Countdown Part IX: Songs #396-415

Well, you've done it again! We have far surpassed the the goal of reaching 500 "likes" on our Facebook page by today! The count is currently sitting at 552 as I type this blog. Pretty incredible! Keep reading, liking and sharing with friends! Believe it or not, I have actually been contacted by some of the artists highlighted in the countdown! I'm hoping that once the blog gets a large enough audience, we can start setting up some interviews!

- While writing this weekend's countdown blog, I am also working on a special entry to be posted within the week. I'll be putting together a set of statistics based on the first 100 songs on the list, such as artist with the most songs, most popular albums and years of release, etc., so stay tuned for that! I think it should be a pretty fun read! 

- We have another big 20 song list, as promised, this week, so lets get right into it! I hope to start getting some more feedback, whether here or on the Facebook page, regarding the countdown. There is more than 500 of you out there reading, so let us know what you think! Thanks!

BORN Country's 505 Favorite Country Singles Of The 90's!!!

415. Brooks & Dunn - I Am That Man
Album: Borderline
Year: 1996

The second single from B&D's fourth album was co-written by Terry McBride or McBride & The Ride. I recall finding myself so clever to be replacing "That man" with "Batman" back in '96 when the song was released to radio... Still do. Ha! "That Man" reached #2  on the Hot Country charts.



414. Clay Walker - This Woman And This Man
Album: If I Could Make A Living
Year: 1995

Clay Walker was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1996 and has been strong supporter in raising awareness ever since. He runs his own non-profit organization as well. Beforehand, "This Woman" was his 5th #1 career single in 1995.



413. Dixie Chicks - Tonight The Heartache's On Me
Album: Wide Open Spaces
Year: 1999

The final single from their debut album (but not final single of the 90's!) came in the spring of 1999. The song peaked at #6, breaking the 4 song #1 streak. It wouldn't be too long until the Chicks would be back on top, though.



412. Suzy Boggus - Just Like The Weather
Album: Something Up My Sleeve
Year: 1993

"Weather" was one of the most successful singles in the ongoing career of Suzy Bogguss. While never reaching #1, Suzy continues to release solid country/Americana music, latest being her album of Merle Haggard penned songs, titled "Lucky" which was partially funded on Kickstarter.



411. Junior Brown - Highway Patrol
Album: Guit With It
Year: 1993

While never finding solid commercial success, Junior Brown has been working in music since 1960's. Although "Highway Patrol" is Brown's 2nd highest charting single at #75, he does carry one pretty significant distinction: How many other artists are able to make the claim that they invented their lead instrument?! Not many, as far as I can find! In 1985, Junior Brown built the "guit-steel", a combination of electric guitar and slide guitar, as featured in the video below. Enjoy!



410. BlackHawk - There You Have It
Album: The Sky's The Limit
Year: 1998

Man, do I love these guys. 10 songs of 14 released in the 90's will be be featured on this list, which I imagine goes to show how much I enjoy their music. I finally had the chance to see them perform last summer and they just happen to be playing the same festival again this year! Yes!!!



409. Garth Brooks - What She's Doing Now
Album: Ropin' The Wind
Year: 1991

Written by Brooks, this song was previously recorded by country music legend, Crystal Gale as "What He's Doing Now" in 1990. Come time for Garth's third album, he decided to record the song for "Ropin' The Wind". In true early Garth fashion, "What She's Doing Now" easily hit the #1 spot on the country music charts.

Garth Brooks - What She's Doing Now (Live)

408. Jo Dee Messina - I'm Alright
Album: I'm Alright
Year: 1998

Debuting in the back half of the 90's, Messina put in a pretty strong showing with three #1's and two #2's among other charting singles within a 5 year period. "I'm Alright" was the second in her string of three consecutive #1 charting songs. The song would later be recorded by it's writer, Phil Vassar, for his greatest hits album.



407. Kenny Chesney - All I Need To Know
Album; All I Need To Know
Year: 1995

Who would've guessed that Chesney would be one of the few "rookies" of the 90's to go on to be one of the biggest mega stars in the history of country music? Not this guy! Then again, I was in 5th grade at the time... Kenny's second major label single peaked at #8.



406. George Strait - Lead On
Album: Lead On
Year: 1995

How fitting that the one-hundredth song on the countdown list belong to the "King" of country music, George Strait? "Lead On" charted at #7 on the Billboard Hot Country chart in 1995. This would be the final single from the album of the same name.



