The early 1990s marked the introduction of a brand new class of rising stars into the mainstream country music scene. Texas-born singer/songwriter Clay Walker enjoyed a rapid rise to the top of the charts in 1993 with the release of his self-titled debut album. That record spawned three No. 1 hits and kick-started a fruitful, thriving career.
Videos by American Songwriter
[RELATED: Clay Walker Comes Back Home on “Texas to Tennessee”]
Walker’s boyish charm, twangy vocals, and heartfelt songs were a hit with fans looking for an updated take on traditional country. Three decades later, his early hits still stand the test of time. Take a look back at these Clay Walker songs that dominated country radio during the ’90s.
1. “Live Until I Die”
This self-penned, autobiographical track of Walker’s first album is all about being present and enjoying every moment life offers. The fiddle-driven “Live Until I Die” became his second single and second consecutive No. 1 hit in 1994.
2. “If I Could Make a Living”
This lighthearted, romantic single was penned by seasoned songwriters Keith Stegall, Roger Murrah, and fellow country hitmaker Alan Jackson. Walker continued his domination at the top of Billboard‘s Hot Country Songs chart with “If I Could Make a Living,” which climbed to No. 1 in September 1994.
3. “What’s It to You”
Walker put his hopes and dreams on the line with the release of his first single, “What’s It to You,” in July of 1993. Written by Curtis Wright and Robert Ellis Orrall, this flirty love song was a massive success, earning Walker his first No. 1 within weeks of its debut.
4. “Rumor Has It”
Many of Walker’s biggest hits of the era showcase the country crooner’s endearing, romantic side. “Rumor Has It,” the title track of his fourth record perfectly conveys those charming qualities, earning him another No. 1 song in 1997.
5. “This Woman and This Man”
Penned by Jeff Pennig and Michael Lunn, this cut from Walker’s second album, If I Could Make a Living, epitomizes a perfect ’90s country ballad. This hopeful plea to a lover on the edge of leaving became his fifth No. 1 song in March 1995.
6. “Then What?”
Walker closed out his reign on the country charts with this cheeky cautionary tale, which sprinkles in reggae instrumentation for an island-ready vibe. The rapid-fire lyrics of “Then What?,” which climbed to No. 2 in 1998, warn a wandering lover that the thrill of infidelity isn’t worth its consequences.
7. “Dreaming with My Eyes Open”
Walker’s last single from his breakthrough first album is an infectious, hopeful celebration of the blessings he’s been given and what lies ahead. Penned by Tony Arata, the songwriter behind Garth Brooks‘ powerful hit “The Dance,” “Dreaming with My Eyes Open” was also included on the soundtrack of the music-themed motion picture The Thing Called Love.
Photo by Walker Lippert, Courtesy of Shore Fire Media
