3 of the Most Iconic Acoustic Songs in Country Music History

To some fans, country music was meant to be played one way—unfiltered, unplugged, and entirely acoustic. This is a purist school of thought, and one that mainly applies to bluegrass and folk music. Country music was once also the same way. However, as it has evolved, it has strayed away from its original instrumental roots. That being said, it can sometimes be difficult to find a country music song that is solely acoustic.

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A good deal of country musicians do play acoustic instruments, but they are often backed by electric ones. With all that in mind, here are three of the most iconic acoustic songs in country music history.

“Waiting Around to Die” by Townes Van Zandt

When it came to music, Townes Van Zandt never over-complicated things with complex arrangements or new-wave technology. Rather, he used simple tactics and instruments to shed light on his profound lyrics. This is exactly what he did on his most iconic track, “Waiting Around To Die”.

On the song, Van Zandt plays acoustic guitar and sings. The other acoustic instruments featured on the track include a harmonica, a fiddle, and an upright bass. All of which bolster the already incredibly melancholic tone of this iconic country music classic.

“Blue Moon of Kentucky” by Bill Monroe

Bill Monroe is also known as the “Father Of Bluegrass”. Hence, in accordance with the bluegrass tradition, he never used electric instruments in his music. Consequently, when Bill Monroe recorded his country music and bluegrass staple, “Blue Moon Of Kentucky”, he did not feature any electric instruments.

On this song, Monroe plays mandolin and sings. The accompanying acoustic instruments include a guitar, banjo, fiddle, and upright bass. Fun fact: the infamous pickers, Earl Scruggs and Lester Flatt, joined Bill Monroe on the track by playing guitar and banjo.

“The Beast in Me” by Johnny Cash

The most tragically iconic song in Johnny Cash‘s catalog of music is the 1994 single “The Beast In Me”. The country single is so tragically iconic because it merely features an elder Johnny Cash and an acoustic guitar. No electric bass lines, guitar runs, or steel guitar solos. This song is just Johnny Cash, a couple of chords, and the truth.

Needless to say, the song’s majesty is in its simplicity, and this simplicity reminds one that great country music doesn’t come from elaborate schemes or shiny equipment. Rather, it comes from the desire to say something, to say something briefly, frankly, and simply. Which is exactly what Johnny Cash did on “The Beast In Me”.

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