Some of the finest old-school country songs on the list are “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” “Man of Constant Sorrow,” “Mammas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Hello Darlin’,” “Good-Hearted Woman,” “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’,” “Stand by Your Man,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “Crazy.”
Country music is a popular music style that started in rural places, especially in the Southern and Western parts of the United States which is known for its storytelling lyrics. Additional details about country music include:
| Instruments | Guitar, fiddle, harmonica, banjo, bass, drums, and piano. |
| Themes | Love, heartbreak, everyday life, hard work, experiences in rural areas, and more. |
| Subgenres | Bluegrass, Country Pop, Bro-Country, Bakersfield Sound, Red Dirt, Gothic Country, Americana, and Country Rap. |
Old-school country songs, in particular, are classic country songs and have a different and nostalgic vibe. They hit the right emotional spots and are different in a good way.
Singers like Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, John Denver, and many others have given us wonderful memories with their great old-school country songs.
What Are The Best Old School Country Songs?
If you’re in the mood for some excellent old-school country music, you’re in the right spot. I’ve personally selected and carefully put together this list to provide you with the best experience. Check it out below!
‘Your Cheatin’ Heart’ by Hank Williams
In 1952, Hank Williams released a song that struck a chord with many, becoming one of the most renowned tunes of its time. The lyrics subtly touch upon Hank Williams’ relationship with his wife, Audrey Sheppard.
The song addresses the theme of infidelity, warning those who stray in their relationships. It emphasizes the repercussions, explaining that cheating not only damages trust in a partner but also brings loneliness and regret to the cheater. The song serves as a reminder that temporary pleasure can lead to lasting consequences.
‘Man Of Constant Sorrows’ by The Stanley Brothers
Released in 1950, the Stanley Brothers masterfully performed this song, quickly propelling it to fame. The lyrics resonated with listeners, portraying the hardships and misfortunes in a man’s life.
The title itself reflects the profound sorrow that has consumed the man. From leaving his home to finding no support from friends and family to enduring six years of struggle, including parting ways with his lover, the song paints a vivid picture of a life filled with sadness.
The man becomes so overwhelmed by these unfortunate events that he loses the will to live, finding no happiness. The song also conveys the man’s hopelessness, expressing his belief that he will be forgotten after his death.
‘Mammas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys’ by Waylon Jennings And Willie Nelson
Securing the best country performance at the 1979 Grammy Awards, this 1975 release not only climbed the Billboard charts but also became an undeniable hit. The song delivers a message to mothers, cautioning them against encouraging their children to become cowboys.
It portrays cowboys as tough individuals, not easily loved or understood. The lyrics provide reasons why mothers should guide their children toward professions like being doctors, highlighting that cowboys are often away from home.
Moreover, the song suggests that while those who know cowboys may find it challenging to live with them, those who don’t know them personally might not like them much. It emphasizes that cowboys are unique individuals, and their pride prevents them from clearing any misconceptions about themselves.
‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ by John Denver
In 2001, John Denver released a song that many people enjoy during road trips, and it almost hit the top of the Billboard charts, reaching No. 2.
The song talks about home, especially West Virginia in this instance. It emphasizes that home isn’t necessarily a certain place but rather where you feel a sense of belonging. Home is a place where you feel happy the most.
‘Hello Darlin” by Conway Twitty
It’s no surprise that this 1970 song claimed the top spot on the Billboard country charts—its emotional resonance struck a chord with many. The song revolves around a meeting with a past lover, triggering memories of their time together.
The protagonist expresses deep longing and sorrow, admitting to missing the person intensely and often shedding tears over their separation. Despite recognizing that the ex-lover has moved on and found a new partner, the protagonist apologizes sincerely for any past hurts and wishes them well.
There’s a lingering desire to reconcile, even asking for a single kiss to relive the past. Eventually, the man understands the need to overcome the pain and move forward with his life.
‘Coal Miner’s Daughter’ by Loretta Lynn
In 1970, this song became a top hit on the Billboard country charts. It’s like a musical story about Loretta Lynn’s life.
Growing up in the countryside with a coal miner dad, Loretta paints a clear picture of what life is like in rural areas, talking about relationships and challenges. The song is inspired by Loretta Lynn’s own experiences, especially her dad’s job in the coal mines.
‘Delta Dawn’ by Tanya Tucker
In 1972, Tanya Tucker released her first No.1 hit, and it quickly became a favorite among people. The song narrates the story of a lovely woman named Delta Dawn in search of her lover. It highlights Delta Dawn’s beauty, admired by everyone.
The storyline unfolds as she falls in love with a man who, despite being undeserving, promised to marry her. Fast forward to later years, the people of Brownsville label her as crazy because she continues to wait for him, packing her suitcase daily.
