What makes Unbelievable by Diamond Rio notable?

The album produced the hit single 'Unbelievable,' which reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Its commercial success contributed to Diamond Rio's reputation as a leading group in the genre during the late 90s, further establishing their signature sound that blends traditional country with pop influences. Released in 1998, 'Unbelievable' was Diamond Rio's fifth studio album, following their successful 1996 release 'Love a Little Stronger.' At this point in their career, they were solidifying their presence in the mainstream country scene, having already earned several awards and chart-topping hits.

Who is Unbelievable for?

Unbelievable works well if you're into steady mid-tempo sing-alongs, nostalgic storytelling with warmth and for casual gatherings.

How many songs are on Unbelievable?

Unbelievable has 10 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Unbelievable

Diamond Rio · 1998

35 min · 10 tracks · country music

A vibrant blend of contemporary country melodies and heartfelt storytelling that captures the essence of late-90s Americana.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Unbelievable — The title track showcases the band's knack for catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, encapsulating themes of love and wonder that resonate throughout the album.
→
I Know How the River Feels — This track features poignant storytelling paired with rich instrumentation, reflecting on life's ups and downs in a way that is both personal and universal.
→
(I Will) Start All Over Again — With its message of resilience and hope, this song stands out for its emotional depth and showcases Diamond Rio's vocal harmonies at their best.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production typical of its era but lacks standout depth or innovation.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more reflective tone with slower pacing.
Several tracks, including the title track, utilize a call-and-response structure between lead vocals and backing harmonies, enhancing the storytelling aspect.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
nostalgic storytelling with warmth
for casual gatherings
easygoing background for road trips

Maybe skip if you

seekers of fast-paced energy
prefer lengthy, immersive albums

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The album solidified Diamond Rio's reputation with a number one hit.
Career context: Released in 1998, 'Unbelievable' was Diamond Rio's fifth studio album, following their successful 1996 release 'Love a Little Stronger.' At this point in their career, they were solidifying their presence in the mainstream country scene, having already earned several awards and chart-topping hits.
Stylistic neighbors: Little Big Town· Alabama· Brooks & Dunn