• In the 2020s, Country Music experiences a dynamic revival, blending modern elements with traditional roots. This fusion of styles allows the genre to adapt to new generations, gaining popularity with a wider audience.
• On RadioVideo.Music, around 500 songs released in the 2020s are tagged “Country Music.” Among them, ten have over fifty million views on YouTube, and two have over one hundred million.
• Overall, the 5 most popular tracks are Luke Combs’ “Forever After All and “The Kind of Love We Make,” Blake Shelton‘s “Nobody But You,” HARDY’s “wait in the truck” with Lainey Wilson, Bailey Zimmerman’s “Fall In Love.”
• We have listed the 20 “Country Music” songs released in the 2020s, with the highest engagements over the last 90 days.
• You will find them below in descending order of engagements.

1 . Luke Combs - Ain’T No Love In Oklahoma

Released in May 2024, Luke Combs' “Ain't No Love in Oklahoma” leads the soundtrack for the film Twisters, the sequel to 1996's Twister. Co-written by Combs alongside Singleton and Chip Matthews, this country-rock anthem conveys the thrill and danger of tornado chasing, symbolized as a "devil." Its music video, released on May 16, 2024, blends scenes from Twisters with Combs singing in a stormy setting. The track reached #1 on Billboard's Country Airplay in September 2024.

Genres : Jazz, R&B, Hip Hop,contemporary country, country

The music video is directed by Alex Bittan

Featured on the album Twisters: The Album

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

117.72% / -15.12%

2 . Bailey Zimmerman - Fall In Love

Bailey Zimmerman's debut single “Fall In Love,” released in February 2022, combines Americana and country-rock sounds. The song's lyrics tell of a broken-hearted protagonist whose ex has started a new life in South Carolina. With Zimmerman's gritty vocals, the song reached #1 on Billboard's Country Airplay chart and earned quadruple Platinum certification in the U.S. and Canada.

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

Featured on the album Religiously. The Album

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.66% / -0.47%

3 . Hardy - Wait In The Truck (w/ Lainey Wilson)

HARDY and Lainey Wilson's 2022 release “Wait in the Truck” tackles domestic violence with a storyline of a man avenging a battered woman. Produced by Joey Moi and Derek Wells, the song alternates between the man's and woman's perspectives. The video, released in August 2022, visually portrays the intense narrative, helping the track secure the 2023 CMA Award for Musical Event of the Year.

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Justin Clough

Featured on the album The Mockingbird & the Crow

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.50% / -0.49%

4 . Cody Johnson - Dirt Cheap

Cody Johnson's “Dirt Cheap,” produced by Trent Willmon, channels deep-rooted nostalgia and an unwavering attachment to family heritage. The lyrics paint vivid memories of childhood and unbreakable family bonds, depicting a farmer's refusal to part with his land despite lucrative offers. The land holds irreplaceable value, intertwined with generations of cherished experiences. Premiering on CMT and broadcasted on Paramount's Times Square billboard, the video showcases this reverence for family legacy before reaching YouTube. Released in March 2024, "Dirt Cheap" underscores how values and memories remain invaluable.

Genres : Country, Pop,classic texas country, contemporary country, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Dustin Haney

Featured on the album Leather

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

109.47% / -13.79%

5 . Morgan Wallen - You Proof

Morgan Wallen's “You Proof,” produced by Joey Moi and Charlie Handsome, debuted in 2022, reaching #1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay. Wallen portrays heartbreak through country-pop elements, reflecting on a futile search for a “proof” strong enough to erase his ex's memory. The video, set in various bars, visualizes his emotional escape, while a high-speed chase scene with Charly Jordan adds a surreal touch.

Genres : Country,contemporary country

The music video is directed by Justin Clough

Featured on the album One Thing at a Time

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.75% / -0.54%

6 . Lainey Wilson - Wildflowers And Wild Horses

Lainey Wilson's “Wildflowers and Wild Horses,” released in November 2023 and produced by Jay Joyce, blends traditional country and Americana. Wilson reflects on themes of perseverance and freedom, inspired by her rural Louisiana roots. The song's prominent appearance in a Wrangler campaign underscores its celebration of independence.

