Country music is famous for its legendary artists like Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, and Loretta Lynn. When you hear their names, you can almost “hear” their unique voices and styles, along with the songs they made famous.

Country music has a rich history, filled with some of the most iconic and influential singers of all time. From the soulful melodies of Johnny Cash to the powerful voice of Dolly Parton, these artists have made a lasting impact on the genre.

These artists didn’t just leave a mark on country music; they helped shape the genre.

Country music often features instruments like the acoustic guitar, fiddle, steel guitar, banjo, and mandolin. Many great country songs are simple but powerful, as songwriter Harlan Howard described, they’re just “three chords and the truth.” 

In this article, we’ll explore the top country singers who have not only topped the charts but also captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the genre, these legendary singers are a must-know in the world of country music.

Top Country Artists

When making a list of top country singers, it’s not just about record sales, streaming numbers, or sold-out shows, although those are important. These singers stand out because of their unique voices that express deep emotions and tell powerful stories. Their songs and voices have defined what country music is all about.

20. Kenny Rogers

He started off as a pop artist with his group The First Edition but became even more successful when he turned country. Kenny Rogers had a star quality when it came to using his golden tones to tell a story through a song. One of the greatest examples shines through in “The Gambler.” And yet, he did it again and again with “Lucille,” “Lady,” and his “Islands in the Stream” duet with Dolly Parton. Rogers had No.1 songs between 1977 and 1987. The Houston native’s career spanned six decades before he passed away in 2020 at the age of 81. At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated to be around $250 million. His hit “The Gambler” alone reportedly earned him millions in royalties and sales.

19. Reba McEntire

She’s one of the most successful female performers in country music history, selling more than 58 million albums. Reba McEntire’s Oklahoma background prepared her well for country music. She grew up around the rodeo and even competed in barrel racing growing up. When she sang the National Anthem at the National Rodeo Finals, she caught the ear of a Nashville music publisher. Her megahits have included “Color Me Gone,” “I’m a Survivor,” “Fancy,” and others. Born on March 28, 1955, her net worth is estimated at $95 million. Her hit “Fancy” has become a signature song, earning her significant acclaim and revenue.

18. Randy Travis

His deep voice brought lasting life to songs like “Forever and Ever Amen,” “Deeper Than The Holler,” “I Told You So,” and more. Randy Travis moved to Nashville from North Carolina, emerging onto the music scene in the 1980s. Over the next 25 years, he became one of the most popular artists in country music with his classic, traditional style. Travis suffered a debilitating stroke in 2013 and can no longer perform, but still makes appearances in and around Nashville. Born on May 4, 1959, his net worth is around $12 million. His album “Always & Forever” sold over 5 million copies, contributing significantly to his wealth.

17. Garth Brooks

He burst onto the country music scene in the 1990s to become one of the biggest-selling music acts of all time. With a collection of driving songs and his high-energy shows, Garth Brooks helped move country music into the mainstream. His biggest hits include “Friends in Low Places,” “The Dance,” “If Tomorrow Never Comes,” and more. He retired in 2000 to move back home to Oklahoma to raise his three daughters, then returned to Nashville in 2014 to resume his career. Born on February 7, 1962, his net worth is estimated at $400 million. “Friends in Low Places” remains a fan favorite, earning him substantial royalties.

16. Vince Gill

His high tenor is one of the most unique male voices in country music. And not only does Vince Gill’s voice shine on his own top country hits, but he has also sung back-up on more than a thousand recordings for other artists. In addition to being an exceptional singer, Gill is a talented songwriter and guitar virtuoso. He also plays a number of other instruments. Three of his best-known hits include “When I Call Your Name,” “I Still Believe in You,” and “Go Rest High on That Mountain.” In 2017, he joined the Eagles following the death of Glenn Frey. Born on April 12, 1957, his net worth is around $30 million. His song “Go Rest High on That Mountain” has won numerous awards and has been a staple at memorial services, adding to his legacy and earnings.

15. George Strait

He is called the King of Country Music for good reason. George Strait has more No. 1 hits than any other artist in any genre (including Elvis). As contemporary country music has shifted its style through the years, the Texas-native has remained steady playing traditional country music and been extremely successful at it. He’s the only act to have a Top 10 hit every year for over three decades. A few of those familiar hits include “Amarillo By Morning,” “Love Without End, Amen,” “Check Yes Or No,” and “Oceanfront Property.” Born on May 18, 1952, his net worth is estimated at $300 million. His album “Pure Country” sold over 6 million copies.

14. Glen Campbell

He was a singer/songwriter and guitar virtuoso. Glenn Campbell was a respected musician before he was an artist, playing backup for Elvis, Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, and others. After launching his own career, the six-time Grammy winner had a string of hits including “Rhinestone Cowboy,” “Wichita Lineman,” “Gentle On My Mind,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” and others. He also had his own variety show on CBS from 1968 to 1972. Campbell’s career spanned six decades before he died from complications due to Alzheimer’s in 2017. Born on April 22, 1936, his net worth was estimated at $50 million at the time of his death. “Rhinestone Cowboy” was a massive hit, bringing in substantial royalties.