405. Toby Keith - We Were In Love
Album: Dream Walkin'
Year: 1997

The first single from Toby's fourth album proved to be another success. Every single up to this point, excluding "Big Ol' Truck" had hit the Top 10, and this song was no different, peaking at #2.



404. Lila McCann - With You
Album: Something In The Air
Year: 1999

While we continue to see artists such as Toby, Kenny, and Shania who would emerge in the 90's and grow into country mega stars, there unfortunately isn't always room for everyone. Lila McCann found herself coming into success with a few singles throughout the late 90's only to be dropped from multiple labels, unable to find a steady home in the music business. Lila has since began a photography business and lives in Nashville with her husband and children.



403. Tim McGraw - For A Little While
Album: Everywhere
Year: 1998

We haven't heard from Tim McGraw on the list in awhile! Don't worry, there is plenty more to come! "For A Little While" was co-written by Phil Vassar, which was recorded his greatest hits album in 2006. Tim McGraw took the single to #2 on the Hot Country Billboard charts.



402. Kevin Sharp - She's Sure Taking It Well
Album: Measure Of A Man
Year: 1997

"She's Sure Taking It Well" was the follow-up single to Sharp's huge hit "Nobody Knows". He would hit the Top 10 one more time with his third single, but found little success, chart-wise, afterwards. Kevin would go on to write a book and tour as a motivational speaker, through his battle with cancer.



401. Terri Clark - Poor, Poor Pitiful Me
Album: Just The Same
Year: 1996

Before doing a little research on this song, i had no idea that it had been covered by so many different artists! Written and originally recorded by Warren Zevon, the song also became a hit for Linda Ronstandt in the late 1970's. "Poor Poor Pitiful Me" would go on to be recorded by 10+ artists after Terri Clark. Clark's versions would peak at #5 on Billboard's Hot Country Chart in the U.S., but went to the top at #1 in Clark's home country of Canada.



400. Collin Raye - I Can Still Feel You
Album: The Walls Came Down
Year: 1998

"I Can Still Feel You" would be Collin Raye's fourth and final #1 hit single, spreading between 1992 and 1998. Collin is still recording on a regular basis, releasing an album in 2014 and also a Glen Campbell tribute album in 2013.



399. Alan Jackson - Love's Got A Hold On You
Album: Don't Rock The Jukebox
Year: 1992

What would one of my weekly countdown blogs be without an appearance by Alan Jackson?! The final single from Jackson's album, "Don't Rock The Jukebox", would climb to #1 on the Hot Country Chart.



398. Wade Hayes - Don't Stop
Album: Old Enough To Know Better
Year: 1995

The third single released to radio by 1994 newcomer Wade Hayes, was one of four that hit the Top 10 from his debut album. Wade Hayes would also be nominated for CMA's Top Male Vocalist of the year. Hayes just recently released a new album, "Go Live Your Life" this past February.



397. Trace Adkins - I Left Something Turned On At Home
Album: Dreamin' Out Loud
Year: 1997

Another artist making his debut on our countdown, Trace Adkins released his debut album in 1996 and wrapped up with his fourth and final single in 1997. While living in Los Angeles briefly, I worked on a film that Trace had a small role in. I knew the guy was tall, but seeing him up close and in person, holy cow!



396. Sawyer Brown - Six Days On The Day
Album: Six Days On The Road
Year: 1997

My first ever live concert experience, was in 1995, at the Lorain County Fair. I had absolutely no interest in going, as my friends were all running around on the midway, playing games, riding rides, etc. Not me. I was being dragged to the grandstand to see some GUY named Sawyer Brown for some boring concert with my parents. Turns out, I was dead wrong, on multiple levels. I (secretly) had an amazing time! To this day, I absolutely love Sawyer Brown's music, and continuously hope to see them on the radar for a local live show!




We are now 110 songs into the 505 song list!!! Next week, we will go back to the 10 song format, and hopefully it will be as star packed as this week's entry! I can't believe we are already 1/5 of the way through the countdown! I hope you enjoy the songs this week, and don't forget to check out our Spotify playlist to listen to these songs on the go!

As always, don't forget to share our blog and Facebook page with your friends! As the blog grows, hopefully we will be able to provide more and more content! Thanks again!

