My Favorite Singers Part Three

I hope you all had a blessed Thanksgiving! Mine was awesome. :D

Now that we got country down (sooooo many singers) it's time for my crooners/jazz/rock list! ;)
 Don't freak, ya'll.
My 'rock' is more down-beat than modern country. lol
 

Vera Lynn

Nobody can sing a song like Vera Lynn. <3

Living in England during the dark days, with the terrifying bombings and other threats, she portrayed the courage and strength of all the people of Europe.

She sang to the soldiers fighting overseas and gave them encouragement to continue the harsh struggle against the Nazis and Japanese war machines.

Soldiers from Europe and the Americas were all thankful for this lovely little woman and her rich, soothing voice singing them back home.  

She is still living today!

I love her beautiful accent, her soothing, meaningful way of singing, and then, she's beautiful!

 Some of her songs that I enjoy are:

'Coming In On a Wing and Prayer'. 'We'll Meet Again', 'When the Lights Go On Again', 'Wish Me Luck As You Wave Me Goodbye', and 'Yours'.

 My all-time favorite is:

'As Time Goes By'. <3 

The Andrews Sisters

These three also played a huge part in keeping up the morale during WWII's dark days. :)

 Their beautiful harmony was perfect and the happy rhythm of their songs kept everyone hopeful and smiling even as the world raged afire, and they entertained the homesick servicemen.

 I love their unique style and plucky attitude. :D

Some songs: 'The Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy', and 'Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree'.

 A trio that still hasn't lost it's ability to charm the hearts of millions!  <3 

Frank Sinatra

 One of my personal favorites. Must. control. urge. to. squeal.... *Swoon*

 He was the picture of class and charm (just look at that smile!) with a way of making your heart just fly with his voice.
 His music either makes you snap your fingers in tempo or close your eyes and glide with the song. :)
I can't even begin to describe the way he sings a song.
 So happy and care-free you want to dance and laugh or so lonely and sad your throat hurts to hear him sing. ;)
He was the 'Justin Bieber' of the 40's (although the two don't even compare. Blech) with his soothing voice and happy grin, and many a girl dreamed of seeing 'Old Blue Eyes' in person.
Incidentally, a couple other nicknames he had were 'The Voice' and 'Swoonatra'. <3
 But I can't spend my whole time swooning over old Frank. lol :D
Some of his many, many hits include:
'I'll Never Smile Again', 'In the Wee Small Hours', 'Young at Heart', 'My Way',
 'Nancy, With the Laughing Face', 'My Kind of Town', and 'Fly Me to the Moon'.
Love this guy!

Dean Martin

Another heartthrob of the late 40's and 50's (and another heart-thumper for me. lol), Dean Martin was one of the greatest crooners of their time. (besides Sinatra. Nobody can beat Frank)
 His unique voice is aamaaazing, and his rhythm irresistible. ;)
He was born to Italian parents, and I think that added to his unique voice. :D
 I actually haven't heard too many of his songs, but of the ones I heard, I really liked. <3
Some songs:
'Sway', 'Return to Me', 'My Rifle, Pony and Me', and 'Volare'.
 If you haven't heard him sing, you have to check it out!

Perry Como

Now this guy!

 He's got a voice like no other, and you just have to hear him sing, 'Sugartime'!

 Swoonville! ;)

He's got a rhythm like a gently rolling sea, and a voice like the summer wind. <3

 *Ahem.* *struggles to hide the dreamy look*

Anyways, he's a great entertainer with a great voice. ;)

 Some songs:

'Magic Moments', 'It Had to Be You', 'Almost Like Being in Love', 'Sugartime', 'Some Enchanted Evening' and 'Catch a Falling Star'.  

Andy Williams

I grew up hearing this guy sing the theme song for 'Where The Red Fern Grows', but I never realized it was him.

 Even then my throat always choked up and I felt like crying when I heard him sing.

A couple years ago he played on my Pandora and I thought, 'Hey, he sounds like the guy in 'Where the Red Fern Grows' but of course it isn't him.'

 Well, it was him. ;) haha

I added his station to my Pandora and loved his melodious voice!

 He has a way of making you cry, no matter what he's singing.

Or maybe it's just me? *embarrassed giggles*

 Some of his beautiful songs:

'Moon River', 'The Exodus Song', 'Can't Help Falling in Love', 'Danny Boy', 'The Impossible Dream' and 'The Hawaiian Wedding Song'.

 Wonderful artist!

Doris Day

Finally another girl on this list. ;)

 I LOVE Doris Day and her simple yet elegant way of singing, and she was so pretty, too!

Because of her simple, 'girl-next-door' look, she was called 'The Tomboy with the Voice' and it's not hard to see why!

 Her powerful but soothing tone is amazing and I could never tire of her pretty voice. <3

I enjoy watching her in the musical 'Calamity Jane' and singing the house down. :D

 Some of her songs that I love:

'Que Sera, Sera', 'It Had to Be You', 'Again', 'We'll Meet Again', 'By the Light of the Silvery Moon', and 'Moonlight Bay'.

