Down Memory Lane: The Ten Most Influential Country Music Hits of the 1970s

The 1970s were a pivotal era in country music. New subgenres emerged, cultural shifts were mirrored in song lyrics, and several country hits crossed over into mainstream popularity. As we tip our cowboy hats to the past, let's count down the 12 most influential country music hits from the '70s and the iconic artists behind them.

"Coal Miner's Daughter" - Loretta Lynn (1970)

Loretta Lynn's autobiographical song painted an honest portrait of her impoverished childhood in Butcher Hollow, Kentucky. This song made Lynn the first woman to top the Billboard country charts with a song she wrote herself, highlighting her as a trailblazer in the industry.

"Take Me Home, Country Roads" - John Denver (1971)

Perhaps one of the most well-known country songs of all time, "Take Me Home, Country Roads" reached listeners far beyond the country genre. John Denver's ode to West Virginia is a timeless classic, remaining synonymous with American country music.

"Kiss An Angel Good Mornin'" - Charley Pride (1971)

As one of the few African-American country stars, Charley Pride broke racial barriers with his universally appealing song about love and happiness. This song solidified Pride's position as an important figure in country music.

"Jolene" - Dolly Parton (1973)

This iconic track is one of Parton's most enduring songs, displaying her exceptional storytelling skills. "Jolene" laid the groundwork for Parton's transcendent career, taking her from a country singer to a beloved global superstar.

"Behind Closed Doors" - Charlie Rich (1973)

Charlie Rich’s smooth vocals and the song's sensual lyrics helped "Behind Closed Doors" reach a broad audience, marking an early example of country music's crossover into the pop charts.

"The Gambler" - Kenny Rogers (1978)

Rogers' tale of a late-night encounter with a gambler is one of the genre's most unforgettable narratives. The song's universal appeal, coupled with Roger's charismatic performance, made it a crossover hit.

"Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)" - Waylon Jennings (1977)

Waylon Jennings' nostalgic song about escaping the pressures of fame to a simpler life became an anthem for the Outlaw country movement. Its message continues to resonate with audiences today.

"Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" - Willie Nelson (1975)

With its sparse production and Nelson's emotional delivery, this song marked a significant departure from the heavily orchestrated Nashville sound popular at the time. It signaled the arrival of a new country sound and Nelson's reign as a key figure in the genre.

"He Stopped Loving Her Today" - George Jones (1979)

This tragic love song, often referred to as the greatest country music song ever recorded, is the epitome of the genre's storytelling prowess. Despite its release date slightly beyond the '70s, the song and George Jones' emotive delivery significantly influenced the era.

"Rhinestone Cowboy" - Glen Campbell (1975)

Campbell's career-defining hit about a veteran performer making a comeback is a testament to his own musical journey. "Rhinestone Cowboy" was a global sensation, and Campbell's crossover appeal helped country music gain further mainstream acceptance.

The 1970s proved to be a decade of growth and change for country music. These hits, along with the artists who sang them, played an influential role in shaping the genre and leaving an indelible mark on music history. Their timeless appeal continues to engage audiences and inspire new generations of country artists. From the narrative ballads to the crossover hits, these songs perfectly encapsulate the spirit and evolution of country music in the '70s.