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

Featured on the album Bell Bottom Country

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

29.06% / -2.89%

7 . Luke Combs - Forever After All

Released in October 2020, Luke Combs' “Forever After All,” co-written shortly after he and his wife moved to Tennessee, is a tender country ballad on lasting love. Debuting at #2 on Billboard's Hot 100 and topping the Hot Country Songs chart, it uses Americana elements and includes footage from Combs' wedding in its music video.

Genres : Country,contemporary country, country

Featured on the album What You See Ain't Always What You Get

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

3.45% / -0.21%

8 . Cole Swindell - She Had Me At Heads Carolina

Cole Swindell's June 2022 release “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” pays tribute to Jo Dee Messina's 1996 hit “Heads Carolina, Tails California.” The song topped Country Airplay for five consecutive weeks and reached double Platinum. Produced as an homage, the video features Messina herself and reimagines ‘90s country nostalgia.

Genres : Country, Rock,contemporary country, country, country road, modern country rock

The music video is directed by Spidey Smith

Featured on the album Stereotype

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

8.68% / -0.65%

9 . Luke Combs - The Kind Of Love We Make

Luke Combs explores a new sound by merging country with R&B in “The Kind of Love We Make,” produced by Combs, Chip Matthews, and Jonathan Singleton. Released in June 2022, it depicts an intimate evening and achieved 3x Platinum in the U.S. Its music video portrays multiple couples' relationships, marking a stylistic shift for Combs while reaching #2 on Country Airplay.

Genres : Country,contemporary country, country

The music video is directed by Tyler Adams

Featured on the album Growin' Up

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

3.81% / -0.27%

10 . Teddy Swims - Some Things I'll Never Know (w/ Maren Morris)

Teddy Swims and Maren Morris explore unanswered questions after a breakup in “Some Things I'll Never Know,” released in November 2023. This soul-infused ballad, featuring a live performance video, merges country and pop influences, showcasing the artists' vocal range.

Genres : Country,classic texas country, contemporary country

Featured on the album I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1)

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

34.39% / -2.95%

11 . Kane Brown - Thank God

Kane Brown and Katelyn Brown's duet “Thank God,” released in September 2022, reached #1 on Billboard's Country Airplay and Hot Country Songs, achieving double Platinum in the U.S. This country-pop ballad, filmed in Hawaii, celebrates their love story, marking their first collaboration.

Genres : Country,black americana, contemporary country, country, country road,

The music video is directed by Alex Alvga

Featured on the album Different Man

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

4.20% / -0.27%

12 . Chris Ledoux - This Cowboy'S Hat

Chris LeDoux's 1982 classic "This Cowboy's Hat" narrates a cowboy's defense of his cherished hat against taunts. Exploring themes of pride and tradition, the song embodies the cowboy spirit. A 2024 video featuring archival footage of LeDoux and his son Ned pays homage to its enduring legacy.

Genres : Country,country, country road, wyoming roots

The music video is directed by Jeff Carter

Featured on the album Used to Want to Be a Cowboy

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

131.55% / -14.85%

13 . Luke Bryan - Love You Miss You Mean It

Luke Bryan's “Love You, Miss You, Mean It,” released in April 2024 and produced by Jeff and Jody Stevens, traces the journey of a couple from high school sweethearts to a bittersweet separation when the woman leaves for college. The song crescendos in its final verse, where she sends the titular text message, rekindling their connection. Resonating with Bryan's personal life, this track reached #39 on the Billboard Hot 100, weaving together themes of young love, distance, and the enduring impact of heartfelt words

Genres : Country, Rock,contemporary country, country, country road, modern country rock

The music video is directed by Dustin Haney

Featured on the album Mind of a Country Boy

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

147.20% / -18.33%

14 . Lainey Wilson - Out Of Oklahoma

Lainey Wilson's 2024 track “Out of Oklahoma” anchors Twisters' soundtrack, using imagery of rural life—crying skies, tall grass, and graffiti-marked water towers—to convey a universal theme of attachment to one's roots. This song resonates with the film's themes while reflecting Wilson's strong ties to place.

