[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 Timeless Classics (21–30)
Proving Me RightTucker Wetmore

Tucker Wetmore is a country singer from Kalama, Washington.
A former college football player, he switched to music after breaking his leg and rapidly broke through between 2024 and 2025.
His debut album, What Not To, released in April 2025, scored the highest-charting debut of the year among emerging country artists.
His new song, released in December, is a crossover track that blends synth sounds reminiscent of ’80s disco with country.
It portrays a protagonist who calmly observes an ex’s behavior patterns and grows more confident that ending the relationship was the right choice.
Rather than blaming the other person, the song offers a cool, self-affirming perspective on taking some distance, which feels refreshing.
It’s a track I highly recommend to anyone looking to move forward after a breakup.
10,000 HoursDan + Shay, Justin Bieber

This is a collaboration between Dan + Shay, a country duo that has become a regular at the Grammys in recent years, and the one and only American superstar Justin Bieber.
Released in October 2019, it became a huge hit, reaching No.
4 on the U.S.
charts.
While rooted in country music, the song is crafted as a catchy pop tune you’ll want to hum along to, making it popular not only with country fans but with a broad audience.
It’s also a perfect entry point for anyone new to country music.
What Makes You CountryLuke Bryan

This is a work by Luke Bryan, a country singer-songwriter with numerous hit songs.
It features that quintessential country melody and distinctive banjo sound.
The title, which means “What Makes You Country,” carries a strong message about staying true to your path no matter what.
Country music often sings about one’s hometown and identity, and it’s no exaggeration to say this song is a prime example of that.
The Righteous HunterJohn Rich

Veteran artist John Rich, also known as one half of the country duo Big & Rich.
Here’s a single he released in November 2025, carrying his signature socially conscious message.
It channels a parent’s fierce anger and resolve toward malicious adults who prey on children.
By deliberately setting it to a traditional country sound, the sharp, warning-like lyrics stand out even more.
The track had already been performed in its unreleased form on shows like The Shawn Ryan Show, and those live renditions drew major attention.
It’s more than just music—it’s a statement of strong intent.
Because it conveys a determination to protect one’s family, it’s a powerful work that we hope those hurt by senseless news will take the time to listen to carefully.
Working Man’s SongMorgan Wallen

As part of the album “I’m the Problem,” released in May 2025, there’s a song Morgan Wallen dedicates to today’s working people.
Even when you work from nine to five, the days don’t pay off; the daily grind can feel like a life sentence.
Riding on raw guitar riffs and a powerful beat, this track gives voice to the struggles and conflicts of blue-collar life—an anthem for workers everywhere.
Its gritty blend of country and rock is sure to ignite live crowds.
It’s a song we hope everyone feeling worn down by their daily job will give a listen to.
Nobody’s NobodyBrothers Osborne

Brothers Osborne’s “Nobody’s Nobody” blends a laid-back rhythm with a soothing melody, evoking the warm hues of a sunset.
With Mike Elizondo at the production helm, the track unfolds a fresh sound that broadens their musical range.
The brothers’ message reminds us that even the small, everyday moments carry meaning.
Assertive yet tinged with nostalgia, the song’s tone gently nestles into the listener’s heart and leaves a cozy, contented feeling.
While they’re still relatively unknown in Japan, anyone who listens will surely discover a new appeal in country music.
You won’t want to take your eyes off a country scene that just keeps evolving!
Beer Never Broke My HeartLuke Combs

Luke Combs is an American country music singer-songwriter born in 1990.
He excels at heavyweight country songs featuring a generous, larger-than-life voice and a tough, hard & loud sound.
He’s also a big guy with a chubby, teddy bear-like cuteness.
Recommended for fans of bands like ZZ Top.



