When it comes to the greatest 90s country songs, there are plenty to choose from. This particular decade was a golden age for country music, to say the least. From honky-tonk anthems to heart-wrenching ballads, this era birthed some of the most iconic tunes in the country music genre's history. Let's take a trip down memory lane as we rank the 12 best 90s country songs, each with its own unique charm and timeless appeal.
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The 12 Greatest 90s Country Songs That Defined an Era
12. "Friends in Low Places" by Garth Brooks
Album: No Fences
Release Year: 1990
Garth Brooks' "Friends in Low Places" is a quintessential 90s country anthem that captures the spirit of camaraderie and revelry. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about finding solace in a dive bar struck a chord with audiences, making it a staple at parties and jukeboxes across the nation.
11. "Boot Scootin' Boogie" by Brooks and Dunn
Album: Brand New Man
Release Year: 1992
Brooks & Dunn's "Boot Scootin' Boogie" is a lively, boot-stomping track that became synonymous with line dancing and country nightlife. Its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus made it a favorite among both country aficionados and casual listeners, earning it a spot on our list of top 90s country songs.
10. "Achy Breaky Heart" by Billy Ray Cyrus
Album: Some Gave All
Release Year: 1992
Billy Ray Cyrus' "Achy Breaky Heart" took the world by storm with its catchy hooks and irresistible twang. Love it or hate it, this song became a cultural phenomenon, propelling Cyrus to superstardom and solidifying its place in the pantheon of 90s country classics.
9. "The Dance" by Garth Brooks
Album: Garth Brooks
Release Year: 1990
"The Dance" by Garth Brooks is a poignant ballad that beautifully captures the bittersweet essence of life and love. Its noteworthy melody and introspective lyrics caught the ears of listeners worldwide, earning it a reputation as one of the most emotionally resonant songs of the 90s country era.
8. "Don't Take the Girl" by Tim McGraw
Album: Not a Moment Too Soon
Release Year: 1994
Tim McGraw's "Don't Take the Girl" is a tear-jerking tale of love, sacrifice, and the passage of time. With its heartfelt storytelling and stirring melody, this song touched the hearts of millions, cementing its status as a timeless classic in 90s country music.
7. "Independence Day" by Martina McBride
Album: The Way That I Am
Release Year: 1993
Martina McBride's "Independence Day" is more than just a song; it's a powerful anthem of resilience and empowerment. Its stirring lyrics and McBride's powerhouse vocals are just a couple of the elements that made it one to remember indefinitely.
6. "Chattahoochee" by Alan Jackson
Album: A Lot About Livin' (and a Little 'Bout Love)
Release Year: 1992
Alan Jackson's "Chattahoochee" is a rollicking ode to summer fun and youthful adventures. With its infectious energy and catchy melody, this song became an instant favorite, capturing the carefree spirit of the 90s country scene and earning its place on our list of top tunes from the era.
5. "Fancy" by Reba McEntire
Album: Rumor Has It
Release Year: 1990
Reba McEntire's "Fancy" is a powerful anthem that speaks volumes of self-determination. Its stirring narrative and McEntire's commanding vocals made the song absolutely unforgettable, solidifying its status as one of the standout hits of the 90s country era.
4. "Wide Open Spaces" by Dixie Chicks
Album: Wide Open Spaces
Release Year: 1998
Dixie Chicks' "Wide Open Spaces" is a ballad of liberation and self-discovery that was an ear-worm for listeners in the late 90s. Its empowering message and infectious melody made it a defining song of the era and secured its spot on our list of top 90s country tunes.
3. "Strawberry Wine" by Deana Carter
Album: Did I Shave My Legs for This?
Release Year: 1996
Deana Carter's "Strawberry Wine" is a nostalgic track that captures the innocence and passion of young love. It was without a doubt one of the standout hits of the 90s country scene, and thus, has earned its place among the era's most beloved songs.
2. "Sold (The Grundy County Auction Incident)" by John Michael Montgomery
Album: What I Do the Best
Release Year: 1997
John Michael Montgomery's "Sold (The Grundy County Auction Incident)" is a toe-tapping tribute to the joys of small-town life and good old-fashioned auctions. This classic scored the number two spot on our list of the greatest 90s country songs.
1. "Check Yes or No" by George Strait
Album: Strait Out of the Box
Release Year: 1995
At the top spot on our list of the greatest 90s country songs, we have George Strait's "Check Yes or No," a timeless love story. One of its most endearing characteristics is its ability to capture the innocence and sweetness of childhood romance.