Top 100 Country Songs of the 1960s

we have compiled our Top 100 Country Songs of the 1960s strictly from Billboard’s end of year annual Hot Country Songs charts from 1960 to 1969. We ranked our list from each year’s chart, and since artists were having multiple hits, a particular singer can be represented more than once. Each of our song entries here includes its year as a hit, a short introduction, our commentary about its popularity, as well as its chart position for that particular year’s end of year Billboard country chart.

El Paso by Marty Robbins

Marty Robbins’ “El Paso” is an epic cowboy ballad of a heartbreaking love story set in America’s Southwest. In its signature guitar and tale that you can’t resist, it was a behemoth success in 1960. In fact, not only did the song reach No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country chart, but it reached No. 1 on the pop business’s Hot 100 as well. On the 1960 year-end country chart, it was in the top of the list of finest songs of the year. “El Paso” remains one of Robbins’ most well-known sessions.

Wings of a Dove by Ferlin Husky

Ferlin Husky’s “Wings of a Dove” was a gentle country-gospel song that became his signature piece. Released in 1960, its gentle lyrics of faith and hope touched hearts. It was a very big success on country radio, reaching No. 1 for some weeks on the weekly country chart. On Billboard’s 1960 year-end country chart, it ranked among the biggest of the decade’s hits, making Husky a country favorite.

Just One Time by Don Gibson

Just One Time is a lovely country ballad in which Don Gibson pleads for a second chance with his lost love. Its sensitive tune and Gibson’s whiny voice sent it soaring high onto the country singles charts in 1960. It ended as a top-ten song on the country year-end list as well. Although covered by a vast group of artists, Gibson’s version of this old standard remains its definitive version.

He’ll Have to Go by Jim Reeves

“He’ll Have to Go” is a very well-known song of Jim Reeves, a silky-throated Nashville Sound ballad in which a man requests his sweetheart’s permission to speak with her privately. Its country-pop, melodic arrangement took the song to a great crossover success in 1960. Reeves’s bass baritone vocal helped it go to the top of the country chart as well as reach No. 2 on the pop chart. It very high on the end-of-the-year country chart, making it one of biggest country song of decade.

He’ll Have to Stay by Jeanne Black

Jeanne Black’s “He’ll Have to Stay” was a response song for Jim Reeves’s record, delivering the feminine side of the story in a humorous fashion. Also from 1960, it benefited from the success of “He’ll Have to Go.” The song itself charted at country radio outlets and soared into the top ten of the 1960 year-end country chart. Black’s version was a addition to the whimsy of the original story, and it’s still a humorous morsel of country music history.

Sink the Bismarck by Johnny Horton

“Sink the Bismarck” is an energetic country song composed and sung by Johnny Horton regarding a World War II maritime manhunt for Germany’s Bismarck battlecruiser. Made in 1960, it features broad lyrics as well as marching rhythms. “Sink the Bismarck” was extremely successful both on country charts as well as with the general pop marketplace. On Billboard’s 1960 country-year end chart, it ranked as a leading song, illustrating the way that patriotic stories impacted audiences that year.

Please Help Me, I’m Falling by Hank Locklin

Hank Locklin’s “Please Help Me, I’m Falling” is a whiny, sad ballad about not giving in to temptation. This was Locklin’s greatest success when it was released in 1960. Not only did it spend many weeks at No. 1 on the country chart, but it was counted as the No. 1 country song of 1960 when Billboard compiled its annual list. Its success helped establish a wider audience for the Nashville Sound, and its title song is still a country standard.

(I Can’t Help You) I’m Falling Too by Skeeter Davis

Skeeter Davis’s “(I Can’t Help You) I’m Falling Too” was essentially a follow-up to “Please Help Me, I’m Falling,” with its common affair subject. In 1960, this song showcased Davis’s lamenting, emotion-laden voice and laid-back arrangement. It was a genuine country hit in its own right, reaching high in the chart as well as a staple on country radio. On the 1960 year-end country chart it ranked in with top of the year songs, cementing its success further.

Excuse Me (I Think I’ve Got a Heartache) by Buck Owens

Buck Owens infused his honky-tonk style into “Excuse Me (I Think I’ve Got a Heartache),” a 1960 song about feeling that first flash of new love. Catchy tempo and twanging Buck Owens leads made it a country jukebox standard. The record soared into the high reaches of the country chart in 1960. On Billboard’s 1960 year-end chart, it appeared alongside major hits in a list that hailed Owens’s growing presence in country music.

One More Time by Ray Price

“One More Time” is a melancholy ballad about a man who cannot rid his mind of a lost love. Orchestrally rich with a sentimental baritone from Price, “One More Time” would become a signature song of his in 1960. That year, it reached its peak in the top five of the country singles chart. When his year-end chart was released, “One More Time” appeared as one of the largest country songs of the year as a testament to its appeal with listeners.

Walk On By by Leroy Van Dyke

Leroy Van Dyke’s “Walk On By” (sometimes more formally “Walk On By If You’ve Got Nothing Else to Do”) is a sassy, uptempo country song about a fellow who tells a busybody to mind her own business. In 1961, Van Dyke’s energetic delivery and memorable chorus brought it to success on country radios. For a few weeks it loitered at or very near the very top of the country chart, and it finished high on Billboard’s 1961 country year-end chart, a testament to how much audiences loved its spitfire spirit.

