Country music has a rich history of male singers who have made a significant impact on the genre. One such singer who is widely regarded as an icon in the world of country music is Garth Brooks. Born in Oklahoma in 1962, Brooks burst onto the scene in the late 1980s with a string of hits like “The Dance,” “Friends in Low Places,” and “If Tomorrow Never Comes.”
What set Brooks apart from other country singers of his time was his ability to blend traditional country sounds with rock and roll elements, creating a style that appealed to a wider audience. He also had a unique stage presence, using theatrics and high-energy performances to engage his fans and create a memorable concert experience.
Throughout his career, Brooks has won countless awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and Country Music Association awards. He has also broken numerous records, such as being the first artist to release seven diamond-certified albums in the United States. Brooks’ influence on country music has been significant, and his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of country singers.
1. Jimmie Rodgers
Jimmie Rodgers, born in 1897 in Mississippi, was an American singer and songwriter known for his unique blend of country, blues, and jazz music. He was one of the first musicians to popularize the country genre and was widely regarded as the “Father of Country Music.”
Rodgers’ career took off in the 1920s with hits such as “Blue Yodel,” “T For Texas,” and “Waiting For a Train.” He gained a massive following and became an icon in the world of music. Rodgers’ distinctive yodeling style, combined with his ability to tell relatable stories through his music, helped him connect with audiences all over the world.
Despite his success, Rodgers’ life was not without challenges. He battled poor health throughout his career and was diagnosed with tuberculosis in the 1930s. Despite this, he continued to perform and record until his death in 1933 at the age of 35.
Jimmie Rodgers’ legacy continues to influence country music and other genres to this day. He was posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1986. His music has been covered by countless artists over the years and continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
2. Roy Acuff
Roy Acuff was an American country music singer, songwriter, and fiddle player who was born in 1903 in Maynardville, Tennessee. He began his music career in the 1930s and quickly rose to fame with hits like “The Great Speckled Bird” and “Wabash Cannonball.” Known for his distinctive voice, Acuff’s style of singing was rooted in the traditional sounds of the Appalachian region.
In addition to his music career, Acuff was also a skilled musician and became a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1938, where he remained a regular performer for more than 50 years. He was also a pioneer of the genre, helping to shape the sound of country music in its early days.
Acuff’s impact on country music was immense, and his legacy continues to influence artists today. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1962 and received numerous other awards throughout his career, including the National Medal of Arts in 1991.
Beyond his musical achievements, Acuff was also known for his philanthropy and community involvement. He founded the Roy Acuff Foundation, which helped to support a variety of charitable causes in the Nashville area. Today, Roy Acuff is remembered as a true legend of country music and a pioneering figure in the genre’s development.
3. Hank Williams
Hank Williams was an American singer-songwriter who lived from 1923 to 1953. He was born in Alabama and grew up in poverty, which influenced much of his music. Williams is widely regarded as one of the most significant and influential musicians of the 20th century, with his style of music often considered as the cornerstone of modern country music.
Williams started performing at a young age and was discovered by music publisher Fred Rose in 1946. Rose recognized Williams’ unique talent for songwriting and helped him secure a recording contract. Williams’ first hit song was “Move It on Over,” which was released in 1947 and quickly became a hit. He continued to produce numerous hits throughout his career, including “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” “Hey Good Lookin’,” and “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.”
Despite his success, Williams struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction throughout his life. His health deteriorated rapidly in the early 1950s, and he died at the age of 29 from heart failure caused by his substance abuse. Despite his short life, Williams’ music has endured and continues to influence artists in various genres. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961 and received a posthumous Pulitzer Prize in 2010 for his contributions to music and culture.
4. Ernest Tubb
Ernest Tubb was an American country singer, songwriter, and guitarist who was born in Texas in 1914. He started playing the guitar and singing in the 1930s, and his music was heavily influenced by the traditional country style of the time.
Tubb’s signature sound was characterized by his deep, resonant voice, and the use of a honky-tonk style that incorporated elements of swing and blues music. He was one of the pioneers of honky-tonk music, and his hits like “Walking the Floor Over You,” “Soldier’s Last Letter,” and “Waltz Across Texas” became classics of the genre.
In addition to his success as a singer and songwriter, Tubb was also a savvy businessman who started his own record label, ET Records, in the 1950s. He was known for his generosity towards other musicians, and many up-and-coming country artists got their start playing in his band.
Ernest Tubb continued to perform and record throughout his life, and his influence on country music can still be heard today. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1965, and his legacy as a honky-tonk pioneer and traditional country music icon lives on.
5. Bill Monroe
Bill Monroe was an American musician, singer, and songwriter who is often referred to as the “Father of Bluegrass Music.” He was born in 1911 in Rosine, Kentucky, and began his music career in the 1930s. He was known for his distinctive style of music, which blended elements of old-time country, blues, and traditional Appalachian sounds.
