3 Country Groups From the 1980s Whose Melodies Still Echo Through the Decades

While the 1980s might not be the most impressive decade in the history of country music, those who dive back into the era will surely find a number of standouts. And that’s just what we wanted to do here below.

We wanted to explore the careers of three country collectives from back in the day that have since stood the test of time. Indeed, these are three country groups from the 1980s whose melodies still echo through the decades.

Alabama

Alabama is one of the most successful groups in country music history. The band’s first single on RCA Records was “Tennessee River” and from there, the outfit enjoyed a string of No. 1 country singles on the Billboard charts. In total, Alabama achieved more than two dozen No. 1 country hits, along with seven multi-platinum LPs, and a streak of accolades. That gets a Wow! Indeed, Alabama sounds like the Platonic Ideal of a country group—crystal clear and pristine. On their hit single “Love in the First Degree”, the outfit combines shimmering acoustic guitars with vocals that graze the sky.

The Judds

Who doesn’t like a family band? And one of the reasons why family projects succeed so well is because the members often operate on another level. They have ESP when it comes to harmonies, lyrical choices, and everything in between. For an example of this, look no further than The Judds. Comprised of mother-and-daughter duo Naomi Judd and
Wynonna Judd, the outfit released five records in the 1980s and garnered five Grammy Awards. But their legacy stretches way beyond that today.

The Desert Rose Band

This country group was formed in Los Angeles, California, proving that great country songs can come from anywhere! Indeed, The Desert Rose Band, well, rose to fame and popularity in the mid-1980s. The group dropped two albums during the decade, and both landed on the vaunted Billboard Country charts. If some part of the group sounds familiar, that’s because it was formed by Chris Hillman, whose past projects included The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers. Hillman liked to blend country elements with rock ones. The result here was chef’s kiss.

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