-Arthur Born
Facebook.com/borncountryblog
Twitter: @BornCountryBlog
E-Mail: borncountryblog@gmail.com

BORN Country Predicts the 50th Annual ACM Awards!!!

With so many televised award shows these days, it's hard to tell which (if any) really matter. Tonight, the Academy of Country Music celebrates its 50th anniversary of their award presentation show. Personally, I enjoy watching these shows on TV because we get to see the artists a bit outside of their music. While the winners typically all give the same speech and thank the same people, once in awhile you'll witness a special moment, unexpectedly. On the other hand, we are treated to some special performances that can also steal the show. While Garth, Alan and George are all set to perform this evening, I'm willing to bet that the majority are more so excited about the reunion of Brooks & Dunn! I know I am!

During the ACM Award show this evening, the BORN Country Facebook page with be hosting a live comment/chat thread throughout the run of the show. We very much would like to see all of our readers joining in and sharing your thoughts with us! Love a performance? Disagree with a winning artist? Let's talk about it!!!

I thought it would be a fun starting point if I were to share my thoughts on not only who I think will win, but also who I think SHOULD win. In a lot of cases, I think we can all agree, these are two very differing things, ha! Of course, these are just one person's opinions. Tell me why you agree or disagree tonight during the show!

I almost feel as if none of these groups really had a spectacular past year. Sure, each one had their hits, but do they all deserve to be nominated for an award? I'm not so sure. The Band Perry put out a killer cover of the Glen Campbell classic, "Gentle On My Mind". Zac Brown Band released an EP produced by Dave Grohl and just recently hit the country AND rock charts with singles from their upcoming album (4/28/15). Little Big Town put the unnecessarily "controversial" song "Girl Crush" to radio, which was banned by radio stations all over the country due to listeners not understanding the song. Being that the ACM involves fan voting in the decision of its winners, LBT may have an upper hand after the strong support they received after the radio backlash.

Who Should Win: Zac Brown Band

Who Will Win: Little Big Town

Look at the nominees here. As far as radio play and fan support, there is no question that FGL is taking home this trophy. I would love to see some kind of freak voting and see anyone else win, but until Brooks & Dunn reunite outside of tonight's broadcast, no one stands a chance. Hopefully, some of the duos, Maddie & Tae in particular, have a strong 2015-16 year and take over.

Who Should Win: Maddie & Tae

Who Will Win: Florida Georgia Line

I am constantly baffled every year by this category. Rhett and Swindle have both been putting huge hits to country radio for at least 2+ years. At least Sam Hunt is "new" despite the fact that he doesn't actually make country music. If I had to pick one to win, I suppose I'd choose Thomas Rhett to take home the trophy. The new single is NOT winning me over though. I would LOVE to see next years nominees look like this: Sturgill Simpson, Chris Stapleton, Whitey Morgan. A guy can dream, right?

Who Should Win: (I'm going rogue here - Sturgill Simpson)

Who Will Win: Thomas Rhett

Man. The Glen Campbell video is a heartbreaker. If the ACM's are awarded solely on fan votes, I'm afraid this one doesn't stand a chance. This is usually Brad Paisley's specialty. I would have assumed "River Bank" would've been all over the one. I have a blast watching the "Drunk On A Plane" video each time, but I think Kenny Chesney might have the edge here with "American Kids".

Who Should Win: "American Kids"

Who Will Win: "American Kids"

People ask me every year, what the difference is between "Single/Record" of the year vs "Song" of the year. The easiest way to explain it is this:  "Single" is awarded to the artist and record label, while "Song" is awarded to the song-writer. With that being said...

I think Florida Georgia Line surprised everyone here. "Dirt" is an incredible song! I had high expectations for the new album when it was released thinking that perhaps they had matured a little bit. No dice. "Drunk On A Plane" is very funny, and even more so along with the music video. "American Kids" saw Kenny Chesney move further away from the "island country" he has been making for years in a refreshing surprise. Lee Brice made a wedding song. I think Miranda takes the cake here with "Automatic" and deservingly so. 

