The 1970s marked a golden era for female country singers as they shattered glass ceilings and captivated audiences with their powerful voices and heartfelt lyrics.
These revolutionary women left an unforgettable mark on the country music landscape, paving the way for future generations of artists.
From Loretta Lynn’s raw honesty to Dolly Parton’s exceptional songwriting, 70s female country singers brought a fresh perspective to the genre, tackling themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment with unmatched authenticity.
In this article, we’ll examine the 30 iconic female country singers from the 1970s and their groundbreaking contributions, which left an everlasting impact on music history and the industry as a whole.
Join us as we take a trip down the line to remember the legendary figure who changed the face of the music industry forever.
Iconic Female Country Singers from the 70s
In the following section, we will examine some of the most appreciated and recognized faces in country music from the 1970s.
1. Tammy Wynette: The First Lady of Country Music
Most Notable Song: “Stand by Your Man“
Tammy Wynette’s powerful vocals and emotionally charged performances earned her the title “The First Lady of Country Music.”
With her signature song, “Stand by Your Man,” Wynette captured listeners’ hearts and became a symbol of strength and resilience for women everywhere.
Her achievements, including multiple No. 1 hits and Grammy Awards, solidified her status as a country music icon and paved the way for future generations of female artists.
2. Loretta Lynn: The Coal Miner’s Daughter
Most Notable Song: “Coal Miner’s Daughter“
Loretta Lynn’s honest and autobiographical songwriting style revolutionized country music.
Her signature song, “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” chronicled her humble beginnings and became an anthem for working-class women.
Lynn’s influence on the genre is immeasurable.
Through her music, she fearlessly tackled taboo subjects and challenged traditional gender roles, inspiring countless artists to follow in her footsteps.
3. Dolly Parton: The Country Icon
Most Notable Song: “Jolene“
Dolly Parton’s larger-than-life personality, songwriting prowess, and angelic voice made her a beloved figure in country music and beyond.
Her signature song, “Jolene,” showcased her ability to craft timeless, relatable narratives.
Parton’s crossover success in pop and film and her philanthropic efforts have made her a global icon whose legacy extends beyond country music.
4. Barbara Mandrell: Multi-talented Star
Most Notable Song: “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed“
Barbara Mandrell’s versatility as a singer, instrumentalist, and entertainer made her a standout in the 70s country music scene.
Her signature song, “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed,” topped the charts and showcased her ability to blend country, pop, and R&B influences.
Mandrell’s successful variety show, “Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters,” brought country music to a broader audience and cemented her status as a multi-faceted star.
5. Crystal Gayle: The Voice of Velvet
Most Notable Song: “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue“
Crystal Gayle’s smooth, velvety voice and pop-influenced sound set her apart from her country contemporaries.
Her signature song, “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” became a crossover hit and earned her international acclaim.
Gayle’s distinct style and contributions to country music helped broaden the genre’s appeal and paved the way for future artists to experiment with different musical influences.
6. Donna Fargo: The Happiest Girl in the USA
Most Notable Song: “The Happiest Girl in the Whole USA.“
Donna Fargo’s infectious positivity and songwriting talents made her stand out among 70s female country singers.
Her signature song, “The Happiest Girl in the Whole USA,” showcased her unique ability to craft uplifting, memorable tunes that resonated with audiences.
Fargo’s success as a singer-songwriter paved the way for future artists to take control of their creative destinies and express themselves authentically through their music.
7. Tanya Tucker: The Teen Sensation
Most Notable Song: “Delta Dawn“
Tanya Tucker burst onto the country music scene at age 13 with her powerful voice and mature delivery.
Her signature song, “Delta Dawn,” became an instant classic and launched her career as a teenage sensation.
Tucker’s early start and subsequent influence on the genre proved that age was no barrier to success and inspired a new generation of young female country artists to pursue their dreams.
8. Jessi Colter: The Outlaw’s Muse
Most Notable Song: “I’m Not Lisa“
Jessi Colter’s distinctive voice and songwriting style made her an integral part of the Outlaw Country movement.
Her signature song, “I’m Not Lisa,” showcased her ability to convey raw, honest emotions and captivate audiences with her unique sound.