Ed Ames

 I first discovered Ed Ames when watching 'The Daniel Boone Show' in which he played the character 'Mingo' (LOVE) and in some way or another we found out he was a singer.

 He had been part of the 'Ames Brothers' (which is another great group to look up) but later went on his own. :)

His voice is rich, deep and beautiful, with wonderful, sophisticated backing music, always perfect rhythm, and one of these days I am going to buy an album for myself. ;)

 Some of my favorite hits of his:

'There's a Kind of Hush', 'They Call the Wind Maria', 'Thing Called Love' and 'My Cup Runneth Over', 'When the Snow is On the Roses', and 'Edelweiss'.

 :D Love this singer!

The Everly Brothers



 I grew up with this duo, because they are considered both country and rock and I grew up with country music. ;)

 Although their voices are a little higher than I usually like (I prefer baritones. lol) I really like these two's style and rhythm.

 They've got great harmony and a unique style that's different than any other singer I've heard.

It is also for sentimental reasons that I love them so much. ;)

 They were one the groups that the teenagers and young people of the time listened to endlessly, and helped shape the decade into the 'rocking fifties'. :D

They have got such great 'snappy' music, but could also croon a song so beautifully you could swoon. ;)
 Some of their songs:
'Devoted', 'Crying in the Rain', ''Wake Up, Little Susie', 'All I Have to do is Dream', 'Cathy's Clown', 'Problems', 'When Will I Be Loved', 'I'm Here to Get My Baby Out of Jail', 'Love of My Life', and 'Ebony Eyes'....
 I could keep on going, but could never name all their great hits. ;)

Peter, Paul and Mary

This group I just recently discovered, and I haven't heard that many songs of theirs, but the ones I've heard I really enjoyed. :)
 The woman usually is the lead singer, but sometimes the men sing solos, too, and they have beautiful harmony.
 Their voices are so soft, sweet and simple, with quiet guitars and pianos as their backing music, keeping the whole song soothing and soft.
 My sisters tease me and tell me they are hippies, but I haven't heard any songs that sound like 'anti-war, peace and love' hipsters, although they may have some.
 My favorite song of theirs is by far: 'The Wedding Song (There Is Love)' which I would love to have in my own wedding someday. :D
 Others include:
'Where Have All the Flowers Gone?', 'Leaving On a Jet Plane', '500 Miles', 'Blowin In the Wind', 'If I Had a Hammer', and 'This Land Is Your Land'.
 Now I think about it, 'Blowin in the Wind' may mention something that could sound a little 'hippyish' but it's a really pretty song. ;)

Ricky Nelson

*flustered giggles* <3

 Need I say anymore?

Ricky Nelson was a teen idol of the fifties and sixties with a gorgeous voice, wonderful rhythm, and *cough* he's not bad looking either. *cough*

 He had such a way of singing that is so hard to explain.

It was always as if there was a great storm swirling around him as he stood there calmly singing in his melodious voice, with those bright blue eyes shining.

 His style also varied from slow and pretty, to jazzy or 'rockish'. :D

 He was always so quiet and humble about his talent, and I think that appealed to the fans even more.

If you haven't heard him sing, you haven't lived, my friend! ;)

Some of his songs include:

'Hello, Mary Lou', 'Everlovin', 'Fools Rush In', 'Never Be Anyone Else But You', 'Sweeter Than You', 'Young Emotions', 'You Are the Only One', 'A Wonder Like You', 'Garden Party', 'Right By My Side', 'Lonesome Town', 'Honeycomb', 'You Are My Sunshine', 'For Your Sweet Love'......

 I've got to stop!

But there are so many!

Elvis Presley

Aw, come on.

 Do I even have to say anything more?

I mean, everybody knows Elvis, right? ;)

 Although most people probably haven't heard his really good songs.

He had such a deep , deep voice that carried so well with such rhythm.... <3

 I don't listen to him near as often as Ricky, and I prefer Ricky Nelson over him, (sorry Kirsten) but I still enjoy him every now and then. :)

 My favorite of all his songs: 'Follow That Dream'.

Other great songs include:

'Blue Suede Shoes', 'Don't Be Cruel', 'Love Me Tender', and 'Always on My Mind'. 

The Carpenters

I love these two!
 A brother and sister group that really made it to the top during the 1960's, they had such a way of singing that makes your heart just dance! :D
 I haven't heard too many of their songs (my, I say that a lot) but I really love their style.
So melodious, unique and fun. :D
 You should really check them out!
They also sing, 'There's a Kind of Hush' and do it BEAUTIFULLY. *sighs*
 Others include:
'Top of the World', 'Jambalaya', and 'Yesterday Once More'. (I heard it once)
 LOVE!

The Cascades

This is another group I recently discovered because of Pandora, and I am really growing to love them!

  They have such wonderful harmony with deep, voices and a beautiful musical background like no other.

