Essential 2010s country music

The best Country Music albums of the 2010s.

Where to start with 2010–2019 country music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 2010s — country music

Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.

Le Noise

Neil Young

Le Noise

Raw, electric soundscapes intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a stark yet intimate atmosphere throughout the album.

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Hitchhiker

Neil Young

Hitchhiker

A collection of introspective folk-rock ballads that reflect on personal and societal themes with Neil Young's signature raw honesty.

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Out Among the Stars

Johnny Cash

Out Among the Stars

A reflective blend of country and gospel sounds, echoing Cash's poignant storytelling and deep emotional resonance.

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American VI: Ain't No Grave

Johnny Cash

American VI: Ain't No Grave

An introspective blend of gospel and folk, echoing with themes of mortality and redemption amidst Cash's weathered voice.

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Younger Now

Miley Cyrus

Younger Now

A reflective blend of country and pop, infused with nostalgia and anthems of self-acceptance.

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Miley Cyrus & Her Dead Petz

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus & Her Dead Petz

A sprawling, experimental journey blending pop, psychedelic influences, and candid introspection across eclectic soundscapes.

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Tempest

Bob Dylan

Tempest

A haunting blend of Americana and blues, layered with Dylan's gravelly voice and vivid storytelling.

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Triplicate

Bob Dylan

Triplicate

A reflective collection of jazz standards imbued with Dylan's unique interpretations, rich in nostalgia and emotional depth.

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This Is Country Music

Brad Paisley

This Is Country Music

A vibrant celebration of contemporary country, blending heartfelt storytelling with infectious melodies and a touch of playful wit.

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Wheelhouse

Brad Paisley

Wheelhouse

A genre-blurring mix of playful storytelling and introspective ballads woven into contemporary country rhythms.

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4

Beyoncé

4

A vibrant blend of soul, R&B, and pop that showcases Beyoncé's versatility and emotional depth.

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Beyoncé

Beyoncé

Beyoncé

A bold, genre-blurring exploration of identity and empowerment wrapped in lush production and provocative lyrics.

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Reputation

Taylor Swift

Reputation

Dark, synth-driven pop intertwines with self-reflective lyrics, embodying a bold evolution in Taylor Swift's artistic persona.

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Lover

Taylor Swift

Lover

A vibrant tapestry of pop and country elements woven together with heartfelt lyrics and anthemic melodies.

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Detour

Cyndi Lauper

Detour

A vibrant blend of classic country and pop sensibilities, showcasing Lauper's playful yet heartfelt vocal delivery.

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Memphis Blues

Cyndi Lauper

Memphis Blues

A heartfelt blend of blues and rock, showcasing Lauper's soulful vocals against a backdrop of gritty instrumentation.

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All About Tonight

Blake Shelton

All About Tonight

Uplifting country melodies blend with relatable storytelling, capturing the essence of summer nights and romantic escapades.

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Red River Blue

Blake Shelton

Red River Blue

A vibrant blend of contemporary country melodies infused with heartfelt lyrics and upbeat rhythms that define Blake Shelton's style.

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Reboot

Brooks & Dunn

Reboot

A vibrant blend of classic country anthems reimagined with polished production and fresh vocal energy.

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Down to My Last Bad Habit

Vince Gill

Down to My Last Bad Habit

A reflective blend of country and soul, rich with heartfelt storytelling and melodic craftsmanship.

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Guitar Slinger

Vince Gill

Guitar Slinger

A blend of heartfelt storytelling and intricate guitar work, enveloping listeners in a warm Southern atmosphere.

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And So It Goes

Don Williams

And So It Goes

A soothing blend of traditional country melodies infused with Williams' warm baritone and reflective storytelling.

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Texas

Lasse Stefanz

Texas

A vibrant blend of Swedish country rhythms infused with heartfelt storytelling and a touch of nostalgia.

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Cuba Libre

Lasse Stefanz

Cuba Libre

A vibrant blend of Swedish country and pop, infused with lively rhythms and heartfelt storytelling.

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