Monroe was a talented mandolin player and formed his own band, the Blue Grass Boys, in 1939. He quickly gained a following with hits like “Blue Moon of Kentucky” and “Uncle Pen,” and his style of music became known as bluegrass.
Over the course of his career, Monroe recorded hundreds of songs and became a major influence on the genre of bluegrass music. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1970, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians today.
Monroe’s contribution to American music was not limited to his talents as a musician. He also helped to popularize traditional music and bring it to a wider audience. He was a mentor to many younger musicians, including his own band members, and his influence can be heard in countless recordings and performances. Today, Bill Monroe is remembered as a true legend of American music and a pioneer of the bluegrass genre.
6. Bob Wills
Bob Wills was an American western swing musician, bandleader, and songwriter who was born in Texas in 1905. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the development of western swing music, a genre that blended elements of jazz, blues, country, and swing music.
Wills’ music was characterized by his distinctive fiddle playing, as well as the use of horns, drums, and electric guitars in his band. His hits like “San Antonio Rose,” “Faded Love,” and “Take Me Back to Tulsa” became classics of the genre, and he was known for his energetic live performances that kept audiences dancing all night long.
In addition to his success as a musician, Wills was also a skilled bandleader who assembled some of the best musicians of his time to play in his band, the Texas Playboys. He was known for his ability to bring out the best in his musicians, and his band became one of the most popular in the country during the 1930s and 1940s.
Bob Wills continued to perform and record throughout his life, and his influence on western swing music can still be heard today. He was posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1968, and his legacy as a western swing pioneer and icon of American music lives on.
7. Buck Owens
Buck Owens was an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of country music. He was born in Texas in 1929 and began his music career in the 1950s, performing in honky-tonk bars and dance halls.
Owens gained national fame in the 1960s with a string of hits like “Act Naturally,” “Together Again,” and “I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail.” Known for his upbeat, infectious style of music, Owens became a symbol of the Bakersfield sound, which was characterized by a raw, guitar-driven sound and a rejection of the slick, polished style of Nashville country.
In addition to his music career, Owens was also a popular television personality, hosting his own variety show, “Hee Haw,” for more than 20 years. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1996, and his influence on the genre of country music continues to be felt today.
Beyond his musical achievements, Owens was also a savvy businessman and entrepreneur, owning a number of successful radio stations and music venues. He was known for his generosity and his commitment to supporting charitable causes in his community.
Today, Buck Owens is remembered as a true legend of country music and a pioneer of the Bakersfield sound. His influence on the genre and his contributions to American music continue to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
8. George Jones
George Jones was an American country music singer and songwriter who lived from 1931 to 2013. He was born in Texas and began performing at a young age, inspired by his musical family. Jones’ music is known for its traditional country sound and heartfelt lyrics, which often explored themes of love, heartbreak, and loss.
Jones’ career spanned several decades and he produced numerous hit songs, including “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” which is widely considered one of the greatest country songs of all time. He also collaborated with many other famous country musicians, such as Tammy Wynette and Merle Haggard.
Jones struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction throughout his life, which often impacted his personal and professional relationships. However, he was able to overcome these challenges and continued to produce music that resonated with audiences for many years.
Jones received numerous accolades for his contributions to country music, including several Grammy Awards, a Kennedy Center Honor, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He is often referred to as the “King of Country Music” and his music continues to be celebrated and admired by fans and fellow musicians alike.
9. Marty Robbins
Marty Robbins was an American singer, songwriter, and musician who was born in Arizona in 1925. He was known for his unique style, which blended elements of country, rockabilly, and pop music.
Robbins’ career took off in the 1950s with hits like “Singin’ the Blues,” “A White Sport Coat and a Pink Carnation,” and “El Paso.” His music was characterized by his smooth, crooning vocals and his ability to tell a compelling story through his lyrics.
In addition to his success as a singer, Robbins was also a talented musician who played guitar, piano, and harmonica. He was known for his ability to incorporate different genres of music into his songs, and his music was influential in the development of the crossover country-pop sound that became popular in the 1960s.
Marty Robbins continued to perform and record throughout his life, and his influence on country and popular music can still be heard today. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1982, and his legacy as a versatile and influential musician lives on.
10. Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash was an American singer, songwriter, and actor who is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of country music. Born in Arkansas in 1932, Cash began his music career in the 1950s, and he quickly gained a following with hits like “I Walk the Line” and “Ring of Fire.”
Cash was known for his deep, resonant voice, his distinctive style of guitar playing, and his lyrics that often dealt with themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption. He was a major influence on the genre of country music, and his impact on popular music as a whole is immeasurable.
