1980s Singers, Singers and Vocalists

Back to 80s: A Journey Through the Decade’s Country Singers

Step into the 1980s, a decade when country music thrived, blending traditional sounds with modern appeal.

From George Strait’s smooth vocals to Reba McEntire’s empowering anthems, the ’80s introduced iconic figures who left an indelible mark on the genre.

These legends dominated the charts and shaped the future of country music. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, join us on a nostalgic journey through the decade’s most influential country singers.

We’ll explore the lives and music of the artists who made the ’80s an unforgettable era in country history.

Get ready to celebrate the melodies and memories that defined a generation and continue to inspire today’s country music landscape.

Let’s dive into the world of ’80s country together!

The Male Icons of 80s Country Music

1. George Strait

Career highlights: Sold over 100 million records worldwide, holds the record for most #1 hits on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart
Significant songs and awards: “All My Ex’s Live in Texas,” “Amarillo by Morning,” CMA Entertainer of the Year (1989, 1990)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Known as the “King of Country,” Strait’s traditional sound and style inspired many future country artists

2. Johnny Cash

Career highlights: Inducted into the Country Music, Rock and Roll, and Gospel Music Halls of Fame
Significant songs and awards: “I Walk the Line,” “Ring of Fire,” Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (1999)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Cash’s distinctive voice and storytelling abilities influenced countless musicians across various genres

3. Willie Nelson

Career highlights: One of the most recognized figures in country music, known for his unique voice and songwriting skills
Significant songs and awards: “On the Road Again,” “Always on My Mind,” Grammy Legend Award (1990)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Nelson’s unconventional style and outlaw country image inspired many artists to break free from traditional country music norms

4. Merle Haggard

Career highlights: Helped create the Bakersfield sound, influencing country music in the ’60s and ’70s
Significant songs and awards: “Okie from Muskogee,” “Mama Tried,” Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2006)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Haggard’s authentic storytelling and raw emotions inspired generations of country singers

5. Alan Jackson

Career highlights: Sold over 75 million records worldwide, inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame (2017)
Significant songs and awards: “Chattahoochee,” “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning),” CMA Entertainer of the Year (1995, 2002, 2003)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Jackson’s blend of traditional and modern country sounds helped define the genre in the ’90s and beyond

6. Randy Travis

Career highlights: Played a significant role in the neo-traditional country movement of the ’80s
Significant songs and awards: “Forever and Ever, Amen,” “Three Wooden Crosses,” CMA Male Vocalist of the Year (1987, 1988)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Travis’s deep, distinctive voice and traditional country style influenced many future artists

7. Kenny Rogers

Career highlights: Successful crossover artist, selling over 100 million records worldwide
Significant songs and awards: “The Gambler,” “Islands in the Stream” (with Dolly Parton), Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2013)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Rogers’s storytelling ability and crossover success inspired future country artists to expand their musical horizons

8. John Denver

Career highlights: Known for his folk-influenced country sound and environmental activism
Significant songs and awards: “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Rocky Mountain High,” Grammy Award for Best Musical Album for Children (1997)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Denver’s unique blend of country and folk music inspired future generations of singer-songwriters

9. Waylon Jennings

Career highlights: A key figure in the outlaw country movement of the ’70s
Significant songs and awards: “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love),” “Good Hearted Woman,” Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male (1975)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Jennings’s rebellious spirit and raw, uncompromising sound influenced countless country and rock artists

10. Ricky Skaggs

Career highlights: Instrumental in popularizing bluegrass and traditional country music in the ’80s
Significant songs and awards: “Heartbroke,” “Country Boy,” CMA Entertainer of the Year (1985)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Skaggs’s dedication to preserving traditional country and bluegrass music inspired future generations of musicians

11. Dwight Yoakam

Career highlights: Known for his honky-tonk and hillbilly music style, selling over 25 million records worldwide
Significant songs and awards: “Guitars, Cadillacs,” “Fast as You,” Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance (1993)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Yoakam’s blend of traditional and modern country sounds influenced many future artists

