Country music in the 1980s underwent a significant transformation, with the emergence of new subgenres and a growing emphasis on commercial success. This period saw the rise of artists such as Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and Johnny Cash, who pushed the boundaries of country music and helped to bring it to a wider audience.
One of the most notable aspects of 1980s country music was the rise of “outlaw country.” This subgenre, pioneered by artists such as Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, rejected the polished, mainstream sound of Nashville in favor of a more raw and authentic approach. Outlaw country artists often wrote songs about personal experiences and social issues, and their music often reflected a rebellious spirit.
Another important development in 1980s country music was the emergence of “urban cowboy” music. This subgenre, which was popularized by films such as “Urban Cowboy” (1980), blended country music with elements of rock and pop. Urban cowboy music often featured upbeat, catchy songs about love, relationships, and the rodeo lifestyle.
The 1980s also saw the rise of female country singers such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Reba McEntire. These artists helped to break down barriers for women in country music, and their songs often explored themes of love, loss, and empowerment.
1. Outlaw Country
Outlaw country was a subgenre of country music that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s. It was characterized by its rejection of the polished, mainstream sound of Nashville in favor of a more raw and authentic approach. Outlaw country artists often wrote songs about personal experiences and social issues, and their music often reflected a rebellious spirit.
- Rejection of the Nashville sound: Outlaw country artists rejected the polished, overproduced sound of Nashville in favor of a more raw and authentic approach. They often recorded their music in small, independent studios, and their songs were often characterized by simple arrangements and honest lyrics.
- Emphasis on personal experiences and social issues: Outlaw country artists often wrote songs about their own personal experiences, including their struggles with drugs, alcohol, and relationships. They also wrote songs about social issues, such as poverty, inequality, and the Vietnam War.
- Rebellious spirit: Outlaw country artists often had a rebellious spirit, and their music reflected their rejection of the status quo. They were often critical of the music industry and the Nashville establishment, and they often wrote songs about outlaws and rebels.
Outlaw country was a significant movement in country music, and it helped to shape the sound of the genre in the 1980s. Outlaw country artists such as Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash helped to bring country music to a wider audience, and their music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
2. Urban Cowboy Music
Urban cowboy music was a subgenre of country music that emerged in the 1980s. It was characterized by its blend of country music with elements of rock and pop, and its upbeat songs about love, relationships, and the rodeo lifestyle.
- Popularity and Appeal: Urban cowboy music was a popular genre in the 1980s, appealing to a wide range of listeners. It was often played on country radio stations, and it also crossed over to pop radio stations. Urban cowboy music was also popular in dance clubs, and it helped to introduce country music to a new audience.
- Influence on Country Music: Urban cowboy music had a significant influence on the sound of country music in the 1980s. It helped to make country music more accessible to mainstream audiences, and it paved the way for the emergence of new country subgenres, such as country pop and country rock.
- Cultural Impact: Urban cowboy music had a significant cultural impact in the 1980s. It helped to popularize the cowboy lifestyle, and it led to the emergence of a new fashion trend, known as “urban cowboy chic.” Urban cowboy music also helped to promote the rodeo lifestyle, and it led to the increased popularity of rodeos.
Urban cowboy music was a significant part of the best 80s country music. It was a popular and influential genre that helped to shape the sound of country music in the 1980s. Urban cowboy music also had a significant cultural impact, helping to popularize the cowboy lifestyle and the rodeo lifestyle.
3. Female Singers
The rise of female country singers in the 1980s was a significant development in the history of country music. Prior to this decade, women had been largely marginalized in the genre, with few opportunities to record or perform. However, the success of artists such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Reba McEntire helped to pave the way for a new generation of female country singers.
- Increased Visibility and Representation: The success of female country singers in the 1980s helped to increase the visibility and representation of women in the genre. Prior to this decade, women were often relegated to the background, with few opportunities to take center stage. However, the success of artists such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Reba McEntire helped to change this dynamic. These artists were able to achieve mainstream success, and their music helped to break down barriers for women in country music.
- Influence on the Sound of Country Music: The rise of female country singers in the 1980s also had a significant influence on the sound of country music. These artists brought new perspectives and experiences to the genre, and their music often reflected their own personal experiences as women. This led to a more diverse and inclusive sound in country music.
- Empowerment of Women: The success of female country singers in the 1980s was also an important moment for the empowerment of women. These artists were able to achieve success in a genre that had been traditionally dominated by men. Their success helped to inspire other women to pursue their own dreams, and it also helped to change the way that women were viewed in the music industry.
The rise of female country singers in the 1980s was a significant moment in the history of country music. These artists helped to break down barriers for women in the genre, and their success paved the way for a new generation of female country singers. Their music continues to inspire and empower women around the world.
