[2026] A Guide to Country Music: From the Latest Hits to Classic Favorites

The Devil Went Down to GeorgiaThe Charlie Daniels Band

The Charlie Daniels Band – The Devil Went Down to Georgia (live)

This song, characterized by talk-style vocals, is also known for being used in the 1980 film Urban Cowboy.

Featuring striking fiddle sounds and a sharp tempo, it tells the ultimate story of a deal with the devil and has been covered by many artists.

Have MercyThe Judds

The Judds – Have Mercy

The Judds are a mother-daughter country music duo formed in Kentucky in 1983.

They have won five Grammy Awards to date.

This track was released in 1985 and reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

Live Like You Were DyingTim Mcgraw

Tim McGraw – Live Like You Were Dying (Official Music Video)

Released in 2004, this song was inspired by stories from family and friends who experienced cancer.

It sets an essentially dark theme—the shift in one’s outlook when learning that life is finite—to a relaxed, hip-swaying melody.

It carries a message praising the full expression of one’s power to truly live.

Body TalkKane Brown, Katelyn Brown

Kane Brown, Katelyn Brown – Body Talk (Official Music Video)

Kane Brown, who is drawing attention as a rising star in country music, released a duet with his wife, Katelyn Brown, in November 2024.

This track from the American couple is a love song that fuses country and pop, balancing a sensual atmosphere with elements of R&B.

Centered on the theme of nonverbal, physical communication, it’s a captivating piece that conveys the depth of their marital bond.

Set to be included on the album The High Road, scheduled for release in January 2025, the song showcases Kane Brown’s musical versatility and is likely to win over many listeners as a work that conveys the couple’s strong connection.

Cold Cold HeartHank Williams

Hank Williams – Cold Cold Heart

September 17, 1923 – January 1, 1953.

He is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of country music.

“Cold Cold Heart” was originally released as the B-side of a record, but it is now considered one of Williams’s signature songs.

The relaxed, Hawaiian-style steel guitar tone is especially memorable.

Even though it’s a sad song, it somehow feels soothing—that could be called a hallmark of country music.

Pregnant AgainLoretta Lynn

Loretta Lynn – Pregnant Again

Born on April 14, 1932, in Kentucky.

With a honky-tonk singing style that was rare at the time, they gained attention in the 1960s.

“Pregnant Again” is a hit single from the 1980 biographical film “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” and it’s a melodic number with a relaxed groove.

Pancho and LeftyTownes Van Zandt

Townes Van Zandt Pancho and Lefty

Townes Van Zandt, a talented singer-songwriter known for poetic, melancholic songs.

He was also known for his struggles with drug addiction, alcoholism, and bipolar disorder.

His 1972 song “Pancho and Lefty” is his most famous, a storytelling tune about a Mexican bandit.