Big Bad John by Jimmy Dean

“Big Bad John” is a popular story song composed by Jimmy Dean about a legendary coal miner. On release in 1961, its song was a cultural phenomenon. Spoken-word lyrics with a low voice from Dean furthered its success as a new release both on country charts as well as on pop charts. On the 1961 country-year-end chart, it ranked as one of the very highest hits as evidence of its mass appeal. The song made Jimmy Dean a star as well as an icon of country story songs.

Don’t Worry by Marty Robbins

Marty Robbins’s “Don’t Worry” is a comforting, catchy song about reassuring a worrisome sweetheart. In 1961, with its infectious melody and effortless rendition by Robbins, its charm was immediate. For some weeks, it topped the No. 1 position on the country chart. It ranked as one of the top-rated songs of Billboard’s 1961 year-end country chart, both a response from audiences to its cheerful content as well as its popularity for listeners at that time.

Hello Walls by Faron Young

Faron Young’s version of “Hello Walls” is a mid-tempo pop country song with a broken-hearted man who sings to his home walls. Released in 1961 as a song by Willie Nelson, “Hello Walls” consists of Young’s baritone voice with a pop-infused production. “Hello Walls” was a tremendous success, going to No. 1 on the country chart. On the end-of-the-year country chart for 1961, it ranked as one of the biggest of the year, a testament to both Young’s star appeal as well as Nelson’s songwriting.

North to Alaska by Johnny Horton

“North to Alaska” of Johnny Horton is an energetic country tune written for John Wayne’s 1960 film of the same name. In 1961 as a single, its catchy hook and western-sounding appeal resonated with listeners. It reached a No. 1 country chart position. Its success further inspired a film version, reaching as high as one of the biggest country hits of 1961 on Billboard’s 1961 year-end country chart.

I Fall to Pieces by Patsy Cline

Patsy Cline’s “I Fall to Pieces” is a top all-time country ballad. Released in 1961, Cline’s emotive delivery and the song’s beautiful melody captivated listeners. It topped the country charts and even crossed over into Top 20 of the pop charts. On the end-year chart for 1961, it was declared the No. 1 country song for 1961. Its enduring qualities cemented Cline’s status as a country legend.

Sea of Heartbreak by Don Gibson

“Sea of Heartbreak” is another of Don Gibson’s 1961 classics. It’s a mid-tempo waltz for drowning your grief for a lost love. Gibson’s impassioned interpretation of it made it a major chart favorite with country listeners. It soared high on the weekly chart as well as on its appearance on the year-end 1961 chart wherein it was represented as one of the biggest country hits of the year. It’s still a sad epitome of early 60s’ balladry from Nashville.

Tender Years by George Jones

“Tender Years” is a slow, tender ballad in which Jones sings of his adoration for his lover’s tenderness. It was released late in 1961. On this track, Jones revealed his signature heartfelt tone. “Tender Years” went to number-one country, Jones’s first of several times topping the country chart. On Billboard’s 1961 year-end country chart, “Tender Years” ranked as one of the top country singles of 1961, indicating Jones’s ever-high profile.

Foolin’ Around by Buck Owens

Buck Owens brought his Bakersfield sound with him to “Foolin’ Around,” a lively honky-tonk tune from 1961. Catchy backbeat and hard-edged Owens’ singing aided in making the song a quick hit. It reached its highest point in country chart position for the year. As Billboard assembled its 1961 year-end chart, “Foolin’ Around” was on its list of biggest country hits as proof of how Owens was redeploying country music as a fast-paced affair.

San Antonio Rose by Floyd Cramer

“San Antonio Rose” is a country-pop instrumental track with pianist Floyd Cramer. Its slow melody is a westernized version of western swing legend Bob Wills’ classic song. Cramer’s version of “San Antonio Rose” from 1961 was a huge success on country charts, though an instrumental track with no lyrics. It was a very successful instrumental track of its time, reaching Billboard’s 1961 country year-end chart. The track helped emphasize new polished production of what would be dubbed the Nashville Sound.

Wolverton Mountain by Claude King

The song ballad of King’s purported search for a girl whose protection of Wolverton Mountain was her daddy’s is Claude King’s “Wolverton Mountain.” Its catchy chorus and upbeat delivery helped its topping both the country chart and pop Hot 100 upon its release in 1962. It was a No. 1 country song for 1962. On Billboard’s 1962 year-end country chart it was ranked as biggest hit of the year, as a testament to listeners’ imagination.

She’s Got You by Patsy Cline

“She’s Got You” is Patsy Cline’s 1962 country-pop standard. It was written by Hank Cochran. It’s a song of a woman losing her man to another, and Cline’s tender delivery makes it a favorite. It went to No. 1 on the country chart. On Billboard’s 1962 country-year-end chart it was a top song of the year. This song cemented Cline’s position as the undisputed foremost female country voice of her day.

Devil Woman by Marty Robbins

Marty Robbins’s “Devil Woman” is a haunting ballad concerning a temptress songstress who lures men into trouble. It was a chart hit in 1962, going to No. 1 on the country chart with its story-driven songwriting and sweeping vocals from Robbins. It did crossover onto the pop charts as well. On the 1962 year-end country chart, “Devil Woman” was one of the year’s top songs, reflecting how formidable Robbins was with dramatic story songs.

