Nothing improves a mood quite like catchy melodies and relatable lyrics from country music songs. This genre has produced timeless classics from Willie Nelson’s “I Don't Know A Thing About Love” and "You're The Only One” by Dolly Parton.
If you're looking for the best songs to add to your country music playlist, we've got you covered. We're bringing our A-game to ensure you can stay up to date with the latest hits, as the country music genre is ever evolving.
Below is a whole selection of our carefully handpicked country music bangers that are sure to find a place in your playlists. And if you read right to the end, I've included a link to a compiled list in a Spotify playlist!
Our List of Top 20 Country Music Songs to Add to Your Playlist in 2024
1. "Expectation" by Logan Ransley
"Expectation by Logan Ransley" is not strictly country, but if you like a mix of country music, folk music, and blues, then you'll love this raw acoustic feel.
This folk-country-blues song explores the struggle of growing up under societal pressures, feeling unable to pursue one's own dreams due to external expectations and judgments, and the frustration of having decisions influenced by others rather than personal aspirations.
If you like this song, you may like other folk-country-acoustic inspired songs by Logan Ransley, including, "I Don't Know Where I'm Going by Logan Ransley", "Crossroads by Logan Ransley", and "Son by Logan Ransley".
2. "Darlin" by Chase Matthew
Many Chase Matthew fans would agree that "Darlin” is one of the best songs on his recent EP release "We All Grow Up."
The theme for this song is centered around mistrust in a relationship, with Matthew doubting his girl's commitment as you'll find in the lyrics. You'll probably find yourself singing along to the catchy lyrics, which include lines like "Why's he call you darling, why's he call you daily?"
Listen to "Darlin" by Chase Matthew on YouTube
3. "Deeper Well" by Kacey Musgraves
Kacey Musgraves' "Deeper Well” might not be an ideal choice if you're looking for songs to fit in a strictly country playlist. However, if you're open-minded enough to listen to this song, it offers a stunning examination of inner serenity and self-discovery.
I'll argue that it's a great complementary song to have in any country music playlist due to the reflective lyrics and folkloric vibe the song gives.
Listen to "Deeper Well" by Kacey Musgraves on YouTube
4. "Change The Game" by Cody Jinks
A tale of a small-town dreamer who became a major festival headliner, Cody Jinks’ "Change The Game" is one of the best acoustic country songs that tells a good grass to grace story.
The song seems to be a complete circle, an opportunity for Jinks to remember the straightforward guy he used to be when he was playing the guitar.
If you can relate to Cody Jinks here, this song is a must-add to your playlist.
Listen to "Change The Game" by Cody Jinks on YouTube
5. "Messed Up As Me" by Keith Urban
Keith Urban's song "Messed Up As Me" is a great choice if you're looking for music that delves into the intricacies of love.
This “country music love song” takes you through the emotional rollercoaster of a dysfunctional relationship where the highs exceed the lows, while fusing several genres with a singer-songwriter feel.
Listen to "Messed Up As Me" by Keith Urban on YouTube
6. "TEXAS HOLD 'EM' by Beyoncé
Beyoncé takes her powerful voice to the country music world with the uplifting and easily relatable song "Texas Hold 'Em."
This genre-bending song creates a feel-good anthem about small-town nights, southern hospitality, and finding joy on the dance floor by fusing traditional country instrumentation with Beyoncé's distinctive flair.
Listen to "Texas Hold 'Em" by Beyoncé on YouTube
7. "Glory Days" by Gabby Barrett
If you want a nice change of pace, think about adding "Glory Days" by Gabby Barrett to your playlist.
This positive song provides a refreshing change of pace from the more common themes of heartbreak and nostalgia in country music by celebrating the joy of daily life and the beauty of a committed relationship.
Listen to "Glory Days" by Gabby Barrett on YouTube
8. "Fiddle in the Band" by Kane Brown
Kane Brown's "Fiddle in the Band" is the epitome of his genre-bending approach. This upbeat tune combines rock influences with a prominent violin and Brown's soft vocals.
Listen to "Fiddle in the Band" by Kane Brown on YouTube
9. "Break Mine" by Brothers Osborne
Another great addition that would complete any country music playlist is Brothers Osborne's "Break Mine."
With its beautiful vocals and poignant lyrics, the soulful ballad opens their most recent EP and gives listeners a sample of the captivating music they produce.
Listen to "Break Mine" by Brothers Osborne on YouTube
10. "No Caller ID" by Megan Moroney
"No Caller ID” is a powerful breakup ballad that conveys the realistic tale of a late-night call from an ex with honey-warm vocals and a beautiful rhythm.
