What a week!!! For those of you who read last week's blog, you may recall that our Facebook page was just under 800 "likes" and that I would post an extended countdown blog once we passed that milestone. Well, in just one week, we have grown from around 740 page "likes" to an incredible 1,351!!! I don't know where everyone came from, but we are so glad to have you along with us!
With the new computer in operation over here in the BORN Country office, we are hoping to start showcasing some album reviews as often as possible, starting this week if all goes as planned! While we are on the subject, let's take a look at the new releases that are coming this Tuesday (5/26) in country music:
- Country music legend John Anderson is releasing his first collection of new songs in 9 years this week! "Goldmine", I think will be a must here album. I am very excited for this one. Anderson performed with Keith Urban a few weeks back as part of the ACM Superstar Duets TV special and it was fantastic!
- Opening act for Brad Paisley's "Crushin' It: World Tour" this summer, Mickey Guyton releases a digital EP on Tuesday. If you are a radio listener, you have probably heard her current single "Better Than You Left Me" getting some airplay. This gal has some real talent and I look forward not only to these tracks, but seeing her live performance come July!
- Rissi Palmer made her own bit of history back in 2008, when she became the first African-American to chart a country music single since 1987. This week, Rissi is back with a digital EP titled "The Back Porch Sessions."
Moving on to our countdown list for the week, let me say here, that the "BIG ANNOUNCEMENT" has yet to be revealed! Keep on reading!
BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles Of The 90's!!!
365. Bryan White - So Much For Pretending
Album: Between Now And Forever
Year: 1996
I'm sure I posed this question along with the last Bryan White song on our countdown, but again, how is this guy not still charting huge country hits?! Well, besides the fact that he isn't singing about beer, or tailgating, or partying, I mean? Don't get me wrong, I'm by no means completely against songs of that nature, but here we have a strong single about a guy falling in love with a gal who doesn't even know he exists. Who can't relate to that? Isn't that what country music is all about? Real life!
364. George Strait - Round About Way
Album: Carrying Your Love With Me
Year: 1996
When I began this countdown project, I had every intention of making it at most, a 200 song list. As I got to picking songs, I realized that with George Strait, Alan Jackson, and Garth all included, I'd almost have half of the list already covered! As I stated at the beginning of this blog series, until we hit the last 50 songs or so, nothing is really in a particular order. If I'm not careful, we may have a whole week dedicated to "King George" himself!
363. Dixie Chicks - You Were Mine
Album: Wide Open Spaces
Year: 1998
While country radio and many fans in the U.S. have yet had enough time pass to forgive the Dixie Chicks, no list of the best 90's country songs would be complete without recognizing the incredible talent that this trio brought to the genre. "You Were Mine" is incredibly important in the history of the "Chicks" as it was the first song recorded with Natalie Maines in the lead vocals department and lead to her becoming a permanent part of the band. "You Were Mine" reached #1 on the Hot Country Songs chart and #34 on Billboard's Hot 100.
362. Trace Adkins - (This Ain't) No Thinkin' Thing
Album: Dreamin' Out Loud
Year: 1997
Now considered a country music mega star, we've got a little shocking trivia here for you: "No Thinkin' Thing" was the first #1 hit for Trace Adkins. Amazingly, he did not see the top of the charts again until "Ladies Love Country Boys" came around in 2006!
361. Alan Jackson - Tonight I Climbed The Wall
Album: A Lot About Livin' (And A Liittle 'bout Love)
Year: 1993
Part of me is fighting against the thought of having this song so high on the list. "A Lot About Livin'" was one of the first country CDs that I ever purchased, (after listening to mom's cassette tape on repeat forever, of course), and although I didn't really understand what it was about, I really liked singing along with this one. Kind of weird, for a kid, no?
360. David Lee Murphy - The Road You Leave Behind
Album: Gettin' Out The Good Stuff
Year: 1996
David Lee Murphy recently announced that his next album, coming sometime in 2015 (hopefully!) will be co-produced by long time pal, Kenny Chesney. Chesney will appear on at least one track and I'm crossing my fingers that we might see Murphy joining in on a tour next summer after the album is out... Now that would be awesome! "The Road" peaked at #5 on the Hot Country Songs chart.
359. Tracy Byrd - Big Love
Album: Big Love
Year: 1996
The last time that we featured a Tracy Byrd song in our countdown, I believe I had read that he had completely removed himself from the music industry and hadn't even a Facebook/Twitter account. Turns out that he is indeed still playing small shows around Texas. I sure hope he plans on getting out a little further when he is ready! (Incase you happen to see this, we need you in Ohio, Tracy!) "Big Love" was originally recorded by Chris LeDoux, before Byrd took the song to #3.
358. Garth Brooks - Shameless
Album: Ropin' The Wind
Year: 1991
Along with "In Pieces" Garth's first compilation, titled "The Hits", was my introduction to Brooks. I recall loving the booklet that had little notes about each song in the collection. Garth explained that he had received the album with this Billy Joel song included after he joined a record club (Just like me!) and neglected to send in the "decline" form for the CD of the month. (Also just like me, ask my mom...She loved it.) Garth asked for Joel's permission to record the song and like that, another #1 was born!
357. David Ball - When The Thought Of You Catches Up With Me
Album: Thinkin' Problem
Year: 1994
I hope this comes off as a compliment and not all all as a negative, but I believe David Ball to be a perfect example of a country artist with so much talent and desire to make real country music, that they just cannot fit in the world of country radio. Ball's first single, "Thinkin' Problem" was a huge radio hit, followed by "Thought", that peaked at #7. After that, the radio love was mostly gone. David released an incredible album in the early 2000's titled "Amigo" that included a minor radio success, but otherwise, mainstream success just wasn't there. Ball continues to successfully tour the country and I hope to get a chance to see him play soon!
356. Mindy McCready - Guys Do It All The Time
Album: Ten Thousand Angels
Year: 1996
It's the classic country theme in which a female singer turns the "typical guy" stereotypes around, in order to allow the men see how annoying they can be. Its been around forever, with many different voices. This may sound like a complaint, but heck, this song is catchy! McCready took "Guys" to #1 on the Hot Country Songs chart.
355. George Strait - Easy Come, Easy Go
Album: Easy Come, Easy Go
Year: 1993
What did I tell ya? We can't even get through this edition of the countdown list without at least two George Strait hits! I'm sure there will be no complaints from you guys, though! This classic country hit easily took the #1 spot on the Hot Country Songs chart. Man, what a performance in the video below!
354. Collin Raye - Little Red Rodeo
Album: The Best Of Collin Raye: Direct Hits
Year: 1997
A lot of the 90's blur together for me, as far as what came out when, but this song just feels like it was from the earlier half of the decade to me. "Rodeo" was co-written by fellow country artist, Phil Vassar. I've thought this to be a strong entry in Raye's long run of radio hits, but there are still many songs of his to celebrate in our countdown, that I figure we should spread out the love! Huge shout out to Collin, who happens to be following along on our Facebook page! (Not to brag, or anything, ha!)
353. Chris LeDoux - This Cowboy's Hat
Album: Western Underground
Year: 1991
We all know that the legendary Chris LeDoux never had a ton of radio support. Heck, only three of his radio singles cracked the Top 50, and this isn't even one of those. However, "This Cowboy's Hat" is such a strong song about standing up for what you believe in and being true to yourself. I hope those of you readers who are not familiar with LeDoux's music give this one a chance. It certainly deserved more credit than it received!
352. Brooks & Dunn - My Next Broken Heart
Album: Brand New Man
Year: 1991
The second single and also second in a string of four #1 hits from their debut album, "Broken Heart" is a perfect example of PRIME Brooks & Dunn country music. The idea that one is readily looking into starting a new relationship despite knowing it will not last is probably something a lot of people can relate with... although B&D make it sound a lot more fun than it usually turns out to be in real life!
351. Sammy Kershaw - Queen Of My Double Wide Trailer
Album: Haunted Heart
Year: 1993
Complete honesty, this Sammy Kershaw single wasn't even on the radio when I made the first draft of this list. I happened upon in while streaming other songs I had chose to feature and it was part of the shuffle. I haven't been able to stop listening to it since! "Queen" is just goofy enough to be an absolute blast while still keeping a great country vibe. Even the video is a good time!
