Montana, also known as the “Treasure State,” is located in the western region of the United States and is known for its vast landscapes, rugged mountains, and stunning natural beauty. With such breathtaking scenery, it’s no surprise that Montana has inspired numerous artists to create music about the state. From country legends like Hank Williams Jr. and Merle Haggard to folk icons like John Denver and Ken Overcast, Montana has captured the hearts and imaginations of musicians across genres. In this collection of the best songs about Montana, we’ll take a journey through some of the most iconic musical tributes to the state. These songs celebrate everything from the state’s legendary rodeos to its expansive skies, from its bustling cities to its quiet countryside. Whether you’re a Montana native or simply a lover of great music, these songs are sure to evoke the spirit of the state and transport you to its stunning landscapes. Join us as we explore the best songs about Montana and discover the beauty and inspiration that this state has brought to the world of music.
1. “Montana Song” By Hank Williams Jr.
“Montana Song” is a country ballad written and performed by American singer-songwriter Hank Williams Jr. The song was released in 1992 as a part of his album “Maverick”. The song is about a man who is leaving his old life behind and embarking on a new journey to Montana, a place where he hopes to find peace and freedom. The song starts with a slow and melodic guitar riff, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. Williams’ distinctive voice then enters, singing about his longing to escape from the struggles of his old life and start anew in Montana. He sings about the beauty of the state, from the mountains to the prairies, and how it represents a fresh start for him. Throughout the song, Williams’ lyrics are introspective and reflective, discussing his past mistakes and how he hopes to leave them behind. He sings about the importance of finding inner peace and being content with oneself, as he believes this is the key to a fulfilling life.
2. “Wild Montana Skies” By John Denver
“Wild Montana Skies” is a folk-country ballad written and performed by American singer-songwriter John Denver. The song was released in 1983 as a part of his album “It’s About Time”. The song is a tribute to the natural beauty of Montana and the way of life of its inhabitants. The song starts with a gentle acoustic guitar riff and Denver’s warm, folksy voice. The lyrics describe the vast and majestic landscape of Montana, from the towering mountains to the rolling plains, and the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with living in such a place. Denver sings about the connection between the land and the people who call it home, and how they are united by a shared love for the beauty and wildness of Montana.
3. “Montana Lullaby” By Ken Overcast
“Montana Lullaby” is a soothing and melodic country ballad written and performed by Ken Overcast. The song was released in 1992 as a part of his album “Saddle Up Your Dreams”. As the title suggests, the song is a lullaby that evokes the beauty and tranquility of Montana, a place where the singer hopes to find peace and rest. The song starts with gentle acoustic guitar strums and Overcast’s tender and comforting voice. The lyrics describe the natural beauty of Montana, from the soft rolling hills to the quiet rivers and streams. The singer invites the listener to close their eyes and let the beauty of Montana wash over them, promising that they will be safe and protected under the starry night sky. Throughout the song, Overcast’s lyrics are gentle and reassuring, offering a sense of comfort and security in an uncertain world. He sings about the importance of finding peace and solace in the natural world, and how Montana provides the perfect sanctuary for those who seek it.
4. “Montana Rodeo” By Chris LeDoux
Montana Rodeo” is an upbeat and energetic country song written and performed by American singer-songwriter Chris LeDoux. The song was released in 1991 as a part of his album “Western Underground”. As the title suggests, the song is a tribute to the thrilling and dangerous world of rodeo, a sport that is deeply ingrained in the culture and history of Montana. The song starts with a lively and upbeat guitar riff, quickly followed by LeDoux’s distinctive voice. The lyrics describe the excitement and adrenaline rush of competing in a rodeo, from the thrill of riding a bucking bronco to the danger of facing a charging bull. The singer celebrates the courage and tenacity of the rodeo riders, who are willing to put their lives on the line for a shot at glory. Throughout the song, LeDoux’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery and colorful descriptions, bringing the excitement and danger of rodeo to life. He sings about the camaraderie and spirit of competition that exists among the rodeo riders, and how they are bound together by a shared love for the sport.