Colter’s contributions to the genre, both as a solo artist and as part of the iconic duo with her husband, Waylon Jennings, helped redefine the boundaries of country music and inspire future generations of female artists.
9. Dottie West: The Nashville Star
Most Notable Song: “Country Sunshine”
Dottie West’s journey from country traditionalist to crossover success story exemplified the changing landscape of 70s country music.
Her signature song, “Country Sunshine,” originally written for a Coca-Cola commercial, became a chart-topping hit and showcased her ability to adapt to evolving musical trends.
West’s transition from country to adult contemporary paved the way for future artists to explore new sounds and expand their artistic horizons.
10. Anne Murray: The Canadian Queen
Most Notable Song: “Snowbird“
Anne Murray’s smooth, velvety voice and pop-influenced sound made her a crossover success and a beloved figure in country and mainstream music.
Her signature song, “Snowbird,” became an international hit and showcased her ability to appeal to a broad audience.
Murray’s success as a Canadian artist in the American-dominated country music industry opened doors for future international stars and helped expand the genre’s global reach.
Here are the next sections of the blog post, focusing on influential voices among 70s female country singers.
11. Jeannie C. Riley: The Harper Valley PTA Singer
Most Notable Song: “Harper Valley PTA“
Jeannie C. Riley’s 1968 hit “Harper Valley PTA” propelled her to stardom, and she made waves in the 70s country music scene.
The song’s bold, unapologetic lyrics resonated with listeners and cemented Riley’s status as a trailblazer.
She released several successful albums and singles throughout the decade, solidifying her place among the era’s most influential voices.
12. Olivia Newton-John: The Pop-Country Crossover
Most Notable Song: “If You Love Me, Let Me Know“
Olivia Newton-John’s smooth vocals and pop sensibilities brought a fresh perspective to country music in the 70s.
Her signature song, “If You Love Me, Let Me Know,” showcased her ability to seamlessly blend country and pop elements.
Newton-John transitioned into a more pop-oriented sound as her career progressed, but her early contributions to country music helped pave the way for future crossover artists.
13. Emmylou Harris: The Angelic Voice
Most Notable Song: “Blue Kentucky Girl“
Emmylou Harris’s ethereal voice and innovative approach to country music made her a driving force in the country-rock movement of the 70s.
Her signature song, “Blue Kentucky Girl,” highlighted her ability to infuse traditional country with a modern, folk-inspired sound.
Harris’s collaborations with influential artists like Gram Parsons and her solo work throughout the decade helped shape the future of Americana and alt-country music.
14. Linda Ronstadt: The Versatile Performer
Most Notable Song: “Heart Like a Wheel“
Linda Ronstadt’s powerful voice and eclectic musical style made her a standout among 70s female country singers.
Her signature song, “Heart Like a Wheel,” exemplified her ability to transition between country, rock, and pop genres effortlessly.
Ronstadt’s influence extended beyond country music, as she succeeded in various musical styles and inspired countless artists across multiple genres.
15. Janie Fricke: The Versatile Vocalist
Most Notable Song: “I’ll Need Someone to Hold Me When I Cry“
Janie Fricke’s versatile voice and passionate performances made her a beloved figure in 70s country music.
Her signature song, “I’ll Need Someone to Hold Me When I Cry,” showcased her ability to convey deep, heartfelt emotions through her music.
Fricke’s successful collaborations with other country artists and her solo career throughout the decade solidified her status as one of the most influential voices of the era.
These influential voices among 70s female country singers achieved commercial success and helped shape the sound and direction of country music for generations to come.
Their unique styles, powerful vocals, and ability to connect with audiences continue to inspire and influence artists today.
16. Lynn Anderson: The Rose Garden Singer
Most Notable Song: “Rose Garden”
Lynn Anderson, known for her signature song “Rose Garden,” brought a unique blend of country and pop to the 70s music scene.
Released in 1970, “Rose Garden” not only topped the country charts but also crossed over to the pop charts, reaching the top 5 and showcasing Anderson’s international appeal.
Her distinctive vocals and the song’s catchy melody made it an instant classic, cementing Anderson’s place as one of the decade’s most memorable female country singers.
17. Connie Smith: The Consistent Hitmaker
Most Notable Song: “Just One Time”
With her powerful voice and passionate delivery, Connie Smith carved a niche in the country music world.