 Some songs:

'Rhythm of the Rain' (LOVE), 'The Last Leaf', 'Shy Girl', 'Dreamin', 'There Is a Reason', and 'Angel On my Shoulder'.  

The Lennon Sisters

These girls have a harmony and melody that few people can match in this day and age.

 So soft and pretty, in perfect harmony, they were big during the fifties and sixties, and three of them still sing together today!

 Some songs:

'Sugartime', 'Moon River', 'Georgey Girl', 'Zip-ah-doo-dah', and 'When I Fall in Love'.

 Beautiful!

The Seekers

 This group is from Britain, so my siblings accuse me of being a traitor to my country. (which makes no sense since Daminika loves Jim Dale, who is also English. Oh, and Davy Jones! He's English, too, sister dear).

 Anyways, I think they have great voices and a lovely style to their music.

(This group is also from sixties)

 Some songs:

'World of Our Own', 'Georgy Girl', 'Kumbaya', '500 Miles', 'Danny Boy', and  'Morningtown Ride'.

And we come to end of my favorites singers series!

 I am sure I missed many people. but if I tried to came every single singer I ever thought was nice, we'd never be off of here!

Do you know any of these people?

What's your opinion on old-time singers?

                                                                  LaKaysha



My Favorite Singers Part Two

And here we are at another part in our long series! :D
 I hope you all enjoyed the last one as much as I did! ;)

Charley Pride

Ask my big sister about my opinion of Charley Pride, and she'd laugh out right. ;)

 I'm embarrassed to admit that when I was a little girl (four or five years old) they had to hide his cd from me because I kissed it so much.... *hides face*

 What an odd, boy-crazy child I was.... ;)

Anyways, I absolutely love this good old boy, and still get excited at the sound of his voice. :D

 He has such an awesome twang to his singing, his rhythm irresistible, and his music perfect!

Some of may favorite songs of his:

 'Kaw-Liga' (actually a Hank Williams song first), 'Burgers and Fries', 'All I Have to Offer You Is Me', 'I'm Just Me', 'Mississippi Cotton-Pickin Delta Town'.... whew! I gotta stop or we'll be on here all night!

 And of course, there are his gospel songs.

Of all the gospel singers I've heard, I think I can honestly say that Charley Pride is my favorite. <3

 His songs like, 'God's Coloring Book', 'Jesus, It's Me Again', and 'I Don't Deserve a Mansion' are absolutely beautiful and he sings them with such meaning. :)

 Love him! 

 

Don Williams

Oh, boy. I can't even say enough about this guy. ;)

 A lot of people I know actually don't like Don Williams, but I personally LOVE him.

His voice is very soft, deep, and soothing, quoting my cousin, another fan, 'Soft as honey...Pure beauty'. haha ;) 

 His music is always nice and soft, too.

No jamming out, loud drums or electric guitars.

 It almost sounds as if he's just sitting on the front porch, guitar strumming gently as he sings to the wind. :D

 My personal favorites:

'My Best Friend', 'Amanda', 'Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good', 'Till the Rivers all Run Dry' and 'In The Shelter of Your Eyes'.

 Of course, there are lots of his songs that I love, but I can't very well name them all. ;)

Glen Campbell

I'm not even sure what to say about Glen Campbell.

 I mean...He's just Glen Campbell! How can one describe him? 

I'm not even going to try. ;)

He's got a great voice, happy and light music, and his songs are just so...fun, I guess. ;)

 haha

Some of his songs:

'Rhinestone Cowboy', 'Wichita Lineman', 'Try a Little Kindness', and 'Country Boy'. :) 

Tanya Tucker

Ok, so Tanya is a little like Dolly.

 Interesting.... ;)

But she has such talent and rhythm, some great songs and if you don't watch her sing, you're ok. lol ;)

 She has a unique voice that's hard to describe, so I'm not going to try. ;)

Her songs include:

'Delta Dawn', 'What's Your Mama's Name', 'Strong Enough To Bend', 'I Won't Take Less Than Your Love', 'San Antonio Stroll' and 'Two Sparrows In a Hurricane'.  

John Denver

So even though he was a hippy to full meaning of the words, (sorry, Marita, but it's true.. haha) he's always a big part of my childhood.

 Christmas just isn't the same without his voice singing 'Christmas Like a Lullaby' throughout the house. ;)

 In later years, I discovered he sang more than just Christmas and my sister bought a cd of his.

His voice is very melodious and pretty, and his music soft and relaxing.

 Some of his songs:

'Annie's Song', 'Thank God I'm a Country Boy', 'Rocky Mountain High', and the very loved 'Country Roads, Take Me Home'. :)



Waylon Jennings

This is for you, 'Auntie A'! ;) and  for you, Daddy!

