To celebrate the release, this week, of Wade Bowen’s new album ‘Flyin’ (read our review of it right here) we thought we would delve into the influence that the state of Texas has had on Country music and let you vote on your favourite song from the Lonestar state! If our suggestion is not on the list then you can add your own at the bottom of the vote.
Here are the entrants – voting is further down the page.
‘Crazy’ by Willie Nelson (written by Willie Nelson) – This timeless ballad, famously performed by Patsy Cline, showcases Nelson’s songwriting genius and has become a classic in the country music canon.
‘Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)’ by Waylon Jennings (written by Waylon Jennings and Chips Moman) – This anthem celebrates the simple pleasures of life in small-town Texas and solidified Jennings’ status as a pioneer of outlaw country music.
‘Desperados Waiting for a Train’ by Guy Clark (written by Guy Clark) – Clark’s poignant ballad about friendship and nostalgia has been covered by numerous artists and is considered a masterpiece of storytelling in country music.
‘The Road Goes on Forever’ by Robert Earl Keen (written by Robert Earl Keen) – Keen’s epic tale of love, crime, and redemption has become a fan favourite and a staple in his live performances, earning him a dedicated following in Texas and beyond.
‘Pancho and Lefty’ by Townes Van Zandt (written by Townes Van Zandt) – Van Zandt’s haunting ballad about friendship and betrayal has been covered by numerous artists and is considered a masterpiece of storytelling in the country music genre.
‘Take Me Back to Tulsa’ by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys – A seminal song in the Western swing genre, this upbeat tune captures the vibrant energy and spirit of Texas dance halls in the 1930s.
‘Amarillo by Morning’ by George Strait – This iconic song paints a vivid portrait of the Texas landscape and cowboy life, with its soaring melody and heartfelt lyrics.
‘Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings (written by Ed Bruce and Patsy Bruce) – This duet between Nelson and Jennings became a chart-topping hit and an enduring symbol of the outlaw country movement.
‘He Stopped Loving Her Today’ by George Jones – Jones’ timeless ballad is revered in the state for its emotional depth and storytelling prowess. It’s often in the top five of the greatest Country music songs ever written, alongside ‘Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.’
‘Til You Can’t’ by Cody Johnson. We wanted to include a modern entry to the list and there’s nothing more modern than this huge banger from the most popular artist coming out of Texas right now. He grasped the zeitgeist with this song and is paving the way for a generation of Texan artists to wow Music Row with what they can do.
These songs represent just a sampling of the rich tapestry of Texan country music, each contributing to the state’s vibrant musical heritage in its own unique way. Each song reflects the unique perspectives and experiences of its respective artist, contributing to the rich tapestry of country music history and the influence of the Lonestar state.
