Naming the greatest country singer (or singers) of all time is almost impossible. So many talented artists have touched souls through the years, and one fan might not have the same reaction to their music as another. It’s all a matter of opinion. And the following three country music icons once shared their opinion on who the greatest country singers of all time were. Let’s take a look at who they gushed about!
Merle Haggard, According to Vince Gill
Many fans of 90s country music would say that Vince Gill is the GOAT of country. That’s up for debate, but one can’t deny that Gill has an insane amount of talent. He’s always been humble, though, and mentioned his personal inspirations and influences often. To Gill, Merle Haggard was one of the greatest country musicians of all time.
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“For me, it’s Merle Haggard,” said Gill. “He epitomized everything I wanted to try to be. He was a great singer, an amazing guitar player. A lot of people don’t understand how good of a musician Merle is, and a songwriter of the greatest order.”
George Jones, According to Merle Haggard
Merle Haggard makes this list of the greatest country singers again, this time for naming his personal favorite country star. Sadly, his admission came shortly after the singer in question passed away.
That singer was hitmaker George Jones, known for songs like “He Stopped Loving Her Today” and “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes”, among many others. He was larger than life, and after he passed away in 2013, the great Merle Haggard made a bold statement about him.
“The world has lost the greatest country singer of all time,” Haggard said of Jones.
Leon Russell, According to Willie Nelson
This one’s a bit of a wild card. Leon Russell wouldn’t be considered a country musician by many. In fact, it’s hard to really place Russell at all. His music spanned from country to blues to rock to even gospel and R&B.
What’s even more surprising is that one country superstar, who sounds nothing like Russell musically, named him as the greatest musician of all time.
“The greatest musician, singer, writer, and entertainer that I have ever seen or heard is Leon Russell,” said Willie Nelson, via his 2012 memoir. “[His music] touched all kinds of people, and the world has not been the same since.”
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