Old Rivers by Walter Brennan

“Old Rivers” was a nostalgic country song performed by actor Walter Brennan in 1962. It’s a song about an old farmer and his loyal mule, celebrating simplicity of country life. Its lilting pace and folksy nature made it a favorite with listeners, who pushed it to No. 1 on the country chart. Billboard ranked “Old Rivers” as one of its top hits on its 1962 year-end country chart, suggesting its gentle, storytelling style resonated with country audiences.

Don’t Go Near the Indians by Rex Allen

Rex Allen’s “Don’t Go Near the Indians” is a humorous song of a girl’s misfortunes on an Indian reservation. Dating from 1962, it combined storytelling lyrics with a catchy tune as well as a warm, affectionate vocal performance from Allen. As a single, it reached number one on the country chart in 1962. On its 1962 year-end country chart, it charted with the big hits of the year, substantiating its success as a fun, humorous country song.

I’ve Been Everywhere by Hank Snow

Hank Snow’s “I’ve Been Everywhere” is a tour-de-force country novelty song reading a staggering list of place names. In 1962, Snow’s rapid-speaking delivery and song lyrics of travel made it an immediate anthem for a party. Going to number one on the country chart, it was one of Snow’s signature songs. On Billboard’s 1962 year-end country chart, it was charted as one of the biggest songs, suggesting audiences were delighted with this tongue-twister of a song.

Crazy by Patsy Cline

“Crazy” is Patsy Cline’s best ballad, as written by Willie Nelson. Released in 1962, Cline’s powerful, emotive voice on this plaintive song captivated listeners. Although famously stuck at No. 2 on the country chart (self-consciously held back by “Crazy,” of all tunes, etc.), it became a big favorite still. It charted substantially on the 1962 year-end country chart, reflecting its continuous airplay as well as its sales. Eventually it was one of country radio history’s most played tracks.

She Thinks I Still Care by George Jones

George Jones’s “She Thinks I Still Care” is a 1962 classic country sorrow song. On it, Jones exhorts his former flame to move on with her life, although he knows she still thinks about him. As sentimental as he was melancholy, his effortless delivery enabled his song to be a No. 1 country chart hit. On Billboard’s 1962 year chart it was a best song of its year,captivating listeners with its genuinely heartfelt emotion and solidifying Jones as one of country’s all-time great ballad men.

P.T. 109 by Jimmy Dean

“‘P.T. 109′” was a narrative country song composed and sung by Jimmy Dean, his 1962 release about John F. Kennedy’s fearless World War II sea-going career. Its lively storytelling resonated as a favorite, as did its patriotically-seasoned version sung by Dean as a chart-topper for country listeners. On Billboard’s 1962-year-end country chart it ranked as one of the great songs of the year, both for country audiences as well as for America’s general population captivated with JFK’s legend.

Adios Amigo by Jim Reeves

Adios Amigo is a laid-back country-pop song in which Reeves bid adieu in a humorous tone. Released in 1962 with a mellow instrumentation as well as a warm baritone from Reeves, it charmed listeners. It was a highly successful country chart single that charted as high as near the top. On Billboard’s 1962-year-end country chart, it charted as one of the top songs of the year, testifying to Reeves’s long-standing popularity as a smooth-sounding country crooner.

Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash

“Ring of Fire” was Johnny Cash’s largest-known song, a co-write with June Carter and Merle Kilgore. The song from 1963 includes a broad mariachi-style horn riff as well as a low, constant drawl from Cash. It went to No. 1 on the country chart as well as a big pop crossover hit. On Billboard’s 1963 year-end country chart it was that year’s No. 1 country song. Its durability made it a signature song of Cash’s career.

From a Jack to a King by Ned Miller

Ned Miller’s “From a Jack to a King” is a tuneful tale of a man who rises from poverty to eventually succeed in winning his lady’s affection. Released first in 1962, it was more widely disseminated in a 1963 reissue, eventually peaking at No. 2 on the country chart. Its laid-back melody and sentiment-laden lyrics brought its audiences to its banner. On Billboard’s 1963 year-end chart, it ranked as one of 1963’s largest country hits, a testament as much to its successful chart climb as to its sales.

Love’s Gonna Live Here by Buck Owens

“Love’s Gonna Live Here” was Buck Owens’ biggest single. It came out in November of 1962 as a lively honky-tonk anthem of enduring love, staying for 16 weeks at No. 1 on country charts. It was a signature of his Bakersfield sound. On Billboard’s 1963 year-end country chart, it was listed among top songs of the year, indicating what a whirlwind of a presence Owens was that year in country music with his uptempo approach and catchy songs.

Ruby Ann by Marty Robbins

“Ruby Ann” is a mid-tempo country song performed by Marty Robbins, a story about a love triangle. Released in 1962 with a smooth rendering of Robbins’ voice and an earcatching song, it reached No. 1 on the country chart. It appeared on the 1963 year-end country chart as one of the top songs as a testament to how much his listeners were enthused about his storytelling style as well as a catchy song for “Ruby Ann.”

The End of the World by Skeeter Davis

Skeeter Davis’s “The End of the World” is a sad, slow song of broken hearts and despair following a split. It came out in early 1963, with its pop-friendly production enabling it to crossover to the pop Top 5. It simultaneously reached No. 2 on the country chart. Billboard’s year-end 1963 country chart found it in the top songs of the list, reflecting how Davis’s crossover song was an absolute country radio staple alongside its success on pop charts.