Her 1964 debut single, “Once a Day,” reached the top of the country charts and stayed there for eight weeks, setting a record for a female artist.
Smith’s signature song, “Just One Time,” released in 1970, further demonstrated her ability to deliver heartfelt performances.
Throughout the 70s, Smith continued to release successful singles and albums, proving her staying power in the industry.
18. Sammi Smith: The Soulful Voice
Most Notable Song: “Help Me Make It Through the Night”
Sammi Smith’s soulful voice brought a new dimension to country music in the 70s.
Her signature song, “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” showcased her ability to convey deep emotions through her music.
Released in 1970, the song reached the top of the country charts and crossed over to the pop charts, earning Smith a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female.
Her unique style and heartfelt delivery set her apart from other female country singers of the era.
19. Stella Parton: The Sister Star
Most Notable Song: “I Want to Hold You in My Dreams Tonight”
Stella Parton, the younger sister of country music icon Dolly Parton, made a name for herself in the 70s with her distinct voice and style.
Her signature song, “I Want to Hold You in My Dreams Tonight,” showcased her ability to deliver emotional performances.
Released in 1975, the song reached the top 10 country charts.
While her family ties to Dolly Parton initially attracted her attention, Stella’s talent and unique voice allowed her to carve her path in the country music industry.
20. La Costa: The Lesser-Known Gem
Most Notable Song: “Get on My Love Train”
La Costa, the sister of country star Tanya Tucker, may not be as well-known as some of her contemporaries, but her contributions to 70s country music should not be overlooked.
With a voice similar to her sister’s, La Costa delivered powerful performances that resonated with listeners.
Her signature song, “Get on My Love Train,” released in 1974, showcased her vocal prowess and ability to infuse country music with soul and rock elements.
Although she may be a lesser-known gem, La Costa’s unique style and talent deserve recognition.
21. Brenda Lee: The Little Miss Dynamite
Most Notable Song: “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”
Brenda Lee, affectionately known as “Little Miss Dynamite” for her powerful voice and small stature, significantly impacted both the pop and country music scenes.
Her signature song, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” released in 1958, became a holiday classic and showcased her ability to deliver energetic performances.
In the 70s, Lee successfully transitioned from pop to country music, releasing hit singles like “Nobody Wins” and “Sunday Sunrise.”
Her versatility and undeniable talent made her a true crossover star.
22. Jody Miller: The Grammy Winner
Most Notable Song: “Queen of the House”
Jody Miller’s success in the 70s paved the way for future crossover artists in country music.
Her signature song, “Queen of the House,” a clever response to Roger Miller’s “King of the Road,” earned her a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female in 1966.
Miller’s ability to blend country, folk, and pop elements in her music appealed to a wide audience.
Her success throughout the decade, with hits like “He’s So Fine” and “Baby I’m Yours,” cemented her status as a trailblazing crossover artist.
23. Billie Jo Spears: The Energetic Performer
Most Notable Song: “Blanket on the Ground”
Known for her lively stage presence and powerful voice, Billie Jo Spears brought a new energy level to country music in the 70s.
Her signature song, “Blanket on the Ground,” released in 1975, showcased her ability to deliver dynamic performances and connect with audiences.
The song became an international hit, reaching the top of the country and pop charts.
Spears’ energetic style and engaging performances stood out among her contemporaries.
24. Helen Cornelius: The Duet Queen
Most Notable Song: “I Don’t Want to Have to Marry You”
Helen Cornelius succeeded in the 70s by collaborating with other artists in other countries.
Her signature song, “I Don’t Want to Have to Marry You,” a duet with Jim Ed Brown, reached the top of the country charts in 1976.
Cornelius’ warm, expressive voice blended perfectly with her duet partners, creating memorable and chart-topping collaborations.
Her successful duets with artists like Jim Ed Brown and Dave & Sugar showcased her ability to harmonize and create compelling musical partnerships.
25. Marie Osmond: The Family Star
Most Notable Song: “Paper Roses”
Marie Osmond, a member of the famous Osmond family, successfully transitioned from her family band to a solo career in the 1970s.
Her signature song, “Paper Roses,” released in 1973, reached the top of the country charts and showcased her ability to deliver heartfelt performances.
