Country music is the heart and soul of America. While it’s not a favorite to make music lovers, it is undeniable that some select songs will make anyone want to dance. And of course, these songs come from some of the best country albums ever. So, what are these albums that every fan should recognize? Here are the top six albums.
6. ’40 Greatest Hits’ Hank Williams (1978)
Infusing hillbilly music with blues and gospel is what makes this one of the best country albums ever. Hank Williams’ top hits feature some of his best work, from “Lost Highway” to “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry“.
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5. ‘The Definitive Collection’ Patsy Cline (2004)
Before she died in a plane crash, Cline established herself as arguably the greatest female singer in the history of the genre. She not only featured the country’s core audience, but reached into pop with her rich voice, and this is by far the best country album ever.
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4. ‘Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music’ Ray Charles (1962)
Ray Charles’s album is one of the best, and interestingly enough, his label tried to talk him out of doing it. The soul musician combined blues and gospel, and somehow created a country album unlike anything seen before.
3. ‘Coat of Many Colors’ Dolly Parton (1971)
Dolly Parton’s eighth solo album features expansive songs, exploring death, betrayal, class, and love earns its spot on the third on the list of best country albums ever. The album’s title track is also one of her most beloved songs, marrying the classic story from the Bible with a moving account of Parton’s childhood.
2. ‘Red Headed Stranger’ Willie Nelson (1975)
Willie Nelson’s ambitious concept album about murder and infidelity is one of the all-time best country albums ever, as it plays like a true western. The music is relaxed, the lyrics painting a vivid picture that features the core of America. Interestingly enough, the concept actually came from Nelson’s wife, who also helped him compose the lyrics.
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1. ‘At Folsom Prison’ Johnny Cash (1968)
The legend, Johnny Cash, recorded one of his best country albums of all time at a prison, fresh from his own troubles with the law. Cash tailored the setlist for the occasion, starting off with Folsom Prison Blues, to the tragic love story The Long Black Veil. Not only is this easily one of his best albums, but an iconic album that all country fans should own.
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