Top 10 Best Country Music Artists of All Time

Country music isn't just a genre. It's a way of life. It's storytelling set to a melody, a blend of heartache, honky-tonk, and hometown pride that has shaped generations of music fans. From the rough-and-tumble outlaw sound to the smooth, radio-friendly anthems of today, country music has produced some of the most unforgettable voices and songwriters the world has ever known.

Maybe you grew up listening to classic country legends on an old AM radio, or perhaps you first fell in love with the genre through modern chart-toppers. No matter when or how country music became part of your life, one thing is certain: some artists just stand above the rest. They have delivered songs that make you laugh, cry, or sing along at the top of your lungs on a backroad drive. Their lyrics tell stories that feel like they were written just for you, and their voices are as familiar as an old friend.

This list brings together the best of the best, from trailblazers who helped define country music decades ago to newer artists who have earned their place among the legends. But who deserves the top spot? That is up to you. Vote for the artists you believe belong at the top and see how your favorites stack up.

1. Johnny Cash

   

   John R. "Johnny" Cash (1932-2003) was an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, actor, and author. He is widely considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century and one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with more than 90 million records sold worldwide.... read more

   I now love country thanks to Johnny. Walk the Line, Hurt, Thing Called Love, Ring of Fire, and When the Man Comes Around are some of my favorite songs ever. Honorable mention to Dolly for I Will Always Love You as it is the most beautiful song I ever heard and much better than all the other cover versions of it.

   Johnny Cash is one of the most influential artists of all time. He is the only person who has ever been inducted into the Country, Rock, and Gospel Hall of Fame. He is the King.

   Excellent artist that powered through a troubled life. His songs are so emotionally driven and sung with every bit of himself.

   His best are his cover of "Hurt" and "I Walk the Line."

2. Shania Twain

   

   Shania Twain (born Eilleen Regina Edwards on August 28, 1965) is a Canadian singer and songwriter. With over 100 million records sold worldwide, she is the best-selling female artist in country music history and one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Her 1997 album Come On Over remains the... read more

   She's the best female country artist ever. No one can come close to her Come on Over record sales, and she went triple diamond with her albums. Who else has done that?

   She is such a beautiful person! I just love the music she creates. She expresses her feelings into them so well!

   The Canadian artist that you naturally believe was from Tennessee, with such creativity and magic, made a huge impact in her short music career to me.

3. George Strait

   

   George Harvey Strait Sr. is an American country music singer, songwriter, actor, and music producer. Often referred to as the King of Country, he is known for his neotraditionalist country style. Strait has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has more than 60 number-one hits on country charts... read more

   George is real country. Much better than that Garth Brooks=Chris Gaines crap. Yes, Johnny is good, but he sure ain't the king.

   George Strait should not be tenth. He should be higher. He is the King of Country. If you truly like country, then you should love George Strait.

   I think that George Strait is one of the most talented country singers ever! He should be at least in the top three.

4. Hank Williams

   

   Hiram King "Hank" Williams was an American singer-songwriter and musician. He is regarded as one of the most influential figures in country music history. His backing band was called The Drifting Cowboys.

   The man who started it all. If it weren't for Hank, we wouldn't have Johnny Cash or Elvis Presley. The music world needed Hank Williams.

   Mount Rushmore of Country Music:

   #1. Hank Williams

   #2. Johnny Cash

   #3. Willie Nelson

   #4. Still trying to figure this out... but the first three artists ranked above are unchallenged.

   The person who sparked a new generation of country and western music to follow.

5. Kenny Rogers

   

   Kenneth Ray "Kenny" Rogers was an American singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, and entrepreneur. Over the course of his career, he became one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He was a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and is known for hits like "The Gambler" and "Islands... read more

   Best with Bee Gees and Dolly Parton in the Eyes That See in the Dark album.

6. Garth Brooks

   

   Troyal Garth Brooks is an American singer and songwriter. His integration of rock and roll elements into the country genre has earned him immense popularity in the United States. Brooks is one of the world's best-selling music artists, with over 170 million records sold.

   He should be number one and you know it. If you have listened to any of his songs, you know. He makes real country and good too. How could he be in 6th place? If you really know country and really know country artists, you know this man makes real country. So VOTE!

   Best-selling country music artist with so few albums out. He's gotta be number one. Sorry, George, but if Garth didn't retire, he would be king of country today.

   In country's history, nobody can top Garth! Now he is back and still the greatest man alive! Keep going, Garth! You're the #1 artist ever! I love Garth Brooks!

7. Dolly Parton

   

   Dolly Rebecca Parton is an American singer-songwriter, actress, author, businesswoman, and humanitarian, primarily known for her work in country music. She has composed over 3,000 songs and received numerous awards, including 11 Grammy Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award.... read more

   The Queen of Country! No discussion needed. No one above her, no one besides her - She holds the Throne! She IS the Queen of Country Music! Discussion ended!

   All singers should take lessons from the dazzling Dolly. She remains the greatest female entertainer in show business today.

