[2026] A Guide to Country Music: From the Latest Hits to Classic Favorites
What kind of image comes to mind when you hear “country music”? In fact, country music—which has influenced pop, hip-hop, and more—remains an enormously popular genre today, especially in its home base of the United States.
Taylor Swift, one of the most famous Western artists in Japan, actually first rose to fame as a young country singer.
To explore the appeal of country music, this article will introduce the latest country songs in the first half and classic standards in the second half.
We hope this piece helps you discover great country songs that are not so well known in Japan!
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[2026] A Guide to Country Music: From the Latest Hits to Classic Favorites (81–90)
AmazedLonestar

A country ballad released in 1999 by Lonestar.
It was written by the married duo Chris Lindsey and Aimee Mayo, along with their friend Marv Green.
A popular track often played at weddings, it reached No.
1 on the charts in the United States and Canada.
Back in the SaddleLuke Combs

This track by American artist Luke Combs made waves after being chosen as the opening theme for a televised sports event.
With its powerful guitar riffs and driving drums, it’s an impressive country rock number.
The lyrics capture the thrill of hitting the road for tour again and a heartfelt longing for home, perfectly complementing Combs’s deep, expressive vocals.
Released in October 2024 and included on the album “Country Comes First,” it has received high praise, including a nomination for Single of the Year at the 2025 CMA Awards.
It’s the perfect song to kick off something new or to belt out at the top of your lungs on a drive!
Guitar BoogieArthur Smith

Active from April 1, 1921 to February 3, 2014.
He was from Clinton, South Carolina.
With “Guitar Boogie,” he not only reached the Top 10 on the country chart in 1948 but also scored a hit on the pop chart, taking an electric guitar–style approach.
It’s a work that clearly shows how upbeat rock ’n’ roll has its roots in country music.
You Never Even Called Me by My NameDavid Allen Coe

Released in 1975, this slow shuffle was David Allan Coe’s first hit to reach the Top 10 on the charts.
Known as a standard for its humorous self-description as the “perfect country & western song.”
Your Cheatin’ HeartHank Williams

September 17, 1923 – January 1, 1953.
Born in Butler, Alabama.
A country musician who had a profound influence on later musical styles.
“Your Cheatin’ Heart,” released in 1952, is a standard of country music.
The sound of the steel guitar gives the song a more pastoral, rustic atmosphere.
You Would ThinkTucker Beathard

Tucker Beathard, known as a leading artist in country rock, is the son of Casey Beathard, who is also active as a country musician.
Casey Beathard has been performing energetically in small venues across the country and has enjoyed a very long live performance career.
Tucker is said to have often toured and performed live with Casey as well.
His hit song “You Would Think” features a well-balanced melody that reflects his years of experience.
[2026] A Guide to Country Music: From the Latest Hits to Timeless Classics (91–100)
Tennessee OrangeMegan Moroney

Megan Moroney’s “Tennessee Orange” perfectly captures the American spirit that country music evokes.
Hailing from Georgia, she portrays the conflict and emotions of donning the University of Tennessee’s signature colors for someone she loves, telling a story of a heart torn between loyalty to a rival Southern school and blossoming romance.
Its down-to-earth yet vivid narrative resonates deeply with listeners.
While honoring country music’s traditions, her fresh sound quickly won her a wide fanbase at home and abroad after its 2022 release, earning strong placements on music charts.
Why not take this opportunity to experience the rise of a new star in country music?