 I'm not really a huge fan of Waylon, but he is a legend, and I do like some of his old songs, before he grew out his hair. ;) haha

He has a deep voice (how many times have I said that?) and I guess it would be kind of similar to Johnny Cash's style. :D

 Some of his songs I like:

'Mental Revenge' (a kind of 'different' song, but I love the rhythm and the guitar in it. haha), 'Only Daddy That'll Walk the Line', 'The Highwayman' and 'Good Hearted Woman'.



George Strait

Oh, man, oh, man. This guy, ya'll! *sighs*

I'm going to have to restrain myself.... it's hard. lol

 When he first started his career (back in the seventies) country music as we had known it was slowly vanishing, meshing in with the new pop and rock styles.

 And then came this young cowboy, (a REAL cowboy) with a passion for singing, real, good, decent singing, and he changed all that.

 There were no loud drums, no jamming sessions, no screaming or stomping in his songs. 

His voice was fresh, rich and just plain beautiful, and he didn't take too long to rise to stardom. :D

 And he kept on singing, hitting the charts for decades, finally going on his last tour in 2014, with the promise that he would keep on singing until no longer possible, and was crowned with the title 'King of Country'.

 A personal GREAT favorite of mine. ;)

Some of his songs:

'Amarillo by Morning', 'The Cowboy Rides Away', 'The Best Day', 'Blue Clear Sky', 'Write This Down', 'I Saw God Today' and 'Easy Come, Easy Go'. :D

Chris LeDoux

I grew up listening to this man, another real, true-hearted cowboy with a true country sound. :)

 I found out that there is a certain album of his that I really like, and the rest are just OK. 

I prefer his western style music.  

When he gets a little more upbeat, I don't like him near as much, but when he sings slow and pretty, I love it! 

 And this guy's accent isn't fake, ya'll! ;)

One of his songs that I really, really, love is 'Thank the Cowboy For the Ride'. ;)

 Some others are:

'Yellow-Brick Road Turns Blue', 'The County Fair', 'Cadillac Cowboy', 'The Last Drive-In', and 'Shot Full of Love'.  

Alan Jackson

What do I say about Alan Jackson? 

I've always known who he is, and he's just great! ;)

 He's basically family, for crying out loud! ;) lol

As a little girl I seriously thought he was one of my uncles, he looked so much like him, and he was such a household name growing up. ;)

 He's another one of the country artists still around that is still sticking to the basics, with steel guitars and fiddles, kind of like 'King George'. 

 I loved him when I was little, I still love him. :)

Some of his songs:

'Little Bitty', 'Home', 'Here In the Real World', 'Little Man', 'Remember When, 'Livin' On Love', '1976', 'I'd Love You All Over Again', 'Dallas', 'Where Were You(When The World Stopped Turning)', 'That'd Be All Right', 'Drive', and 'Small-Town Southern Man'. 

 Whew, I could keep on going. ;)

Clay Walker

I didn't grow up with this guy at all, except ONE song, 'If I Could Make Living Out of Loving You' and I didn't know it was him. ;)

But my sister (always blame it on her) got a cd of his last winter, and I loved it!

He's another 'good old boy' from the nineties that stuck to the basics, with guitars, fiddles, and clean rhythm. :)

 His voice smooth and pretty, and he always acknowledges God as His Lord and Savior, seeming very humble for a celebrity. :D

 Some of his songs:

'Chain of Love', 'Hypnotize the Moon', 'Live Until I Die', 'You're Beginning To Get To Me', 'This Woman and This Man, 'Ordinary People' and 'What's It To You'.   

Lionel Cartwright

An artist from the eighties, he's not well-known at all, and now he's a pastor in a small town, which I thought was pretty cool. ;)

 Even when he was in his prime, he wasn't really a 'superstar' or anything, but I really like his style and singing, and who really cares about being popular? ;)

 He's got a great voice, simple style, and his music is gorgeous, ;)

My parents listened to him when they were teenagers, so I always knew of him, and was surprised to find that not many people do.

 I mean, he's so awesome! You poor, deprived people. lol

Some of his songs include:

'Be My Angel', 'Leap of Faith' and 'I Watched It All On My Radio'.  

Clint Black

I don't actually listen to his country very often, so I don't really know any of his songs, but I grew up with his Christmas album every winter, ;)

 I really love his voice, though, and nothings feels more like home and Christmas than hearing Clint Black's smooth voice. <3

 He also plays the harmonica beautifully, and I LOVE harmonicas, so it makes it all the better. ;)

Some of his songs:

'I'm Looking for Christmas', 'Milk and Cookies', 'Christmas For Every Boy and Girl', 'The Kid', 'The Finest Gift', 'The Birth of The King' and 'Slow As Christmas'. 

Randy Travis

This guy makes me both happy and sad... :( Just like Hank Williams. 

 He was (and is) my mom's favorite singer as a teenager, so we always knew who Randy Travis was. ;) I even knew at six years old that his real name had been Randy Traywick. lol

His voice is deep, rugged, and just plain awesome, and he is another one who stuck to the basics. 

 I know he had a very troubled past life, before he came to know God, and then in later years, he fell again. 