Can you believe we only have another 350 songs to go in our countdown?! While I did note that these songs aren't really in any particular order, I did in fact put them in "levels." As we get closer to the end of the list, we will continue to see bigger and bigger songs. I hope everyone enjoyed this week's entry! Stay tuned for the above mentioned album reviews that we hope to start bringing you this week!
,,,Oh, that big announcement? That's right! Recently, some moves have been made to bring our blog to its own "Dot Com" site! We are hoping to launch the new website by next weekend's countdown blog! We hope that this move will allow us to bring you more updates in a clearer fashion. Blogger has been a good home to start us out, but we need to make more room in order to grow!
Make sure you are following us on Facebook and Twitter in order to help us help you continue to find our blogs, reviews and other features that we hope to bring to our readers soon! Thanks again for reading and please, continue to share on Facebook, Tweet us, Instagram us, whatever it is that you do!
-Arthur Born
Facebook.com/BORNcountryblog
Twitter: @BORNcountryBlog
E-Mail: Borncountryblog@gmail.com
Showing posts with label george strait. Show all posts
Showing posts with label george strait. Show all posts
Sunday, May 24, 2015
Sunday, May 17, 2015
Countdown Part XII: Songs 366-375
We're back with another 10 songs in our 505 favorite country singles of the 90's countdown! You may have noticed the slower posts on Facebook and of course the lack of mid-week blogs over the last few weeks. We were struggling with the current laptop and it was an absolute chore to do anything, for the most part. However, I have great news! The BORN Country computer has been replaced and we are back on track! Hopefully, this will lead to a lot more blog postings outside of the countdown, more pictures, videos, ect.!
Also, with the new computer, comes another project that is in the works, but I can't quite share that one yet! Stay tuned!
Before we dive into the countdown, there are three new releases coming on Tuesday:
- Jon Pardi is releasing a collection of B-Sides that he recorded between 2011 and 2014 which could be very interesting. His full length album is pretty strong, so I'm very curious to hear this stuff!
- Kelsea Ballerini's "The First Time" is coming Tuesday as well. The first single was a bit "poppy" for my taste, but I'm curious to hear what the rest of the album brings. I have a feeling that there could be some great gems hidden on the album tracks.
- Logan Mize is releasing an EP of new music this week, titled "Pawn Shop Guitar". I really dig Logan's current single, though it's only received a little airtime so far. Give "Can't Get Away From A Good Time" a spin and let us know what you think!
Ok, on to the good stuff!
BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles of the 90's!!!
375. Tim McGraw - My Best Friend
Album: A Place In The Sun
Year: 1999
We are starting this week's list off with a country superstar! McGraw's album, "A Place In The Sun" is a strong contender, along with "Not A Moment Too Soon", as the best album in his career. Songs like "My Best Friend" wrapped up his first run of singles before releasing the first "Greatest Hits" collection by Tim. "Friend" went to the top of the Hot Country Chart.
374. LeAnn Rimes - One Way Ticket (Because I Can)
Album: Blue
Year: 1996
"Ticket" lead Rimes to becoming the fourth teenage artist in country music history to reach #1 on the Hot Country Charts. Despite being her most successful single in the country music genre, this is NOT the first song to come to mind when I hear LeAnn's name. We'll get to that one much later on!
373. Kevin Sharp - If You Love Somebody
Album: Measure Of A Man
Year: 1997
Kevin Sharp's third single from his debut album peaked at #4 on the Hot Country Chart in 1997. This would be Sharp's final song to reach the Top 10. This would be followed by 3 more radio singles released to radio in the 90's, but none of which would pass #43 on the charts. Sharp would then lend more of his time to charities and public speaking, although still recording music until his passing.
372. Lonestar - Runnin' Away With My Heart
Album: Lonestar
Year: 1996
Lonestar's lead vocalist, Richie Mcdonald not only charted many songs, including 8 #1 songs, with the band, but he has also had some success outside of the group. In 1997, McDonald was a guest vocalist on fellow 90's country star Mind McCready's #18 hit, "Maybe He'll Notice Her Now."
371. Clay Walker - You're Beginning To Get To Me
Album: 1998
Year: Greatest Hits
One of my biggest gripes in not just country music, but the music industry in general , is when a "Greatest Hits" packaged is released and there are no new songs included. Yes, I understand that the idea is to pull all of the biggest songs by one artist together in one album, but if I already own all of the previous records, give me some incentive! Perfect example: Clay Walker included two previously unreleased songs as radio singles from his first hits collection. These aren't throw away songs either!
370. George Strait - I Know She Still Loves Me
Album: Strait Out Of The Box
Year: 1995
This was by no means planned, but speaking of new songs being included in "hits" collections, this George single was unavailable until his four disc "Strait Out Of The Box" CD set was released in 1995. "King George" took this "I Know She Still Loves Me" to #5 on the Hot Country Songs chart.
369. Ty Herndon - I Want My Goodbye Back
Album: What Mattered Most
Year: 1995
Throughout the 90's Ty Herndon charted seven singles in the Top 10 on the Hot Country Songs chart. With songs like "Goodbye Back" and "Steam," it's a wonder to me how he wasn't able to stay in the spotlight at least through the early-mid 2000's. Herndon's last album up to this point, "Lies I Told Myself" was released in 2013.
368. Sawyer Brown - The Walk
Album: Buick
Year: 1991
For Mother's Day last week, a last minute "Songs About Mama" playlist was posted on the BORN Country Facebook page & Spotify. In June, and with a bit more warning, "Songs About Dad" will have a little more work put into it. This Sawyer Brown #2 hit, will absolutely be featured in said list. Have other suggestions? Let us know!
367. Little Texas - First Time For Everything
Album: First Time For Everything
Year: 1992
The Little Texas guys have a huge and truly dedicated fan base! A few weeks prior, Little Texas performed a few songs (including this one) in a live streaming concert in order to promote their latest album. During the set, there was a chat window to leave comments/ ask the guys questions, and it seemed that nearly EVERYONE in the chat knew each other! I think it's very cool that a fan base could become almost like a family and stay in touch with others through an online community reaching all around the country!
366. Marty Stuart & Travis Tritt - Honk Tonkin's What I Do Best
Album: Honky Tonkin's What I Do Best
Year: 1996
What a perfect duo these two guys make! The third hit duet between Tritt and Stuart throughout the 90's, "Honky Tonkin" is certainly the most upbeat. What I love most about this song, is that Tritt and Stuart are obviously genuine friends and had a blast making it, opposed to duets that sometimes seem to be forced by the record labels. To see these guys perform live together would be an absolute dream!
There we have it! Another 10 songs down! We are only 46 "Likes" away from 800 on Facebook! Once we hit that milestone, I will be posting another extended countdown blog, as promised, so don't forget to share our page with your friends!
Keep your eyes pealed for more blogs coming throughout the week! Is there anything else you, as readers, would like to see on our page/blog? We are very open to suggestions and hope to hear from you!
Thanks for reading!
-Arthur Born
Facebook.com/borncountryblog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
E-Mail: BORNCountryblog@gmail.com
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Countdown Part VIII: Songs #416-435 - HUGE 20 Song Edition!
What a week!!! Since the publishing of last week's countdown blog, the BORN Country Facebook page has grown from 215 "likes" to 400+!!! Thanks to everyone who has shared the page and please do not be afraid to continue to do so!
- This weekend, (4/18/15 to be exact) was Record Store Day. Did anyone go out to support their local record shops? What did you find? I had a pretty successful hunt, myself! I will post pictures of my "treasures" on the Facebook page soon!
- This past Tuesday night, there was a a pretty good lineup on the Grand Ole Opry broadcast. If you haven't downloaded the Opry or WSM650 apps, you absolutely must. Listening to the Opry on Tuesday/Thursday/Friday nights is always a blast. You never know who will show up! This evening, I heard Ray Stevens perform live for the first time ever! His Greatest Hits CD was the first of 2 I owned (along with Garth Brooks - The Hits) when I received my first Stereo/CD player for Christmas 20 years ago!
