The 2000s were a vibrant time for female country singers, with established stars and new talents bringing fresh ideas and sounds to the genre.

These artists topped the country charts, gained critical praise, and attracted diverse fans by venturing into pop and rock.

From Shania Twain’s hugely successful albums to Carrie Underwood’s rapid rise after “American Idol,” these women defined a decade of music with their strong voices, meaningful lyrics, and unforgettable performances.

This list explores the contributions of 60 notable female country singers of the 2000s, providing insights into their careers, most significant songs, and lasting impact on the music industry.

Each entry showcases these talented women’s unique qualities in the music scene. Let’s get started!

60 Female Country Stars from the 2000s: Their Journey and Hits

1. Shania Twain

• Known as the “Queen of Country Pop,” Shania Twain is one of the best-selling female country artists of all time.
• Her album “Come On Over” became the best-selling studio album by a female act in any genre and the best-selling country album of all time.
• Twain has won five Grammy Awards, including two for Best Country Album.

2. Faith Hill

• Faith Hill rose to fame in the 1990s, and her crossover success continued into the 2000s with hits like “Breathe” and “The Way You Love Me.”
• She has won multiple awards, including three Country Music Association Awards for Female Vocalist of the Year.
• Hill is married to fellow country star Tim McGraw, with whom she has collaborated on several duets and tours.

3. Carrie Underwood

• Carrie Underwood won the fourth “American Idol” season in 2005, which launched her successful country music career.
• Known for her powerful vocals, she has multiple platinum albums and hits like “Before He Cheats” and “Jesus, Take the Wheel.”
• Underwood has won several Grammy Awards and is a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

4. Taylor Swift

• Taylor Swift started her career as a country singer, and her self-titled debut album, released in 2006, achieved multi-platinum status.
• Swift successfully crossed over to pop music but began with hits like “Teardrops on My Guitar” and “Love Story,” which have strong country influences.
• Known for her songwriting skills, she has received numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards.

5. Martina McBride

• Martina McBride is known for her soprano singing range and country pop material.
• Her album “Greatest Hits” was released in 2001 and features some of her biggest 1990s hits and new tracks that became hits in their own right.
• McBride is heavily involved in charitable efforts, particularly those supporting victims of domestic violence.

6. LeAnn Rimes

• LeAnn Rimes gained national acclaim as a young singer with her debut album, “Blue,” which showcased her rich vocals.
• She has won two Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist when she was just 14 years old, making her one of the youngest winners.
• Rimes has also ventured into acting and writing children’s books.

7. Reba McEntire

• Reba McEntire is one of the most influential female country singers with a career that spans over four decades.
• She was known for her role on the television show “Reba,” which ran from 2001 to 2007, where she played a single mother juggling personal and professional challenges.
• McEntire has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and a Tony Award nomination for her role in “Annie Get Your Gun” on Broadway.

8. Miranda Lambert

• Miranda Lambert achieved fame with her debut album “Kerosene” in 2005, certified by Platinum.
• Known for her fiery and autobiographical songwriting style, Lambert has received critical acclaim and multiple awards, including Grammy and Academy of Country Music Awards.
• She also founded the girl group Pistol Annies, which allows her to explore different musical themes and styles.

9. Sara Evans

• Sara Evans is known for her rich, soulful voice and strong storytelling in her songs.
• Her album “Born to Fly,” released in 2000, was a major commercial success, highlighted by the title track, which won the 2001 CMA award for Video of the Year.
• Evans has been a strong advocate for women in country music, often voicing the need for more representation on country radio.

10. Gretchen Wilson

• Gretchen Wilson found fame with her debut single “Redneck Woman,” which captured the spirit of rural pride and became a cultural phenomenon.
• Her debut album, “Here for the Party,” was certified 5x Platinum by the RIAA.
• Wilson has won several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance.

11. Alison Krauss

• Alison Krauss is renowned for her crystalline voice and mastery of the bluegrass genre, having started her career at an early age.
• With 27 Grammy Awards, she is one of the most awarded singers in Grammy history. She is known for her solo work and collaborations, notably with the band Union Station.
• Her crossover successes include the collaborative album “Raising Sand” with rock singer Robert Plant, which won Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards.