The faded flower in her hair serves as a reminder of the days she spent with him. Ultimately, the song reflects on the challenges faced after falling in love with someone who wasn’t worthy of it.
‘Mama Tried’ by Merle Haggard
Holding the No.1 spot on the Billboard charts for four weeks in 1968, this song is deeply poignant and emotional. It narrates a story about a mother’s unwavering efforts to guide her child in the absence of a father.
Despite the father’s absence, the mother perseveres, working tirelessly to provide and instill valuable life lessons. She imparts wisdom, teaching the child to be thoughtful and follow the right path.
However, during those years, the child fails to realize that his mother’s teachings are for his own benefit. Instead, he rebels, engages in opposite behaviors, and consistently finds himself in trouble, eventually ending up in jail at the age of 21 with a life sentence.
The realization comes upon the child that he alone is responsible for the unfortunate turn of events, acknowledging that his mother had done her best to guide him in the right direction.
‘Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man’ by Conway Twitty And Loretta Lynn
In 1973, Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn gifted us with a remarkable song that resonated with people, securing the No.1 spot on the Billboards. The song revolves around the profound love shared between a Louisiana woman and a Mississippi man, separated by the one-mile-wide Mississippi River.
It expresses their intense passion for each other, describing the irresistible desire to be in each other’s arms. The song depicts a willingness to overcome obstacles, even the presence of alligators in the river, as the sole focus is on reuniting.
Their longing to be together is so powerful that they are determined to swim across the river to meet, believing their love can outpace the alligators. Ultimately, the song beautifully captures the intense yearning to be with a loved one who is physically distant.
‘Crazy Arms’ by Willie Nelson And Ray Price
Many of us may deeply connect with this song, holding it dear to our hearts. Willie Nelson and Ray Price truly struck a chord with those experiencing unrequited love when they released this song in 1980, which quickly rose to the top of the charts.
The song revolves around the protagonist reflecting on past love, expressing deep longing and sadness over the realization that their love has moved on and is marrying someone else. Despite knowing that the love won’t be reciprocated, the protagonist admits to still holding onto that desire.
All the fears and anxieties have turned into a harsh reality, but towards the end, there’s a subtle hint of hope as the protagonist considers the possibility of finding love again and overcoming the loneliness.
‘Good-Hearted Woman’ by Waylon Jennings
Reaching No.3 on the Billboard charts in 1972, this song tells the story of a kind-hearted woman. She’s willing to be with a man, even though she may not fully understand his ways. Despite the challenges and his carefree lifestyle, she remains loyal and loves him deeply.
Their future seems uncertain, with the man not having solid plans, but the woman stands by him, committed and unwavering in her affection. The song beautifully captures the essence of unconditional love, where imperfections don’t deter the partners from holding onto one another.
‘Kiss An Angel Good Mornin’ by Charley Pride
Charley Pride released this song in 1971 which quickly turned into a hit. The song revolves around two people deeply in love, highlighting that the key to happiness lies in loving your partner the right way. The protagonist, always seen as joyful and smiling, becomes the subject of curiosity among friends and others.
Through this song, he reveals the secret – being in love with his partner, treating her with kindness, thinking of her when they’re apart, and expressing deep affection like the devil when they’re together, even starting the day with a loving morning kiss.
‘Stand By Your Man’ by Tammy Wynette
In 1968, Tammy Wynette released yet another song emphasizing commitment and continuous love for one’s man. As expected, it claimed the No.1 spot on the Billboards.
The song emphasizes the importance of understanding and standing by your man, especially during tough times. Rather than leaving during challenges, women should offer moral support, stand by their partners, shower them with love, remain loyal, and provide the encouragement they need.
‘I Will Always Love You’ by Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton’s famous song hit the charts twice, first in 1974 and then in 1982 when she re-recorded it. Dolly and Porter Wagoner, her mentor and close business associate, had a special relationship.
When she decided to go solo, she wrote this song. People often think it’s a love song, but it’s actually a heartfelt goodbye to her mentor and partner, Porter Wagoner.
‘Crazy’ by Patsy Cline
Back in 1961, Patsy Cline decided to record a song written by Willie Nelson, who wasn’t very well-known at the time. The song, released in that year, became a big success for both of them.
It’s about the tough feelings when you realize your partner has left you for someone else, leading to the end of your relationship. Even though it’s heartbreaking, the deep love you still feel for them can be so strong that it becomes overwhelming, making it hard to keep your emotions in check and you feel like you’re going crazy.
Sum Up
- Country music is a popular genre that originated in rural parts of the United States.
- Old-school country music refers to the classic songs from earlier times in the country music genre.
- Some of the best old-school country songs include classics like “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” “Man of Constant Sorrow,” “Mammas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” and more.