- Also, this past Tuesday night, 90's country rock mega band, Little Texas streamed a live performance in which they previewed songs from their latest album and also included a few past hits. I would love to see this becoming a trend! The live video feed included a chat window allowing fans to converse during the show. Very cool!
- Sunday night is the live broadcast of the 50th annual ACM Award ceremony. I will be posting a smaller blog with my ACM winner predictions prior to the show. We will also be hosting a live "chat/commentary" on the BORN Country Facebook page throughout the entire show, so please join us! Tell your friends! The show starts at 8PM EST. Hope to see you there!
Now, as promised, since all of you helped the BORN Country page blow far beyond the 300 "Like" goal that I set last week, this week's countdown will include 20 huge country hits from the 90's! I had planned on setting the next goal at 500 "Likes" but we are already on the way! Heck, why not? If we reach 500 by next Sunday, I will do ANOTHER 20 song edition of the countdown!
BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles Of The 90's!!!
435. Alan Jackson - Pop A Top
Album: Under The Influence
Year: 1999
A lot of songs make their way through country music history with a handful of different artists recording them. Alan Jackson may be the king of taking a classic country song, re-recording it, and turning into a smash hit radio single decades after it's original release. Country legend Jim Ed Brown released "Pop A Top" back in 1967, in which it became a #3 hit single on the Billboard country chart. Jackson's cover peaked at #6.
434. Doug Stone - Why Didn't I Think Of That
Album: From The Heart
Year: 1993
Though Stone would continue to reach the Top 10 afterwards, "Why" was his 3rd and final #1 single of the 90's. Doug's last album was released in 2008. He has not charted since the late 90's, but continues to release solid country music.
433. Little Texas - What Might Have Been
Album: Big Time
Year: 1993
One of the most successful songs released by Little Texas, "What Might Have Been" charted at #2 on the Billboard Hot Country Chart. The band recently re-recorded this, along with "God Bless Texas" for the release of their newest studio album, "Young For A Long Time".
432. Martina McBride - Life #9
Album: The Way That I Am
Year: 1994
Last week we saw McBride's first song on our countdown and here comes #2! According to the Wikipedia page, Martina is quoted in saying that she didn't feel like this was her kind of song, in reference to the attitude and and melody. #9 was her fifth overall single released to radio and it peaked at #6 in 1994. Not bad!
431. Vince Gill - Don't Let Our Love Start Slippin' Away
Album: I Still Believe In You
Year: 1992
The video for Gill's 2nd #1 single of the 90's features a handful of country (and otherwise) music icons. Reba, "Little" Jimmy Dickens, Patty Loveless, Lee Roy Parnell, Carl Perkins, Pam Tillis, Leon Russell and more make appearances throughout!
430. Mindy McCready - A Girl's Gotta Do (What A Girl's Gotta Do)
Album: Ten Thousand Angels
Year: 1997
Mindy McCready had a strong entrance into the country music scene. Her first 4 singles performed strongly on the charts, including this single which peaked at #4. Mindy dealt with many personal demons following her country music success, including substance abuse, reality TV, a personal sex tape being released by Vivid Entertainment and more. Sadly, McCready took her own like at the age of 37 in 2013 .
429. Clint Black - The Shoes You're Wearin'
Album: Nothin' But The Taillights
Year: 1998
"Shoes" was the fourth and final single from Clint's "Nothin' But The Taillights" album in 1998. This song which followed the #1 charting title track, also went to the top of the charts. While very possibly Black's strongest album of the 90's, Clint was not done taking singles to the top of the country mountain for the decade just yet...
428. Tracy Byrd - Walkin' To Jerusalem
Album: Love Lessons
Year: 1995
In the mid-late 90's, I was constantly mixing up Tracy Byrd, Tracy Lawrence and Trace Adkins. All 3 were consistently cranking out huge hits. Today, they all sound so differently from each other, so I imagine it was just the names that had me all mixed up! This Tracy BYRD hit charted at #15.
427. John Michael Montgomery - If You've Got Love
Album: Kickin' It Up
Year: 1994
This isn't directly a memory I have of this particular song, but here's a little story. When "I Swear" by Montgomery was climbing the charts, it was huge among my 5th grade classmates. Well... the All-4-One version was huge anyways. I knew the JMM version, haha. Anyhow, I thought that I had brilliant plan in which I could obtain the entire "Kickin' It Up" album by requesting songs at radio and recording them to tape. However, I didn't understand the "radio single: concept, nor did I actually know any other song titles, so I called and asked WOBL 1320AM to play "Kickin' It Up" by JMM. To my surprise, they had never heard of it, because it wasn't sent to them for radio play. Spoiled my plans!
426. George Strait - I Just Want To Dance With You
Album: One Night At A Time
Year: 1998
Like Alan Jackson above, George Strait recorded this song, which was previously written and recorded by John Prine, and took it to #1. Prine released "Dance" on his 1986 album, "German Afternoons".
425. Garth Brooks - Somewhere Other Than The Night
Album: The Chase
Year: 1992
Well isn't this just a star studded list this week?! While "Somewhere" tends to be a lesser celebrated single from early in Garth's career, after 20 weeks on the charts, it became his 10th #1 single on the Billboard Hot Country chart in 1992.
*Unfortunately, as Garth does not allow his music videos to be uploaded on YouTune or likewise, I was unable to find a proper link for this song. My apologies!!!
424. Trisha Yearwood (Featuring Don Henley) - Walkaway Joe
Album: Hearts In Armor
Year: 1992
You know you've had a strong start in your country music career when Don Henley of The Eagles, Emmylou Harris and Raul Malo of the Mavericks want to help you out on your 2nd album! The video for Yearwood's #2 charting song stars a young Matthew McConaughey.
423. Clay Walker - Then What?
Album: Rumor Has It
Year: 1998
Well before Kenny Chesney when "Island Country", there was Clay Walker's "Then What?" This song is an absolute blast to sing along to. I remember receiving the "Rumor Has It" CD from BMG back in the late 90s and just constantly listening to this song. 7th grade me would be so confused by this song not being in the top 10 of this list, ha!
422. Alan Jackson - Gone Crazy
Album: High Mileage
Year: 1999
Well, this is a first so far on our countdown list! Two songs by the same artist on one list! Of course, it's only fitting that this goes to the always incredible, Alan Jackson. Near the time of this album and song release, Jackson had been split from his wife and then reconnected with her after a period of time. It's only fitting that he would write an incredible song about losing love as it was happening to him in real life. "Gone Crazy" peaked at #4 on the Hot Country chart.
421. Shania Twain (Featuring Bryan White) - From This Moment On
Album: Come On Over
Year: 1998
"From This Moment" was a high school dance staple during the early 2000's. I don't imagine that it still is, but I could be very wrong. Originally recorded by a solo Shania, it was decided that this would be best as a duet. Twain's first choice was Sir Elton John, but after being unable to obtain his services, 90's country star, Bryan White stepped up to the plate an nailed it! White is easily another artist that should be getting far more credit than he has, but we'll get to him later...
*The only official video for this song is for the Shania solo recording. Being that the duet is the version I chose for this list, I had to find a fan made video. This is the best I could do!
420. Toby Keith - Getcha Some
Album: Greatest Hits: Volume One
Year: 1998
Not one of Toby's most successfully charting songs, (well, in comparison to most Toby songs at least.) "Getcha Some" peaked at #18 as the lead single from his first Greatest Hits compilation.
419. Sammy Kershaw - Love Of My Life
Album: Labor Of Love
Year: 1997
The video for Sammy's country music hit picks off right where the video for his #5 charting single, "Meant To Be" left us off in 1996. "Love Of My Life" peaked two spots higher at #3 on the Hot Country chart.
418. Tracy Lawrence - Lessons Learned
Album: Lessons Learned
Year: 1999
"Lessons" was the final single released to country radio by Tracy Lawrence in the 90's. Ending the decade on a strong note, Lawrence took the song to #3 on the Hot Country chart. I've got high hopes to finally see Tracy Lawrence perform live this year! I'm looking at you, county fairs!