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Alex Bittan

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

87.30% / -10.49%

15 . Elle King - Drunk (And I Don't Wanna Go Home)

Elle King and Miranda Lambert's “Drunk (And I Don't Wanna Go Home),” released in February 2021, became the first all-female duet to top Country Airplay in almost 30 years. Produced by Martin Johnson and Brandon Paddock, the lively song celebrates defiance, with a music video set at an extravagant '80s wedding.

Genres : Country, Rock,modern blues rock, contemporary country, country, country dawn, country road

The music video is directed by Alexa Kinigopoulos, Stephen Kinigopoulos

Featured on the album Come Get Your Wife

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

4.70% / -0.32%

16 . Lainey Wilson - 4X4Xu

Lainey Wilson's September 2024 single "4x4xU," produced by Jay Joyce, is a soulful ballad celebrating love and comfort. Inspired by her partner, Devlin "Duck" Hodges, its lyrics emphasize finding a home in love. The video, set in a vintage pickup, extends the narrative from her prior release "Hang Tight Honey."

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Dano Cerny

Featured on the album Whirlwind

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

118.24% / -11.92%

17 . Jessie Murph - How Could You

Released on November 2, 2022, “How Could You” by Jessie Murph tackles the raw emotions of betrayal and pain within a toxic relationship. Produced by Jenna Andrews, Gabe Simon, Stephen Kirk, and Chris Allgood, the song captures Murph's anger and disappointment toward a partner who crossed emotional boundaries. As a powerful pop-rock ballad, the song covers Murph's confrontation with the destructive impact of the relationship, highlighting her intense response to betrayal.

Genres : Pop,modern country pop, singer-songwriter pop

The music video is directed by Patrick Tohill

Featured on the album Drowning

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

11.42% / -0.64%

18 . Justin Moore - You, Me, And Whiskey

Justin Moore and Priscilla Block's October 2022 duet “You, Me, & Whiskey” brings intimacy to the forefront, reaching #37 on Billboard's Hot 100 and earning Platinum status. The song portrays a shared moment, enhanced by whiskey's warmth, between two lovers.

Genres : Country, Pop,arkansas country, contemporary country, country, country road, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Cody Villalobos

Featured on the album Stray Dog

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

16.29% / -1.00%

19 . Jason Aldean - Let Your Boys Be Country

Jason Aldean's “Let Your Boys Be Country,” released in November 2023, resonates with rural upbringing themes. Featuring Aldean's own sons in the video, the track, reflecting Aldean's personal experiences, emphasizes country values passed to the next generation.

Genres : Country, Rock,contemporary country, country, country road, modern country rock

Featured on the album Highway Desperad

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

22.66% / -1.92%

20 . Jessie Murph - Pray

Jessie Murph's single “Pray,” released in February 2022, reached #95 on the Billboard Hot 100, propelled by significant TikTok traction, where it was featured in nearly 100,000 videos before its release. This introspective track touches on Murph's experiences with depression, complex family dynamics, and coping mechanisms, particularly her relationship with her father. The lyrics provide a glimpse into her struggles, underscoring personal themes of resilience in the face of hardship.

Genres : Pop,modern country pop, singer-songwriter pop

Featured on the album Drowning

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

8.69% / -0.52%

We don’t claim to be exhaustive. It’s possible you won’t find a title you expected to see on this list. Sorry about that — these things happen.

ABOUT COUNTRY MUSIC

Origins, Evolution, and Subgenres

Country Music, born in the early 20th century in the American South, is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical fabric of the region. Drawing from folk, blues, and gospel influences, Country Music often recounts stories of everyday life, work, heartbreak, and perseverance.

Over the decades, several subgenres emerge to reflect cultural shifts and evolving musical tastes.