   She is the queen. She should be number one. People, are you kidding? She is the most talented and best-selling country singer, and she is really the best! SH

8. George Jones

   

   I think maybe this is a popularity list more so than a talent list. I mean, George Strait and Johnny Cash were good, but they weren't a patch on this man. George Jones is the greatest country singer of all time, maybe the greatest singer in any genre.

   George Jones was considered the greatest singer among most of his peers, including top artists like Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and even the great Roy Acuff, who said he would give anything if he could sing like George Jones. No one really compares. I mean, I like Randy Travis and Merle Haggard, but George Jones is as good as it gets.

   Due to the amount of time George has spent not only providing some of country music's most memorable songs but also influencing all those who followed after him, he is most certainly top 2.

   Personally, I would say that he is the greatest, as he was able to have major hits in almost every decade since the 1950s, making him the most enduring and successful of all country music singers. He is a truly unique American treasure.

9. Willie Nelson

   

   Willie Hugh Nelson is an American singer, songwriter, musician, actor, author, poet, and activist. He rose to prominence with critically acclaimed albums such as Shotgun Willie, Red Headed Stranger, and Stardust, which helped define the outlaw country movement. Nelson is also known for his work in activism... read more

   Seriously? Not even in the top 10? What is this list?

   I love the song Cruel Cruel World from the Red Dead Redemption 2 soundtrack.

10. Eric Church

    

    Even at #10, he might be the most underrated country singer on this list. He is bringing outlaw country back in a way past "outlaws" respect. He doesn't play radio/popular music for airplay but puts out good music that also hits the charts. Aside from that, he puts out good, complete albums, regardless of what the charts may decipher. He puts out HIS music, and it's outstanding. Give this man credit. He is a true musician, singer, and songwriter. That is unquestioned whether you love his music or not.

    You haven't seen a show until you go to see Eric Church! Nobody has the passion and drive like him. I have been to a lot of shows, but none like his! "New wave country."

The Newcomers
11. ?

    Uncle Kracker

    
12. ?

    Megan Moroney

The Contenders

13. Emmylou Harris

    

    Emmylou Harris is an American singer, songwriter, and activist. She is most widely known for her contributions to the country music genre, where her influence spans decades.

    Throughout her career, Harris has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and won several Grammy Awards. In addition... read more

    For those of you who have never heard her voice, I invite you to. When Emmylou travels to the Grand Ole Opry in the sky, the angels will make her lead singer in their choir.

    Her voice is so pure and expressive. It's like listening to an angel sing!

14. Carrie Underwood

    

    Carrie Marie Underwood (born March 10, 1983, in Muskogee, Oklahoma) is an American country singer, songwriter, and actress. She gained fame by winning the fourth season of American Idol in 2005.

    Her debut album Some Hearts, released in 2005, produced five hit songs, including "Before He Cheats... read more

    Carrie Underwood has had every country song she has released go to number one, except for one song that went to number two. Her duet with Brad Paisley also went to number one. She has fourteen number one songs under her belt and has only released three albums so far.

    Her voice is unparalleled, and her devotion to country music is one of her highest priorities. As a member of the Grand Ole Opry, she performs there often despite a very busy schedule. She is a great representative of country music, not only with her music but with the example she sets in how she lives her life both spiritually and philanthropically. She is what country music is all about.

15. Alan Jackson

    

    Alan Eugene Jackson, born October 17, 1958, is an American country music singer and songwriter. He was the first artist signed to Arista Nashville Records and remained with the label from 1989 to 2011. Known for his neotraditional country style, Jackson has recorded 21 studio albums and released dozens... read more

    You will not go wrong with Alan's 34 Number Ones album. This guy proves he is the best when it comes to country music.

    I am a big fan of most country artists, but I have to say without any reservation that Alan is my favourite. He has stood the test of time extremely well, and his CD sales do not lie. He is one of the wealthiest artists in the world for making great songs. If you have not yet heard any of Alan's work, you are missing out big time.

    Martin, Stockport, UK.

    I am a big, huge, number one Alan Jackson fan, and his songs are so awesome. My all-time favorites are Good Time, Ring of Fire, Five O'Clock Somewhere, Never Loved Before (with Martina McBride), Who's Cheatin' Who, Someday, Where I Come From, Wanted, and Chasin' That Neon Rainbow.

    I absolutely love Alan Jackson, and I have his poster in my room.

16. Brad Paisley

    

    Brad Douglas Paisley (born October 28, 1972) is an American country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist.

    His first success came in 1997 as the writer of David Kersh's "Another You." Following this, he signed with Arista Nashville in 1998 and released his debut album Who Needs Pictures in 1999.... read more

    Brad Paisley is my number one. That guy is just so amazing. His voice is like a shower of awesome snow from heaven. He has a voice captivating enough to invite angels from heaven above. I couldn't stop listening to his songs. Literally, Brad and others...

    This guy is awesome! I only wish I could play like him because he is so good on that guitar that no other country artist can even compare with how good he is. He's the only one I listen to because all the others suck compared to him!