417. Bryan White - Look At Me Now
Album: Bryan White
Year: 1994
Not necessarily related to this song, but I have a very clear memory of one of my childhood neighbors being so excited that she was going to see Bryan White live! I had no clue who he was at the time, but she had a huge crush on him. I recall her being so thrilled afterwards, because she caught his towel that he threw out into the crowd when the show ended. I remember thinking it was weird that she wanted his sweat, ha! If she reads this, she'll know who she is!
416. Diamond Rio - Bubba Hyde
Album: Love A Little Stronger
Year: 1995
Being in 5th or 6th grade at the time of this Diamond Rio hit's release, I strangely made my the decision that "Bubba Hyde" and the upcoming Eddie Murphy remake of "The Nutty Professor" were somehow related. When the song was NOT included in the movie, I was absolutely dumbfounded by the obvious missed opportunity. What an imagination I had, ha!
Phew! And here we are after a huge 20 song update! We only have 10 songs left to go in the first 100 on the list! We are just flying right through, aren't we? Don't worry, there is so much great country music from the 90's to come! Hopefully, these songs have brought back a few memories, helped you rediscover an artist, or heck, brought something to your attention that is completely new to you!
Once again, don't forget to join us TONIGHT on our Facebook page for a live chat/comment session during the entire run of the ACM Award ceremony. We will be looking forward to everyone's input!
Thanks for reading!
-Arthur
Facebook: BORNCountryBlog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
E-Mail: borncountryblog@gmail.com
Sunday, April 12, 2015
Countdown Part VII: Songs #436-445
Welcome!!! I know some of you readers out there have been waiting all day for this post, so I apologize if its a bit later than usual! After celebrating Amy's birthday and our first year together, I seem to be coming down with a bit of a head cold. The Coricidin is kicking in strong, so I'm gonna jump right into the countdown!
Don't forget to visit our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and share with your friends! Next weekend, we will be hosting a live chat on our FB page during the ACM Awards show, Sunday night!!! Don't miss out!
BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles of the 90's!!!
445. Martina McBride - Independence Day
Album: The Way That I Am
Year: 1994
I may catch a little flack for this song being so low on the list. I've always considered McBride to be one of the biggest names in 90's country music, but despite being one of her most successful songs, "Independence Day" never really grabbed me like it did so many others. Don't get me wrong, as I do think it is one of her best, and I do believe it belongs on this list, just not as high as some of her other songs will be.
444. Ricochet - What Do I Know
Album: Ricochet
Year: 1995
I don't have any trivia to share with this song, so I will try to make another point here. What happened to "bands" in country music? Throughout the 90's we had Ricochet, Little Texas, Diamond Rio, Sawyer Brown, Alabama, Shenandoah, etc. These were acts where the entire band was the main focus. Today, we have mostly solo artists getting credit with a band behind them who most go uncredited. Sure, there are the Love & Thefts, Band Perrys and Thompson Squares, but only the lead 2 or 3 members get the credit. Just a little something that I think about.
443. Joe Diffie - A Night To Remember
Album: A Night To Remember
Year: 1999
"Night" was not only the lead single from his finally album of the 90's, but marked his first and only appearance on Billboard's overall Top 40 chart, peaking at #38. "A Night To Remember" was ranked at #18 for the most played country song of 1999.
442. Diamond Rio - Walkin' Away
Album: IV
Year: 1995
Speaking of great country bands throughout the 90's, Diamond Rio are hands down one of the best! "Walking' Away" was the lead single from the group's 4th studio album. The track reached #2 on the Hot Country Charts.
441. Hal Ketchum - Sure Love
Album: Sure Love
Year: 1992
Hal nearly hit the top the Hot Country Charts a handful of times throughout the 90's In 1998, Ketchum lost function of the left side of his body due to a neurological disorder. After re-teacing himself to walk and play guitar, Ketchum continues his music career, with his most current album having been released in 2008.
440. Andy Griggs - I'll Go Crazy
Album: You Won't Ever Be Lonely
Year: 1999
Griggs took "Crazy" to #10 on the charts in 1999. He would continue to chart 4 more top 10s in the early 2000's. This would be the 2nd and final single released by Griggs in the 90's.
439. Marty Stuart - Burn Me Down
Album: Tempted
Year: 1992
This Stuart hit has always made a link between his own and the music of Elvis Presley in my opinion. Marty has that rockabilly edge that early Elvis showed, and I've always envisioned "The King" performing this track if the writers were around in the beginnings of rock n' roll.
438. John Berry - Standing On The Edge of Goodbye
Album: Standing On The Edge
Year: 1995
"Goodbye" was Berry's 2nd highest ranking songs of not only the 90's, but his career so far. While Berry hasn't charted any singles after 1999, hopefully the nearing (fingers crossed!) revival of more tradition in country music will help him to head towards the top again.
437. Reba McEntire - Till You Love Me
Album: Read My Mind
Year: 1994
If anyone were asked if George Strait had a female equal in country music throughout the 90's, Reba is without a doubt the "Queen" to his "King". Both artists started in the 70's, broke through in the 80's and absolutely exploded through the 90's. Like George, Reba has easily continued with hits into the 2000's and today. Reba is another artist who I didn't ever find a real connection with while growing up on country music, but today, can absolutely respect everything she has done. Heck, even her sitcom "Reba" gets a chuckle out of me here and there when I'm skimming the channels! Ha!
436. Toby Keith - Big Ol' Truck
Album: Boomtown
Year: 1995
Ok, this entry in our countdown has been pretty heavy on the slow stuff, so let's crank it up a bit, shall we? Country music, especially in its modern form is LOADED with songs about trucks and how much guys love them. What we rarely see, are songs about women loving and driving their own "Big Ol' Trucks". Toby delivers a fun song with an entertaining video for the final single on his album, "Boomtown". "Truck" would peak at #15. Far from typical Toby success, but a good single, regardless.
Another 10 songs in the can! Again, my apologies for the late post as I deal with this head cold. I haven't decided yet, but next weeks blog MAY be posted on Saturday, due to the ACM Awards show taking place Sunday night. Perhaps you guys can crank up the Facebook page sharing and get us up to 300 by the end of the week! If so, my offer of posting a huge 20 song update is still on the table!
Don't forget to join us, this Sunday, April the 19th on our Facebook page for a live chat/commentary during the ACM Awards! The more the merrier! Invite friends, share and enjoy! Thanks for reading, as always!
-Arthur Born
Facebook.com/BORNCountryBlog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
E-Mail: borncountryblog@gmail.com
Spotify: BORN Country To Go!
Don't forget to visit our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and share with your friends! Next weekend, we will be hosting a live chat on our FB page during the ACM Awards show, Sunday night!!! Don't miss out!
BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles of the 90's!!!
445. Martina McBride - Independence Day
Album: The Way That I Am
Year: 1994
I may catch a little flack for this song being so low on the list. I've always considered McBride to be one of the biggest names in 90's country music, but despite being one of her most successful songs, "Independence Day" never really grabbed me like it did so many others. Don't get me wrong, as I do think it is one of her best, and I do believe it belongs on this list, just not as high as some of her other songs will be.
444. Ricochet - What Do I Know
Album: Ricochet
Year: 1995
I don't have any trivia to share with this song, so I will try to make another point here. What happened to "bands" in country music? Throughout the 90's we had Ricochet, Little Texas, Diamond Rio, Sawyer Brown, Alabama, Shenandoah, etc. These were acts where the entire band was the main focus. Today, we have mostly solo artists getting credit with a band behind them who most go uncredited. Sure, there are the Love & Thefts, Band Perrys and Thompson Squares, but only the lead 2 or 3 members get the credit. Just a little something that I think about.
443. Joe Diffie - A Night To Remember
Album: A Night To Remember
Year: 1999
"Night" was not only the lead single from his finally album of the 90's, but marked his first and only appearance on Billboard's overall Top 40 chart, peaking at #38. "A Night To Remember" was ranked at #18 for the most played country song of 1999.
442. Diamond Rio - Walkin' Away
Album: IV
Year: 1995
Speaking of great country bands throughout the 90's, Diamond Rio are hands down one of the best! "Walking' Away" was the lead single from the group's 4th studio album. The track reached #2 on the Hot Country Charts.