In the 2020s, Country Music enjoys a vigorous resurgence by incorporating pop, rock, and even hip-hop elements while preserving its traditional foundations. A notable example of this pop-rock fusion is “Dangerous: The Double Album” by Morgan Wallen, released in 2021 to widespread critical and commercial success. Wallen combines classic country themes with urban beats and electric guitars, retaining the genre’s characteristic storytelling of lost love and family bonds.

Luke Combs, another prominent figure in contemporary country, merges traditional sounds with modern production. Songs like “Beer Never Broke My Heart” and “Forever After All” reflect a rock influence in his compositions while remaining firmly anchored in country’s values and aesthetics.

A bolder evolution is seen in the rise of “country trap”, popularized by artists like Lil Nas X with his hit “Old Town Road” in 2019, which retains its cultural significance in the 2020s. This song blends country elements (banjo, cowboy life lyrics) with trap rhythms, creating a unique hybrid that expands the genre’s boundaries.

These tracks have gone viral on platforms like TikTok, introducing Country Music to younger, urban audiences often less familiar with the genre.

“Bro-country”, already popular in the 2010s, also experiences a revival in the 2020s with artists like Florida Georgia Line and Sam Hunt, focusing on lighter themes like parties, relationships, and leisure activities, often set in rural or lakeside settings. This style offers an accessible and entertaining experience, though it sometimes draws criticism from traditionalists for its divergence from country’s roots.

Finally, contemporary country artists openly tackle personal and introspective themes. Artists like Ingrid Andress and Kacey Musgraves explore topics of family and relationships, love and heartbreak, and self-discovery in a modern light.

Melody, Instrumentation, Production, and Labels

Country Music in the 2020s often retains a recognizable, engaging melody, accompanied by instrumentation that balances modernity with tradition.

The acoustic guitar remains a cornerstone, frequently supported by electric guitars, banjos, mandolins, and fiddles, with modern percussion adding depth.

In terms of production, key figures like Joey Moi (Morgan Wallen, Florida Georgia Line), Jay Joyce (Eric Church, Lainey Wilson), and Dan Huff (Keith Urban, Thomas Rhett) play a pivotal role in crafting sounds that allow the genre to evolve while maintaining its authenticity.

Key Country Music Labels

• Big Machine Records
• Warner Music Nashville
• Capitol Nashville
• Sony Music Nashville
• MCA Nashville
• RCA Nashville
• Valory Music Co.
• Broken Bow Records
• Arista Nashville
• Curb Records

Country Music Online Media

Numerous media outlets are dedicated to promoting and analyzing Country Music.

• Rolling Stone Country: A section of Rolling Stone offering news and analysis on Country Music.
• Country Now: News, interviews, and features on new artists and trends in Country Music.
• CMT (Country Music Television): Broadcasts videos, shows, and documentaries focused on country artists.
• The Boot: A comprehensive site with reviews, interviews, and Country Music news.
• Taste of Country: Information and entertainment featuring some of the biggest names in country.
• Country Music Association (CMA): An organization that hosts the Country Music Awards and promotes country culture.
• Americana Music Association: An organization dedicated to promoting Americana and alternative country.

Connections Between Country Music and Fashion

Several brands shape the contemporary Country Music aesthetic, combining traditional elements with modern influences to create a distinctive style.

• Wrangler: This iconic denim brand collaborates with country artists, like Lainey Wilson, for ad campaigns that celebrate authentic western style.
• Ariat: Known for its western boots and apparel, this brand outfits many country artists and fans, embodying a modern cowboy look.

• In the 2020s, Country Music experiences a dynamic revival, blending modern elements with traditional roots. This fusion of styles allows the genre to adapt to new generations, gaining popularity with a wider audience.
• On RadioVideo.Music, around 500 songs released in the 2020s are tagged “Country Music.” Among them, ten have over fifty million views on YouTube, and two have over one hundred million.
• Overall, the 5 most popular tracks are Luke Combs’ “Forever After All and “The Kind of Love We Make,” Blake Shelton‘s “Nobody But You,” HARDY’s “wait in the truck” with Lainey Wilson, Bailey Zimmerman’s “Fall In Love.”
• We have listed the 20 “Country Music” songs released in the 2020s, with the highest engagements over the last 90 days.
• You will find them below in descending order of engagements.