I'll recommend this song as a no-brainer addition to any country playlist because of its strong soundtrack and skillfully written lyrics.
Listen to "No Caller ID" by Megan Moroney on YouTube
11. "Holy Smokes" by Bailey Zimmerman
Bailey Zimmerman's "Holy Smokes" is nothing short of a masterpiece. The emerging star's enthralling ballad begins as a strong piano-driven piece and develops into a mid-tempo song.
This melancholic melody and Zimmerman's impassioned voice will make you envision an incredible live performance.
Listen to "Holy Smokes" by Bailey Zimmerman on YouTube
12. "Cowboy Kind Of Love" by The Castellows
"Cowboy Kind Of Love” is one of the songs included in The Castellows' EP "A Little Goes A Long Way"
This song is an ideal addition to a country playlist that needs a little hopeful wanderlust. It features upbeat lyrics that crave for a fanciful relationship and its soft electric guitar tune.
Listen to "Cowboy Kind Of Love" by The Castellows on YouTube
13. "Dirt Cheap" by Cody Johnson
Cody Johnson's "Dirt Cheap" is a poignant ballad that narrates the tale of a farmer whose legacy has been passed down through the generations: one who loves his land. Developers have offered a lot of money, but he won't sell.
The song serves as a poignant reminder of people's deep ties to the places they call home.
Listen to "Dirt Cheap" by Cody Johnson on YouTube
14. "Best Friend for Life" by Grace Leer
An exciting backstory about this song is that Leer created it for her friend's wedding day.
In the song, she recalls supporting her buddy through years of first loves, heartbreaks, and early crushes while continuing to hang onto romantic dreams.
Listen to "Best Friend for Life" by Grace Leer on YouTube
15. "What He'll Never Have" by Dylan Scott
It is devastating even to consider having to part ways with the love of your life. Dylan Scott, however, uses this song to tell his sweetheart that no one else could love her as much as he does, should the day come when they have to be apart.
Listen to "What He'll Never Have" by Dylan Scott on YouTube
16. “Bright Side Of Blue” by Abby Anderson
Put "Bright Side Of Blue” on when you're having a hard time getting over obstacles in life. The song encourages listeners to follow their aspirations, see the bright side even in the darkest moments, and maintain the "keep on keepin' on" attitude.
Listen to "Bright Side Of Blue" by Abby Anderson on YouTube
17. "What She Sees in Me" by Chris Young
"What She Sees In Me" is a simple ballad about unwavering love and appreciation that is taken from Chris Young's upcoming album "Young Love & Saturday Nights."
Young's powerful vocals soar over poignant lyrics about a love that endures, making it a must-have song for any country playlist.
Listen to "What She Sees In Me" by Chris Young on YouTube
18. "God & Country" by Anne Wilson
If you're a country music classics lover, you'll love this song.
Anne Wilson's appealing song "God & Country" effectively combines faith and patriotism, two common elements in country music.
Listen to "God & Country" by Anne Wilson on YouTube
19. "Kiss My Boots' by Brian Kelley
Searching for a song that exemplifies country music's more aggressive side? You only need to listen to "Kiss My Boots" by Brian Kelley.
This country music song, which has a powerful melody that will undoubtedly make your heart race, tackles themes of betrayal and sticking up for yourself.
Anyone who has ever been wronged can relate to the songs since Kelley so fully expresses his feelings via them.
Listen to "Kiss My Boots" by Brian Kelley on YouTube
20. "Scared to Start" by Michael Marcagi
This list won't be complete without me mentioning Michael Marcagi's "Scared to Start."
The song has a folk-tinged feel that is close to country music, even if it isn't exactly country. This breakthrough success has drawn comparisons to contemporary folk musicians and even attracted the interest of some influential musicians.
Trust me when I say this song will make you want more and send shivers down your spine.
Listen to "Scared to Start" by Michael Marcagi on YouTube
Bonus: "Country's Cool Again" by Lainey Wilson
"Country's Cool Again" by Lainey Wilson is an infectious song that embraces a return to classic country origins. This genre-bending song combines Wilson's unique sound with elements of rock, Americana, and classic country music.
Listen to "Country's Cool Again" by Lainey Wilson on YouTube
Save the playlist on Spotify!
There you have it, our top 20 country music songs to add to your playlist in 2024! We hope you enjoyed our selections and discovered some new favorites to add to your collection.
Let us know what you think about our picks and if there are any songs you believe should be on this list. Drop a comment below and share your thoughts! We’d love to hear from you.
If you enjoyed this post, don't forget to share it with your friends and fellow country music lovers. Let's keep the music playing and the good vibes flowing!
Happy listening!