441. Hal Ketchum - Sure Love
Album: Sure Love
Year: 1992
Hal nearly hit the top the Hot Country Charts a handful of times throughout the 90's In 1998, Ketchum lost function of the left side of his body due to a neurological disorder. After re-teacing himself to walk and play guitar, Ketchum continues his music career, with his most current album having been released in 2008.
440. Andy Griggs - I'll Go Crazy
Album: You Won't Ever Be Lonely
Year: 1999
Griggs took "Crazy" to #10 on the charts in 1999. He would continue to chart 4 more top 10s in the early 2000's. This would be the 2nd and final single released by Griggs in the 90's.
439. Marty Stuart - Burn Me Down
Album: Tempted
Year: 1992
This Stuart hit has always made a link between his own and the music of Elvis Presley in my opinion. Marty has that rockabilly edge that early Elvis showed, and I've always envisioned "The King" performing this track if the writers were around in the beginnings of rock n' roll.
438. John Berry - Standing On The Edge of Goodbye
Album: Standing On The Edge
Year: 1995
"Goodbye" was Berry's 2nd highest ranking songs of not only the 90's, but his career so far. While Berry hasn't charted any singles after 1999, hopefully the nearing (fingers crossed!) revival of more tradition in country music will help him to head towards the top again.
437. Reba McEntire - Till You Love Me
Album: Read My Mind
Year: 1994
If anyone were asked if George Strait had a female equal in country music throughout the 90's, Reba is without a doubt the "Queen" to his "King". Both artists started in the 70's, broke through in the 80's and absolutely exploded through the 90's. Like George, Reba has easily continued with hits into the 2000's and today. Reba is another artist who I didn't ever find a real connection with while growing up on country music, but today, can absolutely respect everything she has done. Heck, even her sitcom "Reba" gets a chuckle out of me here and there when I'm skimming the channels! Ha!
436. Toby Keith - Big Ol' Truck
Album: Boomtown
Year: 1995
Ok, this entry in our countdown has been pretty heavy on the slow stuff, so let's crank it up a bit, shall we? Country music, especially in its modern form is LOADED with songs about trucks and how much guys love them. What we rarely see, are songs about women loving and driving their own "Big Ol' Trucks". Toby delivers a fun song with an entertaining video for the final single on his album, "Boomtown". "Truck" would peak at #15. Far from typical Toby success, but a good single, regardless.
Another 10 songs in the can! Again, my apologies for the late post as I deal with this head cold. I haven't decided yet, but next weeks blog MAY be posted on Saturday, due to the ACM Awards show taking place Sunday night. Perhaps you guys can crank up the Facebook page sharing and get us up to 300 by the end of the week! If so, my offer of posting a huge 20 song update is still on the table!
Don't forget to join us, this Sunday, April the 19th on our Facebook page for a live chat/commentary during the ACM Awards! The more the merrier! Invite friends, share and enjoy! Thanks for reading, as always!
-Arthur Born
Facebook.com/BORNCountryBlog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
E-Mail: borncountryblog@gmail.com
Spotify: BORN Country To Go!
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Countdown Part VI: Songs #446-455
Happy Easter to all of my readers out there!!! After 2 big meals, a load of candy and 1 nap, I am ready to get this entry of our countdown rolling right along! What did everyone think of last weeks songs? We are starting to get a little deeper into the more popular stuff the further we go along!
Before the first song on this weekend's list, I want to let everyone know that I intend to host a running comment/chat on our Facebook page during the Academy of Country Music Awards show coming up on the 19th of April! I'm hoping that everyone will join in and open up our FB comments to a wider range of readers! Let us know what you think about the blog, the Facebook page, our songs of the day, and country music in general! We love hearing from everyone here at BORN Country!
Links to our Facebook page, Twitter and email with be posted below. Don't be afraid to use them!
BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles Of The 90's!
455. Sammy Kershaw - Don't Go Near The Water
Album: Don't Go Near The Water
Year: 1992
I have to admit, that as I grew up on country music of the 90's there are a handful of artists that didn't really "catch" me at the time. I knew a couple Sammy Kershaw songs, but there is a large portion of his back catalog that I hadn't really known all of that well until recently. THIS however, is not one of those songs that passed me by!
454. Wynonna - Tell Me Why
Album: Tell Me Why
Year: 1993
Wynonna is easily one of the most iconic women in country music, whether it be in duet form with Naomi or on here own throughout the 90's. How many other artists can go by their first name only and still be known to all in country music, other than Reba? None that I can think of! Wynonna took "Why Not Me" to #3 on the Hot Country Songs Chart.
453. Brooks & Dunn - How Long Gone
Album: If You See Her
Year: 1998
So, I don't believe I even have to ask, but who is excited for the Brooks & Dunn reunion at the ACM Awards show on April 19th?! I was lucky enough to see their last Cleveland area performance after rushing through a college final a few years back. Whatever grade I ended up with, was worth speeding through in order to make sure that I made it to the last show before they would disband. Now, it's only a matter of time before they tour again, but just incase, I wouldn't dare miss the performance in a few weeks! Don't forget to follow our Facebook page for the live comment/chat feed during the show!
452. George Strait - We Really Shouldn't Be Doing This
Album: One Step At A Time
Year: 1998
Unlike Brooks & Dunn above, I never had the chance to see "King George" live before he took to retirement from touring this past year. I waited out his tour schedule thinking he couldn't possibly pass up the Cleveland area, but the show was never added and I was too late to grab tickets to anything else. Fingers crossed that one day he decides that the cowboy has one more last rodeo in him!
451. Keith Urban - It's A Love Thing
Album: Keith Urban
Year: 1999
Keith Urban on a 90's list?!!! That's right! Keith barely sneaks into eligibility for our list, releasing his first U.S. single in the summer of 1999. Urban would certainly move on to much better material, including his current single with Eric Church "Raise Em Up" that's climbing the charts, but this catchy single will forever be a one of his most memorable.
450. Clay Walker - Watch This
Album: Rumor Has It
Year: 1997
Clay Walker's 14th single is one song that I remember truly thinking I was able to sing well while driving around in my 1992 Ford Explorer when I was 16. Walker's "Greatest Hits" album was one of the staple CDs in my vehicle from the day I started driving (Legally, ha!). To this day, every song on the "Hits" release is forever ingrained on my memory. Clay is a prime example of an artist who deserves far more recognition than he has ever received.
449. Deana Carter - How Do I Get There
Album: Did I Shave My Legs For This?
Year: 1997
Did you know Deana Carter was discovered by Willie Nelson in 1994? How cool is that?! "How Do I Get There" was Carter's 3rd and final #1 single in her career (so far. Fingers crossed!) Deana later scored CMA and Grammy nominations as a song writer when country mega star Kenny Chesney covered her song "You & Tequila" as a duet with Grace Potter.
448. Alan Jackson - Who's Cheatin' Who
Album: Everything I Love
Year: 1997
Alan Jackson truly loves the history of country music. By no means is this a definite fact, but when it comes to covering classic country songs, Jackson has to have done in most in any recent generation. Not only does he keep said classics alive, his versions get released to radio! Often! "Cheatin'" was originally recorded and released in 1980 by Charly McClain. While not quite taking it to #1 on the country charts as McCalin did, Alan hit the #2 spot in 1997.
447. Lonestar - Everything's Changed
Album: Crazy Nights
Year: 1998
This was the final single released by Lonestar before then bass guitar player, John Rich, was fired from the band, leading to his partnership with Big Kenny in Big & Rich. The version I am most familiar with was released on the album "Lonely Grill" as a piano/acoustic recording, but this is the version that was released to radio and climbed to #2 on the Hot Country Songs chart.
446. Billy Ray Cyrus - In The Heart Of A Woman
Album: It Won't Be The Last
Year: 1993
Another strong hit from Billy Ray, "Heart" was the first single from his second album. I had never seen the video to this track before I started tonight's blog, and I've gotta say, this may be the most majestic display of possibly the most famous mullet of all time. Amy also pointed out to me, that this may also be the only rare appearance of a pair of British Knights in a country music video. I've been a big fan of Cyrus since his first release and this song has stuck with me strongly for the last 22 years. Good stuff!
