Great kid! Level head on his shoulders and talented as hell. When you get to be an old lady like me, country music means more because the stories are my life. Keep up the conversation, Grady.
Robert Earl Keen. Although REK himself says he doesn't play country music, we claims Best Western music. If you're not familiar Grady, I would point you to his album "#2 Live Dinner."
A few thoughts... 1. If you're going for the street cred song for ol Hank, go with Lost Highway. It's not his most famous, or even his best... but it's the one that defines/describes him best. 2. You can follow up "Are You Sure Hank Done it This Way" with "Murder on Music Row." 2a. Don't forget to point out, though, that while the strain has always been there, it's fine to be concerned about stressing the genre to the breaking point and that it IS possible to change something into something it's not. 3. Even some modern country artists still create country music. Miranda Lambert's "Vice" is about as country as it gets. You don't have to tread off the beaten path to find it... but you do have to be selective.
surprised he didn't mention Buck. While Grady was talking about Merle he could've thrown in a bit about how he and Buck started the Bakersfield sound to counter Nashville in the 60s. You probably know this but its. good bit to say to prove country cred.
Country music is all about singing how you feel. So it changes with the times and where they're from. I'm an alabama boy that grew up fishing and riding in the bed of trucks and playing in the mud. So I love artist like Riley Green. I love george Straight to hank jr. That was my dads country that I picked up. Country has so many different stories and styles. Little something for everyone in the genre.
There's no such thing as true country music. It's all a matter of personal taste. For me, I love it all. The traditional, the contemporary. I enjoy Hank Williams and George Strait along with Chris Stapleton and Eric Church.
I just realized why I have such an affinity for your channel... besides my love for good content, there is a familiarity about you that has drawn me in. Your intonation, mannerism, use of hands while talking. You remind me of my first love. Not in a weird, crushing-on-you way... In a comfortable, old friend way. Anyway, not trying to minimize your value as a creator by diminishing you with the appearance of a superficial attraction. I just find comfort in listening to you.
This video was wonderfully comprehensive. For anyone who hasn’t checked him out, Tyler Childers is the TRUTH. Definitely recommend giving him a listen!
Johnny Cash is on the Mount Rushmore of country music in my opinion... Folsom Prison Blues Live is one of the greatest albums ever. Also... Alan Eugene Jackson deserves better
I love your stuff man. I'm from just outside of NYC, and I feel like I'm constantly trying to prove I'm "country enough". My dad and grandpa both loved that traditional shit kickin country, and I knew every song on your list. I love everything from The Carter Family to Cash to Strait to new guys like Luke Combs and Tyler Childers. This was a good list for people looking to get into country or people who, like you said, need to try and show they know their shit.
I think you forgot a whole category of us. I live on a farm in Kansas, and was born in 2001. I don’t like pop or rap and I strictly listen to country and maybe a little older rock and such. But there’s that age group of country music that wasn’t around for 90s country and witnessed the tail end of the careers of George and Tim and Alan, but saw the rise of guys like Dierks and Darius and Blake (although I don’t like as much of Blake’s stuff anymore) But I grew up on artists like dierks Bentley Darius Rucker and Craig Morgan, I feel like those 2000s guys and the people who listen to them deserve their own sorta category because I don’t think there’s very many artists like that anymore
Grady, Jimmy Buffett, the man from Margaritaville, is the country music star that other country music legend stars imitate and listen to on their lakeboats. Jimmy Buffett writes lyrics and songs that are timeless. Open a Corona, Grady, this weekend and soak in the harmonicas of Fingers Taylor, the steel pedal guitars and steel drums along with the sublime country Key West Florida and South Texas vibe of Jimmy Buffett. Corona Cheers for your videos, Grady.
I’d put my top 10 for street cred would be 10. David Allen Coe- The Ride 9. Steve Earle- Copperhead Road 8. The Highway men- The Highway Man 7. Johnny Cash-Ragged Old Flag 6. Garth Brooks- Friends In Low Places 5. George Straight- Troubador 4. Brad Paisley- Whiskey Lullaby 3. Tyler Childers- White House Road 2. Cody Jinks- Fast Hand 1. Chris LeDoux- This Cowboys Hat Not particularly in that order
My Gfs is 10. Dustin Lunch- Cowboys and Angels 9. Deann Carter- Strawberry Wine 8. George Straight- Forever and Ever Amen 7. Tim McGraw- Dont Take the Girl 6. Johnny Cash- Man in Black 5. Willie and Waylon- Dont Let Your Babies Grow up to be Cowboys 4. Billy Currington- People are Crazy 3. Toby Keith- Ain’t As Good as I once Was 2. Bitty Gritty Dirt Band- Fishin in the Dark 1. Kenny Chesney- Dont Blink
@@ronniebishop2496 I'm not gonna say better....I love Johnny Cash and perhaps without Cash there would've never been a Hag. I love 'em both but no denying Merle Haggard's influence on country music....38 number ones and 35 of his own compositions and all country music standards! That's an undeniable legacy!