But just recently he had a severe stroke that may have turned his life around and I pray he is coming to the realization that he needs Jesus more than anything else.

  Love him!

Some of his songs:

'Deeper Than the Holler', 'Forever and Ever, Amen', 'If You Only Knew, 'Look, Heart, No Hands', 'Don't Ever Sell You Saddle', 'I Believe In You', 'The Box', 'When Mama Prayed', 'Raise Him Up, 'The Gift', 'That's Jesus.'....

 I gotta stop! ;)

Kris Kristofferson

I don't really listen to him as a singer, but I thought he was worth mentioning because he is one of the greatest songwriters of all time. :)

 Although he wrote many, many country songs for other artists, the ones I'm referring to are his gospel songs. 

 One of my favorite gospel songs ever is 'Why Me, Lord?' and it was written by none other than Kris Kristofferson, inspired by his own experience of being born again. 

 Another great one he wrote, that many of us sing without even realizing who wrote it is, 'One Day At a Time'. 

 Great songwriter!

The Judds

Finally some more girls in this list! ;) 

 I guess I just prefer guys. haha

Anyways, this mother and daughter duo were big in the eighties-nineties and listening to them, it's easy to see why. :)

 They have great harmony and style, and I just love them!

Wynonna (the daughter) is now on her own, and I really don't like her now, but their old songs are great. ;)

Some favorites:

'Young Love', 'Grandpa', 'Love Can Build a Bridge' and 'Mama, He's Crazy'. 

Reba McEntire

Another singer that I don't really listen to besides Christmas, but I just love Reba!

 She has a unique, fun style to her singing, and she just has such a pretty voice. <3

I'd listen to her country, but I don't think she sang many decent ones. ;)

 Some of her Christmas songs I love:

'On This Day', 'Happy Birthday, Jesus', A Christmas Letter', The Christmas Guest', 'This I My Prayer For You', 'The Angels Sang', 'The Secret of Giving', 'This Christmas', and 'Till the Season Comes 'Round Again'. 

 Another artist I grew up with. :D

Alabama

My brother loves this group. and I think they're pretty cool, too. ;)

They're from the eighties, if you haven't already figured that out by their 'lovely' hair. lol

 They have beautiful harmony and rhythm, with great backing music and down-home style. 

All in all, I love them .;)

 Some songs:

'Mountain Music', 'Lift Me Up', 'I'm In a Hurry', 'If You're Gonna Play in Texas', 'Roll On', and 'Hometown Honeymoon'. 

Brooks and Dunn

Not really my usual style, but I think these two have perfect harmony. ;)

 Yeah, so the hair is a little odd, but at least they aren't pierced or tattooed, and at least one of them looks like a cowboy, haha

 I haven't really heard many songs of theirs, but I do have some favorites.

'My Maria', 'Brand New Man', and 'Neon Moon'(has a great melody, but I can't recall if the words are very good. Don't judge, please, The same goes for...) 'Red Dirt Road'

Allison Krauss

I love her!

 My dad also loves this singer, and sometimes I wonder if its because she looks so much like my mom. ;) 

 Just kidding. She does have a beautiful voice; so soft and pretty. 

And she is one of the 'newer' artists that doesn't have loud music and drums, singing more Bluegrass style. 

 Some of her songs:

'When You Say Nothing At All', 'Ghost In This House', 'Down to the River to Pray', 'Palm of Your Hand' and 'There Is a Reason'. 

Josh Turner

 This, guy, ya'll!

*grins widely*

 He's one of my favorite singes of all time, and he's modern! Weird, huh?

 His voice is so deep, and smooth, like honey, his music always so pretty, and most of his songs are very clean and decent. 

  He is also a professing Christian, which makes me love him more, and he is on of those rare celebrities that stayed married to the same woman. (George Strait, Alan Jackson and Tim McGraw are some who also stayed married)

 I love listening to his music, and never get sick of it. 

Some of his songs:

'Long Black Train' 'Soulmate', 'As Fast As I Could', 'Would You Go With Me', 'Always On my Mind', 'Me and God', 'In my Dreams', and 'Everything Is Fine' 

Joey and Rory

Nobody can sing like Joey and Rory. <3

 Joey (the wife) had such a soft, calming voice and Rory harmonized beautifully with her. 

Their music was always pretty and calm, the songs clean and down-home, and they sang old songs wonderfully. 

 Their gospel album is so beautiful, especially when I know they mean every word they sing. 

Beautiful Joey passed away from cancer recently, and it's wonderful to know that her soul is safe in the arms of our Savior. 

 Some songs:

'That's Important to Me', 'Heart of the Wood', 'To Say Goodbye', 'Gotta Go Back', 'Turning to the Light', and 'The Life of a Song'. 

 There are many more, but that's all I can think of for now. 

Tim McGraw

*Brace myself for attacks from family member*

 Hey, I know he's kind of weird, but I think he's got a great voice, and his old songs are so pretty. 