Who Should Win: Miranda Lambert - Automatic

Who Will Win: Miranda Lambert - Automatic

This is a tough one for me. I enjoy all of the artists, and the songs in this category. Typically, that wouldn't matter, due to this award going to the songwriter, but 4 of the 6 nominees actually wrote their own! Eric and Dierks long deserving of an award, but I don' think this is the one for either. I would love to see Kacey take home a trophy, but with Miranda likely taking the "Single" trophy, this one won't be far out of her reach as well. Best case scenario for country music as a whole, in my opinion, would be Chris Stapleton being award this category for "Drink A Beer". Guys like Stapleton need to start being recognized more in order to even out the current product before it falls even deeper into the "Bro-Country" phase it is in today.

Who Should Win: Chris Stapleton & Jim Beavers - Drink A Beer

Who Will Win: Miranda Lambert - Automatic

I don't undertand the title of this category. Isn't it just the "Duet of the Year"? When I hear event, I think of a big concert/festival or something of the like. Anyways, that's how I will treat this award. While it would be cool to see The Cadillac Three take this trophy along with their cast of friends in "The South", I absolutely LOVED "Meanwhile Back At Mama's".  "Lonely Tonight" didn't do a whole lot for me, but I could also find joy in Ashley Monroe being awarded this evening.

Who Should Win: Tim McGraw & Faith Hill - "Meanwhile Back At Mama's"

Who Will Win: Florida Georgia Line & Luke Bryan - "This Is How We Roll"

Now THIS should be the category that Eric Church wins. I love every single track on "The Outsiders". Dirks Bentley's "Riser" is almost as equally strong. Considering more recent award shows, however, unless the "Church Choir" has put in their fair share of voting, This could easily go to Miranda. Where the heck is Brad Paisley's "Moonshine In The Trunk"?!

Who Should Win: Eric Church - The Outsiders

Who Will Win: Miranda Lambert - Platinum

Hell, Eric Church deserves this award as well. Aldean's last few singles have been very stale in my opinion. Luke has been doing the same thing for a few years now. He needs a new edge, I think. Despite putting out an awesome album within the past year, Brad seems to be in some kind of award slump. (Not necessarily a bad thing, apparently).  The fan vote likely goes to Luke, though Blake does have more support from the audience of The Voice...

Who Should Win: Eric Church

Who Will Win: Blake Shelton

Not that she isn't a great artist, but what is Martina doing here? Did I miss a new album or radio song? Curious!!! I would be thrilled to see her win, but I just don't know what it would be for. This is hands down going to Miranda, but how refreshing would it be to see Kacey win this one? Or even more, Brandy Clark?!! I really hope country radio starts showing more love to a wider group of female artists. Without major competition, artists will start getting lazier. We don't want to see that from Miranda or Carrie!

Who Should Win: Kacey Musgraves

Who Will Win: Miranda Lambert

How many artists can be away for 10+ years and then return to selling out ARENAS for nights in a row, in every city they visit? I have yet to see Garth perform live, but I've seen enough footage of his concerts to know exactly why these shows are selling out. Yeah, Luke and Jason have been selling out huge shows for a few years, but they have artists like FGL and Miranda opening for them. Garth sells out shows because it's GARTH. Yeah, Trisha Yearwood plays a few songs in between, but lets not kid ourselves. Unfortunately, I have a pretty good idea how this one is going to go tonight.

Who Should Win: Garth Brooks

Who Will Win: Florida Georgia Line OR Luke Bryan

That wraps up my predictions for tonight's ACM Awards show! Let me know what you think here below, or join in on the group chat/comments tonight during the show, starting just before 8PM EST!!! Hope to hear from all of you!!!

Thanks for reading, sharing and enjoying the blog. Let your friends know about us! Copy and paste the following link to your Facebook page and help us spread the word!

http://www.facebook.com/BORNCountryBlog

-Arthur Born

Facebook: BORN Country 

Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog

E-Mail: borncountryblog@gmail.com

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

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!

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

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

Countdown Part IV: Songs 466-475

It's been a big week here at BORN Country! Last Sunday, 3/15, I started the official Facebook page for the blog and in that one week, we have already reached nearly 200 "Likes"! Make sure you check it out, like the page and share it with your friends and family!

If we reach 300 "likes" by next Sunday, I'll post TWO weeks worth of the 90's countdown in one go! 

BORN Country on Facebook!

Now, here comes this week's portion of the countdown!

BORN Country's Top 505 Country Singles Of the 1990's!!!