Grady if you don’t know enough Waylon let me hook you up. Listen to ALL of the Dreaming my Dreams album, and look up this album called “New Stuff.” It came out in 2013. The story is that his son, Shooter, was rooting through Waylon’s old desk when he stumbled across a tape simply called “new stuff.” Shooter listened to it and it blew him away. It’s extremely raw and hard to find, but research it man it’s awesome
Country, like jazz or the blues, is such a distinct genre imho. It’s one of the best things out of the United States. And yes, this is from a guy who listens to ambient, harsh noise, power violence, death and black metal or anything weird or obscure. Point is: if it’s great music, it’s great music. And country is one of the great genres from the 20th century. On that note, while this is more of a modern group, check out Reverend Kristin but, more specifically, “The Poor Wayfaring Stranger.” Although it’s not “country”, it encapsulates that feeling of despair like Townes Van Zandt
I liked how you were obviously NOT trying to impress anyone with you list. Putting Dixie Chicks made it obvious that you were not looking for cred. I'm not insulting they or you... it's just a controversial choice. I respect it.
I understand country is regional. Being from California we had a different scene. But I think thats what makes us country! Our little different corners of Texas country.... Tennessee country.... Jon Pardi (Cali Country) etc etc. We all experience country differently. And I think we're all here to experience each others country! Keep bringing us all together Grady!
Wait, no Johnny Cash or Buck Owens LOL Waylon Jennings, and more modern influences - Alan Jackson, Dwight Yoakam, Randy Travis haha, Country music is such a deep genre it is really hard to mention everyone though.
Merle Haggard - Kern River, My Favorite Memory, A Place to Fall Apart. Dwight Yoakam - Two Doors Down, She Wore Red Dresses Waylon Jennings - Come with Me, Wurlitzer Prize Hank Jr. - Old Habits, Dinosaur Jr
Wow, when you said the big four - my mind immediately went to The Highwaymen. I just wanted to say thank you for introducing me to some newer country - I started listening to Midland because of you and it even got my dad's approval (who is only into the classic country sound.)
I would pick "Pictures from Life's Other Side" for a sad Hank Williams song and add in "Highwayman" by Highwaymen (the original band of Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Johnny Cash) and/or "Poncho and Lefty" with Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard. Great country duets would be another fun list to see.
For Texas you got the wrong Cody. You should have said Cody Jinks. Also, you need to listen to more Waylon and school yourself on his great catalog of music.
Where is Bob Wills (the true King of Texas swing)Jerry Jeff Walker, Bille Joe Shaver, David Allen Coe, Jim Reeves, Faron Young, Conway Twitty, Ray price, billy Walker, mo bandy, Marty robbins, jimmy dean, Roy Clark, buck Owens, Dwight yokum, trace adkins, Willie and so many more.
My favorite country singers are George Strait, Alan Jackson, Conway Twitty, John Denver, Glen Campbell, Marty Robbins and there’s a few more I like but am not too familiar with.
I’m a little biased, because I’m from Arkansas, but...
...no Cash?
Big_Hogue no not biased at all
Johnny cash is the top dog and im from nc
Big_Hogue what part of Arkansas you from I’m from Paris
huntingfishinman 2103 central; Conway
I’m from Arkansas too ! Yes Johnny Cash should be high on the list. Walk the line, Folsom Prison, Ring Of Fire, Ragged Old Flag and many many more.
What if all country musicians stopped focusing on proving they’re “country” and started focusing on making killer country music? Wouldn’t that be nice? Killer list by the way. 👍🏻
Or just great songs.
I never liked the whole gatekeeping thing when it came to genres, especially country.
@@naos8116 country NEEDS gatekeepers or you end up with a lot of trash that they play on the radio these days and niss out on the legends.
Albert Wells shut up boomer
@@naos8116 And that's how you end up with genres that get changed, by the studios, until they no longer resemble what the fans actually like.
YoU sHoUlD hAvE mEnTiOnEd....
just kidding.
This is your channel.
Kevin Tinney .... Check out my new country album on my profile
I checked out your channel and I love your sound keep it up brother.
Woooo I love this comment
If you aren’t familiar with Chris LeDoux go check out his music and his kid Ned.
I agree with that statement.
YES. He’s my favorite country Artist
Yes!!
Chris Ledoux was awesome.
My favorite song is strawberry roan
"I'm a product of my time" exactly. My time (born 1992) is Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Shania Twain, Jo Dee Messina. While my dad played John Denver, Glenn Campbell, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, I'd hardly say that's what I grew up on. It cracks me up hearing people my age and younger say they grew up on music from the 60s-70s. Liking it and growing up on it are two separate things in my eyes.
