It's a rainy day here in Ohio, and boy do the crops need it! Today is also Sunday, which means ints time for another entry in our 90's country music countdown! I know that last week I said that we would be likely moving to our new DOT COM site before this week's blog came to be, however, we have recently been in contact with a professional web designer who is going to help make our website far better than I could do myself. We will be meeting in mid-June, so hopefully our official home will follow shortly after!
BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles of the 90's!
350. Lee Roy Parnell - Tender Moment
Album: Love Without Mercy
Year: 1993
Country/blues guitar master, Lee Roy Parnell, released 4 singles to country radio without touching down in the Top 40 chart. Parnell's album "Love Without Mercy" brought much more luck to the table. Three of the 4 singles, including "Tender Moment," reached the Top 10 on the Hot Country Songs chart.
349. Diamond Rio - Night Is Fallin' On My Heart
Album: Love A Little Stronger
Year: 1994
Diamond Rio's "Love A Little Stronger" is another album I remember buying through the BMG music service in the mid-ninties. "Night" is hands down one of the easiest Diamond Rio songs to sing-a-long to. The group recently released a live CD/DVD set, but haven't put out new material since 2009. Let's keep our fingers crossed that there is a new project in the works!
348. Garth Brooks - Longneck Bottle
Album: Sevens
Year: 1997
The first radio single from Garth's 1997 album, "Sevens", was written by long time friend of Brooks, Steve Wariner, who has also been featured in our countdown.
347. BlackHawk - Like There Ain't No Yesterday
Album: Strong Enough
Year: 1995
I've always considered BlackHawk to have one of the most distinguishable sounds in country music. Back in high school, there is no doubt that BlackHawk's "Greatest Hits" CD was one of the most played discs in my ol' 1992 Ford Explorer. I am absolutely thrilled that I will be seeing these guys perform for the second time, this summer. They sound exactly the same live, as they do on disc!
346. Lee Ann Womack - I'll Think Of A Reason Later
Album: Some Things I Know
Year: 1998
Making her debut on our 90's countdown, Lee Ann Womack! I'll say it right now, the fact that Womack has not blown up again on country music after the release of her latest album, "The Way I'm Livin'", is an absolute CRIME. If you haven't heard it, BUY it now. Womack is probably best known for her 2000 hit "I Hope You Dance", but she has so much more to offer, and her strongest material came AFTER her "Greatest Hits" album!
345. Dwight Yoakam - I Ain't That Lonely Yet
Album: This Time
Year: 1993
That thing I said about BlackHawk having an easily distinguishable sound? Enter Dwight Yoakam. No one in the past 25 years, sounded like Dwight in the mainstream. "Lonely" is about that place in which one has to convince themselves that while heartbroken, going BACK to the one who caused the pain in the first case, won't solve your problem. Dwight reached #2 on the Hot Country Songs chart, in 1993.
344. Rhett Akins - That Ain't My Truck
Album: A Thousand Memories
Year: 1995
What a solid country song. Despite only hitting the Top 10 twice, throughout the 90's, Thomas Rhett's daddy charted eleven singles on the Hot Country Songs chart. I think it pretty wild, the difference between Akins Sr.'s country music and his son's. I've been a fan of the majority of Jr.'s work so far (with the exception of his current single, "Crash And Burn"), but its almost like two different worlds!
343. Vince Gill - What The Cowgirls Do
Album: When Love Finds You
Year: 1994
We haven't heard from Vince Gill for awhile on our list! While mostly known for slower songs of heartbreak, the occasional Vince Gill, honky tonk rock song would sneak through the cracks on country radio. This song, along with the video, is just plain fun. Gill too "Cowgirls" to #2 on the Hot Country Songs chart.
342. Dolly Parton - Romeo (Feat. Billy Ray Cyrus, Tanya Tucker, Pam Tillis, Kathy Mattea & Mary Chapin Carpenter
Album: Slow Dancing With The Moon
Year: 1993
This may be the best worst song on our countdown, so prepare yourself. Throughout 1992, Billy Ray and Achy Breaky Heart were the hottest things going in country music. While Dolly is one of country music's all-time greats, "Romeo" makes our list almost purely due to it's ability to crack me up every time I hear Cyrus join in with "Wontcha beeeee my Juliet?!" Tears, I tell ya.
