The 1990s saw a surge in popularity for country music, with artists like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, and Tim McGraw dominating the charts.
These artists produced hit after hit, with many of their songs becoming classics that are still beloved today. But what about the deep cuts on their albums?
The songs that weren’t released as singles but still hold a special place in fans’ hearts? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best 90s country album songs that may have been overlooked.
While some of the most popular 90s country songs were also released as singles, there were plenty of hidden gems on albums that didn’t get as much attention.
These songs often showcased the artist’s range and versatility and gave fans a deeper look into their personal lives and experiences. From heart-wrenching ballads to upbeat anthems, there was something for everyone on these albums.
Whether you’re a die-hard country music fan or just looking to discover some new music, exploring the lesser-known tracks on 90s country albums is a great way to appreciate the genre’s rich history and diverse offerings.
So sit back, relax, and prepare to take a trip down memory lane with some of the best 90s country album songs.
Rise of 90s Country Music
The 1990s were a period of significant growth for country music. It was a decade that saw the genre move from its traditional roots to a more modern sound.
The rise of 90s country music was marked by a new generation of artists who brought a fresh perspective to the genre. This section will explore the key factors that contributed to the rise of 90s country music.
Influential Artists
The 90s saw the emergence of several influential country music artists who helped shape the sound of the genre.
Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, and Alan Jackson were among the most successful artists of the decade.
Garth Brooks was known for his high-energy performances and his ability to connect with his audience. Shania Twain brought a pop-infused sound to country music, while Alan Jackson’s traditional style resonated with fans of the genre.
Key Albums
Several albums released in the 90s helped define the sound of the decade. Garth Brooks’s “No Fences” was one of the most successful albums of the decade, with hits like “Friends in Low Places” and “The Thunder Rolls.”
Shania Twain’s “Come On Over” was another landmark album, featuring hits like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and “You’re Still the One.”
Alan Jackson’s “A Lot About Livin’ (And a Little ’bout Love)” was also a critical and commercial success, with hits like “Chattahoochee” and “She’s Got the Rhythm (And I Got the Blues).”
In conclusion, the rise of 90s country music was marked by the emergence of new artists and a shift towards a more modern sound. The decade saw the release of several influential albums that helped define the sound of the genre.
The legacy of 90s country music continues to influence the genre to this day.
The following table contains the top albums of the 1990s:
| Artist | Album | Year | Genre | Key Singles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garth Brooks | No Fences | 1990 | Country | The Thunder Rolls, Friends in Low Places, If Tomorrow Never Comes |
| Shania Twain | Come On Over | 1997 | Country Pop | Man! I Feel Like a Woman!, You’re Still the One, That Don’t Impress Me Much |
| Alan Jackson | A Lot About Livin’ (And a Little ’bout Love) | 1992 | Country | Chattahoochee, She’s Got the Rhythm (And I Got the Blues), Don’t Rock the Jukebox |
| Garth Brooks | Ropin’ the Wind | 1991 | Country | The Dance, Rodeo, What She Don’t Know |
| Lauryn Hill | The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill | 1998 | Neo Soul | Doo Wop (That Thing), Ex-Factor, Lost Ones |
| Alanis Morissette | Jagged Little Pill | 1995 | Alternative Rock | You Oughta Know, Ironic, Hand in My Pocket |
Defining Songs of the Decade
The 90s were a golden era for country music, with many artists producing memorable albums and songs that continue to resonate with fans today.
Here are some of the defining songs of the decade.
Chart-Topping Hits
One of the hallmarks of 90s country music was the abundance of chart-topping hits.
Songs like “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus, “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks, and “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn dominated the airwaves and helped to define the sound of the era.
These songs were known for their catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and upbeat rhythms that made them impossible to resist.
Award-Winning Tracks
In addition to chart success, many 90s country songs were also recognized with awards and accolades.
Some of the most notable award-winning tracks of the decade include “The Dance” by Garth Brooks, which won both Song of the Year and Video of the Year at the 1991 Academy of Country Music Awards, and “I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton, which won the Country Music Association Award for Song of the Year in 1993.
Other notable award-winning tracks include “Don’t Rock the Jukebox” by Alan Jackson, which won the Country Music Association Award for Single of the Year in 1992, and “Independence Day” by Martina McBride, which won the Country Music Association Award for Video of the Year in 1994.
Overall, these defining songs of the decade helped to shape the sound of 90s country music and continue to be beloved by fans to this day.
Evolution of Country Music Styles
Subgenre Emergence
Country music has been around since the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that the genre really began to diversify. During this time, a number of subgenres emerged, each with its own unique sound and style.
One of the most popular subgenres was “New Country,” which blended traditional country music with elements of rock, pop, and other genres. Upbeat tempos, catchy hooks, and polished production values characterized this style.
Artists like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, and Faith Hill helped to popularize this sound, which dominated the country charts throughout the 1990s.
Another subgenre that emerged during this time was “alt-country,” which took a more stripped-down approach to country music. This style was influenced by punk rock and other alternative genres and was characterized by raw, emotional songwriting and a DIY aesthetic.
Artists like Uncle Tupelo, Wilco, and Lucinda Williams helped to popularize this sound, which has since become a major influence on indie rock and Americana music.
Influence of Rock and Pop
One of the key factors driving the evolution of country music during the 1990s was the influence of rock and pop music. As these genres became more popular, many country artists began incorporating elements of these styles into their music.
For example, many new country songs featured electric guitars, synthesizers, and other instruments that were more commonly associated with rock and pop music.
Similarly, many alt-country artists drew inspiration from punk rock and other alternative genres, which helped to give their music a more edgy and experimental sound.
Overall, the 1990s were a time of great innovation and experimentation in country music. With the emergence of new subgenres and the influence of rock and pop music, the genre was able to evolve and expand in exciting new directions.
Legacy and Influence
The 90s country music scene produced some of the most iconic and memorable songs in the genre’s history. These songs have left a lasting impact on modern country music and continue to inspire new generations of artists.
Impact on Modern Country
Many of the songs from the 90s country music era have become staples in modern country music. The storytelling, instrumentation, and vocal styles of these songs have influenced countless artists and continue to shape the sound of the genre today.
For example, songs like “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks and “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus have become synonymous with country music and are often covered by newer artists.
The emotional depth and authenticity of songs like “The Dance” by Garth Brooks and “Don’t Take the Girl” by Tim McGraw have also inspired countless ballads in modern country music.
Revival and Nostalgia
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in 90s country music. Many fans who grew up listening to these songs have rediscovered them, and younger listeners have been introduced to the genre through their parents or grandparents.
This revival has led to a wave of nostalgia for the era, with many artists paying tribute to the songs and sounds of the 90s.
Some artists have even released albums that pay homage to the era, such as Chris Stapleton’s “From A Room: Volume 2,” which features a cover of George Strait’s “Nobody In His Right Mind Would’ve Left Her.”
Overall, the legacy and influence of 90s country music is undeniable. The songs from this era continue to inspire and shape the sound of modern country music while also evoking a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the genre’s rich history.
Conclusion:
- 1990s country music saw a surge in popularity and diversification.
- Key factors included new artists, modern sounds, and subgenres like “new country” and “alt-country.”
- Defining songs like “Achy Breaky Heart” and “The Dance” remain popular today.
- 90s country still influences modern artists and inspires a nostalgic revival.