There we have it! Another week of 90's classics in the books! I hope you've enjoyed all, or at least most of the songs as much as I have so far. Below I will include a link to our playlist on Spotify so you can take the countdown with you, on-the-go!
Don't forget to check us out on Twitter, PLEASE "Like" us on Facebook in order to keep up to date with BORN Country on a daily basis and we will look forward to everyone joining in on the ACM chat this coming April 19th! Thanks for reading!
-Arthur Born
Facebook.com/BORNCountryBlog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
Spotify: BORN Country on Spotify
Before the first song on this weekend's list, I want to let everyone know that I intend to host a running comment/chat on our Facebook page during the Academy of Country Music Awards show coming up on the 19th of April! I'm hoping that everyone will join in and open up our FB comments to a wider range of readers! Let us know what you think about the blog, the Facebook page, our songs of the day, and country music in general! We love hearing from everyone here at BORN Country!
Links to our Facebook page, Twitter and email with be posted below. Don't be afraid to use them!
BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles Of The 90's!
455. Sammy Kershaw - Don't Go Near The Water
Album: Don't Go Near The Water
Year: 1992
I have to admit, that as I grew up on country music of the 90's there are a handful of artists that didn't really "catch" me at the time. I knew a couple Sammy Kershaw songs, but there is a large portion of his back catalog that I hadn't really known all of that well until recently. THIS however, is not one of those songs that passed me by!
454. Wynonna - Tell Me Why
Album: Tell Me Why
Year: 1993
Wynonna is easily one of the most iconic women in country music, whether it be in duet form with Naomi or on here own throughout the 90's. How many other artists can go by their first name only and still be known to all in country music, other than Reba? None that I can think of! Wynonna took "Why Not Me" to #3 on the Hot Country Songs Chart.
453. Brooks & Dunn - How Long Gone
Album: If You See Her
Year: 1998
So, I don't believe I even have to ask, but who is excited for the Brooks & Dunn reunion at the ACM Awards show on April 19th?! I was lucky enough to see their last Cleveland area performance after rushing through a college final a few years back. Whatever grade I ended up with, was worth speeding through in order to make sure that I made it to the last show before they would disband. Now, it's only a matter of time before they tour again, but just incase, I wouldn't dare miss the performance in a few weeks! Don't forget to follow our Facebook page for the live comment/chat feed during the show!
452. George Strait - We Really Shouldn't Be Doing This
Album: One Step At A Time
Year: 1998
Unlike Brooks & Dunn above, I never had the chance to see "King George" live before he took to retirement from touring this past year. I waited out his tour schedule thinking he couldn't possibly pass up the Cleveland area, but the show was never added and I was too late to grab tickets to anything else. Fingers crossed that one day he decides that the cowboy has one more last rodeo in him!
451. Keith Urban - It's A Love Thing
Album: Keith Urban
Year: 1999
Keith Urban on a 90's list?!!! That's right! Keith barely sneaks into eligibility for our list, releasing his first U.S. single in the summer of 1999. Urban would certainly move on to much better material, including his current single with Eric Church "Raise Em Up" that's climbing the charts, but this catchy single will forever be a one of his most memorable.
450. Clay Walker - Watch This
Album: Rumor Has It
Year: 1997
Clay Walker's 14th single is one song that I remember truly thinking I was able to sing well while driving around in my 1992 Ford Explorer when I was 16. Walker's "Greatest Hits" album was one of the staple CDs in my vehicle from the day I started driving (Legally, ha!). To this day, every song on the "Hits" release is forever ingrained on my memory. Clay is a prime example of an artist who deserves far more recognition than he has ever received.
449. Deana Carter - How Do I Get There
Album: Did I Shave My Legs For This?
Year: 1997
Did you know Deana Carter was discovered by Willie Nelson in 1994? How cool is that?! "How Do I Get There" was Carter's 3rd and final #1 single in her career (so far. Fingers crossed!) Deana later scored CMA and Grammy nominations as a song writer when country mega star Kenny Chesney covered her song "You & Tequila" as a duet with Grace Potter.
448. Alan Jackson - Who's Cheatin' Who
Album: Everything I Love
Year: 1997
Alan Jackson truly loves the history of country music. By no means is this a definite fact, but when it comes to covering classic country songs, Jackson has to have done in most in any recent generation. Not only does he keep said classics alive, his versions get released to radio! Often! "Cheatin'" was originally recorded and released in 1980 by Charly McClain. While not quite taking it to #1 on the country charts as McCalin did, Alan hit the #2 spot in 1997.
447. Lonestar - Everything's Changed
Album: Crazy Nights
Year: 1998
This was the final single released by Lonestar before then bass guitar player, John Rich, was fired from the band, leading to his partnership with Big Kenny in Big & Rich. The version I am most familiar with was released on the album "Lonely Grill" as a piano/acoustic recording, but this is the version that was released to radio and climbed to #2 on the Hot Country Songs chart.
446. Billy Ray Cyrus - In The Heart Of A Woman
Album: It Won't Be The Last
Year: 1993
Another strong hit from Billy Ray, "Heart" was the first single from his second album. I had never seen the video to this track before I started tonight's blog, and I've gotta say, this may be the most majestic display of possibly the most famous mullet of all time. Amy also pointed out to me, that this may also be the only rare appearance of a pair of British Knights in a country music video. I've been a big fan of Cyrus since his first release and this song has stuck with me strongly for the last 22 years. Good stuff!
There we have it! Another week of 90's classics in the books! I hope you've enjoyed all, or at least most of the songs as much as I have so far. Below I will include a link to our playlist on Spotify so you can take the countdown with you, on-the-go!
Don't forget to check us out on Twitter, PLEASE "Like" us on Facebook in order to keep up to date with BORN Country on a daily basis and we will look forward to everyone joining in on the ACM chat this coming April 19th! Thanks for reading!
-Arthur Born
Facebook.com/BORNCountryBlog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
Spotify: BORN Country on Spotify
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Countdown Part III: Songs 476-485
Another week has passed and we are back with another installment of BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles of the 90's! While I stated at the beginning that these songs aren't exactly in an order from favorite to least favorite, there will definitely be more well known songs the further we get down to it. I have also decided that the last 50 spots WILL be reserved for my absolute favorites of the decade, so that will be exciting!... In about a year! haha.
Here we go! Another 10 from the list! As always, comment below, follow the blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or any other way that you can think of! Help get the word out to other readers! Enjoy!
BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of the 1990's!!!
485. Aaron Tippin - Working Man's PH.D
Album: Call Of The Wild
Year: 1993
During every one of his live shows (Non-acoustic), Tippin puts together a bicycle, piece by piece, on stage while performing this song in order to donate it to Toys For Tots. Although he has long lost count, his bike donation count is long past the 1,000 gift point. Very cool!
484. Lorrie Morgan - Watch Me
Album: Watch Me
Year: 1992
Lorrie Morgan had a steady run of hits throughout the 90's. Morgan was married to late country legend, Keith Whitley until his tragic passing. They're son, Jesse Keith Whitley is currently recording and attempting to break into the country music scene.
483. Doug Stone - Born In The Dark
Album: Faith In Me, Faith In You
Year: 1995
Shortly after Stone's #12 charting single, he suffered a nearly fatal heart attack in 1995, follow by a mild stroke in 1996. Despite few attempts since, battles with his personal life have kept him from much touring or recording since.
482. Sammy Kershaw - She Don't Know She's Beautiful
Album: Haunted Heart
Year: 1993
Despite hitting the Top 40 Country Billboard chart 23 times throughout the 90's, this is Kershaw's only #1 song in his career. However, this will NOT be the only time we see Sammy on this list!
481. Brooks & Dunn - A Man This Lonely
Album: Borderline
Year: 1996
I've stated elsewhere numerous times that Ronnie Dunn possesses the best voice in country music history. This song right here, is a prime example.
480. Pam Tillis - Shake The Sugar Tree
Album: Homeward Looking Angel
Year: 1992
Daughter of country legend Mel Tillis, Pam is another artist on this list with only one #1 single, despite having released a handful of successful singles. This song went to #3 though, being one of her most successful radio hits.