13. Buck Owens

This popular singer/songwriter was known for his twangy, upbeat songs like “Act Naturally,” “Love’s Gonna Live Here,” and “I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail” during the 1960s. A driving force in developing the Bakersfield sound, Buck Owens also wrote and recorded the country classic “Together Again.” His fanbase grew even bigger after he became a regular on TV’s Hee Haw. In 1988, Owens saw a career resurgence when he and Dwight Yoakam recorded and released “Streets of Bakersfield.” Born on August 12, 1929, Owens passed away on March 25, 2006, with a net worth of approximately $100 million. “Act Naturally” was a chart-topping hit and has been covered by many artists.

12. Conway Twitty

This country crooner started off in rockabilly music, before deciding to make the switch. Interestingly, Conway Twitty’s biggest song, “It’s Only Make Believe” was a pop hit. He was a talented singer/songwriter who recorded as a solo artist and performed numerous duets with Loretta Lynn. In 1973, the two topped the country charts with “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man.” Twitty had a strong appeal to female country fans with songs like “Hello Darlin,” “Tight Fittin’ Jeans,” and “I’d Love To Lay You Down.” Born on September 1, 1933, Twitty passed away on June 5, 1993, with an estimated net worth of $14 million. His song “Hello Darlin'” was one of his biggest hits, remaining a fan favorite.

11. Charley Pride

He was a former baseball player who also had a gift for singing. Charley Pride’s smooth, baritone voice allowed him to break racial barriers and become the first Black country star. When he first went into the studio amid racial tensions of the 1960s, music executives were wary, but couldn’t overlook Pride’s talent. He went on to have numerous hits over the next two decades including 29 No. 1 songs. His biggest were “Kiss An Angel Good Morning,” “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone,” and “All I Have to Offer You (Is Me).” Born on March 18, 1934, Pride passed away on December 12, 2020, with an estimated net worth of $40 million. “Kiss An Angel Good Morning” earned him millions in sales and remains one of his most recognized songs.

10. Waylon Jennings

He played in Buddy Holly’s band long before becoming an artist in his own right. Waylon Jennings became popular in the early 1970s as part of the Outlaw movement when he, along with Willie Nelson and others, pushed for creative control of their own music. Some of his much-loved songs include “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love),” “Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” and the theme from The Dukes of Hazzard. He married singer Jesse Colter and was a member of The Highwaymen with Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson. Born on June 15, 1937, Jennings passed away on February 13, 2002, with a net worth of $7 million. “Luckenbach, Texas” is one of his signature songs, earning substantial royalties.

9. Tammy Wynette

She had one of the most unique voices in country music, as highlighted in two of her biggest hits “Stand By Your Man” and “D-I-V-O-R-C-E.” Tammy Wynette was a hairdresser in Mississippi before she became a country music superstar. Wynette had an emotive quality that rang true as she sang about some of life’s challenges. She performed as a solo act, as well as a duet partner with her one-time husband George Jones. One of their biggest hits together was a song called “Golden Rings.” Born on May 5, 1942, Wynette passed away on April 6, 1998, with an estimated net worth of $900,000. “Stand By Your Man” was a massive hit, selling millions of copies worldwide.

8. Patsy Cline

She had a deep, rich voice with an innate ability to use it. Patsy Cline’s style and approach with songs like “I Fall to Pieces,” “Crazy,” and “Walking After Midnight” continue to inspire up-and-coming female singers today. Although she was popular during the late 1950s and early 1960s, she became a country music icon after her death in a plane crash in 1963. More than two decades later, the film Sweet Dreams introduced a new generation of fans to her music. With only a couple of notes of a Patsy Cline song, you can immediately tell it’s her voice. Born on September 8, 1932, Cline passed away on March 5, 1963. “Crazy,” written by Willie Nelson, has been covered by numerous artists and continues to generate revenue.

7. Willie Nelson

One of country music’s Outlaws, Willie Nelson has always carved his own path in music. He and Waylon Jennings helped pioneer country music’s Outlaw movement when they pushed for less control from the record label as they tried to move away from some of the more formatted music coming out of Nashville in the late 1960s. Nelson is a talented musician and prolific songwriter with an unconventional vocal style. As one of his earliest successes, he wrote “Crazy” which became a huge hit for Patsy Cline. In 1975, Nelson released his self-produced Red Headed Stranger album which included his own megahit “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.” “On the Road Again” and “Always On My Mind” are two more defining songs for Nelson, of which there are many. He recently entered his 90s and is still writing songs, performing, and selling out concerts. Born on April 29, 1933, his net worth is estimated at $25 million.

6. George Jones

He’s known for one of the most admired voices in country music. George Jones lived a troubled life during the early years of his career due to a dependency on drugs and alcohol. He missed so many shows he was dubbed “No Show Jones.” But through it all, he maintained an amazing ability to bring a depth of emotion to every song he ever sang. He’s known for a long list of chart-toppers, most notably, “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” Others include “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me,” and “I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair.” Jones married Tammy Wynette and the two performed as a duo before, during, and after their marriage. Their duet “We’re Gonna Hold On” reached No. 1 on the country charts in 1973. Born on September 12, 1931, Jones passed away on April 26, 2013, with a net worth of $35 million.