    I like him. He doesn't sing about just one thing. He can be sad, or he can be happy. He can switch moods and tones. His best album is Wheelhouse, I think.

17. Tim McGraw

    

    Samuel Timothy "Tim" McGraw is an American singer, songwriter, and actor. He has been married to fellow country singer Faith Hill since 1996, and he is the son of the late Major League Baseball pitcher Tug McGraw.

    Tim McGraw has released fourteen studio albums, many of which have achieved multi-platinum... read more

    He's had so many hits that I'm surprised he's not in the top ten. He'd at least be number six, in my opinion! By far my favorite country musician.

18. Zac Brown Band

    

    Zac Brown Band is an American country band based in Atlanta, Georgia. The lineup consists of Zachry Alexander "Zac" Brown, Jimmy De Martini, John Driskell Hopkins, Coy Bowles, Chris Fryar, Clay Cook, Matt Mangano, and Daniel de los Reyes. The group is known for blending country with elements of rock... read more

    This is a wonderful band with country line dancing and wonderful songs like Boot Scoot Boogie and many more. I am a big fan of this wonderful country band.

19. Merle Haggard

    

    Merle Ronald Haggard was an American country singer, songwriter, guitarist, and fiddler. Along with Buck Owens, Haggard and his band the Strangers helped create the Bakersfield sound, a rawer alternative to the polished Nashville style. Over his career, Haggard had 38 number-one hits on the U.S. country... read more

    He was the jazz artist of country. I would rank him in my top five for sure. I have been a DJ for 60 years and do a "classic country" show on Saturday mornings at www.wkdq.com My list is based on the popularity and success of classic country songs that the most listeners want to hear. A list of the most talented would be slightly different.

    1. Hank Williams

    2. George Jones

    3. Johnny Cash

    4. Merle Haggard

    5. Conway Twitty

    6. Loretta Lynn

    7. Buck Owens

    8. Dolly Parton

    9. Willie Nelson

    10. Patsy Cline

    11. Carl Smith

    12. Hank Snow

    13. Elvis Presley

    14. Glen Campbell

    15. Charley Pride

    Please remember this list is what I use to get the most people listening. My show will usually include a song or two by each of these. There are a few other artists that are usually included: Waylon Jennings, Roger Miller, Don Gibson, Jim Reeves, Porter Wagoner, and Don Williams would be in that category.

20. Blake Shelton

    

    Blake Tollison Shelton is an American country singer and television personality. In 2001, he made his debut with the single "Austin," which spent five weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Shelton is also known for being a long-time coach on the television show The Voice.

    Love Blake! I went to one of his concerts last year and he is even better live! My favorite new country artist, though I have to say, I'm pretty happy to see the classics towards the top of this list as well.

    Blake Shelton is so amazing live! Just him, his amazing voice, and his guitar. I love the songs he writes, like Delilah, Over You, and Savior's Shadow. I wish he'd write more!

    Good singer with a powerful vocal. I like everything about him. Blake rocks!

21. Alabama

    Alabama is the best country artist of all time. They dominated the '80s (Artist of the Decade) and had over 40 #1s. Additionally, they are great in concert. Alan Jackson, Kenny Rogers, Garth Brooks, and Brooks and Dunn round out my top five. All these artists have had exceptional careers in country music.

    Alabama, Alan Jackson, and Kenny Rogers are the top three. Anyone voting for Taylor Swift (not really country anymore), Carrie Underwood (way overrated), or the Zac Brown Band (solid, but not an all-time great) really doesn't know "country" music.

22. Taylor Swift

    

    Taylor Alison Swift is an American singer-songwriter, born on December 13, 1989, in Reading, Pennsylvania. She developed a strong interest in country music around the age of nine after watching a Faith Hill documentary. Swift moved to Nashville as a teenager and, after signing with RCA Records, began... read more

    Only three things to say about Taylor Allison Swift: Talented, Beautiful, and has a wonderful singing voice. Taylor Swift is a wonderful role model for young adults like me. Her songs are wonderful, so keep on singing, Taylor Swift!

    Taylor was the best country artist. Who makes country music popular? So, I choose Taylor to be the chosen one...

    Taylor gave life to country music!

23. Waylon Jennings

    

    Shania Twain is only country in terms of lyrics, but musically, it is pop music, not country. Waylon is the best and one of the most influential country vocalists ever. And his music is true country music.

    If it weren't for Waylon Jennings, we would all still be listening to music with no soul or feeling. Just the vanilla-flavored Nashville sound. A voice, spirit, and mind beyond compare.

    Just a little bit of Waylon sure goes a long way. There is always another way to do things, and that is your own way. RIP, Waylon.

24. Sturgill Simpson

25. Hank Williams Jr.

    

26. Lady Antebellum

    

    Lady A, formerly known as Lady Antebellum, is an American country music group formed in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2006. The group includes Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley, and Dave Haywood. In June 2020, they changed their name to Lady A in response to the George Floyd protests and broader conversations... read more

27. Conway Twitty

    

    Great country boy. He inspired the likes of other great country artists, like Charley Pride, to name only one example.