I was born in '79 and grew up on songs from the 50s and 60s. That's what my parents played, so that's what I knew. Yes, it was before my time, but I literally grew up listening to Hank, Waylon, Johnny, Merle, Patsy, etc. and then George.
blond3grl born in 99 and grew up listening to bocephus, Waylon, Willie, Jonny, Merle, and so on. Outlaw and traditional country is what I grew up on as well!
The thing is, they grew up in it because that’s what they heard, not what was being released at the time. Especially now when you can access any kind of music you want, don’t be surprised to hear future generations say they grew up in old music.
(I grew up on mom’s Christian music from the 2000s, dads surf rock from the 80s, and grandad’s bluegrass from whenever. I now prefer outlaw country but I did grow up on music “before my time”)
I was born in 2000 and grew up listening to Merle Haggard and George Jones (my dad was born in 1959). Still 2 of my favorite singers.
My time (born 1980) is Highway 101, Sweethearts of the Rodeo, Shenandoah, Holly Dunn, Patty Loveless, Reba McEntire, Randy Travis, Keith Whitley and Alison Krauss. But just as much I'd hear Hank Jr. and Sr., Willie and Waylon, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard or any number of classic names.
What's up, y'all!! So depending on who I'm talking to, I sometimes feel a lot of pressure to like the "right" country music and appease certain people, and this video is just unpacking that. I was trying to put a fun spin on a subject people get sensitive about. Enjoy!
Do a review on justin Moore's new album late nights a longnecks. It's pure country
This is the first time as far as I’m concerned you got really into today’s questions about country music. Most are complaining that today’s stuff is a joke, me included.
I completely agree though just because you don't love some of the older country doesn't mean your not a major country fan. I don't like a lot of older stuff past the 80's. I know the hits but I generally don't listen to it. That doesn't mean I am not a true fan of country music any less than someone who does listen to Haggard on the regular . Cause I could probably name 10 new artists who sound more traditional and they might like but don't know about. There is just a lot of beating the drum in country about well if you don't listen to the oldies or you don't like artists such as Hays Carll or Ryan Bingham or Sturgill your not really a true fan. I disagree with that logic and like where your coming from on this because I often feel like I have to defend my tastes as well.
There’s a new kid coming out Clay Aery. He’s great.
It’s the same in hip hop, you have the pop, New Yorkers, southern, LA, mumble rap, and so on. Each group likes a specific sound
John Denver: Country Roads
Brooks & Dunn: Red Dirt Road
Keith Whitley: I'm No Stranger to the Rain
Don Williams: Good ol' Boys Like Me
Keith Whitley "What I'd say". that song gets me good in the feels. Another who died too young.
@@ericpeterson8732 Earl Thomas Conley* not Keith Whitley, right?
"Good ol' Boys Like Me" is one of the finest songs ever written, in any genre. It is a three-minute novel.
@@ericpeterson8732 It was Earl Thomas Conley, but I agree it is brilliant. Killer solo by Kenny Greenberg. But, yes, Keith Whitley achieved legendary status in a short period of time.
You could also reference Luckenbach Texas by Wyalon
GuyMcman Waylon absolutely hated that song
Tony Davis Yup, he only recorded it because he knew it was going to be a hit. His biggest issue was with how slow the song was and if you watch a live performance of the song you’ll notice he typically speeds it up.
Outlaw country? You need to make an Outlaw Country video! Willie, Waylon and Merle were mentioned, yes, but Kris and Gram Parsons and The Fallen Angels and The Flying Burrito Brothers? Emmylou? Townes? Guy Clark? David Allan Coe? Neil Young? Buck Owens? Cash? Sturgill? Ry Cooder? Mary Robbins (one of the best story tellers in music history!), Leon Russell, Kurt Vile, Jimmie Rodgers! Gary Stewart, Roger Miller...even The Grateful Dead and Rolling Stones? Hank III? Anyway, keep up the good work! (This is only a ploy to see more and more rich history added to the conversation. The rock n' roll and blues and psychedelic snd folk (Woody Guthrie) and Americana influences in country are everywhere--not just trap. The poets in country music (Arlo Guthrie and Bob Dylan can be included) are what make it the true and undying art form it is. Country is indelible to the American consciousness, and the well is virtually endless. I love that you introduce us "ol' heads" to the new stuff, even though it can be painful at times. I do appreciate it. However, the young fans are capable of so much more if you give them a chance. Even you, Grady! Explore the 50s-70s off-the-beaten path records. You will never be disappointed! John Prine! Charlie Daniels. Brent Cobb.
Bonaldi I think some of those names are reaching a bit and getting a little too inclusive....if Sturgill wants to keep his country cred he better change directions, cuz the one he's on ain't doing him any favors
The problem with Outlaw Country is defining Outlaw Country. Many of the people associated with it did a lot of work that was not outlaw, even Waylon, but was obviously done in the overproduced Nashville Sound genre. Second, when outlaw became popular, everyone and their dog tried to jump on the band wagon. Doing a few outlaw style sonds did not make you outlaw. When outlaw became unpopular in the late 80s a lot associated people moved on from the genre.