FAQs about “Best 80s Country Music”
The 1980s were a golden age for country music, with a wide range of artists and styles emerging. Here are some frequently asked questions about the best 80s country music:
Question 1: What were the key aspects that made 80s country music so special?
Answer: Some of the key aspects that made 80s country music so special include the rise of outlaw country, urban cowboy music, and female singers. Outlaw country was a subgenre that rejected the polished sound of Nashville in favor of a more raw and authentic approach. Urban cowboy music was a blend of country music with elements of rock and pop, often featuring upbeat songs about love, relationships, and the rodeo lifestyle. Female singers such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Reba McEntire helped to break down barriers for women in the genre.
Question 2: Who were some of the most popular outlaw country artists of the 1980s?
Answer: Some of the most popular outlaw country artists of the 1980s include Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash. These artists were known for their rebellious spirit and their songs about personal experiences and social issues.
Question 3: What was the impact of urban cowboy music on the country music industry?
Answer: Urban cowboy music had a significant impact on the country music industry. It helped to make country music more accessible to mainstream audiences, and it paved the way for the emergence of new country subgenres, such as country pop and country rock. Urban cowboy music also helped to popularize the cowboy lifestyle and the rodeo lifestyle.
Question 4: How did female singers contribute to the success of 80s country music?
Answer: Female singers such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Reba McEntire made significant contributions to the success of 80s country music. They helped to break down barriers for women in the genre, and their music often explored themes of love, loss, and empowerment.
Question 5: What are some of the best 80s country music albums that I should listen to?
Answer: Some of the best 80s country music albums that you should listen to include Willie Nelson’s “Red Headed Stranger” (1975), Waylon Jennings’ “Honky Tonk Heroes” (1973), Johnny Cash’s “The Highwaymen” (1985), Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5 and Odd Jobs” (1980), Loretta Lynn’s “Coal Miner’s Daughter” (1971), and Reba McEntire’s “Whoever’s in New England” (1986).
Question 6: Where can I find more information about 80s country music?
Answer: There are many resources available online where you can find more information about 80s country music. You can visit websites such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Academy of Country Music, and the Americana Music Association. You can also find many books and articles about 80s country music at your local library or bookstore.
Summary: The 1980s were a golden age for country music, with a wide range of artists and styles emerging. Outlaw country, urban cowboy music, and female singers were just a few of the key factors that made 80s country music so special. If you are a fan of country music, then you should definitely check out some of the best 80s country music albums that are available.
Transition to the next article section: 80s country music had a significant impact on the music industry and on popular culture. It helped to make country music more accessible to mainstream audiences, and it paved the way for the emergence of new country subgenres. The best 80s country music albums are still enjoyed by fans around the world today.
Tips on “Best 80s Country Music”
Here are some tips for enjoying the best of 80s country music:
- Explore the different subgenres: The 1980s were a time of great innovation and creativity in country music, and a number of new subgenres emerged during this period. Take some time to explore the different subgenres, such as outlaw country, urban cowboy music, and female country singers.
- Listen to the classic albums: There are a number of classic country music albums that were released in the 1980s. Make sure to listen to some of these albums, such as Willie Nelson’s “Red Headed Stranger,” Waylon Jennings’ “Honky Tonk Heroes,” and Johnny Cash’s “The Highwaymen.”
- Attend a live concert: There are still a number of great 80s country artists who are performing live today. If you have the opportunity, attend a live concert and experience the music in person.
- Read books and articles: There are a number of great books and articles that have been written about 80s country music. Reading these materials can help you to learn more about the history and evolution of the genre.
- Join an online community: There are a number of online communities where you can connect with other fans of 80s country music. These communities can be a great way to learn more about the genre and to share your thoughts and experiences with other fans.
Summary: The 1980s were a golden age for country music, and there is a lot of great music to be discovered from this period. By following these tips, you can explore the best of 80s country music and enjoy the unique sounds and styles that made this era so special.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: 80s country music is a rich and diverse genre that has something to offer everyone. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a new listener, I encourage you to explore the best of 80s country music and discover the many great artists and songs that this era has to offer.
Conclusion
The 1980s were a golden age for country music, with a wide range of artists and styles emerging. The best 80s country music is characterized by its raw and authentic sound, its catchy melodies, and its timeless lyrics. Outlaw country, urban cowboy music, and female singers were just a few of the key factors that made 80s country music so special.
The legacy of 80s country music continues to this day. The music of this era has influenced countless artists and helped to shape the sound of modern country music. If you are a fan of country music, then you owe it to yourself to explore the best of 80s country music.