12. Hank Williams Jr.

Career highlights: Son of legendary country singer Hank Williams, known for his outlaw country and Southern rock-influenced sound
Significant songs and awards: “Family Tradition,” “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight,” CMA Entertainer of the Year (1987, 1988)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Williams Jr.’s fusion of country, rock, and blues inspired future generations of country artists to experiment with different genres

13. Ronnie Milsap

Career highlights: One of the most successful country artists of the ’70s and ’80s, with a string of #1 hits
Significant songs and awards: “Smoky Mountain Rain,” “Any Day Now,” CMA Male Vocalist of the Year (1974, 1976, 1977)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Milsap’s blend of country, pop, and R&B influenced future generations of crossover country artists

14. Marty Robbins

Career highlights: Known for his storytelling abilities and diverse musical styles, including country, western, and rockabilly
Significant songs and awards: “El Paso,” “Big Iron,” Grammy Hall of Fame Award (1998)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Robbins’s narrative-driven songs and versatile musical style inspired future generations of country storytellers

15. Don Williams

Career highlights: Known as the “Gentle Giant” of country music for his smooth baritone voice and laid-back style
Significant songs and awards: “Tulsa Time,” “I Believe in You,” CMA Male Vocalist of the Year (1978)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Williams’s mellow, understated approach to country music influenced future generations of artists

16. Earl Thomas Conley

Career highlights: One of the most successful country artists of the ’80s, with 18 #1 singles
Significant songs and awards: “Holding Her and Loving You,” “Nobody Falls Like a Fool,” Academy of Country Music Top Male Vocalist (1984)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Conley’s passionate vocals and heartfelt lyrics inspired future generations of country balladeers

17. Clint Black

Career highlights: Part of the “Class of ’89” along with Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, and Travis Tritt
Significant songs and awards: “Killin’ Time,” “A Better Man,” CMA Horizon Award (1989)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Black’s neo-traditional country style and songwriting abilities influenced future generations of country artists

18. Steve Earle

Career highlights: Known for his blend of country, rock, and folk music and his socially conscious lyrics
Significant songs and awards: “Copperhead Road,” “Guitar Town,” Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album (2004)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Earle’s rebellious spirit and genre-bending approach to country music inspired future generations of Americana and alt-country artists

19. George Jones

Career highlights: Considered one of the greatest country singers of all time, with a career spanning over six decades
Significant songs and awards: “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” “The Grand Tour,” Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2012)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Jones’s passionate vocals and heart-wrenching performances influenced countless country singers across generations

20. John Anderson

Career highlights: Known for his distinctive voice and traditional country sound
Significant songs and awards: “Swingin’,” “Seminole Wind,” CMA Horizon Award (1983)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Anderson’s unique vocal style and commitment to traditional country music inspired future generations of artists

21. Keith Whitley

Career highlights: Despite a short career cut tragically short by his untimely death, Whitley left a lasting impact on country music
Significant songs and awards: “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” “When You Say Nothing at All,” CMA Single of the Year (1989)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Whitley’s emotional depth and soulful delivery influenced future generations of country singers

22. T. Graham Brown

Career highlights: Known for his soulful voice and blend of country and R&B
Significant songs and awards: “Hell and High Water,” “Darlene,” Academy of Country Music New Male Vocalist (1986)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Brown’s fusion of country and soul music influenced future generations of crossover country artists

23. Larry Gatlin

Career highlights: Lead singer of the successful country group Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers
Significant songs and awards: “All the Gold in California,” “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer to You),” Grammy Award for Best Country Song (1976)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Gatlin’s tight harmonies and storytelling abilities influenced future generations of country groups

24. Vince Gill

Career highlights: Known for his skilled guitar playing, pure tenor voice, and songwriting abilities
Significant songs and awards: “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” “When I Call Your Name,” CMA Male Vocalist of the Year (1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Gill’s virtuosic musicianship and emotional depth inspired future generations of country artists