1 . Luke Combs - Ain’T No Love In Oklahoma

Released in May 2024, Luke Combs' “Ain't No Love in Oklahoma” leads the soundtrack for the film Twisters, the sequel to 1996's Twister. Co-written by Combs alongside Singleton and Chip Matthews, this country-rock anthem conveys the thrill and danger of tornado chasing, symbolized as a "devil." Its music video, released on May 16, 2024, blends scenes from Twisters with Combs singing in a stormy setting. The track reached #1 on Billboard's Country Airplay in September 2024.

Genres : Jazz, R&B, Hip Hop,contemporary country, country

The music video is directed by Alex Bittan

Featured on the album Twisters: The Album

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

117.72% / -15.12%

2 . Bailey Zimmerman - Fall In Love

Bailey Zimmerman's debut single “Fall In Love,” released in February 2022, combines Americana and country-rock sounds. The song's lyrics tell of a broken-hearted protagonist whose ex has started a new life in South Carolina. With Zimmerman's gritty vocals, the song reached #1 on Billboard's Country Airplay chart and earned quadruple Platinum certification in the U.S. and Canada.

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

Featured on the album Religiously. The Album

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.66% / -0.47%

3 . Hardy - Wait In The Truck (w/ Lainey Wilson)

HARDY and Lainey Wilson's 2022 release “Wait in the Truck” tackles domestic violence with a storyline of a man avenging a battered woman. Produced by Joey Moi and Derek Wells, the song alternates between the man's and woman's perspectives. The video, released in August 2022, visually portrays the intense narrative, helping the track secure the 2023 CMA Award for Musical Event of the Year.

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Justin Clough

Featured on the album The Mockingbird & the Crow

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.50% / -0.49%

4 . Cody Johnson - Dirt Cheap

Cody Johnson's “Dirt Cheap,” produced by Trent Willmon, channels deep-rooted nostalgia and an unwavering attachment to family heritage. The lyrics paint vivid memories of childhood and unbreakable family bonds, depicting a farmer's refusal to part with his land despite lucrative offers. The land holds irreplaceable value, intertwined with generations of cherished experiences. Premiering on CMT and broadcasted on Paramount's Times Square billboard, the video showcases this reverence for family legacy before reaching YouTube. Released in March 2024, "Dirt Cheap" underscores how values and memories remain invaluable.

Genres : Country, Pop,classic texas country, contemporary country, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Dustin Haney

Featured on the album Leather

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

109.47% / -13.79%

5 . Morgan Wallen - You Proof

Morgan Wallen's “You Proof,” produced by Joey Moi and Charlie Handsome, debuted in 2022, reaching #1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay. Wallen portrays heartbreak through country-pop elements, reflecting on a futile search for a “proof” strong enough to erase his ex's memory. The video, set in various bars, visualizes his emotional escape, while a high-speed chase scene with Charly Jordan adds a surreal touch.

Genres : Country,contemporary country

The music video is directed by Justin Clough

Featured on the album One Thing at a Time

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

6.75% / -0.54%

6 . Lainey Wilson - Wildflowers And Wild Horses

Lainey Wilson's “Wildflowers and Wild Horses,” released in November 2023 and produced by Jay Joyce, blends traditional country and Americana. Wilson reflects on themes of perseverance and freedom, inspired by her rural Louisiana roots. The song's prominent appearance in a Wrangler campaign underscores its celebration of independence.

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

Featured on the album Bell Bottom Country

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

29.06% / -2.89%

7 . Luke Combs - Forever After All

Released in October 2020, Luke Combs' “Forever After All,” co-written shortly after he and his wife moved to Tennessee, is a tender country ballad on lasting love. Debuting at #2 on Billboard's Hot 100 and topping the Hot Country Songs chart, it uses Americana elements and includes footage from Combs' wedding in its music video.