Abilene by George Hamilton IV

“Abilene” is a gentle country ballad sung by George Hamilton IV, written by Bob Gibson. Released in 1963, it features Hamilton’s quiet voice and a sad song about the city of Abilene. It was a No. 1 country song as well as a pop crossover song. On Billboard’s 1963-year-end country chart it was one of the biggest of the year, a testament to its successful mellow approach with audiences.

Six Days on the Road by Dave Dudley

Dave Dudley’s 1963 release of “Six Days on the Road” is a classic trucking song anthem. Its driving beat and song of a tired truck driver struck a chord with audiences. It reached No. 1 on the country chart. It appeared on the 1963 year-end country chart as a top song, a testament to its popularity as well as its inclusion as one of the first and influential trucking songs of country’s history.

Act Naturally by Buck Owens

“Act Naturally” is an amusing country song wherein the narrator claims he can act Naturally sad that he’s been ditched. Buck Owens’s 1963 version made it a chart success, reaching No. 1 on country charts. As one of its largest country hits for Billboard’s 1963 year-end list, “Act Naturally” surfaced as evidence of how Owens’s honky-tonk edge was everpresent on country radio that year.

Don’t Let Me Cross Over by Carl and Pearl Butler

“Don’t Let Me Cross Over” by Carl and Pearl Butler is a duet you can’t sing enough of about a husband-and-wife being tempted. Featured as a 1963 release with sentimental dueting on vocals with a haunting song, it became a great success remaining for a few weeks at No. 1 on the country chart. On Billboard’s 1963 year-end country chart it was a No. 1 song of the year, verifying its impactful nature for listeners.

Still by Bill Anderson

Bill Anderson’s “Still” is a mellow country ballad of loss and desire. In 1963, its laid-back melody and baritone, conversational voice by Anderson reached many hearts. For a moment, it was Bill Anderson’s initial No. 1 country song. On Billboard’s 1963 year-end chart, “Still” was a No. 1 country song of the year. It still is a signature song of Anderson.

Once a Day by Connie Smith

Connie Smith’s “Once a Day” is a classic broken-love ballad in a country style. It was released in 1964 with an emphatic reading from Smith and an upbeat tune that belies the sorrowful lyrics of moving on. Ironically enough, it spent eight weeks at No. 1 on the country chart. Billboard’s 1964-year-end chart ranked it among its top songs for the year. Its enduring popularity sealed Smith’s place as one of country’s greatest female singers.

Understand Your Man by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash’s “Understand Your Man” is a casual country song with a dash of Beatlesque feeling. From 1964, a low, distinctive voice from Cash and a laid-back groove informed a modern song. It reached No. 1 on Country chart. On Billboard’s 1964 year-end chart, it was one of the largest of the year, a proof of Cash’s long-standing success as he experimented into new wellsprings of inspiration.

Dang Me by Roger Miller

“Dang Me” is a fun novelty song written and performed by Roger Miller in 1964. Miller’s witty lyrics and memorable whistled introduction made it instantly catchy. It reached No. 1 on the country chart and even took home several Grammy Awards. On the 1964 year-end country chart it appeared as a top song of the year, reflecting how Miller’s witty songwriting and humor took ahold of listeners.

Saginaw, Michigan by Lefty Frizzell

“Saginaw, Michigan” is an energetic country song by Lefty Frizzell, recounting a poverty-stricken man who disingenuously poses as a rich man in order to secure his love’s hand. Released in 1964, its energetic Tex-Mex flair and witty storytelling took a liking with listeners. The song reached No. 1. On Billboard’s 1964 year-end country chart it was a top song of the year, indicating how its catchy style took a liking with audiences.

My Heart Skips a Beat by Buck Owens

Buck Owens’s “My Heart Skips a Beat” was an up-beat honky-tonk love song from 1964. Buck’s cheerful voice and catchy guitar phrases accompanied it to chart success from its beginning. It remained at No. 1 for five weeks on the country chart. On the 1964 end-of-the-year country chart it ranked as a top song of the year. “My Heart Skips a Beat” was Owens’s series of chart-scorers that were accountable for preparing for the Bakersfield sound.

The Race Is On by George Jones

“The Race Is On” was a 1964 cartoon country song sung by George Jones. Humorously, its lyrics compare a dissolved relationship to a race track with Jones’s energetic delivery giving it a sense of excitement. Although it only reached No. 3 on the country chart (aft of this page’s Owens chart-topper), “The Race Is On” would be one of Jones’s signature songs. On Billboard’s 1964 year-end chart, it charted with hits of the year, a testament that listeners were fond of its uptempo quality and sardonic lyrics.

I Guess I’m Crazy by Jim Reeves

The 1964 tender ballad, “I Guess I’m Crazy,” is a heartfelt ballad sung by Jim Reeves. Due to the effortless approach of Reeves’s Nashville Sound, his song became a sweet love proclamation. It topped the country chart, as one of his hundreds of charted hits. On its 1964 country year-end chart, it was a leading song, indicating its popularity with country audiences for the year.

Chug-A-Lug by Roger Miller

“Chug-A-Lug” was a fun, memorable 1964 Roger Miller song. Made up of a catchy song about sipping a cold brew (and what), Miller’s humorous lyrics and country-swing pace made it a hit. It topped out high on the country chart. On Billboard’s 1964-year-end chart, “Chug-A-Lug” charted as one of the great country hits of 1964 because of its catchy hook and Miller’s energetic delivery.