25. Mel McDaniel

Career highlights: Known for his energetic live performances and traditional country sound
Significant songs and awards: “Baby’s Got Her Blue Jeans On,” “Louisiana Saturday Night,” Academy of Country Music Song of the Year (1985)
Singer’s influence on future generations: McDaniel’s lively stage presence and classic country style influenced future generations of performers

26. Charlie Daniels

Career highlights: He is known for his fusion of country, southern rock, and bluegrass, as well as his fiery fiddle-playing
Significant songs and awards: “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” “Long Haired Country Boy,” Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance (1979)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Daniels’s genre-blending approach and high-energy performances influenced future generations of country and southern rock artists

27. Joe Diffie

Career highlights: One of the most successful country artists of the ’90s, known for his traditional country sound and sense of humor
Significant songs and awards: “Pickup Man,” “Third Rock from the Sun,” Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals (1998)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Diffie’s catchy hooks and relatable lyrics influenced future generations of country singers

28. John Conlee

Career highlights: Known for his distinctive voice and traditional country sound
Significant songs and awards: “Rose Colored Glasses,” “Friday Night Blues,” CMA Male Vocalist of the Year (1978)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Conlee’s unique vocal style and commitment to traditional country music inspired future generations of artists

29. Roger Miller

Career highlights: Known for his humorous and often unconventional songwriting style
Significant songs and awards: “King of the Road,” “Dang Me,” Grammy Award for Best Country Song (1964, 1965)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Miller’s witty lyrics and innovative approach to country music influenced future generations of singer-songwriters

30. Dan Seals

Career highlights: Successful solo artist and one half of the duo England Dan & John Ford Coley
Significant songs and awards: “Meet Me in Montana” (with Marie Osmond), “Bop,” CMA Duet of the Year (1986)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Seals’s smooth vocals and crossover success inspired future generations of country pop artists

The Female Trailblazers of 80s Country Music

1. Dolly Parton

Career highlights: Iconic singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist with a career spanning over five decades
Significant songs and awards: “9 to 5,” “Jolene,” Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2011)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Parton’s songwriting, business savvy, and philanthropy inspired countless female artists across various genres

2. Reba McEntire

Career highlights: One of the most successful female country artists of all time, selling over 75 million records worldwide
Significant songs and awards: “Fancy,” “Does He Love You” (with Linda Davis), CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1984, 1985, 1986, 1987)
Singer’s influence on future generations: McEntire’s powerful vocals, stage presence, and acting career inspired future generations of multi-talented female artists

3. Tammy Wynette

Career highlights: Known as the “First Lady of Country Music,” with a string of hits in the ’60s and ’70s
Significant songs and awards: “Stand by Your Man,” “D-I-V-O-R-C-E,” Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance (1967, 1969, 1970)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Wynette’s emotionally charged performances and storytelling abilities influenced future generations of female country singers

4. Loretta Lynn

Career highlights: Groundbreaking singer and songwriter known for her honest and autobiographical lyrics
Significant songs and awards: “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind),” Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2010)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Lynn’s fearless approach to addressing social issues and personal experiences inspired future generations of female songwriters

5. Emmylou Harris

Career highlights: Influential singer, songwriter, and collaborator known for her pure vocals and eclectic musical style
Significant songs and awards: “Boulder to Birmingham,” “Together Again,” Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album (1995)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Harris’s collaborations and ability to blend various genres inspired future generations of Americana and roots music artists

6. Barbara Mandrell

Career highlights: Versatile entertainer known for her musicianship and television variety show
Significant songs and awards: “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed,” “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool,” CMA Entertainer of the Year (1980, 1981)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Mandrell’s multi-instrumental talents and engaging stage presence inspired future generations of female performers