479. Dixie Chicks - I Can Love You Better
Album: Wide Open Spaces
Year: 1997
Dixie Chicks hit country radio strongly with their very first single in 1997. "Better" went to #7 on the Hot Country Billboard charts. The Chicks would go on to release 6 more singles in the 90's, which all would top their debut song.
478. Marty Stuart - Tempted
Album: Tempted
Year: 1992
Marty Stuart is a top contender on my "To see perform live" bucket list. Amy and I missed him by only one day during our trip to Nashville this past January, at the Opry. We plan on another trip down there soon, so we'll have to plan accordingly!
477. George Strait - So Much Like My Dad
Album: Holding My Own
Year: 1992
George Strait took the 2nd single from "Holding My Own" to #3 on the Billboard Hot Singles chart in 1992. Even when a song is this good, I suppose they can't ALL be #1's!
476. Chris LeDoux - Life Is A Highway
Album: One Road Man
Year: 1999
If you missed my post the other night, this past Monday was the 10 year mark since the sad passing of country and rodeo legend, Chris LeDoux. As the majority of his radio releases failed to reach even the top 40, this one was no different, topping out at #64. Despite chart performance, LeDoux's version of this Tom Cochrane hit is INFINITELY superior to the dreadful cover by Rascal Flatts in 2006.
There you have it! 30 songs into the list! I sure hope everyone is having as much fun reading about and revisiting the songs on this list as I am!
I have a pretty wild work schedule this week, so hopefully I will get to put in another mid week blog entry before the next edition of the countdown. Amy and I will be seeing another 90's country legend in concert NEXT week, so I can't wait to tell everyone about that one! HUGE bucket list concert!
As always, I thank you for reading and hope you will comment below and of course share the blog on all social media outlets! Help me get this blog out there, please! My Twitter and Instagram handles are below, so follow me there as well! Once again, thanks for reading and I hope to see you again next Sunday!!!
-Arthur Born
Twitter: @arthurborn
Instagram: @arthur214
#iwasBORNcountry
Here we go! Another 10 from the list! As always, comment below, follow the blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or any other way that you can think of! Help get the word out to other readers! Enjoy!
BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of the 1990's!!!
485. Aaron Tippin - Working Man's PH.D
Album: Call Of The Wild
Year: 1993
During every one of his live shows (Non-acoustic), Tippin puts together a bicycle, piece by piece, on stage while performing this song in order to donate it to Toys For Tots. Although he has long lost count, his bike donation count is long past the 1,000 gift point. Very cool!
484. Lorrie Morgan - Watch Me
Album: Watch Me
Year: 1992
Lorrie Morgan had a steady run of hits throughout the 90's. Morgan was married to late country legend, Keith Whitley until his tragic passing. They're son, Jesse Keith Whitley is currently recording and attempting to break into the country music scene.
483. Doug Stone - Born In The Dark
Album: Faith In Me, Faith In You
Year: 1995
Shortly after Stone's #12 charting single, he suffered a nearly fatal heart attack in 1995, follow by a mild stroke in 1996. Despite few attempts since, battles with his personal life have kept him from much touring or recording since.
482. Sammy Kershaw - She Don't Know She's Beautiful
Album: Haunted Heart
Year: 1993
Despite hitting the Top 40 Country Billboard chart 23 times throughout the 90's, this is Kershaw's only #1 song in his career. However, this will NOT be the only time we see Sammy on this list!
481. Brooks & Dunn - A Man This Lonely
Album: Borderline
Year: 1996
I've stated elsewhere numerous times that Ronnie Dunn possesses the best voice in country music history. This song right here, is a prime example.
480. Pam Tillis - Shake The Sugar Tree
Album: Homeward Looking Angel
Year: 1992
Daughter of country legend Mel Tillis, Pam is another artist on this list with only one #1 single, despite having released a handful of successful singles. This song went to #3 though, being one of her most successful radio hits.
479. Dixie Chicks - I Can Love You Better
Album: Wide Open Spaces
Year: 1997
Dixie Chicks hit country radio strongly with their very first single in 1997. "Better" went to #7 on the Hot Country Billboard charts. The Chicks would go on to release 6 more singles in the 90's, which all would top their debut song.
478. Marty Stuart - Tempted
Album: Tempted
Year: 1992
Marty Stuart is a top contender on my "To see perform live" bucket list. Amy and I missed him by only one day during our trip to Nashville this past January, at the Opry. We plan on another trip down there soon, so we'll have to plan accordingly!
477. George Strait - So Much Like My Dad
Album: Holding My Own
Year: 1992
George Strait took the 2nd single from "Holding My Own" to #3 on the Billboard Hot Singles chart in 1992. Even when a song is this good, I suppose they can't ALL be #1's!
476. Chris LeDoux - Life Is A Highway
Album: One Road Man
Year: 1999
If you missed my post the other night, this past Monday was the 10 year mark since the sad passing of country and rodeo legend, Chris LeDoux. As the majority of his radio releases failed to reach even the top 40, this one was no different, topping out at #64. Despite chart performance, LeDoux's version of this Tom Cochrane hit is INFINITELY superior to the dreadful cover by Rascal Flatts in 2006.
There you have it! 30 songs into the list! I sure hope everyone is having as much fun reading about and revisiting the songs on this list as I am!
I have a pretty wild work schedule this week, so hopefully I will get to put in another mid week blog entry before the next edition of the countdown. Amy and I will be seeing another 90's country legend in concert NEXT week, so I can't wait to tell everyone about that one! HUGE bucket list concert!
As always, I thank you for reading and hope you will comment below and of course share the blog on all social media outlets! Help me get this blog out there, please! My Twitter and Instagram handles are below, so follow me there as well! Once again, thanks for reading and I hope to see you again next Sunday!!!
-Arthur Born
Twitter: @arthurborn
Instagram: @arthur214
#iwasBORNcountry
Sunday, March 1, 2015
The Countdown Begins!
It's finally time! As promised, today's entry marks the beginning on my countdown of the 505 best country singles of the 90's! I decided to bump it up 5 extra songs just in the case that I missed something while making my list!
Originally, I intended for this list to be in order from my favorite to least favorite of the songs I chose. However, after months of attempting to find an order than I felt content with, I decided that instead, I would choose 10 songs a week at random and post them. I think this will also allow me to bring everyone a more solid list each week, featuring a mix big hits and more obscure songs.
Before we start, here are the rules I gave myself when picking songs:
1.They must have been a single released to radio. If this rule wasn't set into place, the list would only have room for Garth, Alan Jackson, George Strait and Brooks & Dunn. As great as that would be, that's not the idea here!
2. All songs must have been released to radio between January of 1990 and December of 1999. Obviously. Some songs may have been released on earlier or later albums, but as long as they hit the airwaves between the dates, they are fair game.
So, we might as well dive right in and get this list going! Please comment below! Let me know what songs you remember, love or hate, never heard of, whatever it is! Don't forget to follow the blog and find me on Twitter!
BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of the 1990's!!!
505. Diamond Rio - This Romeo Ain't Got Julie Yet
Album: Close To The Edge
Year: 1993
The video for this song by one of the 90's greatest country bands has got it all. Huge feathered hair, key-tars, sparkly clothing, etc. "Romeo" reached #13 on the Billboard Country Charts.
504. John Anderson - I Fell In The Water
Album: Solid Ground
Year: 1993
John Anderson, probably best known for his huge success with "Swingin'" in 1982, found a touch of radio success in the early 90's. While "Water" climbed up to #13 on the Billboard Country charts, Anderson was only able to pass that point again 2 more times in his long career.
503. Alan Jackson - There Goes
Album: Everything I Love
Year: 1997
I'll throw this out here: Alan Jackson is my all-time favorite artist of any genre. You will be seeing a lot of his songs on this list. "There Goes" THAT.
502. David Kersh - If I Never Stop Loving You
Album: If I Never Stop Loving You
Year: 1997
This is a perfect example of "How did this guy not blow up?!" I think this is such a solid song and is s strong representation of what radio country should sound like. Unfortunately, after this single hit #3 on the Billboard Chart, Kersh never broke the Top 20 again despite being active in the industry until 2005.