 I don't have to necessarily like the man just because I listen to him. :P

His newest song, 'Humble and Kind' is actually my favorite of his; it's so pretty and soft, with great words and people should learn from it. 

 Some other songs:

'Just To See You Smile', 'My Little Girl', 'Don't Take the Girl', 'Live Like You Were Dying, and 'Green Grass Grows'. 

Darius Rucker

He's the newest singer I listen to, and it's actually quite hard for me to admit I listen to a modern singer. He should feel honored. ;) 

 He never screams or raps out, his music isn't too loud, and some of his songs are quite catchy! 

Some of my favorite songs of his:

'Wagon Wheel', 'This', and 'Alright'. 

And that's it for country!  

 Sorry if I missed anyone, but, hey, this is hard work! ;)

Recognize any of these singers?

Do like any of them?

                                                              LaKaysha





My Favorites Singers Part One

hahahaha Had to put it! :D

Good old Sam Elliot's smile!

After watching the 2016 CMA awards, (50th anniversary!)I realized how much I love the old-time country music. <3

 So sad whenever people think of country these days, they think of 'country-wanna-be's' like Eric Church or Jason Aldean.
 Let me say this now:those fake accents...shudder.
 That being said, I decided to share with you my favorite singers, from oldest to newest, and I am also planning on doing a future post about old-time crooners, ect.
 So here we go. :D

The Royal Family of country music, The Carter Family.

What would the world be without songs like, 'Keep On the Sunny Side', and 'Wildwood Flower'?

 They first sang in the 1920's, when country music was first trying it's wings, and they influenced the whole entire music scene with their refreshing, down-home style.

 Maybell Carter (left) brought to the world her own style of guitar playing, which is now called, 'The Carter Scratch', and later was 'Mother Maybell' of the Carter Sisters.

Roy Acuff

I actually haven't heard very many of his songs, but hearing him sing' Wabash Cannonball' is enough to set your heart flying. ;)

 He does the train whistle himself, and the old-time sound is absolutely beautiful. <3

The Grand Old Opry star is a legend in the country music realm, and hearing his voice, it's easy to see why!



Hank Williams

Oh, I can't even say enough about how much I love this guy!

 How can one describe good old Hank, the artist, the legend?

 His country-boy style, southern twang, and soulful voice can make your heart ache, he's that good. ;)

  His personal story is a very sad one, indeed, (alcohol struggles, divorce, spiritual wandering) and maybe that's what makes his voice so mournful and lonely.

 Hank put his whole entire self into his songs, and he caught the hearts of millions of listeners.

'Lovesick Blues', 'Hey, Good Lookin', 'Jambalaya', and 'Lost Highway' are some favorites of mine, but by far the best are his gospel. <3

 He wrote the beloved song, 'I Saw the Light' and many, many other beautiful gospel songs, like, 'Angel of Death', 'When God Comes to Gather His Jewels', 'Dear Brother', 'Wealth Won't Save You Soul', 'Calling You'. 'I'm Gonna Sing, Sing, Sing'...I could go on and on.

 You can tell he means those beautiful words he wrote, from the bottom of his heart, and it hurts me when I know how he died.

 I pray he came to know the true meaning of 'Seeing the light' before his death.

 If you haven't heard his gospel, you have to check it out!  

The King of the Cowboys, Roy Rogers

Ok, so Roy is probably not considered 'country' by a lot of people's standards, but I couldn't have a list of old-time singers without him. <3

 He was a true artist, could play anything and sing on the spur of the moment without a missing a beat or even putting out an effort.

 His pure, clean country-boy voice is amazing, his acting and morals excellent, and it's no surprise he became the well beloved hero of millions of kids.

 My siblings and I still watch his old movies, and we have every single song memorized, right to the yodeling. ;)

 Some of his best songs (in my opinion, that is) include:

'Yellow Rose of Texas', 'Tumbling Tumbleweeds', 'Stampede', 'Hoppy, Gene, and Me', and 'Happy Trails' :D 

 

Tennessee Ernie Ford

I personally don't listen to his country often, although I think he sings 'Sixteen Tons' beautifully.

 His deep baritone is as smooth as butter. *sighs*

He sang more of the old-time songs, like Civil War era, but the songs I enjoy the most would have to be his hymns.

 'Precious Memories', 'How Great Thou Art'....oh, he sings them with such feeling in that rich bass of his.

 Definitely a favorite one mine!

Marty Robbins

Another legend of country, Marty Robbins!

 His voice is so unique, I really can't describe it, but it's very soulful and rich, tugging at your heartstrings, no matter what song he's singing.

 His western songs, like, 'The Green Valley' 'The Master's Call' and 'Cowboy In the Continental Suit' are a personal favorite of mine, but he sang a wide variety of styles.

 He also sang pop, old-time rock, and who knows what all. haha ;)

'A White Sport Coat', 'Singing the Blues' and 'Story Of My Life' are some other favorites of mine.