7. Rosanne Cash

Career highlights: Singer, songwriter, and author known for her introspective lyrics and blending of country, folk, and rock
Significant songs and awards: “Seven Year Ache,” “I Don’t Know Why You Don’t Want Me,” Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance (1985)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Cash’s poetic songwriting and genre-bending approach inspired future generations of Americana and alt-country artists

8. Tanya Tucker

Career highlights: Known for her distinctive vocal style and rebellious image
Significant songs and awards: “Delta Dawn,” “What’s Your Mama’s Name,” CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1991)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Tucker’s bold persona and powerful vocals influenced future generations of female country artists

9. Juice Newton

Career highlights: Successful crossover artist known for her blend of country and pop
Significant songs and awards: “Angel of the Morning,” “Queen of Hearts,” Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female (1983)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Newton’s crossover success and versatile vocal style inspired future generations of country pop artists

10. Crystal Gayle

Career highlights: Known for her smooth vocals and crossover success in country and pop
Significant songs and awards: “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” “Talking in Your Sleep,” CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1977, 1978)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Gayle’s elegant style and crossover appeal influenced future generations of female country artists

11. Patty Loveless

Career highlights: Known for her blend of traditional country and honky-tonk
Significant songs and awards: “Blame It on Your Heart,” “How Can I Help You Say Goodbye,” CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1996)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Loveless’s powerful vocals and commitment to traditional country music inspired future generations of female artists

12. Janie Fricke

Career highlights: Successful solo artist and frequent duet partner with various male country singers
Significant songs and awards: “It Ain’t Easy Bein’ Easy,” “He’s a Heartache (Looking for a Place to Happen),” CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1982, 1983)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Fricke’s versatility as a solo artist and duet partner influenced future generations of collaborative female country singers

13. Kathy Mattea

Career highlights: Known for her socially conscious lyrics and blending of country, folk, and bluegrass
Significant songs and awards: “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses,” “Where’ve You Been,” CMA Single of the Year (1989)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Mattea’s thoughtful songwriting and genre-blending approach inspired future generations of Americana and roots music artists

14. Deborah Allen

Career highlights: Successful singer, songwriter, and actress known for her energetic performances
Significant songs and awards: “Baby I Lied,” “I’ve Been Wrong Before,” BMI Song of the Year (1983)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Allen’s dynamic stage presence and songwriting abilities influenced future generations of female country performers

15. Anne Murray

Career highlights: Successful crossover artist known for her warm vocals and pop-influenced country sound
Significant songs and awards: “Snowbird,” “You Needed Me,” Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance (1974, 1979, 1980, 1983)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Murray’s crossover success and inviting vocal style inspired future generations of country pop artists

16. Holly Dunn

Career highlights: Known for her strong songwriting abilities and traditional country sound
Significant songs and awards: “Daddy’s Hands,” “You Really Had Me Going,” Academy of Country Music Top New Female Vocalist (1986)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Dunn’s heartfelt songwriting and traditional country style influenced future generations of female artists

17. Lorrie Morgan

Career highlights: Known for her expressive vocals and country ballads
Significant songs and awards: “Five Minutes,” “Something in Red,” CMA Vocal Event of the Year (1990)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Morgan’s emotional delivery and powerful ballads inspired future generations of female country vocalists

18. Mary Chapin Carpenter

Career highlights: Known for her intelligent songwriting and blend of country, folk, and rock
Significant songs and awards: “Passionate Kisses,” “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her,” Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance (1992, 1993, 1994, 1995)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Carpenter’s introspective lyrics and genre-bending style influenced future generations of Americana and singer-songwriter artists

19. K.T. Oslin

Career highlights: Known for her witty lyrics and mature perspective on life and love
Significant songs and awards: “80’s Ladies,” “Do Ya,” CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1988)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Oslin’s clever songwriting and relatable themes inspired future generations of female country artists