341. Neal McCoy - For A Change
Album: You Gotta Love That
Year: 1994
Man, Neal McCoy is hands down one of my all-time favorite artists. Every single radio hit was fantastic, his live show is full of energy and he was a blast to meet in person. "Change" is from the album that I had him sign for me back in February. He was surprised to see someone carrying around a CD from 1995, and referred to it as "Old shit". Ha! If you get a chance, do yourself a favor and see Neal in concert. You will not be let down! "For A Change" hit #3 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart.
We are getting closer and closer to our midway point on the countdown! Have there been any artists that you expected to see, but haven't been represented yet? There are still so many more songs to come! Share with us your thoughts, memories or anything else that 90's country music brings to mind! We love feedback!
Don't forget to visit us on Facebook! Make sure you "Like" and share our page with friends!
Thanks for reading!
-Arthur
Facebook: BORN Country Blog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
E-Mail: BORNCoutryBlog@gmail.com
Showing posts with label vince gill. Show all posts
Showing posts with label vince gill. Show all posts
Sunday, May 31, 2015
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, March 29, 2015
Countdown Part V: 456-465, Plus more!
Here we are, topping off the first 50 songs of our 505 Favorite Country Single's of the 90's list. I don't know about you guys reading it, but it seems to be flying by for me!
Before we get into this weeks songs, I want to touch of a few topics.
- First, the BORN Country Facebook page has already blown up to just under 200 "Likes" in 2 weeks! I haven't looked into average page growth or anything, but that seems pretty awesome to me! Keep sharing, keep reading and liking! Heck, even TRACY LAWRENCE liked on the posts last week! How cool is that?!
- This past Thursday, Amy and I went out to Mansfield, OH to see Clint Black perform! It was my first time seeing him live and man, did he put on a great set! Clint was very funny and shared some great stories. His Willie Nelson impersonation is SPOT ON.
- This coming Tuesday, Darius Rucker's new album "Southern Style" hits stores. I've been listening to it all weekend and I recommend it! I was curious as to why there has yet to be a single following up "Homegrown Honey" released to country radio in anticipation of this album release. By no means is this an official reason, but Rucker's album actually SOUNDS like country music in comparison to a majority of the mainstream playlist right now. Time will tell!
- Starting this week, the "Song of the Day" on the BORN Country FB page will no longer be dedicated to 90's hits only. With the blog itself being based on my favorite decade of country music, for the majority, a more wide spread fan base on the FB page will help move us along in growth for better things to come in the future. (I have a lot of ideas!)
- Finally, the iHeartRadio Music Awards are airing tonight. While I will be recording the show, I will not be watching live, as tonight will be focussed on Wrestlemania and The Walking Dead. There are so many award shows these days, that its hard to really feel too strongly about any of them. I don't see Luke Bryan or Cole Swindell taking the trophies their respective categories this year, however in the "Country Song of the Year" category, I've got my fingers crossed for Eric Church.
Alright. Enough stalling! On to the countdown!
BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of The 1990's!!!
465. Alabama - Dancin', Shaggin' On The Boulevard
Album: Dancin' On The Boulevard
Year: 1997
My first memory of this song, is my laughter after hearing the lyrics back in 1997. A little film titled "Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery" had been released the same year and "Shagging" was introduced to my vocabulary. Being that I was 13 years old, I don't think I have to explain too much, haha. Anyhow, "Shaggin'" was one of Alabama's finally hits in the 90's and reached #3 on the Billboard Hot Country chart.
464. Chely Wright - Single White Female
Album: Single White Female
Year: 1999
Chely Wright hit the #1 spot on Billboard's U.S. Hot Country chart in 1999. Despite having not made the top of the charts before or since "SWF", Wright has written songs that were recorded by Brad Paisley, Clay Walker and others. Trisha Yearwood provided harmony vocals on the studio recording.
