3 Country Vocalists From the 1980s Who Rewrote the Genre’s Playbook

These three vocalists completely changed country music in the 1980s. They took the genre’s conventions in a new direction, setting the stage for a new era of country greatness. Without these voices, the genre might not have experienced the golden age we remember when we think of the 1980s scene.

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K.T. Oslin

K.T. Oslin was a trailblazer in the 1980s. Most labels and other powers that be in the industry are focused on young voices, while Oslin made her debut much later in life. Her powerhouse vocals broke conventions for country stars and set a new standard.

From “80’s Ladies” to “Do Ya”, Oslin delivered no shortage of powerful vocal moments in the 1980s. She had one of the most distinctive voices in the genre’s history, rife with nostalgia and heart. She changed country music both in how she earned fame and in the music she made once she got her big break. Oslin remains an inspiration to every country artist who operates outside the typical confines of industry expectations.

Randy Travis

The 1980s saw a turn towards pop tones in country music. Stars like Randy Travis pushed back against that evolution with neo-traditionalism. His supple voice worked like magic in keeping the simple but beautiful tradition of country alive.

With songs like “On The Other Hand” and “Forever And Ever, Amen” Travis’ timeless voice took over country music, helping to spawn an entire generation of neo-traditionalists; a trend that still thrives today. Everyone who has built a career reviving old sounds in country music since the 1980s must count Travis as a major source of inspiration.

Reba McEntire

Reba McEntire brought country a new audience, proving it could reach a mass market like never before. Her voice had plenty of crossover appeal, broadening country’s reach tenfold. Country music was already reaching pop listeners, but McEntire pushed that evolution further.

McEntire was a marvel in every aspect of her artistry. From creative control to narrative music videos to impeccable live vocals, McEntire was a country great like no other. She set a new standard for country singers that was a struggle to measure up to. Not just any vocalist could deliver songs like “Whoever’s In New England” or “(You Lift Me) Up To Heaven”. McEntire put serious distance between herself and her peers in the 1980s.

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