12. Trisha Yearwood

• Trisha Yearwood has established herself as a powerful voice in country music with hits like “She’s in Love with the Boy.”
• In addition to her music career, Yearwood is a successful author and host of the Food Network show “Trisha’s Southern Kitchen.”
• Yearwood has won multiple Grammy Awards and is also known for her philanthropic efforts, especially those supporting music education.

13. Lee Ann Womack

• Lee Ann Womack is best known for her 2000 single “I Hope You Dance,” which became a major crossover hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Country chart and entering the Top 15 of the Billboard Hot 100.
• Her music often explores classic country themes with a modern sensibility, earning her several awards, including a Grammy.
• Womack’s commitment to traditional country sounds has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

14. Dolly Parton

• Dolly Parton, a legend in country music, continued to be influential in the 2000s with new albums and a return to bluegrass roots.
• Known for her philanthropy, Parton’s Imagination Library book gifting program has distributed millions of books to children worldwide.
• She was inducted into multiple music Halls of Fame and received numerous awards for her contributions to music and society.

15. Jo Dee Messina

• Jo Dee Messina’s career flourished in the 2000s with hits like “Bring on the Rain,” a duet with Tim McGraw, which topped the country charts.
• Known for her energetic performance style, Messina has two Platinum and three Gold albums accredited by the RIAA.
• She faced personal challenges, including health issues and financial difficulties, but continued to perform and release music.

16. Dixie Chicks (now known as The Chicks)

• The Dixie Chicks, now known as The Chicks, dominated early 2000s country music with albums like “Home” and “Taking the Long Way,” which won five Grammy Awards in one night.
• They faced significant public and industry backlash for their political statements but remained outspoken and influential on issues of free speech and feminism.
• Their music combines country, pop, and alternative rock elements, broadening their appeal beyond traditional country music audiences.

17. Kellie Pickler

• Kellie Pickler rose to fame as a contestant on “American Idol,” and her music career took off with hits like “Red High Heels” and “I Wonder.”
• Her style combines traditional country with modern pop elements, reflecting her North Carolina roots and personal influences.
• Pickler is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly supporting causes related to cancer awareness, after her own experiences with the disease in her family.

18. Patty Loveless

• Patty Loveless is known for her blend of country and bluegrass music. She had a career resurgence in the 2000s through her album “Mountain Soul” and the follow-up “Mountain Soul II.”
• Her music often features strong, emotional storytelling focusing on Appalachian musical heritage.
• Loveless has won numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards for Best Bluegrass Album.

19. Julianne Hough

• Julianne Hough, initially known for her work as a professional dancer on “Dancing with the Stars,” launched a successful country music career with her self-titled debut album, which reached the Billboard Country charts.
• Her songs often explore themes of love, self-expression, and personal freedom.
• Beyond music and dance, Hough has pursued acting, appearing in films like “Footloose” and “Safe Haven.”

20. Lorrie Morgan

• Lorrie Morgan has consistently been a country music presence since the late 1980s, with continued success into the 2000s.
• Known for her emotional vocal delivery and powerful ballads, she has had over 40 songs charted on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
• Morgan is also known for her stylish stage presence and role as a mentor to younger artists in the industry.

21. Jennifer Nettles

• Jennifer Nettles is best known as the lead vocalist for the country duo Sugarland. The duo saw significant commercial success in the 2000s with hits like “Stay” and “Stuck Like Glue.”
• She has won multiple Grammy Awards, including her performance of the song “Stay.”
• Nettles has also made notable appearances in other media, including acting roles on Broadway in “Chicago.”

22. Terri Clark

• Terri Clark has been a prominent figure in country music since the mid-90s. She is known for her blend of traditional and contemporary sounds.
• She was the first Canadian woman inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.
• Clark is known for her hits like “Better Things to Do” and engaging live performances.

23. Tanya Tucker

• By the 2000s, Tanya Tucker had already established a significant career in country music, but she continued to release impactful music during this decade.
• Her gravelly voice and bold personality have made her one of the most distinctive artists in the genre.
• Tucker has been nominated for several Grammy Awards throughout her career and has a string of hits that have topped the country charts.

24. Pam Tillis

• Pam Tillis, daughter of country music legend Mel Tillis, is known for her clear vocal style and songwriting skills.
• Her work in the 2000s included the album “It’s All Relative” (a tribute to her father), which was highly acclaimed.
• Tillis has won a Grammy Award and several Country Music Association Awards, including Female Vocalist of the Year.