Cash was also known for his rebellious image, which helped to make him a cultural icon. He was one of the first country singers to embrace rock and roll, and his performances often featured a raw, energetic style that set him apart from other performers of his time.
Throughout his career, Cash won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and Country Music Association awards. He was also a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
Beyond his musical achievements, Cash was also known for his philanthropy and his commitment to social justice causes. He was a passionate advocate for Native American rights, prison reform, and environmental conservation.
Today, Johnny Cash is remembered as a true legend of American music and a cultural icon whose influence continues to be felt in the worlds of music, film, and popular culture.
11. Charley Pride
Charley Pride was an American country music singer and songwriter who lived from 1934 to 2020. He was born in Mississippi and served in the United States Army before pursuing a career in music. Pride is known for being one of the first African American country music superstars and was a pioneer in breaking down racial barriers in the genre.
Pride’s music was characterized by his smooth baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics, which often explored themes of love, family, and everyday life. He produced numerous hit songs throughout his career, including “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’,” “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone,” and “All I Have to Offer You (Is Me).”
Despite facing discrimination and skepticism from some in the music industry due to his race, Pride’s talent and hard work led him to become one of the most successful and beloved country music artists of all time. He received numerous accolades throughout his career, including three Grammy Awards, induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy.
Pride’s legacy extends beyond his music, as he was a trailblazer and role model for many in the African American community and the country music industry as a whole. His contributions to music and culture will continue to be celebrated and remembered for generations to come.
12. Merle Haggard
Merle Haggard was an American country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist who was born in California in 1937. He is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in the history of country music.
Haggard’s music was characterized by his distinctive voice, his skilled guitar playing, and his ability to write songs that connected with his audience. His hits like “Okie from Muskogee,” “Mama Tried,” and “The Fightin’ Side of Me” became anthems for working-class Americans during the turbulent 1960s and 1970s.
In addition to his success as a musician, Haggard was also a talented songwriter who wrote many of his own hits, as well as songs for other artists. He was known for his ability to capture the essence of the American experience in his music, and his songs often dealt with themes of love, loss, and redemption.
Merle Haggard continued to perform and record throughout his life, and his influence on country music can still be heard today. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1994, and his legacy as a pioneering and influential musician lives on.
13. Kenny Rogers
Kenny Rogers was an American singer, songwriter, actor, and entrepreneur who lived from 1938 to 2020. He was born in Texas and began his music career in the 1950s as a member of various bands. Rogers’ music was characterized by his smooth vocals, pop-infused country sound, and storytelling lyrics that often explored themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life.
Rogers’ success in the music industry was unparalleled, with over 120 million records sold worldwide and numerous hit songs, including “The Gambler,” “Lucille,” and “Lady.” He also collaborated with many famous musicians throughout his career, such as Dolly Parton and Lionel Richie.
In addition to his music career, Rogers was also an accomplished actor and appeared in several films and TV shows. He was also a successful entrepreneur, with his own line of restaurants and a chain of Roasters Roasting Company.
Rogers received numerous accolades for his contributions to music and entertainment, including three Grammy Awards, induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Country Music Association. His music and legacy continue to inspire and influence artists in various genres, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest country music artists of all time.
14. Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of country music. Born in Texas in 1933, Nelson began his music career in the 1950s, performing as a singer and guitarist in various bands.
Nelson rose to national fame in the 1970s with a series of critically acclaimed albums that showcased his distinctive style of music, which blended elements of country, rock, and folk. Hits like “On the Road Again,” “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain,” and “Always on My Mind” made him a household name, and his reputation as a master songwriter and performer grew with each passing year.
In addition to his music career, Nelson is also known for his activism and philanthropy. He has been a vocal advocate for a number of causes, including marijuana legalization, animal rights, and farm aid. He has also been a strong supporter of American farmers and ranchers, and he has organized a number of benefit concerts to support rural communities.
Today, Willie Nelson is widely regarded as a living legend of American music, and his influence on the genre of country music is immeasurable. He continues to tour and record new music, and he remains an inspiration to musicians and fans around the world.
15. Conway Twitty
Conway Twitty was an American country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist who was born in Mississippi in 1933. He was known for his smooth, deep voice and his ability to blend elements of country, rock, and pop music into his songs.
Twitty’s career took off in the 1960s with hits like “Hello Darlin’,” “It’s Only Make Believe,” and “Tight Fittin’ Jeans.” His music was characterized by his ability to convey emotion and tell a story through his lyrics, and his songs often dealt with themes of love and heartbreak.
In addition to his success as a musician, Twitty was also a skilled songwriter who wrote many of his own hits, as well as songs for other artists. He was known for his ability to write songs that resonated with his fans, and his music continues to be popular among country music fans today.