463. Vince Gill - You Better Think Twice
Album: When Love Finds You
Year: 1995
The "Guitar Slinger" took the 5th single from his album "When Love Finds You" to #2 on the Billboard Hot Country chart. Not all on this song, but Gill's album included backup vocals by what would now be considered an all-star lineup, including Amy Grant, Trisha Yearwood, Alison Krauss, Patty Loveless, Michael McDonald, Ricky Skaggs and more!
462. Andy Griggs - You Won't Ever Be Lonely
Album: You Won't Ever Be Lonely
Year: 1998
Andy Griggs hit the ground running upon his entry to the country music world. "Lonely" the first single from his first album climbed to the #2 spot on the Billboard country charts after 6 months on radio. Greg's first album also included a duet with country music's legendary outlaw, Waylon Jennings.
461. Mark Wills - I Do (Cherish You)
Album: Wish You Were Here
Year: 1998
The 90's saw a period in which a handful of country singles would also be recorded by pop/rock artists and released to radio as well. A lot of people will likely remember "I Do" as a single released by boyband 98 Degrees. This trend included two hit singles shared between John Michael Montgomery and All-4-One, Alabama teaming up with N'Sync and more. This Wills recording reached #2 on the Hot Country Chart.
460. Garth Brooks - Two Pina Coladas
Album: Sevens
Year: 1998
This Garth classic came in at #29 on CMT's 40 Greatest Drinking songs list. Brooks would follow this up with one more #1 and 2 other singles to round out the 90's.
*NOTE: While I always try to find the best videos for the blog, sometimes it is flat out impossible. This is a fan recorded video from a live concert.
459. Lee Roy Parnell - On The Road
Album: On The Road
Year: 1993
I can't imagine anyone who is reading this, has ever found the best way to think through, deal with, or just come down from something that has been bothering you than a nice long drive with some good music for a brief escape. While the issues being dealt with in this track are a bit heavier than the typical everyday person, this song hits it right on the head.
458. Jeff Carson - Not On Your Love
Album: Jeff Carson
Year: 1995
It may seem like Jeff Carson came and went almost immediately, but he started off as a sessions musician and demo recorder out of Missouri in the early 90's before receiving his own recording contract. Carson hit the Top 10 with 3 singles in a row, including this track (#1) through 1995 and 1996. Carson also saw some recognition when he covered Bob Carlisle's "Butterfly Kisses" in 1997. Carson retired from country music in 2009 and is now working as a police officer in Franklin, TN.
457. Joe Diffie - If The Devil Danced In Empty Pockets
Album: A Thousand Winding Roads
Year: 1991
Man, do I love the sound of some good western swing music. I have seen Joe Diffie perform live twice, both being acoustic sets. If all plans align, I will finally get to see him perform with a full band come end of summer. While guys like Eric Curch, Big & Rich and Thomas Rhett are headlining the festival, Diffie still has me the most excited!
456. Clint Black - Put Yourself In My Shoes
Album: Put Yourself In My Shoes
Year: 1991
The harmonica intro followed by Clint Black's strong vocals always hook me immediately when this song comes on. While this is not one of his 19 #1 singles, (#4 Hot Country), the first single from his second album is still an essential piece of his collected works.
There we go! 50 songs into the 505 song countdown! I know this segment was a little heavy on the lesser knowns, but as we dive deeper and deeper, the songs will get bigger and bigger!
Don't forget to comment below, and then follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Spotify! Each week will be adding the new list to the ongoing playlist so you can take the countdown with you!
As I stated earlier, we are just under 200 "Likes" on Facebook now. The offer still stands from last week, when we reach 300 "Likes" I will post a 20 song edition of the weekly countdown blog as a way of thanking you!
As always, I appreciate your reading along and sharing your thoughts! Thanks!
-Arthur Born
facebook.com/BORNCountryBlog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
Spotify: BORN Country Spotify
Before we get into this weeks songs, I want to touch of a few topics.
- First, the BORN Country Facebook page has already blown up to just under 200 "Likes" in 2 weeks! I haven't looked into average page growth or anything, but that seems pretty awesome to me! Keep sharing, keep reading and liking! Heck, even TRACY LAWRENCE liked on the posts last week! How cool is that?!