Genres : Country,contemporary country, country

Featured on the album What You See Ain't Always What You Get

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

3.45% / -0.21%

8 . Cole Swindell - She Had Me At Heads Carolina

Cole Swindell's June 2022 release “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” pays tribute to Jo Dee Messina's 1996 hit “Heads Carolina, Tails California.” The song topped Country Airplay for five consecutive weeks and reached double Platinum. Produced as an homage, the video features Messina herself and reimagines ‘90s country nostalgia.

Genres : Country, Rock,contemporary country, country, country road, modern country rock

The music video is directed by Spidey Smith

Featured on the album Stereotype

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

8.68% / -0.65%

9 . Luke Combs - The Kind Of Love We Make

Luke Combs explores a new sound by merging country with R&B in “The Kind of Love We Make,” produced by Combs, Chip Matthews, and Jonathan Singleton. Released in June 2022, it depicts an intimate evening and achieved 3x Platinum in the U.S. Its music video portrays multiple couples' relationships, marking a stylistic shift for Combs while reaching #2 on Country Airplay.

Genres : Country,contemporary country, country

The music video is directed by Tyler Adams

Featured on the album Growin' Up

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

3.81% / -0.27%

10 . Teddy Swims - Some Things I'll Never Know (w/ Maren Morris)

Teddy Swims and Maren Morris explore unanswered questions after a breakup in “Some Things I'll Never Know,” released in November 2023. This soul-infused ballad, featuring a live performance video, merges country and pop influences, showcasing the artists' vocal range.

Genres : Country,classic texas country, contemporary country

Featured on the album I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1)

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

34.39% / -2.95%

11 . Kane Brown - Thank God

Kane Brown and Katelyn Brown's duet “Thank God,” released in September 2022, reached #1 on Billboard's Country Airplay and Hot Country Songs, achieving double Platinum in the U.S. This country-pop ballad, filmed in Hawaii, celebrates their love story, marking their first collaboration.

Genres : Country,black americana, contemporary country, country, country road,

The music video is directed by Alex Alvga

Featured on the album Different Man

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

4.20% / -0.27%

12 . Chris Ledoux - This Cowboy'S Hat

Chris LeDoux's 1982 classic "This Cowboy's Hat" narrates a cowboy's defense of his cherished hat against taunts. Exploring themes of pride and tradition, the song embodies the cowboy spirit. A 2024 video featuring archival footage of LeDoux and his son Ned pays homage to its enduring legacy.

Genres : Country,country, country road, wyoming roots

The music video is directed by Jeff Carter

Featured on the album Used to Want to Be a Cowboy

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

131.55% / -14.85%

13 . Luke Bryan - Love You Miss You Mean It

Luke Bryan's “Love You, Miss You, Mean It,” released in April 2024 and produced by Jeff and Jody Stevens, traces the journey of a couple from high school sweethearts to a bittersweet separation when the woman leaves for college. The song crescendos in its final verse, where she sends the titular text message, rekindling their connection. Resonating with Bryan's personal life, this track reached #39 on the Billboard Hot 100, weaving together themes of young love, distance, and the enduring impact of heartfelt words

Genres : Country, Rock,contemporary country, country, country road, modern country rock

The music video is directed by Dustin Haney

Featured on the album Mind of a Country Boy

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

147.20% / -18.33%

14 . Lainey Wilson - Out Of Oklahoma

Lainey Wilson's 2024 track “Out of Oklahoma” anchors Twisters' soundtrack, using imagery of rural life—crying skies, tall grass, and graffiti-marked water towers—to convey a universal theme of attachment to one's roots. This song resonates with the film's themes while reflecting Wilson's strong ties to place.

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Alex Bittan

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

87.30% / -10.49%

15 . Elle King - Drunk (And I Don't Wanna Go Home)

Elle King and Miranda Lambert's “Drunk (And I Don't Wanna Go Home),” released in February 2021, became the first all-female duet to top Country Airplay in almost 30 years. Produced by Martin Johnson and Brandon Paddock, the lively song celebrates defiance, with a music video set at an extravagant '80s wedding.

