3 Country Musicians Who Never Became Commercial Figures

There are a lot of factors that lead to a “successful” country music career. On the other hand, what is the true definition of “success” in music? One might say it’s about making millions of dollars and selling out the biggest stadiums in the world. Others might say it’s simply about acquiring a cult following, big or small. That being said, success is defined differently by everyone.

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The prototypical success story of a fruitful country music career is arguably what we already mentioned. Which, in short, is commercial success. However, some of the best country musicians of all time didn’t reach that status. So, does that mean that they weren’t successful? We will spare you from that philosophical trap and just tell you about three country musicians who never achieved notable commercial success during their careers.

Jerry Jeff Walker

While Jerry Jeff Walker helped start the progressive outlaw country music scene in Texas alongside Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, he did not garner the mainstream success they achieved. A legend in Texas, Walker made music for himself, his fans, and nobody else. He wasn’t concerned with hits, endorsements, or notoriety.

Some of Walker’s more notable works include the album ¡Viva Terlingua! and the singles “Mr. Bojangles”, “Pissin’ In The Wind”, and “Sangria Wine”. Despite never achieving commercial success, which he was completely capable of, Walker is still a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Doc Watson

Doc Watson never had any hit records or singles, and the importance of his name seemingly never transcended his cult followers and admirers. However, and more importantly, he acted as one of the most important figures in the bluegrass and folk music world.

Watson’s contributions to the general world of country music include his songs “Walk On Boy”, “Deep River Blues”, “Shady Grove”, and “Sitting On Top Of The World”. Without Doc Watson, the world of Americana, country, bluegrass, and folk music would likely sound entirely different. That is just how invaluable his contributions truly were.

Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten

There is not one true creator of country music. Rather, it is a culmination of different musicians and bands. However, one woman who is certainly regarded as one of the most important figures in the creation of country music is Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten. Hailing from North Carolina, Cotten never hit the mainstream and graced radio sets across the country. Instead, she plucked away and inspired the following generations to transform her sound and create something new.

Frankly, Cotten’s work transcends commercial success altogether, given the influence it has had on current and former generations. Some of the songs that provide generations with lasting influence include “Freight Train”, “Wilson Rag”, “Oh Babe It Ain’t No Lie”, and “I’m Going Away”. Musicians who have paid homage to her country music contributions by covering her songs include Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, the Grateful Dead, Peter, Paul, and Mary.

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