Nailed it!
Jimmie Rodgers was the granddaddy of them all. He inspired all the greats including Hank.
Kris wrote some of the greatest songs of all time.
You missed one artist that defines country that is Alan Jackson
Scooter Wilson Chatthoochee playing on CMT is etched in my brain. Who skis in jeans?
@@Dillion203 LoL he said the studio wanted something normal but wanted jeans lol.
Yeah, I cut him when I added the Carter Family lol!
Grady Smith oof. Alan’s my boy
@@GradySmith that's rude😂 I have a video suggestion how about the best or worst singer and songwriter. Alan Jackson definitely would be on top there with his hooks lol.
Dude “you never even called me by my name” by David Allan Coe is always immediate country street cred.
It might be my all time favorite
Coe is a classic
I think you need merch that says 'I listen to country, and whatever the hell else I want to'.
I would totally buy that shirt...
I love that idea!
If you’re talking about Merle, you have to mention “Big City!” And with Waylon you have to have “Momma’s Don’t Let Your Babies Grow up to be Cowboys.”
If you wanna be a super-hipster you gotta mention Colter Wall.
Also, I feel slightly called out that when you mentioned hipster cred I immediately thought Jason Isbell. #old
Yeesh hipsters
If there was a category called “real cowboys” Chris LeDoux would have been on top of that list. His name holds a lot of street credibility among rodeo folks and cowboys
that's true, big stars like Garth Brooks and Brantley Gilbert name drop him like he's the Man.
It's to bad the Turnpike Troubadour's are probably done being a band. They had some awesome music
I think they will come back.
Jesus Christ almighty, I hope they come back.
Such sadness :(
Good band but pandora has shoved them down my throat way to much
Don't forget the standard country jokes, too! "Luke Bryan? Never heard of her!" and "Florida Georgia Line? I stopped there to take a piss once!" - Country as cornbread!
That's the best shit i've heard all day!
J Mit You're not good at picking up on sarcasm, are you? And you call me the "tard" ...
J Mit ooh, somebody got a little shame wedgie stuck in their asscrack cuz somebody made fun of your oh so precious contemporary country artists? How dare somebody speak of the "saviors" that way! Take a joke lol
Conway Twitty's a good name drop, alongside Hank, Merle, Jones, and Strait.
...and Randy Travis...❤️
Yes I agree I love all of them I have a long list of Conway and hank sr ❤
Seen Merle, Jones, and Strait live, they're damn good performers.
“Are You Sure Hank Done it This Way?” is great, but since you referenced King George AND the Texas scene, another Waylon song you can’t go wrong with is “Bob Wills is Still the King”!
Can't go wrong with any Bob Wills song either.
Amen brother
It’s hard to pick a list but here. Statue of A Fool, Jack Greene, He Stopped Loving Her Today, If Tomorrow Never Comes, Moving On, Country Bumpkin, Faded Love, Crazy, I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry, Faithless Love, Desperado, Silver Wings. And I can add twenty more. Like Stand By Your Man.
Am I one of the only David Allan Coe fans in existence?
It's been a long hard ride trying to get Grady to listen to him
@@Braden-xu5ef sounds like Grady aint bitin' today boys
Probably. I just so happen to love his parody on devil went down to Georgia, devil went down to Jamaica
@@justinpacker2451 thats not him
“She went and fucked a filthy n word”
I really love the older stuff, my favorite is Johnny Cash. I am surprised you didn't mention him. Great video as always, Grady!
Idk maby its bc im a teen but i just dont like the old stuff, at all but that is your opinion and I wont try to change that. Have a nice day!
Johnny Cash goes beyond just solid country gold. He is very genre bending and has made just so much stuff it's hard to pinpoint his best years, songs or even albums.
@@Zacon2mlg 50's for Johnnys rockabilly 60's for his outlaw 70's still outlaw but also slower songs 80's and early 90's for his gospel. Late 90's early thousands for his really heartbreaking songs
He probably didn't mention Johnny Cash because everyone has heard of him. Even people who don't listen to country know who he is so mentioning him wouldn't really prove your country street cred.
Only left him out since he was in the video this one was responding to! :)
My favorite country and Merle Haggard song, "Are The Good Times Really Over".
I think "Mama Tried" is his best.
@@user-wv2qd1vs2h Yeah that is one of the best country songs ever. I just personally prefer "Are the good times really over." He has made some of the best songs ever like, "I'm a lonesome fugitive, Mama Tried, Big Wheels keep on rollin, Big City, Sing Me Back Home, Okie from muskokee, walkin on the fight'n side of me, Daddy Frank, working man blues and the list goes on and on and on...
Great song. My favorite of his is "Silver Wings."