Genres : Country, Rock,modern blues rock, contemporary country, country, country dawn, country road

The music video is directed by Alexa Kinigopoulos, Stephen Kinigopoulos

Featured on the album Come Get Your Wife

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

4.70% / -0.32%

16 . Lainey Wilson - 4X4Xu

Lainey Wilson's September 2024 single "4x4xU," produced by Jay Joyce, is a soulful ballad celebrating love and comfort. Inspired by her partner, Devlin "Duck" Hodges, its lyrics emphasize finding a home in love. The video, set in a vintage pickup, extends the narrative from her prior release "Hang Tight Honey."

Genres : Country, Pop,contemporary country, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Dano Cerny

Featured on the album Whirlwind

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

118.24% / -11.92%

17 . Jessie Murph - How Could You

Released on November 2, 2022, “How Could You” by Jessie Murph tackles the raw emotions of betrayal and pain within a toxic relationship. Produced by Jenna Andrews, Gabe Simon, Stephen Kirk, and Chris Allgood, the song captures Murph's anger and disappointment toward a partner who crossed emotional boundaries. As a powerful pop-rock ballad, the song covers Murph's confrontation with the destructive impact of the relationship, highlighting her intense response to betrayal.

Genres : Pop,modern country pop, singer-songwriter pop

The music video is directed by Patrick Tohill

Featured on the album Drowning

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

11.42% / -0.64%

18 . Justin Moore - You, Me, And Whiskey

Justin Moore and Priscilla Block's October 2022 duet “You, Me, & Whiskey” brings intimacy to the forefront, reaching #37 on Billboard's Hot 100 and earning Platinum status. The song portrays a shared moment, enhanced by whiskey's warmth, between two lovers.

Genres : Country, Pop,arkansas country, contemporary country, country, country road, modern country pop

The music video is directed by Cody Villalobos

Featured on the album Stray Dog

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

16.29% / -1.00%

19 . Jason Aldean - Let Your Boys Be Country

Jason Aldean's “Let Your Boys Be Country,” released in November 2023, resonates with rural upbringing themes. Featuring Aldean's own sons in the video, the track, reflecting Aldean's personal experiences, emphasizes country values passed to the next generation.

Genres : Country, Rock,contemporary country, country, country road, modern country rock

Featured on the album Highway Desperad

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

22.66% / -1.92%

20 . Jessie Murph - Pray

Jessie Murph's single “Pray,” released in February 2022, reached #95 on the Billboard Hot 100, propelled by significant TikTok traction, where it was featured in nearly 100,000 videos before its release. This introspective track touches on Murph's experiences with depression, complex family dynamics, and coping mechanisms, particularly her relationship with her father. The lyrics provide a glimpse into her struggles, underscoring personal themes of resilience in the face of hardship.

Genres : Pop,modern country pop, singer-songwriter pop

Featured on the album Drowning

>> Lyrics >> More by the same : Website

8.69% / -0.52%

Modest disclaimer: We don’t claim to be exhaustive. It’s possible you won’t find a title you expected to see on this list. Sorry about that — these things happen.

ABOUT COUNTRY MUSIC

Origins, Evolution, and Subgenres

Country Music, born in the early 20th century in the American South, is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical fabric of the region. Drawing from folk, blues, and gospel influences, Country Music often recounts stories of everyday life, work, heartbreak, and perseverance.

Over the decades, several subgenres emerge to reflect cultural shifts and evolving musical tastes.

In the 2020s, Country Music enjoys a vigorous resurgence by incorporating pop, rock, and even hip-hop elements while preserving its traditional foundations. A notable example of this pop-rock fusion is “Dangerous: The Double Album” by Morgan Wallen, released in 2021 to widespread critical and commercial success. Wallen combines classic country themes with urban beats and electric guitars, retaining the genre’s characteristic storytelling of lost love and family bonds.

Luke Combs, another prominent figure in contemporary country, merges traditional sounds with modern production. Songs like “Beer Never Broke My Heart” and “Forever After All” reflect a rock influence in his compositions while remaining firmly anchored in country’s values and aesthetics.