- This past Thursday, Amy and I went out to Mansfield, OH to see Clint Black perform! It was my first time seeing him live and man, did he put on a great set! Clint was very funny and shared some great stories. His Willie Nelson impersonation is SPOT ON.
- This coming Tuesday, Darius Rucker's new album "Southern Style" hits stores. I've been listening to it all weekend and I recommend it! I was curious as to why there has yet to be a single following up "Homegrown Honey" released to country radio in anticipation of this album release. By no means is this an official reason, but Rucker's album actually SOUNDS like country music in comparison to a majority of the mainstream playlist right now. Time will tell!
- Starting this week, the "Song of the Day" on the BORN Country FB page will no longer be dedicated to 90's hits only. With the blog itself being based on my favorite decade of country music, for the majority, a more wide spread fan base on the FB page will help move us along in growth for better things to come in the future. (I have a lot of ideas!)
- Finally, the iHeartRadio Music Awards are airing tonight. While I will be recording the show, I will not be watching live, as tonight will be focussed on Wrestlemania and The Walking Dead. There are so many award shows these days, that its hard to really feel too strongly about any of them. I don't see Luke Bryan or Cole Swindell taking the trophies their respective categories this year, however in the "Country Song of the Year" category, I've got my fingers crossed for Eric Church.
Alright. Enough stalling! On to the countdown!
BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of The 1990's!!!
465. Alabama - Dancin', Shaggin' On The Boulevard
Album: Dancin' On The Boulevard
Year: 1997
My first memory of this song, is my laughter after hearing the lyrics back in 1997. A little film titled "Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery" had been released the same year and "Shagging" was introduced to my vocabulary. Being that I was 13 years old, I don't think I have to explain too much, haha. Anyhow, "Shaggin'" was one of Alabama's finally hits in the 90's and reached #3 on the Billboard Hot Country chart.
464. Chely Wright - Single White Female
Album: Single White Female
Year: 1999
Chely Wright hit the #1 spot on Billboard's U.S. Hot Country chart in 1999. Despite having not made the top of the charts before or since "SWF", Wright has written songs that were recorded by Brad Paisley, Clay Walker and others. Trisha Yearwood provided harmony vocals on the studio recording.
463. Vince Gill - You Better Think Twice
Album: When Love Finds You
Year: 1995
The "Guitar Slinger" took the 5th single from his album "When Love Finds You" to #2 on the Billboard Hot Country chart. Not all on this song, but Gill's album included backup vocals by what would now be considered an all-star lineup, including Amy Grant, Trisha Yearwood, Alison Krauss, Patty Loveless, Michael McDonald, Ricky Skaggs and more!
462. Andy Griggs - You Won't Ever Be Lonely
Album: You Won't Ever Be Lonely
Year: 1998
Andy Griggs hit the ground running upon his entry to the country music world. "Lonely" the first single from his first album climbed to the #2 spot on the Billboard country charts after 6 months on radio. Greg's first album also included a duet with country music's legendary outlaw, Waylon Jennings.
461. Mark Wills - I Do (Cherish You)
Album: Wish You Were Here
Year: 1998
The 90's saw a period in which a handful of country singles would also be recorded by pop/rock artists and released to radio as well. A lot of people will likely remember "I Do" as a single released by boyband 98 Degrees. This trend included two hit singles shared between John Michael Montgomery and All-4-One, Alabama teaming up with N'Sync and more. This Wills recording reached #2 on the Hot Country Chart.
460. Garth Brooks - Two Pina Coladas
Album: Sevens
Year: 1998
This Garth classic came in at #29 on CMT's 40 Greatest Drinking songs list. Brooks would follow this up with one more #1 and 2 other singles to round out the 90's.
*NOTE: While I always try to find the best videos for the blog, sometimes it is flat out impossible. This is a fan recorded video from a live concert.
459. Lee Roy Parnell - On The Road
Album: On The Road
Year: 1993
I can't imagine anyone who is reading this, has ever found the best way to think through, deal with, or just come down from something that has been bothering you than a nice long drive with some good music for a brief escape. While the issues being dealt with in this track are a bit heavier than the typical everyday person, this song hits it right on the head.