Isaiah Cooper never heard a bad song from the Hag
I’m blown away by how many “country fans” don’t know Tennessee Whiskey is a cover song. That song has been cover several times too.
I like that you put Amarillo by morning on here. My fav George song. I saw that thing for upchurch. Upchurch will be releasing a country album. In a couple of months. I will tell you when he does.
God help us all when he does...
@@Putaspellonyou what do you mean?
Rage Reynolds he means that shit is garbage
Putaspellonyou listen to him over Luke Bryan any day.... And since I'm here after his album came out, I can tell you Grady likes some of the tracks on it.
Stinson6.0 your probably intimidated by him
Ok... did anybody else get some weird ads before this vid 😂
Haha what did you get?!
@@GradySmith makeup for guys and then a super odd and low budget tic tac commercial
@@eloramaxwell7020 Fascinating.
I got an ad for a singer named David crowder, who I love listening to
I was born in 2001 and hank sr is my favorite singer of my short 18 years
im an -02 and same here
I had my CD player playing Hank Williams and my little sister heard it (who is 11 years old), asked who it is, and I said Hank williams and she was like "wow I like Hank Williams" lol. and she doesn't even listen to country.
I'm in that same boat with you
2000 - Same here. Can't beat that original Southern sound.
Good to see that the younger generation still appreciates real country music!
You should check out Colter Wall, a literal rancher and cowboy from Alberta. Very acoustic, sort of a folk-country sound with a voice that reminds some people of Johnny Cash.
Grady, I appreciate the thought you put into this video. You don’t need “street cred,” you just have to be VERY careful making a Top Ten Greatest Ever list...........especially if you’re young AND didn’t grow up with adults who exposed you to their generation of country. Had you simply made a Grady’s Top Ten list you’d have been bombarded with suggestions for some GREAT older stuff you should explore.
You’re spot-on with your complaints and reviews of today’s “music” that’s coming from Nashville, and that’s why you channel is growing. But true country fans who’ve been listening to quality music for decades have a whole ‘mother level of hate for this new noise. It’s not above “proving our country cred,” it’s about today’s music sucking, having nothing in common with country music, but being labeled and then PUSHED on the public.
I watch your channel for your insights and because I know there are a few new artists out there who understand what country music is, and you’ll probably find them and introduce them to us.
@ORflycaster Well said!!
I thought Aaron Watson would for sure be mentioned with the Texas scene. My go to for old country is Randy Travis, he is one of the gods of country music.
Hear hear!!!😁
Kind of sad you didn't mention Conway Twitty. Nonetheless, good video.
The omission of Johnny Cash was an EXCELLENT decision here! Nothing screams lack of country cred more than ONLY citing Johnny Cash because your favorite rapper or rocker thought he was bad-ass in an interview so now you have to like him too. When I feel the need to prove some country cred though I generally throw in a few obscurities from the past and present. Let's say David Allan Coe (and you'd better spell it right!), Cal Smith, Gram Parsons, Don Williams, Lefty Frizzel, etc for older and on the present front Jamie Lin Wilson, Courtney Patton, maybe even Allison Moorer etc. Also as someone has mentioned John Denver is often overlooked as a great country artist, a different flavor but one of the greats of our time, check out some of his live recording like Wild Montana Skies with Emmylou singing backup vocals, amazing stuff, he only got better with age. Your videos are very entertaining Grady!
Grady; do you like Don Williams???? One of my personal favorites.
The Gentle Giant! I enjoyed his music.
“In Color” by Jamey Johnson. Probably the best country song from the last 15 years.
Travis Galliher agreed
Yea
I’ve seen him in concert twice just to hear it
I think it can give the best country songs of all time a run for their money. It will hopefully go down as one of the best country songs of all time.
It's not that good. Too slow kinda boring. It's okay
And now I have to listen to "Amarillo by Morning".... King George 4ever
That's a long list when you're talking about the king
Actually, I think Unwound was his best song and ought to be Strait's signature song.
I prove my country street cred is my massive knowledge of Country Music from its beginnings in 1923 < 6/14/1923 to be exact with Little log cabin in the lane by Fiddlin John Carson to the latest Tanya Tucker cd in 2019.... Artists like Merle Haggard or Hank Snow or recently with Alan Jackson have introduced their fans to their idols like Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell, Jimmie C Rodgers and Will the Circle be unbroken came out in the later part of the Original Carter Family's career in 1936----- Wildwood Flower came out in 1928 and at their first recording session in Aug 1927 during the Bristol Sessions , the big bang of Country music recordings was Single Girl/Married Girl which was their first hit of sorts. I have collected all sorts of Country Music to cover all types of country in my vast multimedia collection.
The king of Texas is Bob Wills, ask Willy. He'll tell ya
As a songwriter I would suggest mentioning the songwriters, especially if you're going to speak of the power of the lyrics. It all starts with a song! Thanks for what you do.
Please come out with I ain't country shirts. I would totally buy that.