A bolder evolution is seen in the rise of “country trap”, popularized by artists like Lil Nas X with his hit “Old Town Road” in 2019, which retains its cultural significance in the 2020s. This song blends country elements (banjo, cowboy life lyrics) with trap rhythms, creating a unique hybrid that expands the genre’s boundaries.

These tracks have gone viral on platforms like TikTok, introducing Country Music to younger, urban audiences often less familiar with the genre.

“Bro-country”, already popular in the 2010s, also experiences a revival in the 2020s with artists like Florida Georgia Line and Sam Hunt, focusing on lighter themes like parties, relationships, and leisure activities, often set in rural or lakeside settings. This style offers an accessible and entertaining experience, though it sometimes draws criticism from traditionalists for its divergence from country’s roots.

Finally, contemporary country artists openly tackle personal and introspective themes. Artists like Ingrid Andress and Kacey Musgraves explore topics of family and relationships, love and heartbreak, and self-discovery in a modern light.

Melody, Instrumentation, Production, and Labels

Country Music in the 2020s often retains a recognizable, engaging melody, accompanied by instrumentation that balances modernity with tradition.

The acoustic guitar remains a cornerstone, frequently supported by electric guitars, banjos, mandolins, and fiddles, with modern percussion adding depth.

In terms of production, key figures like Joey Moi (Morgan Wallen, Florida Georgia Line), Jay Joyce (Eric Church, Lainey Wilson), and Dan Huff (Keith Urban, Thomas Rhett) play a pivotal role in crafting sounds that allow the genre to evolve while maintaining its authenticity.

Key Country Music Labels

• Big Machine Records
• Warner Music Nashville
• Capitol Nashville
• Sony Music Nashville
• MCA Nashville
• RCA Nashville
• Valory Music Co.
• Broken Bow Records
• Arista Nashville
• Curb Records

Country Music Online Media

Numerous media outlets are dedicated to promoting and analyzing Country Music.

• Rolling Stone Country: A section of Rolling Stone offering news and analysis on Country Music.
• Country Now: News, interviews, and features on new artists and trends in Country Music.
• CMT (Country Music Television): Broadcasts videos, shows, and documentaries focused on country artists.
• The Boot: A comprehensive site with reviews, interviews, and Country Music news.
• Taste of Country: Information and entertainment featuring some of the biggest names in country.
• Country Music Association (CMA): An organization that hosts the Country Music Awards and promotes country culture.
• Americana Music Association: An organization dedicated to promoting Americana and alternative country.

Connections Between Country Music and Fashion

Several brands shape the contemporary Country Music aesthetic, combining traditional elements with modern influences to create a distinctive style.

• Wrangler: This iconic denim brand collaborates with country artists, like Lainey Wilson, for ad campaigns that celebrate authentic western style.
• Ariat: Known for its western boots and apparel, this brand outfits many country artists and fans, embodying a modern cowboy look.
• Stetson: Famous for its western hats, Stetson is a symbol of country culture, worn by many artists at concerts and events.
• Boot Barn: This retailer offers collections inspired by country artists like Miranda Lambert, allowing fans to adopt a style directly influenced by their idols.
• Levi’s: While generally associated with American style, Levi’s often incorporates country-inspired elements and collaborates with Country Music artists for special collections.
• Justin Boots: A well-loved boot brand in the country scene, linked with rodeos and rural culture, fitting the typical style of country artists.
• Kimes Ranch: Known for its ranch-inspired denim, this clothing brand aligns with country style through durable and modern designs.
• Lucchese: This handmade boot brand is a western staple, frequently worn by country celebrities.
• Rock & Roll Denim: Created for country fans, this brand offers a youthful style inspired by rodeos and music.
• Double D Ranch: A luxury clothing brand that integrates western craftsmanship with sophisticated style, popular with country artists and fans.

ADJACENT GENRES

• contemporary country
• country road
• modern country rock
• country dawn
• country pop
• countrygaze
• classic texas country
• country rap
• alternative country
• outlaw country
• black americana
• new americana
• queer country