458. Jeff Carson - Not On Your Love
Album: Jeff Carson
Year: 1995
It may seem like Jeff Carson came and went almost immediately, but he started off as a sessions musician and demo recorder out of Missouri in the early 90's before receiving his own recording contract. Carson hit the Top 10 with 3 singles in a row, including this track (#1) through 1995 and 1996. Carson also saw some recognition when he covered Bob Carlisle's "Butterfly Kisses" in 1997. Carson retired from country music in 2009 and is now working as a police officer in Franklin, TN.
457. Joe Diffie - If The Devil Danced In Empty Pockets
Album: A Thousand Winding Roads
Year: 1991
Man, do I love the sound of some good western swing music. I have seen Joe Diffie perform live twice, both being acoustic sets. If all plans align, I will finally get to see him perform with a full band come end of summer. While guys like Eric Curch, Big & Rich and Thomas Rhett are headlining the festival, Diffie still has me the most excited!
456. Clint Black - Put Yourself In My Shoes
Album: Put Yourself In My Shoes
Year: 1991
The harmonica intro followed by Clint Black's strong vocals always hook me immediately when this song comes on. While this is not one of his 19 #1 singles, (#4 Hot Country), the first single from his second album is still an essential piece of his collected works.
There we go! 50 songs into the 505 song countdown! I know this segment was a little heavy on the lesser knowns, but as we dive deeper and deeper, the songs will get bigger and bigger!
Don't forget to comment below, and then follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Spotify! Each week will be adding the new list to the ongoing playlist so you can take the countdown with you!
As I stated earlier, we are just under 200 "Likes" on Facebook now. The offer still stands from last week, when we reach 300 "Likes" I will post a 20 song edition of the weekly countdown blog as a way of thanking you!
As always, I appreciate your reading along and sharing your thoughts! Thanks!
-Arthur Born
facebook.com/BORNCountryBlog
Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
Spotify: BORN Country Spotify
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Countdown Part II: Songs 486-495
It's been a long week of battling a little ear-ache, work and other things, so I didn't get to make a mid-week blog entry, unfortunately. However, we are back with the another 10 songs on Born Country's list of 505 Favorite Singles of the 1990's!
But first, I must say a special "Thank you" to Diane Schumann for setting Amy and I up with a chance to see 90's country star, Billy Dean, last night! He put on a great set, and still has an awesome voice. He played just about everything I could've wanted to hear, but left out one minor hit. Diane was also able to get us a last minute chance to meet Billy! I'll share some pictures later this week!
Now, the list continues!
BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of the 1990's!!!
495. John Michael Montgomery - Cover You In Kisses
Album: Leave A Mark
Year: 1998
Starting this week's countdown with one of my favorite artist's of the 90's! While Montgomery easily had much stronger singles and success prior to this single, "Kisses" made it up to #3 on the country Billboard charts.
494. Collin Raye - I Think About You
Album: I Think About You
Year: 1996
Although I am not a father, I always loved singing along to this song whenever it came on the radio. I unfortunately missed out on a chance to see Collin perform last year, but hopefully he comes around again someday. "I Think About You" clocked in at #15 on Billboard's year end country chart in 1996.
493. Mila Mason - That's Enough Of That
Album: That's Enough Of That
Year: 1996
This was Mila's only real splash in the country music scene during the 90's. She reached #18 on the Country Billboard charts with this single, but had very little luck with anything that followed.
492. Travis Tritt - Tell Me I Was Dreaming
Album: Ten Feet Tall And Bulletproof
Year: 1995
Amy and I had the chance to see Travis Tritt perform an acoustic show late in 2014 from the 2nd row. He was incredible! Trott still has one of the best and most recognizable voices in country music. This is truly a case in which an artist has lost the spotlight, despite 100% still being deserving of it. I had never seen the video for this song until the writing of this post, and it turns out that there is a trilogy of videos based on this character played by Tritt. Imagine my confusion!
491. Vince Gill - Pretty Little Adriana
Album: High Lonesome Sound
Year: 1996
While I certainly understand the love for Vince Gill, the majority of his work in the 90's never really appealed to me when I was young. The killer guitar player and fantastic vocals didn't sync in until later on for me, but I still recall the few songs that really stuck out to me back then. I would love to see the guy perform live!