501. Tim McGraw - Can't Be Really Gone
Album: All I Want
Year: 1995
Slowing it down a bit, we come up on one of the MEGA stars of country music. Although McGraw hasn't been doing much for me with his output over the last few years, his 2014 duet with wife Faith Hill, "Meanwhile Back At Mama's" was easily one of the best songs of the year. "Gone" peaked at #2 on the Billboard Charts.
500. Faith Hill - This Kiss
Album: Faith
Year: 1998
Speaking of Faith Hill, why not? The best memory that I have connected to this song, is when my dear friend Laurel sang it at the 8th grade talent show waaay back in 1998. While there was not instrumental version available and you could barely hear her singing along, it may be the only time I've ever experienced Laurel singing along to a country song, ha! "Kiss" reached #1 on the Country Charts and even hitting the Top 10 on the Hot 100 Chart, covering all genres. The video though... Real weird.
499. Mark Collie - Even The Man In The Moon Is Crying
Album: Mark Collie
Year: 1992
I'll admit, that I don't know much of Mark Collie's career, almost at all. Despite still being active in the country music industry, this was one of only two singles of his that hit the Top 10 on the Billboard Country Chart. I remember hearing this song on my AM/FM alarm clock at night, fairly often, but that is the extent of his career that I am familiar with.
498. Joe Diffie - Texas Sized Heartache
Album: Greatest Hits
Year: 1998
Man, what a talent. While Joe Diffie was huge in 90's, he should've been even bigger and still huge today. No, he's older and he doesn't LOOK like the guys who survived into present day country music like McGraw and Chesney, but he sure deserves more credit than mention in a Jason Aldean track. I thought for sure that Aldean's "1994" would blast Diffie back into the spotlight, as least for one single, but, nothin. Amy and I did get to see Diffie perform with Mark Chestnutt in late 2014, and he was awesome! Great to see these guys still chugging along despite getting no love from country radio.
497. Billy Ray Cyrus - Busy Man
Album: Shot Full Of Love
Year: 1998
Okay, I have a theory about Billy Ray's career, but I'm not going to talk about that quite yet. I believe the guy had some strong talent and got swallowed by his own success. We'll touch base on this later.
496. George Strait - If I Know Me
Album: Chill Of An Early Fall
Year: 1991
King George. While Alan Jackson is indeed my all-time favorite, George Strait has hands down shown the strongest longevity in country music possibly in the history of the genre. Strait has always been on the radio, and along with his newer recordings, he is one of the very, very few artists who still has his older catalogue titles getting airtime. Legendary.
Well, there we have it! 10 songs down and 495 left to go! The list will continue next Sunday. Please, please comment below, follow the Blog here on Blogger. Share iwasBORNcountry.blogspot.com on Twitter and Facebook! Let me know below what you like and dislike about the list!
I can't wait for feedback! Thanks for reading! Another general blog will be coming in a couple days! Thanks!
-Arthur Born
Twitter: @arthurborn
Instagram: @arthur214
Originally, I intended for this list to be in order from my favorite to least favorite of the songs I chose. However, after months of attempting to find an order than I felt content with, I decided that instead, I would choose 10 songs a week at random and post them. I think this will also allow me to bring everyone a more solid list each week, featuring a mix big hits and more obscure songs.
Before we start, here are the rules I gave myself when picking songs:
1.They must have been a single released to radio. If this rule wasn't set into place, the list would only have room for Garth, Alan Jackson, George Strait and Brooks & Dunn. As great as that would be, that's not the idea here!
2. All songs must have been released to radio between January of 1990 and December of 1999. Obviously. Some songs may have been released on earlier or later albums, but as long as they hit the airwaves between the dates, they are fair game.
So, we might as well dive right in and get this list going! Please comment below! Let me know what songs you remember, love or hate, never heard of, whatever it is! Don't forget to follow the blog and find me on Twitter!
BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of the 1990's!!!
505. Diamond Rio - This Romeo Ain't Got Julie Yet
Album: Close To The Edge
Year: 1993
The video for this song by one of the 90's greatest country bands has got it all. Huge feathered hair, key-tars, sparkly clothing, etc. "Romeo" reached #13 on the Billboard Country Charts.
504. John Anderson - I Fell In The Water
Album: Solid Ground
Year: 1993
John Anderson, probably best known for his huge success with "Swingin'" in 1982, found a touch of radio success in the early 90's. While "Water" climbed up to #13 on the Billboard Country charts, Anderson was only able to pass that point again 2 more times in his long career.
503. Alan Jackson - There Goes
Album: Everything I Love
Year: 1997
I'll throw this out here: Alan Jackson is my all-time favorite artist of any genre. You will be seeing a lot of his songs on this list. "There Goes" THAT.
502. David Kersh - If I Never Stop Loving You
Album: If I Never Stop Loving You
Year: 1997
This is a perfect example of "How did this guy not blow up?!" I think this is such a solid song and is s strong representation of what radio country should sound like. Unfortunately, after this single hit #3 on the Billboard Chart, Kersh never broke the Top 20 again despite being active in the industry until 2005.
501. Tim McGraw - Can't Be Really Gone
Album: All I Want
Year: 1995
Slowing it down a bit, we come up on one of the MEGA stars of country music. Although McGraw hasn't been doing much for me with his output over the last few years, his 2014 duet with wife Faith Hill, "Meanwhile Back At Mama's" was easily one of the best songs of the year. "Gone" peaked at #2 on the Billboard Charts.
500. Faith Hill - This Kiss
Album: Faith
Year: 1998
Speaking of Faith Hill, why not? The best memory that I have connected to this song, is when my dear friend Laurel sang it at the 8th grade talent show waaay back in 1998. While there was not instrumental version available and you could barely hear her singing along, it may be the only time I've ever experienced Laurel singing along to a country song, ha! "Kiss" reached #1 on the Country Charts and even hitting the Top 10 on the Hot 100 Chart, covering all genres. The video though... Real weird.
499. Mark Collie - Even The Man In The Moon Is Crying
Album: Mark Collie
Year: 1992
I'll admit, that I don't know much of Mark Collie's career, almost at all. Despite still being active in the country music industry, this was one of only two singles of his that hit the Top 10 on the Billboard Country Chart. I remember hearing this song on my AM/FM alarm clock at night, fairly often, but that is the extent of his career that I am familiar with.
498. Joe Diffie - Texas Sized Heartache
Album: Greatest Hits
Year: 1998
Man, what a talent. While Joe Diffie was huge in 90's, he should've been even bigger and still huge today. No, he's older and he doesn't LOOK like the guys who survived into present day country music like McGraw and Chesney, but he sure deserves more credit than mention in a Jason Aldean track. I thought for sure that Aldean's "1994" would blast Diffie back into the spotlight, as least for one single, but, nothin. Amy and I did get to see Diffie perform with Mark Chestnutt in late 2014, and he was awesome! Great to see these guys still chugging along despite getting no love from country radio.
497. Billy Ray Cyrus - Busy Man
Album: Shot Full Of Love
Year: 1998
Okay, I have a theory about Billy Ray's career, but I'm not going to talk about that quite yet. I believe the guy had some strong talent and got swallowed by his own success. We'll touch base on this later.
496. George Strait - If I Know Me
Album: Chill Of An Early Fall
Year: 1991
King George. While Alan Jackson is indeed my all-time favorite, George Strait has hands down shown the strongest longevity in country music possibly in the history of the genre. Strait has always been on the radio, and along with his newer recordings, he is one of the very, very few artists who still has his older catalogue titles getting airtime. Legendary.
Well, there we have it! 10 songs down and 495 left to go! The list will continue next Sunday. Please, please comment below, follow the Blog here on Blogger. Share iwasBORNcountry.blogspot.com on Twitter and Facebook! Let me know below what you like and dislike about the list!
I can't wait for feedback! Thanks for reading! Another general blog will be coming in a couple days! Thanks!
-Arthur Born
Twitter: @arthurborn
Instagram: @arthur214
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