On June 6, 2000, country trio Rascal Flatts released their self-titled debut studio album. The album came during a period when country pop stylings were becoming the norm, with superstars like Shania Twain and The Dixie Chicks coming up fast. Rascal Flatts’ debut album only spurred this trend onward, and that very album is considered essential listening for fans of the band and country pop as a whole.
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Rascal Flatts was released on this day in 2000, and it was an almost immediate hit. The album has since been certified Platinum twice, and the record produced four chart-topping singles. “Praying’ For Daylight” and “This Everyday Love” were just a couple of Top 10 hits to make it to the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. “While You Loved Me” and “I’m Movin’ On”, as well as “Long Slow Beautiful Dance”, also became mainstream country radio fodder for months. The whole of the album would make it to No. 43 on the Billboard 200, as well as No. 3 on the Top Country Albums chart.
The Lasting Country Pop Influence of ‘Rascal Flatts’
So, what exactly makes this album so special? Honestly, this album feels like country music’s response to NSYNC. In fact, Rascal Flatts were often referred to as the “country” NSYNC back in the day. At times, this record feels more pop than country, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
The singles on this album are what really make it shine. “Prayin’ For Daylight” is an interesting track that explores heartbreak through the medium of upbeat, fun pop sounds. “This Everyday Life” is a signature Rascal Flatts song that doesn’t just sound like your typical country pop radio fodder; it’s uniquely them. “While You Loved Me” gets a bit steamy, and “See Me Through” is a great example of how this trio could harmonize. Overall, it’s a fun, nostalgic album.
After Rascal Flatts firmly placed the band in the mainstream, but band would go on to release Melt in 2002. That sophomore album leaned more toward country than the band’s debut, but it was a similarly excellent and successful record. Melt would chart even higher than their debut and hit No. 5 on the Billboard 200. From there, the band would enjoy a string of No. 1 hit albums throughout the 2000s.
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