5. Dolly Parton

With her warm, warbly voice and true gift for songwriting, Dolly Parton is one of the most beloved country artists of all time. She’s also one of the most honored. Parton has won 11 Grammys and been nominated more than 50 times. She got her start on the Porter Waggoner show in the late 1960s, later launching her solo career. She’s written and recorded thousands of songs, including “Coat of Many Colors,” which touches on a true story from her childhood, “Jolene,” a song covered by numerous other artists and “I Will Always Love You” which was also rerecorded as at No. 1 hit by Whitney Houston in 1992. Parton is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, actor, author, philanthropist and extraordinary businesswoman. She’s also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, and one of the newest inductees of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Born on January 19, 1946, her net worth is estimated at $650 million. “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” have earned her millions in royalties and sales.

4. Johnny Cash

The “Man in Black” was a maverick and a rebel with his deep, gravelly voice. Some of Johnny Cash’s best-known songs are “I Walk the Line,” “Ring of Fire” and “Folsom Prison Blues,” but there are many more. He began his career with his band, Tennessee Two, before later becoming a solo artist. Cash struggled with drugs and alcohol many times throughout his career and was later open about the demons that plagued him. He was the first to perform inside prisons, and in 1968 he recorded his legendary “Folsom Prison Live” album. He married June Carter that same year. Cash hosted his own TV show at the Ryman Auditorium from 1969 to 1971. The singer, songwriter, and actor was a noted Christian, and many of his songs touched on themes of redemption. He was also a member of The Highwaymen with Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Johnny Cash was inducted into both the Country Music and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Born on February 26, 1932, Cash passed away on September 12, 2003, with a net worth of $60 million.

3. Loretta Lynn

She was a “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” and so much more. Loretta Lynn grew up in poverty-laden Eastern Kentucky, married as a teenager, and had four children before she turned 20. With strength and determination, she taught herself to play the guitar, write songs, and craft her own singing style. Many of her songs, soulfully sung with the deep Kentucky accent she never lost, were autobiographical and shared the female perspective. Hits included “You Ain’t Woman Enough,” “Don’t Come Home A Drinkin” and many others. Her friend, Patsy Cline, helped guide her during the early stages of her career, sharing tips on how to succeed as a fellow female singer in a male-dominated music world. Singer and musician, Jack White introduced Lynn to a new generation of music fans when he produced her 2004 album Van Lear Rose. Born on April 14, 1932, Lynn passed away on October 4, 2022, with a net worth of $65 million.

2. Merle Haggard

Described as the “working man’s poet,” Merle Haggard left a legacy of music that drove deep into country but featured influences from other genres like blues, pop, jazz, and folk as well. He wrote songs about pain and struggle, getting through troubled times and the challenges of the common man. And he “lived” every bit of what he wrote, too. The Bakersfield, California native lost his dad at a young age, which led to troubled teenage years that often ended up with him being incarcerated. Haggard was serving time in San Quentin in 1958 when he saw Johnny Cash perform for the prisoners. Haggard would later go on to a successful music career of his own. Songs like “Mama Tried,” “Silver Wings,” “If We Make It Through December” and “Okie From Muskogee” are just a handful of hits from his incredible list. Born on April 6, 1937, Haggard passed away on April 6, 2016, with a net worth of $40 million.

1. Hank Williams

Although he died tragically at the young age of 29, Hank Williams set the standard as both a performer and songwriter that artists still strive to emulate today. The Alabama native was called the “Hillbilly Shakespeare” for his ability to share emotion through lyrics in a way that hadn’t been done before. And his twangy, soulful voice took every one of his songs to the next level. Listen and hear the angst in songs like “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” and “Cold, Cold Heart.” Williams’ music still resonates today, more than 70 years after his passing. Born on September 17, 1923, Williams passed away on January 1, 1953. His brief but impactful career earned him posthumous acclaim and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His net worth at the time of his death was modest, but his music has since earned millions in royalties and sales.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the top country singers of all time have left an unforgettable mark on the country music genre. From their unique voices to their powerful storytelling, these artists have shaped the sounds and stories that fans love. Whether you’re drawn to the classics or the modern hits, these singers represent the best of what country music has to offer. Their contributions continue to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.

The 20 Top Country Singers Of All Time – FAQs

Who is the greatest country singer of all time?

Many consider Johnny Cash or Dolly Parton as the greatest due to their impact and legacy.

Who is the top 10 country artist?

Some top country artists include Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, George Strait, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, Garth Brooks, Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and Reba McEntire.

Who is the highest-grossing country singer of all time?

Garth Brooks is the highest-grossing country singer, with massive album sales and concert revenues.

Who is country music’s biggest star?

Garth Brooks is often considered the biggest star in country music due to his commercial success and widespread popularity.