I think those already exist but I think they're "That ain't country"
@@SBMusic92 That's pretty different.
Derek Wheeler why the hell would you wanna wear that?
@@retrobeast2745 I like country music but I'm not "country" I just like the music. Also I find the use of the word ain't funny because it implies you are country a little.
I appreciate the shoutout to Bristol, and both sides have a legitimate claim. The Carter Family lived near Mendota, VA so their origin is without a doubt Virginian. However, the building where Ralph peer held the recording sessions considered as the “Big Bang” of country music was on the Tennessee side of state street. If you ever get the chance to come to Bristol, I would really recommend seeing the Birthplace of Country Music museum less than a mile from the original site.
Chris LeDoux - This Cowboy’s hat
Also Craig Morgan - International Harvester
Flyingbomber LeDoux yes. Morgan... nah bruh that song is a pandering song. It reminds me of all the songs I hate from 2010-2012
International harvester is an amazing song!
A friend of mine joked that the guy in the song was the son of the farmer and married the farmer's daughter, so he would sing "incestual harvester". Can listen to that song without hearing that now.
Grady just for FUN.
I hope everybody listens at least once in their COUNTRY life to these Saloon Sing-along Songs
1 The Rodeo Song
2 I Like Beer
3 Louisiana Saturday Night
4 Hot Rod Lincoln
5 Lord it's hard to be humble
6 Take This job & Shove it
7 Elvira
8 Polk Salad Anne
9 Crawfish
10 Why don't we get drunk and screw
Still not covering “the greatest country and western song”?? 🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️
By DAC That's a great song
It was all that I could do to keep from cryin!!
“I was drunk the day my ma got out of prison”
19 year old old soul here. Brought up listening to Merle, he has to be my all time favorite (even saw him in concert as as 7 year old!) i would have to say "Today I started loving you again" might be the Hag's greatest lyric ever (check it out). Waylon and George Jones are up there as well "Lonesome On'ry and mean" by Waylon and "Still doin time" by George Jones are awesome. Also a guy that does not get a lot of credit and in my personal opinion has the greatest country voice of all time is Travis Tritt, I mean come on the guy has some of the best pipes ever.
Also suprised to not see Aaron Watson under the Texas scene
Colter Wall is another up and comer that is great (more of a americana/country sound)
And a huge sleeper, especially for the "hipster" category is, Paul Cauthen. The guy is yet to make a bad song.
I encourage all to listen to the above, I guarantee you will not regret. Great Video!
I chased some hens today hah where’s my street cred
I feel like you get dirt road cred
Fun video. No matter what video you put out, especially when you start making lists, you are going to get people complaining their favorites aren't included while failing to read the list was according to you personally. Love your videos, keep doing you.
Appreciate that perspective, Justin! My UA-cam channel used to have like 8 people that cared, and I think I'm still adjusting to the opinion tidal wave sometimes!
Tyler, Sturgill, and Jason all in the hipster category, damn lol 😂
Godbless you for mentioning Upchurch
Yeah wayyyyy better than the morons on radio that fail miserably at "rapping"
J Mit his rapping is kickass too
10. Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain--Willie Nelson
9. Green Green Grass of Home--Charley Pride
8. Sixteen Tons--Tennessee Ernie Ford
7. I Don't Wanna Play House--Tammy Wynette
6. Luckenbach, Texas--Waylon Jennings
5. Behind Closed Door--Charlie Rich
4. Lesson In Leavin'--Dottie West
3. One's On The Way--Loretta Lynn
2. Jambalaya--Hank Williams Sr
1. Amarillo By Morning--George Strait
Try those for street cred if you want to go hardcore.
Still waiting for a Chris LeDoux mention LOL
A few of us are.
Chris was more western than country and yes there is a difference.
Have known Brantley since he was a snot nosed brat in Jefferson, Georgia. Great kid! Level head on his shoulders and talented as hell.
When you get to be an old lady like me, country music means more because the stories are my life. Keep up the conversation, Grady.
My favorite new one is Drinking Problem by Midland.
Anything by Midland is good!
Nate Terry Well not to me, but Drinking Problem is.
@@ronniebishop2496 You should check out some of the Spotify singles that Midland did. "Texas is the Last Stop" is fantastic
that guy Ok I sure will.
Robert Earl Keen. Although REK himself says he doesn't play country music, we claims Best Western music. If you're not familiar Grady, I would point you to his album "#2 Live Dinner."
OH MAH GAWD! YOU DIDN'T MENTION OLD TOWN ROAD!!!!11111111
All jokes aside...I dig your stuff, man.
A few thoughts...
1. If you're going for the street cred song for ol Hank, go with Lost Highway. It's not his most famous, or even his best... but it's the one that defines/describes him best.
2. You can follow up "Are You Sure Hank Done it This Way" with "Murder on Music Row."
2a. Don't forget to point out, though, that while the strain has always been there, it's fine to be concerned about stressing the genre to the breaking point and that it IS possible to change something into something it's not.