Together Again by Buck Owens

“Together Again” was a heartfelt country reunion ballad sung by Buck Owens, which he released in 1964. Both its subdued tone as well as its heartfelt delivery from Owens connected with listeners. It was a No. 1 country chart single. On Billboard’s 1964 year-end country chart it topped a song of the year, proving that listeners appreciated this gentler approach of Owens’s music alongside his honky-tonk favorites.

Begging to You by Marty Robbins

Marty Robbins’s 1964 slow country ballad “Begging to You” is a love plea. A favorite because of its soft, emotive voice from Robbins on this love song, it went to No. 1 on the country chart. On the country-year-end chart for 1964, it ranked as one of the biggest of the year, suggesting versatility for Robbins in both his fast western-style songs as well as his ballads.

King of the Road by Roger Miller

“King of the Road” is Roger Miller’s biggest hit, from 1965. It’s a humorous, memorable song about a free-soul vagabond. Its memorable whistle introduction and comedic lyrics took it to the top of country as well as pop charts. On Billboard’s 1965 year-end country chart it was a biggest song of the given year. Through its unprecedented success, Miller became a star and an evergreen classic.

I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail by Buck Owens

Buck Owens’s “I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail” is an energetic 1965 country-rockabilly song. Through its tiger-by-the-tail metaphor, as well as Buck’s rapid delivery, it made its way as a No. 1 country tune. In its 1965 year-end chart, it ranked as a top country song of the year. Its catchy beat was a perfect example of Buck’s Bakersfield sound, an influential one for its time.

I’ll Keep Holding On (Just to Your Love) by Sonny James

Sonny James’s “I’ll Keep Holding On (Just to Your Love)’’ is a 1965 smooth ballad country song. It’s a song featuring James’s baritone voice and a romantic theme regarding devotion. It topped country radio charts, reaching No. 1. On Billboard’s 1965 year-end chart, it was ranked as one of the top country songs of the year, which shows that its moving sentiment affected a broad cross-section of listeners.

Girl on the Billboard by Del Reeves

“Girl on the Billboard” was a humorous 1965 country songwritten and performed by Del Reeves. It’s a humorous story of a fellow who falls for a woman who catches his eye on a billboard. Its catchy melody and humorous lyrics helped its ascent to a No. 1 country hit. On the 1965 year-end country chart it ranked among the year’s best songs, a testament to how much audiences appreciated its humorously lighthearted subject.

Truck Drivin’ Son-of-a-Gun by Dave Dudley

“Truck Drivin’ Son-of-a-Gun” is a 1965 trucking song. It’s a heartfelt trucking song sung in baritone about a long-haul trucking man’s freedom. It resonated with blue-collar audiences as a country chart success. On Billboard’s 1965 year-end chart it ranked as one of the largest of the year, cementing its status as a trucking-country subgenre anthem.

Make the World Go Away by Eddy Arnold

“Eddy Arnold’s “Make the World Go Away” was a 1965 gentle country ballad about escaping from misery with a daydream. Its wide appeal was due to his mellow tenor voice and rich instrumentation. A crossover bonanza, it went to No. 1 on both the country chart as well as pop charts. On the 1965 year-end country chart it was a smash of the year, evidencing its long-term appeal.

Before You Go by Buck Owens

“Before You Go” was a humorous yet sad country song from Buck Owens, in 1965. Buck’s bright twang sounds incongruous alongside humorous lyrics about begging a lover not to leave, but it was a No. 1 country chart hit. On Billboard’s 1965 year-end chart it was one of the largest country singles of the year as a testament to how audiences enjoyed mixing humor with sadness as done here with Owens.

Behind the Tear by Sonny James

Sonny James’s “Behind the Tear” was a country ballad of mid-tempo from 1965. Its lyrics express longing as well as terror of revealing inner sorrow. Sung effortlessly by James, “Behind the Tear” was a success, topping the country chart at No. 1. In the 1965 country-year-end chart, “Behind the Tear” emerged as a significant hit of the year, a testament to its deep impact as a listener’s tearjerker.

This Is It by Jim Reeves

The Gentle Country Ballad of Jim Reeves’s “This Is It” Which Was Released in 1965
The warm baritone of Reeves sings a song of love and end. The song was a chart-topper for country. It was one of the biggest songs of 1965 as reflected with its inclusion on Billboard’s 1965 year-end country list, again demonstrating Reeves’s expertise with sophisticated, romantic country ballads.

Buckaroo by Buck Owens & the Buckaroos

“Buckaroo” is an instrumental song of Buck Owens and his Buckaroos from 1965. Although it did not include lyrics, its catchy guitar riff and fun little melody helped make it a success. It reached No. 1 on the country chart – a unique accomplishment for an instrumental song. On Billboard’s 1965 year-end country chart it was ranked as a top song of the year, a testament to Owens’s musical appeal even without lyrics.

There Goes My Everything by Jack Greene

“There Goes My Everything” is a sad country ballad from 1966 from Jack Greene. On it, he laments having to sit back and watch his love depart. He sings with a low, plaintive voice that resonates with sincerity. The song topped a No. 1 spot on the country chart. On Billboard’s 1966 country-year-end chart it was the year’s song, which shows how well the song resonated with the population of the country.