490. Clint Black - No Time To Kill
Album: No Time To Kill
Year: 1993
In 1989, there were 5 artists who released their first radio singles and exploded into country music. The "Class of '89" included Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Travis Tritt, Mary Chapin Carpenter and this man, Clint Black. Black was the first of the group to find immediate success, which followed him throughout the entire decade of the 90's
489. Alan Jackson - Little Man
Album: High Mileage
Year: 1999
Speaking of the "Class of '89", next up is Alan Jackson. Being my all-time favorite artist, I suppose it's only fitting that he be the first artist with 2 songs on the list! While I admit that I'm guilty of taking advantage of the convenience offered by Walmart and other major chain businesses, I always try to remind myself to also help out small businesses when I am able. This song will always be a true reminder that we need to support local businesses in order to not allow EVERYTHING to be taken over by the big guys.
488. Lee Roy Parnell - Heart's Desire
Album: We All Get Lucky Sometimes
Year: 1996
If any of these 10 songs this week receive a big "WHO?!" from readers, its probably going to be this one. Lee Roy had a number of radio songs throughout the 90's with a few nearly taking the #1 spot, including "Heart's Desire" which peaked at #3. Parnell's last released album came out in 2006, but he has not held a strong radio presence since the mid-90's.
487. Michael Peterson - Too Good To Be True
Album: Michael Peterson
Year: 1998
Ok, so if Lee Roy Parnell wasn't the one to not ring a bell, here comes Michael Peterson. Peterson is another artist who dropped a few successful hits to country radio, but as the years went by, sales slowed down leading to his final album in 2002. Peterson still performs at military benefits. This will NOT be the only time you see him on this list though!
486. Garth Brooks - It's Midnight Cinderella
Album: Fresh Horses
Year: 1996
Undoubtably, Garth is the KING of 90's country music. With that being said, referring to "Cinderella" as possibly one of Garth's weakest radio singles of the decade, is by no means degrading. It's catchy, easy to sing along to and just plain fun. Just like Alan and George, you can certainly expect to see a LOT more of Garth on our journey through these 505 songs!!!
There you have it! Another 10 songs down on my list of 505 Country Singles of the 90's! Hopefully this list is bringing back some memories for those of you who listened to country music in the 90s. For those that didn't, perhaps my list will help you dive into what in my opinion, was the best decade in country music history!
Stay tuned for my next post sometime mid week! I plan on writing a bit more on the Billy Dean concert, including pictures, and perhaps I'll finally get everything uploaded from the trip I took down to Nashville a couple months ago with Amy!
Please comment below! I'd love to hear your thoughts on the songs, and the blog in general! Who do you hope to see more of on the list? Is there anyone that you think shouldn't make the list from the 90's? I'm curious!!!
Follow, comment, share, Tweet, Facebook, Instagram(?) the blog to your friends and family who listen to country music! Share on message boards! Do whatever you can to help get BORN Country to those who would enjoy it! Thanks!
-Arthur Born
Twitter: @arthurborn
Instagram: @arthur214
#iwasBORNcountry
But first, I must say a special "Thank you" to Diane Schumann for setting Amy and I up with a chance to see 90's country star, Billy Dean, last night! He put on a great set, and still has an awesome voice. He played just about everything I could've wanted to hear, but left out one minor hit. Diane was also able to get us a last minute chance to meet Billy! I'll share some pictures later this week!
Now, the list continues!
BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of the 1990's!!!
495. John Michael Montgomery - Cover You In Kisses
Album: Leave A Mark
Year: 1998
Starting this week's countdown with one of my favorite artist's of the 90's! While Montgomery easily had much stronger singles and success prior to this single, "Kisses" made it up to #3 on the country Billboard charts.
494. Collin Raye - I Think About You
Album: I Think About You
Year: 1996
Although I am not a father, I always loved singing along to this song whenever it came on the radio. I unfortunately missed out on a chance to see Collin perform last year, but hopefully he comes around again someday. "I Think About You" clocked in at #15 on Billboard's year end country chart in 1996.
