The 1990s were a golden era for country music. Many artists emerged during this decade, shaping the genre with their unique sounds and storytelling. Some of these artists continue to make music today, evolving with the times while staying true to their roots. This article celebrates the enduring careers of these country music legends.
20 Country Music Artists of the 90s Who Still Make Music Today
1. Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks is a titan in country music. He revolutionized the genre with his energetic performances and crossover appeal. Brooks’s debut album, released in 1989, paved the way for a stellar career in the 90s.
Continued Success
Brooks continues to release new music and tour extensively. His 2014 album, “Man Against Machine,” marked his return to the studio after a 13-year hiatus. In 2020, he released “Fun,” an album that shows he still has the magic touch.
Influence and Legacy
Brooks’s influence extends beyond his music. He is known for his philanthropy and contributions to the country music community. His enduring popularity is a testament to his talent and connection with fans.
2. Reba McEntire
Reba McEntire is a queen of country music. Her career began in the 1970s, but she reached new heights in the 90s. Known for her powerful voice and emotive storytelling, McEntire has left an indelible mark on the genre.
Recent Work
McEntire continues to make music and tour. Her 2019 album, “Stronger Than the Truth,” received critical acclaim. In 2021, she released “Revived Remixed Revisited,” a collection that reimagines her classic hits.
Beyond Music
McEntire is also an accomplished actress, having starred in her own TV show and several movies. Her versatility and talent have made her a beloved figure in entertainment.
3. Alan Jackson
Alan Jackson is a traditionalist at heart. His music is rooted in the honky-tonk and classic country sounds of earlier decades. Jackson’s straightforward style and relatable lyrics earned him numerous hits in the 90s.
Ongoing Career
Jackson continues to release new music. His 2021 album, “Where Have You Gone,” is a tribute to classic country music. It showcases his enduring love for the genre and his ability to craft timeless songs.
Cultural Impact
Jackson’s impact on country music is profound. He has influenced many younger artists and remains a respected figure in the industry. His commitment to traditional country music has earned him a loyal fan base.
4. George Strait
George Strait is known as the “King of Country.” His smooth voice and cowboy image have made him a legend in the genre. Strait dominated the charts in the 90s with numerous hit songs.
Continuing Legacy
Strait continues to perform and record music. His 2019 album, “Honky Tonk Time Machine,” was well-received and featured a mix of new songs and covers. Strait’s live performances are still a major draw for fans.
Enduring Appeal
Strait’s appeal lies in his authenticity. He has stayed true to his country roots throughout his career. His influence on the genre is undeniable, and he remains a revered figure in country music.
5. Trisha Yearwood
Trisha Yearwood rose to fame in the 90s with her powerful voice and emotional songs. She quickly became one of country music’s leading ladies, earning numerous awards and accolades.
Current Projects
Yearwood continues to release new music and tour. Her 2019 album, “Every Girl,” features collaborations with other country stars and showcases her vocal prowess. She also hosts a popular cooking show, “Trisha’s Southern Kitchen.”
Versatility
Yearwood’s talents extend beyond music. She is a bestselling author and a successful TV personality. Her diverse career has endeared her to fans across different platforms.
6. Vince Gill
Vince Gill is known for his virtuosic guitar playing and soulful voice. He achieved great success in the 90s with his blend of traditional and contemporary country sounds.
Recent Activities
Gill remains active in the music scene. He joined the Eagles in 2017, bringing his country flair to the legendary rock band. His solo work continues to receive praise, with his 2019 album “Okie” reflecting his Oklahoma roots.
Musical Contributions
Gill’s contributions to country music are significant. He has won numerous awards and is respected for his musicianship and songwriting skills. His influence on the genre is profound.
7. Brooks & Dunn
The duo of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, known as Brooks & Dunn, dominated the country music scene in the 90s. Their high-energy performances and catchy songs made them fan favorites.
Reunion and Tours
After a hiatus, Brooks & Dunn reunited in 2015 and continue to tour. Their 2019 album, “Reboot,” features collaborations with contemporary country artists, bridging the gap between generations.
Legacy
Brooks & Dunn’s impact on country music is lasting. They have influenced many duos and groups that followed. Their music continues to resonate with fans old and new.
8. Martina McBride
Martina McBride is known for her powerful voice and inspirational songs. She rose to prominence in the 90s with hits that addressed social issues and personal struggles.
Ongoing Projects
McBride continues to make music and tour. Her 2018 album, “It’s the Holiday Season,” showcases her versatility with holiday classics. She also hosts a podcast, “Vocal Point,” where she interviews other artists.
Advocacy
McBride is an advocate for various causes, including domestic violence awareness. Her commitment to making a difference through her music and actions has made her a respected figure.
9. Tim McGraw
Tim McGraw is one of the most successful country artists of the 90s. His blend of country and rock influences helped him reach a broad audience. McGraw’s hits are still popular today.
Recent Music
McGraw continues to release new music and tour. His 2020 album, “Here on Earth,” was well-received by fans and critics. He often collaborates with his wife, Faith Hill, on various projects.
Acting Career
In addition to his music, McGraw has pursued an acting career. He has appeared in several movies and TV shows, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.
10. Faith Hill
Faith Hill achieved great success in the 90s with her blend of country and pop sounds. Her powerful voice and charismatic presence made her a star.