Osmond’s success continued throughout the decade, with hits like “I Thought About You” and “You’re Still New to Me.”
Her crossover appeal and family-friendly image made her a beloved figure in the country and pop music worlds.
26. Charly McClain: The Underrated Star
Most Notable Song: “Surrounded Me With Love”
Charly McClain may not be as well-known as some of her contemporaries, but her contributions to country music in the late 70s should not be overlooked.
Her signature song, “Surrounded Me With Love,” released in 1978, showcased her powerful vocals and ability to convey emotion through her performances.
McClain’s consistent success throughout the decade, with hits like “Let Me Be Your Baby” and “Who’s Cheatin’ Who,” proved her staying power as an artist.
Despite being underrated, McClain’s talent and dedication to her craft deserve recognition.
27. Margo Smith: The Country Sweetheart
Most Notable Song: “Don’t Break the Heart That Loves You”
Margo Smith earned the title “The Country Sweetheart” in the 70s with her gentle voice and heartfelt delivery.
Her signature song, “Don’t Break the Heart That Loves You,” released in 1978, reached the top of the country charts and showcased her ability to connect with listeners through her sincere performances.
Smith’s sweet, melodic style set her apart from other female country singers of the era, making her a beloved figure among country music fans.
28. Melba Montgomery: The Duet Specialist
Most Notable Song: “We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds”
Melba Montgomery’s collaborations with country music legend George Jones made her a standout duet specialist in the 70s.
Their signature song, “We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds,” released in 1963, set the stage for their successful partnership.
Montgomery’s clear, expressive voice complemented Jones’ distinctive style, creating memorable duets that resonated with audiences.
Throughout the 70s, Montgomery continued to release solo material and collaborate with other artists, cementing her status as a versatile and talented performer.
29. Susan Raye: The Perky Performer
Most Notable Song: “L.A. International Airport”
Susan Raye’s upbeat personality and lively performances made her a favorite among country music fans in the 70s.
Her signature song, “L.A. International Airport,” released in 1971, reached the top of the country charts and showcased her ability to deliver catchy, memorable tunes.
Raye’s perky stage presence and engaging performances set her apart from other female country singers of the era, making her a beloved figure.
30. Dottsy: The Sweetest Thing
Most Notable Song: “The Sweetest Thing (I’ve Ever Known)”
With her signature song, “The Sweetest Thing (I’ve Ever Known),” Dottsy showcased her broad range of musical talents in the 70s.
Released in 1975, the song reached the top 10 on the country charts and highlighted Dottsy’s ability to deliver both tender lyrics and joyful, toe-tapping numbers.
Her versatility as a performer and sweet, pleasant voice made her a favorite among country music fans throughout the decade.
Cultural and Musical Significance
In the 70s, female country singers broke gender barriers in a male-dominated industry, paving the way for future generations of women in country music.
Their success and powerful performances proved that women could be as influential and commercially possible as their male peers.
These artists were role models, inspiring women to pursue their dreams and assert their place in music.
Themes in Their Music
Common themes in the music of 70s female country singers included resilience in the face of adversity, the joys and heartbreaks of love, and most importantly, their personal struggles.
Their songs often reflected the experiences of everyday women, creating a deep connection with their audience.
By addressing these relatable topics, these artists gave a voice to the challenges and triumphs of women in society.
Legacy and Influence
The impact of 70s female country singers continues to resonate today.
Their contributions laid the foundation for future female artists, expanding the possibilities for women in country music.
Many contemporary singers cite these legends of music as major influences, drawing inspiration from their vocal styles, songwriting, and stage presence.
The legacy of these groundbreaking artists lives on as new generations discover and celebrate their music.
Conclusion
In the 70s, female country singers left an unforgettable mark on the music industry, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of women in country music.
Their powerful voices, heartfelt performances, and relatable themes resonated with audiences and continue to inspire artists today.
From Brenda Lee’s crossover success to Sammi Smith’s soulful depth, these women showcased a wide range of styles and talents.
Their music not only entertained but also empowered women, challenging gender norms in a male-dominated industry.
The legacy of these pioneering female country singers from the 1970s lives on as new generations discover and celebrate their timeless contributions to the genre.
So, put on your favorite record, sit back, and let the voices of these incredible women take you through the iconic era of country music.