475. Tracy Lawrence - If The Good Die Young

Album: Alibis

Year: 1994

Lawrence landed his fourth #1 hit in a row from the album "Alibis" with this single in 1994. Previously, from the album, "Can't Break It To My Heart", "Alibis", and "My Second Home" all preceded. These are just 4 of the 8 #1 singles Lawrence would release throughout the 90's!

474. Tracy Byrd - Holdin' Heaven
Album: Tracy Byrd
Year: 1993

Lawrence wasn't the only "Tracy" making a big splash in country music during the 90's! Tracy Byrd took his third single straight to the #1 spot on the Country Billboard chart in 1993. While "Heaven" was his only stop at the tippy top during the 90's, he released MANY memorable songs and came incredible close a handful of times. Byrd has now stepped away from the music scene for the past few years to spend time with his family.



473. Garth Brooks - One Night A Day
Album: In Pieces
Year: 1994

Garth steps away from his typical honky-tonk stylings for this jazzy song of lost love. The change in sound understandably leaves "One Night A Day" on the lesser known side of the Garth Hits catalog. If nothing else, Garth can claim one of the very few, and perhaps only saxophone solo in popular country music.



472. Toby Keith - Upstairs, Downtown
Album: Boomtown
Year: 1994

Personally, I feel that Toby's 1994 is somewhat relatable, as I, like the character in the song one day decided to leave the country area in which I grew up to experience the big city. Now, I didn't have as hard of a time as the gal in this song, but its certainly tough being away from the support of family and friends as you've been used to all of your life, in a place you don't know. Glad to have made the decision to come back to where I belong!... Twice! Ha!



471. Shania Twain - (If You're Not In It For Love) I'm Outta Here!
Album: The Woman In Me
Year: 1995

In 1995, Shania Twain popped up on the country music scene and TOOK OVER. If Garth is the king of 90's country music, Shania has to be the queen. This was her second of seven #1's on the Billboard Country charts (U.S.) during the 90's. Twain would explode and become an international country/pop crossover mega star, worldwide by end of the decade.



470. Clay Walker - Where Do I Fit In The Picture
Album: Clay Walker
Year: 1994

Making his debut on the list, Clay Walker is one of the handful of artists still getting an occasional spin at radio, today. Previously the B-side to Walker's first single, "Picture" was his third song released to radio. The song peaked at #11, but Clay would have plenty more hits to come!



469. David Lee Murphy - Every Time I Get Around You
Album: Getting' Out The Good Stuff
Year: 1996

"Every Time" reached #2 on the charts, yet could still never touch the monster success of his first single. We'll get to that one much later down the road. Murphy has turned his focus to song writing more that recording since the early 2000's. He has found much success, having songs recorded by Jason Aldean, Jake Owen, Thompson Square and fellow 90's star, Kenny Chesney.



468. Alan Jackson - Little Bitty 
Album: Everything I Love
Year: 1996

Country Music Hall of Famer, Tom T. Hall wrote and recorded "Little Bitty" in 1996. Alan Jackson covered the track in the same year and took it to #1 on the Hot Country chart. While I love Jackson's take on the track, it's certainly worth your time to track down Hall's recording!



467. Ty Herndon - It Must Be Love
Album: Big Hopes
Year: 1998

Herndon's third and final #1 hit spent 26 weeks on the charts, including a peak of 38 on Billboard's overall Top 40 chart.



466. Tanya Tucker - It Won't Be Me
Album: Tennessee Woman
Year: 1990

On the heels of announcing that she has new music on the way, comes Tanya Tucker's first appearance on BORN Country's list! Tucker was one of the very few female country stars that carried the "Outlaw" image as Willie, Waylon and others did in the 70's. Tanya's long career has earned her 10 #1 singles on the U.S. charts since the early 70's. I can't wait to see what she comes up with in the near future!




Forty songs down!!! I will be knocking off a huge bucket list concert this week as Amy and I are seeing Clint Black this Thursday night! I will definitely be sharing photos and thoughts on the show later in the week, so stay tuned for that!

As always, please comment below or on the new BORN Country Facebook page! Don't forget to share, like, repost, reblog, Tweet, etc. with all of your friends, family and fellow country fans! As I stated before, if we hit 300 "likes" on Facebook by this time next week, I'll post up a huge 20 song entry to the 505 Favorite Singles of the 90's list!!!

Thanks for reading!
Arthur Born

Twitter: @BORNCountryBlog
Facebook: facebook.com/BORNCountryBlog
Instagram: @arthur214