25. Loretta Lynn

• Loretta Lynn continued to influence the country music scene well into the 2000s with albums like “Van Lear Rose,” which won two Grammy Awards.
• Known for her pioneering role in country music, Lynn’s songs often reflect her experiences as a woman in the rural South.
• She has received numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

26. Crystal Gayle

• Crystal Gayle, known for her smooth vocal style and flowing hair, is Loretta Lynn’s younger sister and a famous country artist in her own right.
• Her music blends country with pop, earning her a Grammy Award and several other accolades.
• Gayle has been a popular figure in country music since the 1970s, with continued success into the 2000s.

27. Rosanne Cash

• Rosanne Cash, daughter of Johnny Cash, is known for her thoughtful songwriting and blending of country with folk and rock elements.
• Her albums in the 2000s, including “Black Cadillac” and “The List,” received critical acclaim for their introspective lyrics and innovative sound.
• Cash has won multiple Grammy Awards and has been a vocal advocate for artists’ rights.

28. Emmylou Harris

• Emmylou Harris is revered for her work as a singer and songwriter, and her career spans several decades.
• Her collaborations with artists like Mark Knopfler and her work on the album “Old Yellow Moon” with Rodney Crowell have been particularly noted in the 2000s.
• Harris has won numerous Grammy Awards and is known for her distinctive interpretation of country, folk, and Americana music.

29. Wynonna Judd

• Wynonna Judd first gained fame as part of the mother-daughter duo The Judds and continued her success as a solo artist into the 2000s.
• Known for her powerful voice, Wynonna’s music incorporates country, blues, and rock elements.
• She has received multiple awards, including Grammy Awards, and is known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in drug abuse prevention.

30. Deana Carter

• Deana Carter is known for her hit “Strawberry Wine,” which remains a staple of 90s country music.
• In the 2000s, she continued releasing albums and writing songs for other artists, showcasing her songwriting skills.
• Carter’s style blends traditional country with modern sensibilities, making her a beloved figure.

31. Suzy Bogguss

• Suzy Bogguss is recognized for her clear, smooth voice and a blend of country and folk music styles.
• During the 2000s, she continued to release music that respected traditional country sounds while exploring jazz and folk on albums like “Swing.”
• Bogguss has won several awards, including a Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Album, showcasing her versatility across genres.

32. Chely Wright

• Chely Wright achieved fame with hits like “Single White Female” and used her platform to become one of the first openly gay artists in country music.
• Her personal and professional journey has been influential in promoting LGBTQ rights within the country music community.
• Wright’s autobiography and the documentary “Wish Me Away” detail her coming-out experiences and their impact on her career.

33. Kathy Mattea

• Kathy Mattea is known for her folk-influenced country music and strong advocacy for social and environmental causes.
• Her 2000s albums, including “Coal,” focus on her Appalachian roots and highlight environmental issues, specifically the impact of coal mining.
• Mattea has won multiple Country Music Association Awards and uses her music to raise awareness about climate change and social justice issues.

34. Mindy McCready

• Mindy McCready gained attention in the mid-1990s and continued to record through the 2000s, known for her powerful voice and tumultuous personal life.
• Her hit “Guys Do It All the Time” responded to traditional gender roles in country music.
• McCready’s life and career were marked by personal struggles, which were widely covered in the media until her tragic death in 2013.

35. Jessica Andrews

• Jessica Andrews is best known for her song “Who I Am,” which became an anthem for self-acceptance and individuality.
• Her success in the 2000s included awards from the Academy of Country Music and a crossover appeal in the pop music charts.
• Andrews’ music often explores themes of personal growth and the experiences of young women.

36. Julie Roberts

• Julie Roberts rose to fame with her debut single, “Break Down Here,” which was noted for its emotional depth and strong vocal performance.
• Her music career in the 2000s was marked by a series of hits that explored themes of heartache and resilience.
• Roberts has been open about her struggles with multiple sclerosis, advocating for awareness and support for those affected by the disease.

37. Carly Pearce

• Carly Pearce emerged in the late 2000s, gaining prominence with her heartfelt approach to country music and storytelling.
• Her breakthrough came with the success of the song “Every Little Thing,” which showcases her vulnerability and strong country roots.
• Pearce has been recognized with several awards and nominations for her contributions to the genre, which has emphasized a new wave of female country artists.