20. Terri Gibbs

Career highlights: Known for her soulful vocals and crossover success
Significant songs and awards: “Somebody’s Knockin’,” “Mis’ry River,” Academy of Country Music Top New Female Vocalist (1981)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Gibbs’s powerful voice and blend of country and R&B influenced future generations of crossover artists

21. Suzy Bogguss

Career highlights: Known for her traditional country sound and pure vocals
Significant songs and awards: “Aces,” “Letting Go,” CMA Horizon Award (1992)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Bogguss’s commitment to traditional country music and storytelling inspired future generations of female artists

22. Jeanne Pruett

Career highlights: Known for her honky-tonk style and straightforward lyrics
Significant songs and awards: “Satin Sheets,” “Back to Back,” Academy of Country Music Top Female Vocalist (1973)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Pruett’s no-nonsense approach and classic country sound influenced future generations of traditional female artists

23. Sylvia

Career highlights: Known for her smooth vocals and country-pop crossover success
Significant songs and awards: “Nobody,” “Drifter,” Academy of Country Music Song of the Year (1982)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Sylvia’s polished vocals and crossover appeal inspired future generations of country pop female artists

24. Forester Sisters

Career highlights: Family harmony group known for their blend of country and pop
Significant songs and awards: “I Fell in Love Again Last Night,” “Just in Case,” CMA Vocal Group of the Year (1986)
Singer’s influence on future generations: The Forester Sisters’ close harmonies and family dynamic influenced future generations of country vocal groups

25. Pam Tillis

Career highlights: Known for her traditional country sound and songwriting abilities
Significant songs and awards: “Maybe It Was Memphis,” “Mi Vida Loca (My Crazy Life),” CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1994)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Tillis’s strong songwriting and traditional country style inspired future generations of female artists

26. Karen Brooks

Career highlights: Known for her powerful vocals and energetic performances
Significant songs and awards: “New Way Out,” “Faking Love,” Academy of Country Music Top New Female Vocalist (1982)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Brooks’s dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess influenced future generations of female country performers

27. Sweethearts of the Rodeo

Career highlights: Duo known for their blend of country and rock influences
Significant songs and awards: “Midnight Girl/Sunset Town,” “Chains of Gold,” CMA Vocal Duo of the Year (1989)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Sweethearts of the Rodeo’s genre-blending approach and harmonies influenced future generations of country duos

28. Debbie Boone

Career highlights: Crossover artist known for her soft rock and country-influenced sound
Significant songs and awards: “You Light Up My Life,” “Are You on the Road to Lovin’ Me Again,” Grammy Award for Best New Artist (1977)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Boone’s crossover success and gentle vocal style inspired future generations of country pop artists

29. Judy Rodman

Career highlights: Known for her powerful vocals and country-rock influence
Significant songs and awards: “Until I Met You,” “Girls Ride Horses Too,” Academy of Country Music Top New Female Vocalist (1986)
Singer’s influence on future generations: Rodman’s strong vocals and blend of country and rock influenced future generations of female artists

Summing Up

Our journey through the 1980s country music scene has ended, but the impact of the stars we’ve revisited endures.

Their songs and stories inspire musicians and fans, leaving a lasting mark on music history. We hope you’ve enjoyed this nostalgic exploration of the artists who brought depth and diversity to the genre.

Thank you for joining us on this walk down memory lane. We’d love to hear your thoughts and memories of these country music legends.

Share your favorite artists and songs in the comments below, and let us know how they’ve influenced your love for music.

Let’s keep the conversation flowing and the melodies alive as we celebrate the enduring legacy of ’80s country music.

Casey Monroe

Casey focuses on writing about singers and vocal performers. They've been in this field for about 8 years. Casey's articles look at both the technical side of singing and the stories behind the artists. They studied music performance in college and worked as a vocal coach for a while. This background helps Casey explain complex singing ideas in ways that are easy to grasp. Casey likes to talk with singers from different genres to get a wide view of the singing world. When not writing, they often go to concerts and music festivals to stay up-to-date with live performances.

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