I Get the Fever by Bill Anderson

Bill Anderson’s “I Get the Fever” is an uptempo country song of 1966. Comedic in its lyrics, it tells in song of the singer coming down with the “love bug” at first sight. Its catchy melody, not to mention its mellow, conversational delivery by Anderson, eased its way into a No. 1 country song. On the 1966 country year-end chart, it was a song of the year, a testament to its lighthearted popularity.

Almost Persuaded by David Houston

“Almost Persuaded” is a traditional country song written and recorded by David Houston in 1966. It’s about a man who is married but almost cheats with a woman, but he resists her advances and remains faithful. Both with a strong tune and Houston’s dedicated voice, it became an enormous success. Almost Persuaded became the No. 1 country song of 1966. On Billboard’s country year-end list it reached No. 1 for the year as well (through charting), making it the definitive country song of 1966.

Waitin’ in Your Welfare Line by Buck Owens & His Buckaroos

Buck Owens & the Buckaroos similarly recorded a version of “Waitin’ in Your Welfare Line” in 1966. It’s a boisterous, teasing song about a man begging his girlfriend for funds. Through its honky-tonk tempo and twanging Owens leads, it became a No. 1 country hit single. On a 1966 country-year-end chart, it was a song of the year, proof of Owens’s continued dominance of country with his high-energy approach.

Flowers on the Wall by The Statler Brothers

“Flowers on the Wall” is an amusing country gospel-sounding 1966 song from The Statler Brothers. Its whimsically humorous lyrics speak of a man whiling away his time numbering flowers on the wall as he covers his loneliness with humor. It reached No. 2 on the country chart as well as crossover onto the pop Top 10. On Billboard’s country chart for 1966 it ranked as one of its greatest of the year, testament to how audiences lapped up its sense of whimsy.

I Want to Go with You by Eddy Arnold

Eddy Arnold’s “I Want to Go with You” is a smooth, schmaltzy 1966 romantic country ballad. Orchestrally lush with a sensitive vocal from Arnold, a harbinger of its success, it was a No. 1 country tune. On Billboard’s 1966 country year-end chart it was a song of the year, a signal of its broad appeal and fourth-place stature as a country pop crooner for its artist.

You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man) by Loretta Lynn

Loretta Lynn’s “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” was a feisty 1966 country song. Lynn boldly maintains in it that no one can take her man away from her. Its up-beat version and Lynn’s assertive voice made it a No. 2 country hit. On the 1966 year-end country chart it was a bigger hit of its year, making Lynn a strong, assertive feminine voice for country music.

Distant Drums by Jim Reeves

The spooky 1966 country ballad is Jim Reeves’s “Distant Drums.” It’s found on one of his postmortem albums, with a dramatic, waltzing arrangement. It was an extremely popular song, going to No. 1 on the country charts. On Billboard’s 1966 year-end chart, it ranked as one of the year’s biggest songs. Its success proved the manner in which after his death, Reeves’s debonair style still resonated with audiences.

Take Good Care of Her by Sonny James

Sonny James’s 1966 ballad “Take Good Care of Her” is a gentle, soothing ballad. On it, the singer implores his former flame to be well taken care of by another. Its natural sound as well as James’s warm tone made it a No. 1 country hit. On the 1966 year-end country chart it reached as a top song of the year, indicating the manner in which audiences relished its sentimental content.

Tippy-Toeing by The Harden Trio

“Tippy-Toeing” is a lively, cheerful instrumental of 1966, from Hardy’s “Tardy’s Trio”. It’s a jaunty percussion piece that sounds a little like a marimba. Amazingly successful, it reached No. 2 on the country chart. On Billboard’s 1966 year-end country chart, “Tippy-Toeing” counted as one of its top songs of the year, a testament to its unique, catchy sound.

All the Time by Jack Greene

“All the Time” is a 1967 sentimental country ballad sung by Jack Greene. It expresses lifelong devotion and love. Greene’s rich baritone sang the tender lyrics with grace, and “All the Time” was the No. 1 country song of 1967. It stayed in listeners’ hearts as well as in Billboard’s country charts for the rest of the year, thus becoming the biggest country single of 1967 as well as a signature song for Greene.

The Fugitive by Merle Haggard

Merle Haggard & The Strangers recorded “The Fugitive” in 1967. It’s a story about a man who’s gone on the run after escaping from jail. Because of its bluesy, soulful nature, with its hard-edged voice from Haggard, it caught on with listeners, making him another No. 1 country song. On Billboard’s 1967 year-end chart, “The Fugitive” was among its top songs of the year, a testament to Haggard’s new status as a chronicler of hard, compelling narratives.

My Elusive Dreams by David Houston & Tammy Wynette

“My Elusive Dreams” is a duet of Tammy Wynette with David Houston from 1967. It’s a story of a couple chasing dreams from sea to shining sea who can’t ever bring them to fruition. Houston’s smooth baritone and Wynette’s belting voice made it a No. 1 country hit. It was a No. 1 song of 1967 on the country-year-end list, too, and it became a signature duet, further demonstrating both artists’ talent.