5. “Meet Me In Montana” By Dan Seals And Marie Osmond
Meet Me in Montana” is a romantic country duet written by Paul Davis and performed by Dan Seals and Marie Osmond. The song was released in 1985 as a part of Seals’ album “Won’t Be Blue Anymore”. The song tells the story of two lovers who are separated by distance but hold on to the hope of being reunited in Montana. The song starts with a gentle piano melody and Osmond’s soft, sweet vocals. Seals’ voice then enters, singing about the longing and nostalgia that comes with being apart from someone you love. The lyrics describe the beauty of Montana, from the endless blue skies to the rolling green hills, and how it represents a place of hope and new beginnings for the two lovers. Throughout the song, Seals and Osmond’s vocals blend together in perfect harmony, capturing the tender and romantic spirit of the song. They sing about the power of love to overcome distance and adversity, and how they will do anything to be reunited with each other in Montana.
6. “Montana On My Mind” By Shane Clouse
Montana On My Mind” is a nostalgic and heartfelt country song written and performed by American singer-songwriter Shane Clouse. The song was released in 2010 as a part of Clouse’s album “Montana On My Mind”. As the title suggests, the song is a tribute to Montana and the powerful hold that it has on the singer’s heart and soul. The song starts with a gentle acoustic guitar strum and Clouse’s warm and soulful voice. The lyrics describe the natural beauty of Montana, from the rugged mountain peaks to the vast, open plains. The singer reminisces about his time in Montana and how the memories of the place continue to haunt him and fill him with a sense of longing. Throughout the song, Clouse’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery and poetic language, capturing the rugged and wild spirit of Montana. He sings about the sense of freedom and adventure that he feels when he is in Montana, and how the place has become a part of his identity and his soul.
7. “Montana” By Frank Zappa
Montana” is a quirky and irreverent rock song written and performed by American musician Frank Zappa. The song was released in 1973 as a part of Zappa’s album “Over-Nite Sensation”. While the song does not specifically deal with the state of Montana, it uses the state as a metaphor for a place of freedom and escape. The song starts with a funky guitar riff and Zappa’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a person’s desire to leave their mundane life behind and escape to a place where they can be free and pursue their dreams. The singer chooses Montana as their ideal destination, singing about the beauty of the place and the sense of freedom that it represents. Throughout the song, Zappa’s lyrics are full of witty wordplay and playful imagery, poking fun at the idea of escaping to a mythical paradise. He sings about the absurdity of the human desire to escape and the limitations of even the most beautiful and remote places.
8. “Big City” By Merle Haggard
Big City” is a classic country song written and performed by American country music legend Merle Haggard. The song was released in 1981 as a part of Haggard’s album of the same name. The song tells the story of a man who leaves his small town for the big city, only to find that the city life is not what he expected. The song starts with a twangy guitar riff and Haggard’s distinctive baritone voice. The lyrics describe the man’s excitement and anticipation as he leaves his small town for the big city, dreaming of a better life and new opportunities. However, he soon realizes that the city is a harsh and unforgiving place, full of loneliness and disappointment. Throughout the song, Haggard’s lyrics capture the dichotomy between the rural and urban lifestyles, and how they represent two different ways of life. He sings about the simplicity and sense of community that exists in small towns, contrasting it with the fast-paced and impersonal nature of city life.
9. “Goodnight Montana” By David Walburn
Goodnight Montana” is a soothing and contemplative folk song written and performed by American singer-songwriter David Walburn. The song was released in 1999 as a part of Walburn’s album “The Storyteller”. The song serves as a lullaby for Montana, bidding the state goodnight and reflecting on its natural beauty and rugged spirit. The song starts with a gentle acoustic guitar strum and Walburn’s soft and melodic voice. The lyrics describe the sunset in Montana and the quiet beauty of the state at night. The singer bids farewell to Montana and reflects on the memories and experiences that he has had in the state. Throughout the song, Walburn’s lyrics are full of poetic language and vivid imagery, capturing the natural beauty and rugged spirit of Montana. He sings about the wide open spaces and the sense of freedom that one can find in the state.
10. “Montana Sky” By White Heart
Montana Sky” is a heartfelt Christian rock ballad written and performed by the American band White Heart. The song was released in 1990 as a part of their album “Powerhouse”. The song describes the beauty of the Montana sky and the sense of awe and wonder that it inspires. The song starts with a slow and soaring guitar riff and lead singer Rick Florian’s soulful vocals. The lyrics describe the Montana sky as a canvas of colors, from the deep blue of the daytime sky to the golden hues of the setting sun. The singer reflects on the majesty of the sky and how it reminds him of God’s love and power. Throughout the song, Florian’s lyrics are full of religious imagery and themes, describing the Montana sky as a symbol of God’s grace and beauty. He sings about the peace and hope that one can find in the presence of God and the sense of awe and wonder that the Montana sky inspires.
Jared Parker is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
