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

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

[2026] A Guide to Country Music: From the Latest Hits to Timeless Classics (1–10)

A Bar Song (Tipsy)Shaboozey

Shaboozey – A Bar Song (Tipsy) [Official Visualizer]
A Bar Song (Tipsy)Shaboozey

Shaboozey, who’s drawing attention for his unique fusion of country and hip-hop, delivers a track that captures the desire to break free from everyday stress.

The American artist portrays a protagonist exhausted by a nine-to-five grind and weighed down by financial burdens, seeking solace in a drink at the bar—a striking image.

Released in April 2024, the song hit No.

1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.

Its fresh approach, sampling J-Kwon’s track, has resonated with many listeners.

It’s a perfect pick for office workers after a long day and anyone looking for a moment to unwind.

Last NightMorgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen – Last Night (One Record At A Time Sessions)
Last NightMorgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen, a rising star in country music, delivers a song rich in heartfelt storytelling with “Last Night.” Its lyrics, depicting a couple’s argument fueled by alcohol, captivate listeners alongside an unforgettable melody where longing and passion coexist.

His raspy, husky voice in particular is soul-stirring, creating an immediacy that makes you feel as if you’re experiencing the emotional whirlwind right beside him.

Its long-running chart success speaks for itself, and it’s a highly recommended entry point into the diverse appeal of country music.

I hope his moving vocals let you feel the new possibilities of country.

Nobody But You (feat. Gwen Stefani)Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton – Nobody But You (Duet with Gwen Stefani) (Audio)
Nobody But You (feat. Gwen Stefani)Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton, a country musician who is also popular as a host, stands an impressive 196 cm tall and is known for a deep voice that matches his physique.

His song “Nobody But You (feat.

Gwen Stefani)” features Gwen Stefani, the lead vocalist of the popular rock band No Doubt.

Blending country music with rock, it delivers a unique sound that fans of either genre can enjoy!

4x4xULainey Wilson

Lainey Wilson – 4x4xU (Official Music Video)
4x4xULainey Wilson

A story of love and freedom from Louisiana-born Lainey Wilson.

Using a four-wheel-drive vehicle as a metaphor, she sings about the bond with someone who makes you feel safe no matter where you are.

Released in September 2024, this work draws inspiration from Wilson’s own romantic experiences, featuring lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners.

Included on the album “Whirlwind,” it’s recommended not only for country music fans but also for anyone seeking a simple expression of love.

Her moving performance at the CMA Awards in November 2024 also garnered wide attention.

Sleepless in a Hotel RoomNEW!Luke Combs

Luke Combs – Sleepless in a Hotel Room (Official Studio Video)
Sleepless in a Hotel RoomNEW!Luke Combs

Luke Combs, a country singer with worldwide popularity, has announced that his much-anticipated new album, “The Way I Am,” will be released in March 2026, generating major buzz.

“Sleepless in a Hotel Room” is a track unveiled in advance from the album.

Written during sleepless nights on tour in hotel rooms, it conveys a heartfelt longing for a loved one far away, with a melody co-written with Randy Montana and others that truly resonates.

The song is crafted as a ballad that highlights his signature vocals—powerful yet delicate.

It’s a track that gently keeps you company on lonely nights, so be sure to give it a listen.

Coming HomeOld Dominion

Old Dominion – Coming Home (Official Music Video)
Coming HomeOld Dominion

This song by the American country music band Old Dominion is a heartwarming track that portrays a return to one’s hometown.

The sense of relief and joy felt at the end of a long journey, combined with the melodic sound, resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in June 2024, the track is packed with the band’s charm.

Their commitment to connecting with fans also shines through, as they invited fan videos on TikTok and incorporated them into the official music video.

It’s a recommended song for those living away from family or home, and for anyone about to take a new step forward.

White HorseChris Stapleton

Chris Stapleton – White Horse (Official Audio)
White HorseChris Stapleton

An emotional song nurtured by the landscape of country music, “White Horse” is packed with the very charm that could be called Chris Stapleton’s signature.

As an electric guitar riff that evokes the spirit of old-time America rings out, his soulful voice tells a story about the delicate balance between ideals and reality in love.

Co-written with Dan Wilson, the track stands out for its candid emotional expression.

Produced with his partner Morgane and Dave Cobb, it’s sure to move listeners, not just music fans.

The more you listen, the more you discover—why not savor the full appeal of country music through this song?