493. Mila Mason - That's Enough Of That
Album: That's Enough Of That
Year: 1996
This was Mila's only real splash in the country music scene during the 90's. She reached #18 on the Country Billboard charts with this single, but had very little luck with anything that followed.
492. Travis Tritt - Tell Me I Was Dreaming
Album: Ten Feet Tall And Bulletproof
Year: 1995
Amy and I had the chance to see Travis Tritt perform an acoustic show late in 2014 from the 2nd row. He was incredible! Trott still has one of the best and most recognizable voices in country music. This is truly a case in which an artist has lost the spotlight, despite 100% still being deserving of it. I had never seen the video for this song until the writing of this post, and it turns out that there is a trilogy of videos based on this character played by Tritt. Imagine my confusion!
491. Vince Gill - Pretty Little Adriana
Album: High Lonesome Sound
Year: 1996
While I certainly understand the love for Vince Gill, the majority of his work in the 90's never really appealed to me when I was young. The killer guitar player and fantastic vocals didn't sync in until later on for me, but I still recall the few songs that really stuck out to me back then. I would love to see the guy perform live!
490. Clint Black - No Time To Kill
Album: No Time To Kill
Year: 1993
In 1989, there were 5 artists who released their first radio singles and exploded into country music. The "Class of '89" included Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Travis Tritt, Mary Chapin Carpenter and this man, Clint Black. Black was the first of the group to find immediate success, which followed him throughout the entire decade of the 90's
489. Alan Jackson - Little Man
Album: High Mileage
Year: 1999
Speaking of the "Class of '89", next up is Alan Jackson. Being my all-time favorite artist, I suppose it's only fitting that he be the first artist with 2 songs on the list! While I admit that I'm guilty of taking advantage of the convenience offered by Walmart and other major chain businesses, I always try to remind myself to also help out small businesses when I am able. This song will always be a true reminder that we need to support local businesses in order to not allow EVERYTHING to be taken over by the big guys.
488. Lee Roy Parnell - Heart's Desire
Album: We All Get Lucky Sometimes
Year: 1996
If any of these 10 songs this week receive a big "WHO?!" from readers, its probably going to be this one. Lee Roy had a number of radio songs throughout the 90's with a few nearly taking the #1 spot, including "Heart's Desire" which peaked at #3. Parnell's last released album came out in 2006, but he has not held a strong radio presence since the mid-90's.
487. Michael Peterson - Too Good To Be True
Album: Michael Peterson
Year: 1998
Ok, so if Lee Roy Parnell wasn't the one to not ring a bell, here comes Michael Peterson. Peterson is another artist who dropped a few successful hits to country radio, but as the years went by, sales slowed down leading to his final album in 2002. Peterson still performs at military benefits. This will NOT be the only time you see him on this list though!
486. Garth Brooks - It's Midnight Cinderella
Album: Fresh Horses
Year: 1996
Undoubtably, Garth is the KING of 90's country music. With that being said, referring to "Cinderella" as possibly one of Garth's weakest radio singles of the decade, is by no means degrading. It's catchy, easy to sing along to and just plain fun. Just like Alan and George, you can certainly expect to see a LOT more of Garth on our journey through these 505 songs!!!
There you have it! Another 10 songs down on my list of 505 Country Singles of the 90's! Hopefully this list is bringing back some memories for those of you who listened to country music in the 90s. For those that didn't, perhaps my list will help you dive into what in my opinion, was the best decade in country music history!
Stay tuned for my next post sometime mid week! I plan on writing a bit more on the Billy Dean concert, including pictures, and perhaps I'll finally get everything uploaded from the trip I took down to Nashville a couple months ago with Amy!
Please comment below! I'd love to hear your thoughts on the songs, and the blog in general! Who do you hope to see more of on the list? Is there anyone that you think shouldn't make the list from the 90's? I'm curious!!!
Follow, comment, share, Tweet, Facebook, Instagram(?) the blog to your friends and family who listen to country music! Share on message boards! Do whatever you can to help get BORN Country to those who would enjoy it! Thanks!
-Arthur Born
Twitter: @arthurborn
Instagram: @arthur214
#iwasBORNcountry
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