38. Michelle Wright

• Michelle Wright is one of Canada’s most recognized and awarded female country singers, known for her strong voice and progressive approach to country music.
• Her work in the 2000s continued to garner acclaim, with hits that blend country and pop influences.
• Wright has been a significant figure in promoting Canadian country music internationally and has received numerous awards, including the Juno Award for Country Vocalist of the Year.

39. Jamie O’Neal

• Jamie O’Neal is known for her rich, expressive voice and hit singles like “There Is No Arizona,” which propelled her to fame in the early 2000s.
• Her music combines traditional country elements with modern pop sensibilities, winning her numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations.
• O’Neal is also noted for her songwriting skills, having penned hits for herself and other artists in the genre.

40. K.T. Oslin

• K.T. Oslin, who rose to prominence in the late 1980s, continued influencing the country music scene in the 2000s with her distinctive voice and perspective.
• Known for her music, which addresses themes of female empowerment and complex relationships, Oslin’s approach resonated with a mature audience.
• She was inducted into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame, acknowledging her contributions to music and her unique storytelling abilities.

41. Heidi Newfield

• Heidi Newfield is known primarily for her role as the lead singer of the country group Trick Pony before launching a successful solo career.
• Her solo debut single, “Johnny & June,” was a heartfelt tribute to the legendary country couple Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, showcasing her strong vocal abilities.
• Newfield has been recognized for blending traditional country sounds with a modern rock edge, making her music appealing to a broad audience.

42. SHeDAISY

• SHeDAISY, a group of three sisters, carved out a niche in country music with their harmonious vocals and contemporary pop influences.
• Their albums in the 2000s featured a mix of upbeat tracks and emotional ballads, earning multiple gold and platinum certifications.
• The group is known for its catchy lyrics and strong engagement with themes of female empowerment and personal relationships.

43. Ashley Monroe

• Ashley Monroe is part of the critically acclaimed trio Pistol Annies alongside Miranda Lambert and Angaleena Presley, though she also enjoys a successful solo career.
• Her music often explores complex emotional themes, blending traditional country and modern sounds.
• Monroe has been praised for her songwriting skills and collaborations with other artists, including Blake Shelton and Vince Gill.

44. Holly Dunn

• Holly Dunn gained fame in the late 1980s and continued active into the 2000s. She is known for her hit “Daddy’s Hands,” which remains a classic in the genre.
• She was known for her distinctive voice and straightforward songwriting, which resonated with many fans.
• Dunn’s contributions to country music were recognized with several awards during her career, including two Grammy nominations.

45. Danielle Peck

• Danielle Peck made her mark in the mid-2000s with the release of her debut single, “I Don’t,” which charted well and established her as a promising new artist in the country genre.
• Her music combines traditional country elements with personal storytelling, often reflecting love and heartbreak.
• Peck is also noted for her engaging live performances. She has toured extensively as a headliner supporting more established acts.

46. Linda Davis

• Linda Davis is best known for her duet with Reba McEntire, “Does He Love You,” which won a Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals.
• In the 2000s, Davis continued to release music that showcased her powerful vocal range and emotional depth.
• Beyond her singing career, she is also recognized for mentoring aspiring artists, including her daughter, Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum.

47. Tift Merritt

• Tift Merritt emerged in the early 2000s with a sound that blends country, folk, and rock elements, earning her critical acclaim and a devoted following.
• Her album “Bramble Rose” received widespread praise for its poetic lyrics and authentic musical style.
• Merritt has been nominated for several Americana Music Awards and continues to be celebrated for her songwriting and musical versatility.

48. Elizabeth Cook

• Elizabeth Cook is a country music singer and radio host known for her clear voice and traditional country music style.
• She has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry over 400 times, a testament to her popularity and respect within the country music community.
• Cook’s music often incorporates personal stories and humor, which has endeared her to audiences both in the U.S. and internationally.

49. Tammy Cochran

• Tammy Cochran is best known for her song “Angels in Waiting,” which became a hit due to its emotional storytelling about her brothers, who died of cystic fibrosis.
• Her music typically explores personal tragedy and resilience themes, resonating with listeners who appreciate heartfelt lyrics and strong vocal performances.
• Cochran’s work in the 2000s earned her several awards and nominations, highlighting her impact on the country music genre.