3. Even some modern country artists still create country music. Miranda Lambert's "Vice" is about as country as it gets. You don't have to tread off the beaten path to find it... but you do have to be selective.
Buck Owens, Faron Young and Ray Price are some of my all-time favorites
surprised he didn't mention Buck. While Grady was talking about Merle he could've thrown in a bit about how he and Buck started the Bakersfield sound to counter Nashville in the 60s. You probably know this but its. good bit to say to prove country cred.
Thanks for including Charley, I got to see him live tonight. Without a doubt he put on the best concert I have ever been to.
How about Brooks and Dunn? Where would they fall?
He may have left them out intentionally as they made his personal list.
alan jackson george strait area
No Cash? No Hank Jr? Please turn in your country card on the way out the door...and don't EVER come back!
Grady always keeps it unbiased and real. Respect
Country music is all about singing how you feel. So it changes with the times and where they're from. I'm an alabama boy that grew up fishing and riding in the bed of trucks and playing in the mud. So I love artist like Riley Green. I love george Straight to hank jr. That was my dads country that I picked up. Country has so many different stories and styles. Little something for everyone in the genre.
RHEC!!! I'd love to see you cover some Upchurch!
I'm not a singer. (Thank God ) but I love the storytelling of country. It's the way we live. It's America.
There's no such thing as true country music. It's all a matter of personal taste. For me, I love it all. The traditional, the contemporary. I enjoy Hank Williams and George Strait along with Chris Stapleton and Eric Church.
ERIC CHURCH IS LIFE
I just realized why I have such an affinity for your channel... besides my love for good content, there is a familiarity about you that has drawn me in. Your intonation, mannerism, use of hands while talking. You remind me of my first love. Not in a weird, crushing-on-you way... In a comfortable, old friend way.
Anyway, not trying to minimize your value as a creator by diminishing you with the appearance of a superficial attraction. I just find comfort in listening to you.
Luckenbach, Texas, man
This video was wonderfully comprehensive.
For anyone who hasn’t checked him out, Tyler Childers is the TRUTH. Definitely recommend giving him a listen!
Johnny Cash is on the Mount Rushmore of country music in my opinion... Folsom Prison Blues Live is one of the greatest albums ever.
Also... Alan Eugene Jackson deserves better
I love your stuff man. I'm from just outside of NYC, and I feel like I'm constantly trying to prove I'm "country enough". My dad and grandpa both loved that traditional shit kickin country, and I knew every song on your list. I love everything from The Carter Family to Cash to Strait to new guys like Luke Combs and Tyler Childers. This was a good list for people looking to get into country or people who, like you said, need to try and show they know their shit.
I think you forgot a whole category of us. I live on a farm in Kansas, and was born in 2001. I don’t like pop or rap and I strictly listen to country and maybe a little older rock and such. But there’s that age group of country music that wasn’t around for 90s country and witnessed the tail end of the careers of George and Tim and Alan, but saw the rise of guys like Dierks and Darius and Blake (although I don’t like as much of Blake’s stuff anymore) But I grew up on artists like dierks Bentley Darius Rucker and Craig Morgan, I feel like those 2000s guys and the people who listen to them deserve their own sorta category because I don’t think there’s very many artists like that anymore
If somebody questions my country music "street cred" then they don't know me there for I don't care what they have to say. Keep doing you Grady.
I think jason isbell was the gateway for me.. lol great vid
Grady, Jimmy Buffett, the man from Margaritaville, is the country music star that other country music legend stars imitate and listen to on their lakeboats. Jimmy Buffett writes lyrics and songs that are timeless. Open a Corona, Grady, this weekend and soak in the harmonicas of Fingers Taylor, the steel pedal guitars and steel drums along with the sublime country Key West Florida and South Texas vibe of Jimmy Buffett. Corona Cheers for your videos, Grady.
Tammy Wynette and Loretta Lynn are also essential for showing your country credibility.
I’d put my top 10 for street cred would be
10. David Allen Coe- The Ride
9. Steve Earle- Copperhead Road
8. The Highway men- The Highway Man
7. Johnny Cash-Ragged Old Flag
6. Garth Brooks- Friends In Low Places
5. George Straight- Troubador
4. Brad Paisley- Whiskey Lullaby
3. Tyler Childers- White House Road
2. Cody Jinks- Fast Hand
1. Chris LeDoux- This Cowboys Hat
Not particularly in that order
My Gfs is
10. Dustin Lunch- Cowboys and Angels
9. Deann Carter- Strawberry Wine
8. George Straight- Forever and Ever Amen
7. Tim McGraw- Dont Take the Girl
6. Johnny Cash- Man in Black
5. Willie and Waylon- Dont Let Your Babies Grow up to be Cowboys
4. Billy Currington- People are Crazy
3. Toby Keith- Ain’t As Good as I once Was
2. Bitty Gritty Dirt Band- Fishin in the Dark
1. Kenny Chesney- Dont Blink
I love Steve Earle, but I hate that 99% of people only know him for one song. He has so much good music.