 If you haven't heard him, look into it!

He's worth it. ;)

George Jones and Tammy Wynette



 One of the most amazing duos of country music, in my opinion. ;)
Although they divorced later on, they are still one of the most famous husband-wife singers in history, and they have amazing voices, whether singing together, or solo.
Together as a duo, my favorite songs of theirs would have to be 'We're Gonna Hold On' and 'The Ceremony'.

Beautiful, beautiful. <3
 Tammy's famous, 'Stand By Your Man' (love) is still a hit, and doesn't show any sign of fading with age, and the same goes for George's beautiful, 'He Stopped Loving Her Today'.
 Later on, when George became a professing Christian (not long before he died) he recorded many beautiful hymns.

Patsy Cline

My sister is going to read this and think, 'WHAT?'

 Ever since I was old enough to speak my opinion, I declared my disgust for Patsy Cline's deep, husky singing style, but now I realized I really don't mind it. ;)

 She had very nice rhythm and mood to her music, and now and then I pop her into the cd player for old time's sake. ;)

 She is another legend, hitting the charts with her songs like, 'There He Goes' and 'Back in Baby's Arms'.

 My all-time favorites are 'Walkin' After Midnight' and 'Life's Railway to Heaven'.



Merle Haggard

Ah, this guy!

 His voice was so deep, rugged, and down-home...You can listen and just feel right at home. :)

You can't say you like country without loving this man's voice! ;)

 The music in his songs is always simple and pretty, (no drums or loud instruments) and he has a balladeer style voice.

 Some of my favorites are 'Bonnie and Clyde', 'Daddy Frank', 'Fightin' Side of Me', and 'If We Make It Through December'.

 Another legend!

Pernell Roberts <3

He actually was never considered a singer, but I love his voice, and he should have been one!

 I grew up watching him as 'Adam Cartwright' on the TV western, 'Bonanza', and he sang in a few episodes, and even recorded a couple albums with the rest of the 'Cartwrights'.

He has such a melodious voice, so smooth and sleek, with no musical training of any kind. :)

 He also played the guitar very well. :)

Some of his songs:

'Shady Grove', 'Early One Morning', 'Come All Ye Fair and Tender Ladies', and 'They Call the Wind Maria.'

Roy Clark

An amazing guitar and banjo player, with a great voice!

 I grew up watching him and Buck Owens sing together on 'Hee-Haw' and always loved him. :)

He was always such a comedian and made every song fun-filled and humorous. :D

 Some songs:

'Rocky Top',  and 'Why, Me Lord?'

Sonny James

I don't know very many of his songs, but he had a great voice! <3

 I can't describe his beautiful singing, so I'm just going to cut the jabber and name off his songs. ;)

 'Endlessly', 'Cradle of Love' and 'Running Bear'.





Buck Owens

Always loved this guy, and when I found out he had been my Grandma's favorite, I came to love him even more. :D

 I grew up watching him and Roy Clark on 'Hee Haw' and loved his singing.

His best songs (I think) are:

'Act Naturally', 'Love's Gonna Live Here' and 'My Heart Skips a Beat'.

He and Susan Raye also sang together for years, and I love them as duo!

 They sing 'Great White Horse', 'Just As Long As You Love Me', and 'Looking Back To See' beautifully. <3

Eddy Arnold

His voice was soooooo....smooth and rich! <3

 Although he sang the same hillbilly songs as the rest of the singers, he brought sophistication and class to the Grand Old Opry, and he was added to the Country Music Hall of Fame later on in his life.

 He could yodel as good as any cowhand and his crooning could put Bing Crosby to shame. ;)

'Cattle Call' and 'Blue, Blue Day' are my favorite hits of his. :D

Burl Ives

So, this guy is not country, but he's folk, so I thought that was close enough. ;)

 He has a down-home, front-porch-type of singing voice, and although I know quite a few people who don't like him, he's a favorite of mine. So there. *nose in the air* ;)

 I actually first saw him in Disney movies I grew up watching, like 'Summer Magic' and 'So Dear To My Heart' and he sang in both of those.

 Even as a little girl I loved hearing him sing, 'Come on let's crawl, gotta crawl, gotta crawl, to the ugly-bug ball..."

 And when he sang 'The Front Porch' in 'Summer Magic', I thought I would just die, it was so beautiful. *wistful sigh*

 haha, Anyways...Back to our topic.

He sang more the 'folky-type' songs, like 'Blue-Tail Fly' and 'Goober Pees'. :)

 Love his old-fashioned voice. :) 

Dolly Parton

I feel so odd even writing about her.

 I mean, everybody knows who she is, right? ;)

I guess I do remember once a cousin shocked the whole group by asking, "Who's Dolly Parton?"

You could have knocked me over with a feather!

She's gotten quite.. interesting in her old age, so you may have grown up with her looking like an odd duck, but when I was little I grew up with the young Dolly Parton. :)

 She has a very unique voice, which I won't even begin to describe, and her old songs are so pretty. :)

Some of my favorites are, 'Smoky Mountain Memories', 'Coat of Many Colors', 'I Will Always Love You', 'Applejack' and 'Tennessee Mountain Home'.