50. Mandy Barnett

• Mandy Barnett started her career portraying Patsy Cline in the musical Always…Patsy Cline. Her powerful voice has drawn comparisons to that of the legendary singer.
• Her approach to country music is traditional, emphasizing classic styles and emotional depth in her interpretations.
• Barnett’s albums have been critically acclaimed for their production quality and faithful homage to country music’s roots.

51. Barbara Mandrell

• Barbara Mandrell is a country music icon who, although more prominent in earlier decades, remained influential into the 2000s with her television specials and public appearances.
• Known for her ability to play multiple musical instruments and sophisticated stage shows, she helped redefine the scope of country music performance.
• Mandrell was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, recognizing her significant contributions to the genre.

52. Shelby Lynne

• Shelby Lynne revitalized her career in the 2000s with the critically acclaimed album “I Am Shelby Lynne,” which, despite being her sixth studio album, won her a Grammy for Best New Artist.
• Her music blends country, rock, and soul elements, reflecting her eclectic influences and innovative approach to music.
• Lynne is known for her powerful voice and deeply personal songwriting, often drawing on her life experiences.

53. Lucinda Williams

• Lucinda Williams, often regarded as one of the most influential songwriters of her generation, continued to produce critically acclaimed albums in the 2000s, including “Essence” and “World Without Tears.”
• Her rock, folk, and country blend has earned her multiple Grammy Awards and a dedicated fanbase.
• Williams is celebrated for her evocative lyrics and ability to convey emotional depth and complexity in her songs.

54. Cyndi Thomson

• Cyndi Thomson made a notable entry into country music with her debut single, “What I Really Meant to Say,” which reached the top of the country charts.
• Thomson returned from the music industry after a brief but successful run in the early 2000s, citing personal reasons.
• Her brief career left a lasting impact, characterized by her distinctive voice and heartfelt songwriting.

55. Carolyn Dawn Johnson

• Carolyn Dawn Johnson is a Canadian singer-songwriter who gained prominence in the 2000s with hits like “Complicated” and “Georgia.”
• Known for her songwriting skills, she has penned tracks for many other artists and received several Canadian Country Music Awards.
• Johnson’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and personal strength, resonating with a wide audience.

56. Allison Moorer

• Allison Moorer is known for her rich, vibrant voice and poignant songwriting, which blends elements of country, folk, and rock.
• She received critical acclaim for her album “The Hardest Part,” and her song “A Soft Place to Fall” was featured in the film “The Horse Whisperer.”
• Moorer has been nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

57. Mindy Smith

• Mindy Smith first gained attention with her cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” which showcased her unique vocal and interpretive abilities.
• Her debut album, “One Moment More,” received critical acclaim for its introspective songwriting and folk-infused country style.
• Smith is known for her thoughtful lyrics and the emotional depth of her music, which often explores themes of faith and personal challenge.

58. Alecia Elliott

• Alecia Elliott was a promising new artist in the early 2000s. Her debut album, “I’m Diggin’ It,” produced a few charting singles.
• Known for her strong vocals and youthful energy, Elliott represented a new wave of talent in country music during her brief spotlight.
• Although her career did not continue at the same pace, she remains a noted figure for her contributions during that period.

59. Anita Cochran

• Anita Cochran is best known for her 1997 hit “What If I Said,” a duet with Steve Wariner.
• Throughout the 2000s, she continued to produce music that blended traditional country with a modern rock sensibility.
• Cochran is also notable for her multi-instrumentalist skills, often playing guitar, banjo, and mandolin on her recordings.

60. Gretchen Peters

• Gretchen Peters is a respected songwriter and artist known for writing hits for Martina McBride and Patty Loveless.
• Her solo work in the 2000s, including albums like “Halcyon” and “Burnt Toast & Offerings,” showcases her skills as a lyricist and her soft, evocative vocal style.
• Peters has been inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, recognizing her impact on the genre and her contributions to the art of songwriting.

Conclusion

The impact of these 60 female country singers from the 2000s goes beyond chart success and awards.

They have collectively expanded the genre’s boundaries, mixing traditional country with other musical styles and addressing various themes in their lyrics, from personal empowerment to social commentary.

Their contributions have opened doors for new generations of artists, ensuring country music’s ongoing growth and diversity.

As pioneers, their legacies are defined by their musical achievements and their ability to inspire and connect with audiences worldwide.

This exceptional group of women has left a lasting impression on the music industry, showcasing the depth and breadth of talent within country music during the 2000s.