Country albums come and go, but some of the classics from the 1970s are legendary. The following five country albums from the 1970s aren’t just good tunes; they’re a history lesson on country music that inspired and influenced new generations of artists that followed. We think they’re essential listening and perfect for passing on to your children.
1. ‘Blue Kentucky Girl’ by Emmylou Harris
Emmylou Harris released a few excellent country albums throughout the 1970s, but we’d argue Blue Kentucky Girl from 1979 is her very best. It’s a notably nostalgia album with beautiful acoustic arrangements mixed with electric guitar. Don Everly, Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and Tanya Tucker even make appearances. “Sister’s Coming Home” and “Save The Last Dance For Me” are essential listening.
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2. ‘Red Headed Stranger’ by Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson has released dozens of albums throughout his career, but nothing will ever really top Red Headed Stranger. This 1975 record is one of the most iconic concept albums in country music history. If you were to pass any of the albums on this list to your children, we strongly recommend giving this one a spin. “Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain” and “Just As I Am” are hits from this album, but Red Headed Stranger is best experienced in full from beginning to end.
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3. ‘Jolene’ by Dolly Parton
This piece of work by Dolly Parton is one of the most recognizable country albums from the 1970s. Few albums captured her essence throughout her career quite like Jolene. Released in 1974, this stellar album features iconic tunes like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You”.
4. ‘The Gambler’ by Kenny Rogers
This good ol’ Kenny Rogers masterpiece defined his entire career after it was released in 1978. It has it all: sweeping orchestral movements, bluesy rock, honky tonk elements, and even a little bit of funk here and there. Few country artists were pulling elements from other genres around this time, so Rogers was a bit ahead of his time with The Gambler. “She Believes In Me” and “The Gambler” are essential listening.
5. ‘Heart Like A Wheel’ by Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt isn’t exactly underrated, but we don’t think she gets enough credit for her absolutely stunning voice. Her vocal prowess is at the forefront of the 1974 album Heart Like A Wheel. This record was a massive country-pop success; it topped the Hot 100 chart and won a Grammy. “I Can’t Help It (If I’m Still In Love With You)” and “When Will I Be Loved” are essential songs to listen to, but the whole album is honestly perfect.
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