Jim Reeves

This guy has one of those voices that either sends delightful shivers up your spine, or put you to sleep. haha

 His deep voice is so soothing and soft, and he always sang such pretty tunes. :)

Some of his songs:

'Billy Bayou', 'Blue Boy', and 'He'll Have To Go'. 

Johnny Horton

LOVE this man! *girlish squeals*

 His voice is so 'twangy' and fun, and he could sing in almost any key and rhythm, with that unique tone. :D

 I grew up with his singing, before I really knew who he was. ;)

He was a best friend with another legend, Johnny Cash, and married Hank William's widow.

 I got to add, it must have been so awful for that poor girl, losing Hank first, and then Johnny in a car accident. :( Country music lost a great legend when he died.

 But, back to his singing, he's got a great voice, and so many songs, I couldn't begin to name them all. ;)

Some are:

'All For the Love of a Girl', 'Whispering Pines', 'Johnny Freedom'. 'Battle of New Orleans', and 'I'm Ready, If You're Willing.'

Porter Wagoner

 Another awesome legend, and good old country boy. <3

He also sang as a due with Dolly Parton in her early years, and they were wonderful together. :)

 He had a hillbilly, homey sound to his singing, and he always had beautiful backing music in his songs, like banjos, fiddles, mandolins and guitars. (I've got this thing for instruments)

 His great songs:

'Company's Coming', 'Green, Green Grass of Home' and 'Daddy Was An Old-Time Preacher Man' (with Dolly)

 



Loretta Lynn

I actually don't listen to Loretta (Felicity does) very often, but she is a legend, and does sing some nice songs, so I thought she is worth mentioning. :)

 She has a cute accent and a voice that actually reminds me a lot of my great-aunts when they sing. :)

Her homespun style is very pretty, and she reminds me of my childhood. :D

 Some of her great songs are:

'Coal Minder's Daughter', and 'You're Looking At Country' :)

 She was also a duo with Conway Twitty, another great singer.

Conway Twitty

This guy has an amazing voice!

 Unfortunately, he didn't sing very many good ones, but, hey, I like his voice!

He was a rather odd looking guy, with big hair and sparkly suits, but he knew how to carry a tune. ;)

Some of his songs that I love are 'Hello, Darlin' and 'Joanie.' 







Ricky Nelson

All right, he's not necessarily country, but recorded, maybe three, country albums, and did wonderful!

 I'll write more about him in my crooners/rock post later on. ;)

His country songs include:

'Hello Walls', 'Welcome to My World', 'Walkin' On the Line' and 'Here I Am'.

 

Kitty Wells

Nothing sounds more like my childhood than the voice of Kitty Wells!

 She also reminds me of my aunts, and it never fails to give me a lump in my throat whenever I hear her voice.

 I mainly remember listening to her Christmas and Gospel, so can't really name any of country songs

at the top of my head. ;)

 But her gospel songs, 'Dust on the Bible' and 'How Far Is Heaven' are favorites of mine. :)



Donna Fargo

I didn't really grow up listening to her, except when she was on 'Hee-Haw', but I always knew her, and when Felicity bought a cd of hers a few years back, I fell in love with her unique voice. :)

 She had such a soft, dainty voice, but still powerful... It's hard to describe, so I won't even try. ;)

My favorite songs include:

'Superman', 'You Were Always There', 'You Can't Be a Beacon', 'Funny Face', 'I'll Try a Little Bit Harder', 'Whatever I Say', and 'Happiest Girl in the Whole U.S.A'.



Johnny and June Cash

Both of these people are legends alone, and if you are a country fan, you'd know Johnny Cash and June Carter (daughter of Maybell Carter and of the Carter Sisters).

  And I think they both are great singing solo, but I can only jabber so much, you know. ;)

So I will just talk about them as a duo; one of the greatest married singers of all time.

 Johnny's deep, deep voice with June's harmony is beautiful, and it's just so cute when they sing love songs together. <3

 Some of my favorites:

'If I Were A Carpenter', 'Far Side Banks of Jordan', and 'It Ain't Me'. :)

Crystal Gayle

Crystal Gayle is what I would call a more 'sophisticated country' singer. :)

 Baby sister to 'Queen of Country' Loretta Lynn, she certainly didn't live under her big sister's shadow for long!

 Her unique melodious voice hit the charts with her songs, and she is still widely listened to today :)



Some of my favorite hits are,
'Let Me Be There', and 'Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue'.

 And that is the end of part one!

 Whew, I'm warning you, I've got a ways to go.

When you grow up with this stuff, you can't have a small handful of favorite artists, you know. ;)

So until part two, 'Happy Trails!"

Who are your favorites country artists?

Did you know any of these singers?

What are your favorite country songs?

                                                           LaKaysha