4 of the Greatest Country Rock Crossovers From the 1970s

Country music and rock music go together like two peas in a pod, and they’ve crossed over in many ways throughout the last few decades. However, you just can’t beat the classics from the 1970s. Let’s take a look at four country and rock crossovers from the 1970s that still slap today!

1. “Can’t You See” by The Marshall Tucker Band

“Can’t You See” by The Marshall Tucker Band was the band’s debut single back in 1973. It was a stellar song to start a career on, too. One could say “Can’t You See” inspired quite a few country and rock artists through the years to debut their own crossover hits, from Waylon Jennings to Zac Brown Band. 

This song has all the classic country elements you’d expect, with a few added rock and even orchestral elements. Yes, that’s a flute you hear at the beginning of the song.

2. “Middle Age Crazy” by Jerry Lee Lewis

Out of all the country rock crossovers on this list, Jerry Lee Lewis’ hit 1977 ballad was the most surprising crossover to hit the airwaves. Lewis was by and far a rock star and closely associated with that genre, but “Middle Age Crazy” showed off his love for traditional country tunes. 

Without “Middle Age Crazy”, who knows if Lewis would have been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame? It’s one of the best crossover ballads out there today.

3. “(Ghost) Riders In The Sky” by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash was a country star above all else, but he was also a pro at crossing genres and doing things differently. His cover of “Hurt” by Nine Inch Nails is probably the most well-known example out there of Cash’s ability to touch on rock music, but “(Ghost) Riders In The Sky” also deserves some credit. 

This song was originally written by Stan Jones in the 1940s, and Cash put his special spin on it in 1979. He wasn’t the first to cover the tune, but his version stands out from the rest.

4. “Take It Easy” by Eagles

Another debut single that took the country and rock worlds by storm, “Take It Easy” is the most recognizable song on this list. Eagles started their long and seasoned career with this country rock tune, and it’s still a radio mainstay today. They don’t make ‘em like they did back in 1972!

Photo by David Redfern/Redferns

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