Merle Haggard had 38 number one hits.
And wrote 35 of them!
Kevin Shayne Yes and some nut was saying Johnny cash was better lol.
@@ronniebishop2496 I'm not gonna say better....I love Johnny Cash and perhaps without Cash there would've never been a Hag. I love 'em both but no denying Merle Haggard's influence on country music....38 number ones and 35 of his own compositions and all country music standards! That's an undeniable legacy!
Grady if you don’t know enough Waylon let me hook you up.
Listen to ALL of the Dreaming my Dreams album, and look up this album called “New Stuff.” It came out in 2013. The story is that his son, Shooter, was rooting through Waylon’s old desk when he stumbled across a tape simply called “new stuff.” Shooter listened to it and it blew him away. It’s extremely raw and hard to find, but research it man it’s awesome
You can't mention the Texas music scene and not mention Cody Jinks.
Loud thunder heavy rain!!
Adobe Sessions is one of the best albums I've ever heard, and he is my favorite modern artist right now
Country, like jazz or the blues, is such a distinct genre imho. It’s one of the best things out of the United States.
And yes, this is from a guy who listens to ambient, harsh noise, power violence, death and black metal or anything weird or obscure.
Point is: if it’s great music, it’s great music. And country is one of the great genres from the 20th century.
On that note, while this is more of a modern group, check out Reverend Kristin but, more specifically, “The Poor Wayfaring Stranger.” Although it’s not “country”, it encapsulates that feeling of despair like Townes Van Zandt
Hell yeah upchurch 🤘🏼🤘🏼🇺🇸
Bonus Points: Amarillo by Morning was written by a guy named Clifton Jansky, also from South Texas.
I feel so validated in my country cred by being a millennial who knows every single one of these songs.
I liked how you were obviously NOT trying to impress anyone with you list. Putting Dixie Chicks made it obvious that you were not looking for cred. I'm not insulting they or you... it's just a controversial choice. I respect it.
They claim The Chair is George Straits I On. But guys Bob Will is still the king.
Well done sir!
I understand country is regional. Being from California we had a different scene. But I think thats what makes us country! Our little different corners of Texas country.... Tennessee country.... Jon Pardi (Cali Country) etc etc. We all experience country differently. And I think we're all here to experience each others country! Keep bringing us all together Grady!
Wait, no Johnny Cash or Buck Owens LOL Waylon Jennings, and more modern influences - Alan Jackson, Dwight Yoakam, Randy Travis haha, Country music is such a deep genre it is really hard to mention everyone though.
Hank Williams Sr, Jr or III will prove your country cred. I wish Hank 3 would record more music he has his grandfathers voice.
Is this a UA-cam video version of Luke Bryan "What Makes You Country"?
Basically. All the songs that are trying to prove how country they are is basically a youtube video version of this.
David Allen Coe, You Never Even Called Me by My Name. It's in the lyrics.
I LIVE for Randy Rogers Band.
Merle Haggard - Kern River, My Favorite Memory, A Place to Fall Apart.
Dwight Yoakam - Two Doors Down, She Wore Red Dresses
Waylon Jennings - Come with Me, Wurlitzer Prize
Hank Jr. - Old Habits, Dinosaur Jr
Man you didn't even mention midland those dudes are literally a 90s band born to late
Wow, when you said the big four - my mind immediately went to The Highwaymen.
I just wanted to say thank you for introducing me to some newer country - I started listening to Midland because of you and it even got my dad's approval (who is only into the classic country sound.)
No Chris LeDoux?! He’s one of the best.
I would pick "Pictures from Life's Other Side" for a sad Hank Williams song and add in "Highwayman" by Highwaymen (the original band of Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Johnny Cash) and/or "Poncho and Lefty" with Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard. Great country duets would be another fun list to see.
For Texas you got the wrong Cody. You should have said Cody Jinks.
Also, you need to listen to more Waylon and school yourself on his great catalog of music.
A totally underrated country musician, which is a complete shame
Where is Bob Wills (the true King of Texas swing)Jerry Jeff Walker, Bille Joe Shaver, David Allen Coe, Jim Reeves, Faron Young, Conway Twitty, Ray price, billy Walker, mo bandy, Marty robbins, jimmy dean, Roy Clark, buck Owens, Dwight yokum, trace adkins, Willie and so many more.
You should take a look at upchurch summer love album it’s like a 90s/early 2000s country sound
My favorite country singers are George Strait, Alan Jackson, Conway Twitty, John Denver, Glen Campbell, Marty Robbins and there’s a few more I like but am not too familiar with.
Bru if you really wanna prove street cared mention Jimmie Rodgers