Conway Twitty continued to perform and record throughout his life, and his influence on country music can still be heard today. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999, and his legacy as a pioneering and influential musician lives on.
16. Waylon Jennings
Waylon Jennings was an American singer, songwriter, and musician who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of country music. Born in Texas in 1937, Jennings began his music career in the 1950s, playing bass guitar for the likes of Buddy Holly and Johnny Cash.
Jennings rose to prominence in the 1970s with a series of groundbreaking albums that helped to redefine the sound of country music. His music was characterized by its raw, edgy style, which blended elements of rock, blues, and honky-tonk. Hits like “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” “Good Hearted Woman,” and “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way” made him a superstar, and his influence on the genre of country music continues to be felt today.
In addition to his music career, Jennings was also known for his rebellious image, which helped to make him a cultural icon. He was a vocal critic of the Nashville establishment, and he was one of the first country singers to embrace rock and roll. His performances were known for their energy and intensity, and he was widely regarded as one of the most charismatic performers of his generation.
Today, Waylon Jennings is remembered as a true legend of American music, and his impact on the genre of country music is immeasurable. His music continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world, and his legacy as a pioneer of the outlaw country movement remains secure.
17. George Strait
George Strait is an American country music singer, songwriter, and actor, born in Texas in 1952. Known as the “King of Country,” Strait is one of the most successful country music artists of all time, with a career spanning over four decades. He is known for his traditional country sound, twangy vocals, and his ability to tell stories through his music.
Strait has released over 60 albums and has had over 60 singles reach the top 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, with 44 of those reaching number one. He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including 22 Academy of Country Music Awards, 19 Country Music Association Awards, and a Grammy Award.
In addition to his music career, Strait has also acted in several films, including “Pure Country” and “The Soldier.” He has also been involved in various charitable endeavors, including raising funds for Hurricane Harvey relief in his home state of Texas.
Strait’s influence on country music and popular culture is immeasurable, and he continues to inspire and influence artists in the genre. His music has become synonymous with country music itself and his legacy as one of the greatest country music artists of all time is firmly cemented.
18. Randy Travis
Randy Travis is an American country music singer and songwriter who was born in North Carolina in 1959. He is known for his distinctive baritone voice and his ability to blend traditional country music with contemporary sounds.
Travis’ career took off in the 1980s with hits like “On the Other Hand,” “Forever and Ever, Amen,” and “I Told You So.” His music was characterized by his ability to convey emotion and tell a story through his lyrics, and his songs often dealt with themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption.
In addition to his success as a singer, Travis was also a talented actor who appeared in several films and television shows throughout his career. He was known for his natural acting ability and his ability to bring authenticity to his roles.
Travis has continued to perform and record music throughout his life, and his influence on country music can still be heard today. He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including seven Grammy Awards and ten Academy of Country Music Awards. Despite suffering a debilitating stroke in 2013, Travis continues to inspire fans with his music and his unwavering spirit.
19. Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who is widely regarded as one of the most successful and popular figures in the history of country music. Born in Oklahoma in 1962, Brooks began his music career in the 1980s, and he quickly gained a following with his high-energy performances and catchy, radio-friendly songs.
Brooks became a superstar in the 1990s, with a string of hit albums and singles that made him one of the biggest-selling artists of all time. Hits like “The Dance,” “Friends in Low Places,” and “The Thunder Rolls” made him a household name, and his concerts were known for their high production values and over-the-top theatrics.
In addition to his music career, Brooks is also known for his philanthropy and humanitarian work. He has been a strong supporter of a number of causes, including education, health care, and disaster relief. He has also been a vocal advocate for the rights of women and children, and he has worked to promote equality and justice in communities around the world.
Today, Garth Brooks is widely regarded as a living legend of American music, and his impact on the genre of country music is immeasurable. He continues to tour and record new music, and he remains an inspiration to musicians and fans around the world.
20. Tim McGraw
Tim McGraw is an American country music singer, songwriter, and actor born in Louisiana in 1967. He is known for his smooth voice, catchy songs, and his ability to tell compelling stories through his music. McGraw’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life, and he has produced numerous hit songs throughout his career.
McGraw has released 15 studio albums and has had over 25 singles reach the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including three Grammy Awards, 14 Academy of Country Music Awards, and 11 Country Music Association Awards.
In addition to his music career, McGraw has also acted in several films, including “Friday Night Lights” and “The Blind Side.” He is also known for his philanthropic work, including raising funds for various charities and organizations, such as the Tug McGraw Foundation, which he founded in honor of his father.
McGraw’s impact on country music and popular culture is significant, and he continues to inspire and influence artists in the genre. His music has become a staple of country radio and his legacy as one of the most successful and beloved country music artists of all time is secure.
Edward Tomlin 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.
