Country
Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson helped reshape outlaw country with loose, personal records that pushed against Nashville expectations.
Why it shows up
This is one of the most commonly cited albums in public best-of lists and fan discussions around country.
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Traditional Country
Coat of Many Colors
Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton wrote sharp, deeply human country songs and became one of the genre's most beloved voices.
Why it shows up
This is one of the most commonly cited albums in public best-of lists and fan discussions around country.
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Country
At Folsom Prison
Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash's plainspoken delivery and outlaw aura made him one of country's most iconic crossover figures.
Why it shows up
This is one of the most commonly cited albums in public best-of lists and fan discussions around country.
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Country
Golden Hour
Kacey Musgraves
Kacey Musgraves brought conversational writing and airy production into modern country's mainstream.
Why it shows up
This is one of the most commonly cited albums in public best-of lists and fan discussions around country.
Open album page
Country
Metamodern Sounds in Country Music
Sturgill Simpson
Sturgill Simpson blended classic country instincts with cosmic themes and a wider rock-minded palette.
Why it shows up
This is one of the most commonly cited albums in public best-of lists and fan discussions around country.
Open album page