Walk Through This World With Me by George Jones

The 1967 romantic ballad “Walk Through This World With Me” is a song of George Jones. Its gentle melody and Jones’s mellow voice speak of a lasting love. It was one of Jones’s few songs to reach No. 1 on a country chart. On Billboard’s 1967 year-end chart, it was ranked as one of the top hits of the year, indicative of its audiences’ adoration of its sappy sentiment.

For Loving You by Bill Anderson & Jan Howard

“For Loving You” is a duet from 1967 sung by Bill Anderson and Jan Howard. It’s an upbeat country song where both singers engage in a witty repartee with comedic lyrics about love. Their vocal chemistry took them all the way to No. 1 on the country chart. On the 1967 country year-end chart, it stood as a highlight of the year, a testament to what an impression their duet made on listeners.

It’s Such a Pretty World Today by Wynn Stewart

It’s Such a Pretty World Today is a bright-sounding 1967 country tune by Wynn Stewart. It is a song of optimism and new romance, and with Stewart’s friendly-sounding voice leading it, it makes for a bright-sounding song. It was a No. 1 country chart success. It ranked on Billboard’s 1967 year-end chart as one of the year’s biggest songs, suggesting how well its sunny subject matter resonated with listeners.

Sam’s Place by Buck Owens & His Buckaroos

“Sam’s Place” is a rowdy country song from Buck Owens, in 1967. It’s a tune about a honky-tonk called Sam’s Place, where everybody’s having a ball. Its memorable guitar riff and Owens’s cheerful voice pushed it to a No. 1 song. On the country-year-end chart for 1967, “Sam’s Place” was a very large song of the year, proving Owens’s talent for penning fun, dancing country tunes.

I Don’t Wanna Play House by Tammy Wynette

Tammy Wynette’s 1967 sorrowful ballad “I Don’t Wanna Play House” was a song about a child who did not wish to engage in make-believe because it reminded her of her parents’ miserable union. Wynette’s whiny tone transformed it into a melancholy song that struck a chord with listeners. It was a No. 1 country song. On Billboard’s 1967 country year-end chart, it was one of the biggest songs of that year, making Wynette a queen of country tear-jerkers.

I’ll Never Find Another You by Sonny James

“I’ll Never Find Another You” is a soft country ballad from Sonny James in 1967. It expresses the emotion of never again loving anyone else. Smooth-sounding delivery from James helped it climb to No. 1 on country charts. On the 1967 year-end country chart it appeared as one of its biggest sounds of the year, which shows how its simple, from-the-heart message impacted listeners.

You Mean the World to Me by David Houston

David Houston’s “You Mean the World to Me” is a romantic country ballad from 1967. Houston’s slow song features his relaxing voice as he celebrates his love. It was among his chartbusters that topped the country chart at No. 1. On the 1967 country-year-end chart, it was among the impactful songs of the year. Its relaxing melody with its love-focused lyrics made it a lovable song in Houston’s songbook.

Stand by Your Man by Tammy Wynette

Tammy Wynette’s “Stand by Your Man,” a 1968 song, is likely her most well-known song. It’s a powerful anthem of a woman’s devotion during tough times. Wynette’s energetic voice helped it be a big success, spending six weeks as the No.1 country song of 1968. On Billboard’s end-year chart for 1968, “Stand by Your Man” was one of its top songs of the year, a testament to both its strong popularity as well as crossover appeal.

Heaven Says Hello by Sonny James

“Heaven Says Hello” is a mellow, love song from Sonny James in 1968. Its mellow sound and James’s warm voice make its romantic nature evident. It reached a No. 1 ranking atop the country chart. On the country chart for the year 1968, “Heaven Says Hello” was included in a list of top hits for the year, indicating how audiences responded well to its sugary sentiment and James’s rendition of a crooning song.

Mama Tried by Merle Haggard

Merle Haggard’s “Mama Tried” is an autobiographical 1968 country song. It tells of Haggard’s mistakes having made his mother cry despite her efforts. Through its pulsating tempo and heartfelt honesty, the song became a No. 1 country anthem. On Billboard’s 1968 year-end chart, it was one of the largest songs of the year, indicative of Haggard’s ascension as a front man of working-class country.

Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash

The live version of “Folsom Prison Blues” from his iconic Folsom Prison concert resonated widely when it was released in 1968. Its rough sound and Cash’s distinctive delivery, coupled with response from the prison audience, were strong selling points. It spent 1968 at the top of the country charts. At No. 1 on its year-end list, it demonstrated its broad appeal to audiences and its lift to Cash’s career.

Skip a Rope by Henson Cargill

“Skip a Rope” is a folk flavored 1968 country song written by Henson Cargill. Its lyrics, in a back-handed manner, criticize adult failures as kids’ rhyme chants. Due to its unique angle and melody, it was successful, reaching No. 1 on the country chart. On Billboard’s 1968 year-end chart, it was one of the biggest of the year. Its social commentary being a surprise for country songs of the time but giving it a unique place in history.

Wichita Lineman by Glen Campbell

Glen Campbell’s “Wichita Lineman” is a haunting country-pop ballad song written by Jimmy Webb. Released in 1968, it features Campbell’s clear vocals and imagery about a lonely telephone lineman at dusk. A crossover hit (No. 1 country, Top 5 pop), the song charted on the 1968 year-end country list as one of the top songs of the year, illuminating with clarity the extent to which its beautiful melody, matched with Campbell’s smooth delivery, struck a nucleus of listeners.

Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye by Eddy Arnold

Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye is a gentle 1968 country love song performed by Eddy Arnold. On this gentle waltz, Arnold tells his love exactly how he is. It was a No. 1 country hit. On Billboard’s 1968 end-of-year chart, it ranked as one of the year’s greatest hits, a testament to its loveliness as well as to Arnold’s success.

Sing Me Back Home by Merle Haggard

“Sing Me Back Home” is a strong country ballad from 1968 by Merle Haggard. It is a story about prisoners and a request for an executed man to receive a song to listen to. Haggard’s sentimental voice and emotive lyrics aided in making it a No. 1 country song. On 1968’s country-year-end chart, it was a top song of the year, again showcasing Haggard’s ability to tell story ballads.

Next in Line by Conway Twitty

Next in Line is a slow ballad from 1968 by Conway Twitty. Twitty’s rich baritone resonates on this track as he sings of waiting in line for his love should she ever need him. It was a No. 1 country hit. On Billboard’s 1968 year-end chart, Next in Line was a highlight of the year, further cementing Twitty as a leading country star of his day.

Harper Valley PTA by Jeannie C. Riley

“Harper Valley PTA” is a narrative country song that Jeannie C. Riley recorded in 1968. It’s a tale of a widowed mother who raises her voice against her hypocrite town’s PTA meeting. Due to its catchy tune and Riley’s spirited delivery, it became a crossover smash (#1 country and pop). It was a leading song on the 1968 year-end country chart, and it became an anthem of empowerment as well as a novelty for country-pop.

My Life (Throw It Away If I Want To) by Bill Anderson

Bill Anderson’s “My Life (Throw It Away If I Want To)’’ is a contemplative 1969 country song. It features a laid-back vocal from Anderson as well as lyrics considering living life one’s own way. Two weeks at No. 1 on the country chart were earned by it. Ultimately, it was certified Billboard’s No. 1 country song of 1969. That end-of-the-year honor means it was the largest country song of the entire year.

Daddy Sang Bass by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash’s “Daddy Sang Bass” is a Carl Perkins song that Cash recorded. It was a No. 1 country song in early 1969 after its release in late 1968. It’s a joyous Christmas celebration of Cash’s own minister dad with a triumphant-sounding gospel tone. On Billboard’s 1969 year-end country list, it ranked No. 2 of the year. Warm, family-friendly lyrics and Cash’s unique sound made it a favorite of country listeners.

(I’m So) Afraid of Losing You Again by Charley Pride

Charley Pride’s “(I’m So) Afraid of Losing You Again” is a smooth 1969 country ballad. Baritone-voiced Pride sings about loneliness worrying about a breakup. It was a No. 1 country hit and solidified Pride as a star. It reached No. 2 on Billboard’s 1969 year-end country chart, a guarantee of a top song of the year. It was a heartfelt song that made one of Pride’s singles a long-lasting one.

Okie From Muskogee by Merle Haggard

Merle Haggard And The Strangers’ “Okie From Muskogee” was a 1969 song release. It was a song paying tribute to good old America’s small town days and assumed cultural icon status. Its defiant lyrics and country-rock rhythms spent several weeks atop the country chart. At country’s end-year chart for 1969, it was America’s No. 3 song of 1969. Its popularity made it one of the greatest subject of debate of the decade as a country song.

I’ll Share My World With You by George Jones

The romantic duet with his wife Tammy Wynette, “I’ll Share My World With You,” was released in 1969. Jones’ sensitive and emotive rendering took the song to No. 1 on the country chart. On the 1969 country-year-end chart it was No. 3 for the year, thereby standing as one of the year’s biggest hits. Its tender-sounding, heartfelt message touched listeners.

A Boy Named Sue by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash’s “A Boy Named Sue” was a humorous live-recorded country song released in 1969. Humorous lyrics of a man out for revenge against his father for giving him a girl’s name as a first name made it an overnight sensation. Five weeks its chart leadership remained unchanged. On Billboard’s 1969 year-end chart it was ranked No. 4, a testament to its widespread popularity in that year. It remains one of Cash’s best-known songs.

Only the Lonely by Sonny James

Sonny James’s “Only the Lonely” is a sad country ballad from 1969. It features James’s soft, moving tenor singing. It was a No. 1 country hit. On the 1969 country year-end chart, it was a No. 5 song of the year. Its old-style country sound and its rendition by James helped to make it a favorite among fans.

All I Have to Do Is Dream by Bobbie Gentry & Glen Campbell

The duet of Bobbie Gentry & Glen Campbell of “All I Have to Do Is Dream” came out in 1969. This relaxing duet topped the country charts with their dueted voices on this Everly Brothers classic. On the country 1969 year-end chart it was a top-10 hit, reflecting its strong popularity. In its laid-back, romantic treatment, it was fitting for both artists’ country-pop crossover sound.

Galveston by Glen Campbell

Glen Campbell’s “Galveston” is a sad 1969 country-pop ballad concerning a soldier who longs for his hometown. Campbell’s plaintive voice and Jimmy Webb’s sweeping melody made it a No. 1 country hit and a Top 5 pop song. On Billboard’s 1969 year-end country chart, it ranked as a big hit of the year. “Galveston” ended up as one of Campbell’s signature songs because of its memorable song and dramatic subject matter.

Don’t Cry Daddy by Elvis Presley