Current Endeavors
Hill continues to be active in the music industry. She often collaborates with her husband, Tim McGraw. Their joint tours and performances are highly anticipated by fans.
Cultural Influence
Hill’s influence extends beyond music. She is a fashion icon and a role model for many. Her contributions to country music and popular culture are significant.
11. Shania Twain
Shania Twain is a global superstar. Her fusion of country and pop revolutionized the genre in the 90s. Twain’s catchy songs and dynamic performances earned her worldwide acclaim.
Comeback and New Music
Twain continues to make music and tour. Her 2017 album, “Now,” marked her return to the studio after a long hiatus. She remains a beloved figure in the music industry.
Influence
Twain’s impact on country music is profound. She paved the way for many artists to blend genres and reach wider audiences. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations.
12. Toby Keith
Toby Keith is known for his patriotic songs and rowdy anthems. He became a major star in the 90s with his straightforward style and catchy tunes.
Ongoing Career
Keith continues to release new music and tour. His 2019 album, “That’s Country Bro!,” celebrates classic country sounds. He remains a popular live performer.
Entrepreneurship
In addition to his music, Keith is a successful entrepreneur. He owns a chain of restaurants and is involved in various business ventures. His diverse career has made him a prominent figure in country music.
13. Clint Black
Clint Black is known for his traditional country sound and skilled songwriting. He achieved great success in the 90s with numerous hits.
Recent Work
Black continues to make music and tour. His 2020 album, “Out of Sane,” showcases his timeless style and songwriting prowess. He remains a respected artist in the genre.
Acting and Other Pursuits
Black has also pursued acting and other creative endeavors. His versatility and talent have made him a multifaceted artist.
14. Travis Tritt
Travis Tritt is known for his Southern rock-influenced country music. He rose to fame in the 90s with his gritty voice and rebellious image.
Current Projects
Tritt continues to release new music and tour. His 2021 album, “Set in Stone,” reflects his roots and showcases his enduring talent. He remains a favorite among fans of traditional country and Southern rock.
Influence
Tritt’s influence on country music is significant. He has inspired many artists with his unique blend of genres and his commitment to authentic storytelling.
15. LeAnn Rimes
LeAnn Rimes burst onto the scene in the late 90s as a teenage sensation. Her powerful voice and mature sound made her an instant star.
Ongoing Career
Rimes continues to make music and tour. Her 2020 album, “CHANT: The Human & the Holy,” explores new musical territories. She remains a beloved figure in country music.
Acting and Writing
In addition to her music, Rimes has pursued acting and writing. Her versatility and talent have made her a multifaceted artist with a broad fan base.
16. Sara Evans
Sara Evans emerged in the late 90s with her traditional country sound and powerful voice. She quickly became a favorite among country music fans.
Recent Music
Evans continues to release new music and tour. Her 2020 album, “Copy That,” features covers of classic songs from various genres. She remains a respected artist in the country music community.
Advocacy and Writing
Evans is also an advocate for various causes and a published author. Her diverse talents and commitment to making a difference have endeared her to fans.
17. Kenny Chesney
Kenny Chesney became a major star in the late 90s with his beach-inspired country sound. His laid-back style and catchy songs made him a favorite among fans.
Current Endeavors
Chesney continues to release new music and tour. His 2020 album, “Here and Now,” topped the charts and received critical acclaim. He remains a popular live performer.
Philanthropy
Chesney is also known for his philanthropy, particularly in the areas of hurricane relief and environmental conservation. His commitment to making a difference has made him a beloved figure in the music industry.
18. Patty Loveless
Patty Loveless is known for her traditional country sound and emotive voice. She achieved great success in the 90s with numerous hits.
Recent Activities
Loveless continues to make music and tour. Her contributions to country music are significant, and she remains a respected artist in the genre.
Legacy
Loveless’s influence on country music is profound. Her dedication to traditional sounds and heartfelt storytelling has inspired many artists.
19. Dwight Yoakam
Dwight Yoakam is known for his honky-tonk sound and distinctive voice. He achieved great success in the 90s with his blend of traditional and contemporary country.
Ongoing Career
Yoakam continues to release new music and tour. His contributions to country music are significant, and he remains a respected artist in the genre.
Acting and Other Pursuits
In addition to his music, Yoakam has pursued acting and other creative endeavors. His versatility and talent have made him a multifaceted artist.
20. John Michael Montgomery
John Michael Montgomery is known for his heartfelt ballads and traditional country sound. He achieved great success in the 90s with numerous hits.
Recent Work
Montgomery continues to make music and tour. His contributions to country music are significant, and he remains a respected artist in the genre.
Legacy
Montgomery’s influence on country music is profound. His dedication to traditional sounds and heartfelt storytelling has inspired many artists.
See Also: How Many Country Music Awards Are There Each Year?
Conclusion
The country music artists of the 90s have left an indelible mark on the genre. Their continued success and influence are a testament to their talent and dedication. These artists have evolved with the times while staying true to their roots, and their music continues to resonate with fans old and new. Whether through new albums, tours, or other creative endeavors, these country music legends remain vital voices in the industry. Their enduring legacies are a celebration of the timeless appeal of country music.
