Country music has gone through many evolutions. From the early folk tradition to hip-hop-infused modernism, the genre has adapted many times for survival. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t artists who remain faithful to traditionalism. The four old soul artists below are keeping the spirit of traditional country alive.
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Cody Johnson
Few contemporary artists are as committed to the Texas tradition as Cody Johnson is. Johnson has taken a page out of George Strait’s book with his sound, harkening back to the ’80s when country music was simple but packed an emotional punch.
“Dirt Cheap” could’ve easily topped the charts in that era, with its heart-wrenching lyrics and impossible-to-forget melody. Johnson is one of the only artists to turn to if you’re looking for someone to embody the bold but comforting artistry of classic country artists, like Strait.
Charley Crockett
Charley Crockett wears his inspirations on his sleeve. The Texas singer has all but rejected modernity. Although there are elements to his sound that traditional country fans might find too contemporary, his retro look and vocals more than make up for it.
Crockett has proven himself to be a highly sought-after performer. His live shows evoke memories of artists from a bygone generation, when all that was needed to captivate an audience was a powerful voice and a great song.
Margo Price
Margo Price’s sound evokes the ’60s, but her smoky vocals make her music singular. Many of her songs could find a comfortable home on an album from country’s golden age, but they also manage to work in contemporary times.
Price pulls off a balancing act between traditional country and her unique creative streak, making her one of the most interesting country artists today.
Parker McCollum
Parker McCollum is the first musician many people think of when considering modern country artists who follow traditionalism, and for good reason.
Like Johnson, McCollum is a follower of Strait. His deep vocal style is something that has been all but lost in today’s country scene. His songwriting style also evokes artists from Strait’s generation, with his simple but catchy choruses and anthemic melodies. McCollum has been a welcome dose of nostalgia in this ever-evolving genre.
(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)
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