5 OF THE MOST IMPACTFUL ALBUMS OF THE PAST 20 YEARS

Matt Case - July 21st, 2024 - 4:37pm PDT 

A retrospective look at the past two decades, here are five country albums that stand out for their impact on the genre

1. **Chris Stapleton - "Traveller" (2015)**

Chris Stapleton's debut album "Traveller" is widely regarded as a modern classic. It received critical acclaim for its soulful blend of blues, rock, and country, earning Stapleton several Grammy Awards, including Best Country Album. "Traveller" topped the Billboard 200 and has sold over 2.3 million copies in the U.S. Its lead single, "Tennessee Whiskey," became a staple on country radio, contributing to Stapleton's meteoric rise.

# 2. **Taylor Swift - "Fearless" (2008)**
 

"Fearless" solidified Taylor Swift's status as a country music superstar. The album won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, making Swift the youngest artist to win the accolade at that time. With over 10 million copies sold worldwide, "Fearless" produced hits like "Love Story" and "You Belong with Me," which dominated country radio and crossover pop charts. The album's success paved the way for Swift's transition to mainstream pop.

3. **Miranda Lambert - "Revolution" (2009)**
 

Miranda Lambert's "Revolution" marked a significant point in her career, showcasing her growth as an artist. The album earned critical praise and commercial success, with singles like "The House That Built Me" and "White Liar" becoming major hits. "Revolution" won the ACM Album of the Year award and has sold over 1.5 million copies. Lambert's honest storytelling and powerful vocals solidified her place in country music.

 4. **Jason Isbell - "Southeastern" (2013)**
 

Jason Isbell's "Southeastern" is often hailed as a masterpiece in modern Americana and country music. The album's raw and introspective lyrics, dealing with themes of redemption and personal struggle, resonated deeply with listeners and critics alike. Though not a massive commercial hit, "Southeastern" received widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including Americana Music Honors & Awards' Album of the Year. Isbell's authenticity and songwriting prowess have earned him a dedicated following.

5. **Kacey Musgraves - "Golden Hour" (2018)**
 

"Golden Hour" by Kacey Musgraves represents a significant evolution in country music, blending traditional sounds with pop and disco influences. The album was a critical darling, winning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year. "Golden Hour" produced hits like "Butterflies" and "Space Cowboy," and has sold over 500,000 copies in the U.S. Its innovative sound and Musgraves' lyrical honesty have left a lasting impact on the genre.

These albums not only achieved commercial success but also pushed the boundaries of country music, earning lasting acclaim for their artistry and storytelling.