Emmylou Harris has long been considered one of the finest voices in country music. Known for her blend of traditional country sounds, folk influences, and her unique vocal clarity, she has been captivating audiences since the 1970s. Harris’s career spans several decades and genres, from folk to bluegrass and even rock. Throughout it all, she has produced numerous hit songs, earning multiple awards, and her contributions to music continue to influence artists today. In this article, we will explore her most significant hits and why they have resonated with listeners over the years. Whether you are new to her music or a long-time fan, this exploration will provide insights into the best of Emmylou Harris’s extensive catalog.
Emmylou Harris’ 10 Greatest Hits to Enjoy
1. “Boulder to Birmingham”
One of Emmylou Harris’s earliest hits, “Boulder to Birmingham” (1975), stands out for its deeply emotional lyrics and poignant delivery. Written after the death of her close friend and mentor Gram Parsons, the song captures the pain and grief she experienced. With simple yet heart-wrenching lines, Harris sings about how she feels lost without him. Musically, the song combines traditional country elements with a more contemporary sound, creating a timeless track that speaks to feelings of loss and longing. The heartfelt emotion behind the lyrics and Harris’s pure vocal delivery make this song a standout in her early career.
2. “If I Could Only Win Your Love”
This 1974 single from the album Pieces of the Sky helped solidify Emmylou Harris’s status as a rising star in country music. “If I Could Only Win Your Love,” originally written by the Louvin Brothers, showcases her ability to blend traditional country with modern sensibilities. The song’s simple melody and Harris’s angelic vocals create a sense of yearning and hope. Her interpretation of this classic duet is imbued with vulnerability and warmth, making it an enduring favorite among fans. With its intricate harmonies and heartfelt delivery, this track marked a key moment in her early career.
3. “Together Again”
Emmylou Harris’s cover of Buck Owens’s “Together Again” became a hit in 1975. This song is a classic country ballad that celebrates the joy of reuniting with a lost love. Harris’s version, with her sweet, soaring voice, brings a tenderness to the song that differentiates it from the original. Her interpretation is softer and more reflective, making it feel like a personal experience rather than a story told from a distance. The steel guitar in the background complements her vocals perfectly, creating a rich, emotional atmosphere. This song became one of her signature hits and remains a staple in her performances.
4. “One of These Days”
“One of These Days” (1976) is a mid-tempo country song that showcases Harris’s storytelling abilities. In this track, she sings about leaving behind a troubled past and looking forward to a better future. The song’s uplifting message, combined with Harris’s warm and sincere delivery, makes it a favorite among listeners. The arrangement is simple but effective, with acoustic guitars and gentle percussion underscoring her vocals. The song’s hopeful tone and relatable lyrics have made it one of her most beloved hits. It is a perfect example of her ability to convey deep emotions with subtlety and grace.
5. “Two More Bottles of Wine”
Released in 1978, “Two More Bottles of Wine” became a number-one hit for Harris. Written by Delbert McClinton, the song has a more rock-oriented sound, with electric guitars and a driving beat that set it apart from her earlier work. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who moves to the city in search of success, only to find herself heartbroken and alone. Despite the sad subject matter, the upbeat tempo gives the song a sense of resilience. Harris’s spirited performance adds a layer of strength to the character, making it a fan favorite and a staple of her live shows.
6. “Born to Run”
Not to be confused with Bruce Springsteen’s famous song of the same name, Harris’s “Born to Run” was released in 1982 on her Cimarron album. This track is a country-rock anthem that tells the story of a restless spirit who is always searching for something more. With its driving rhythm and powerful vocal performance, the song conveys a sense of urgency and longing. Harris’s ability to convey complex emotions through her voice is on full display here, making it one of her standout tracks from the early 1980s. The song’s blend of country and rock elements also highlights her versatility as an artist.
7. “Beneath Still Waters”
“Beneath Still Waters” became a number-one hit for Emmylou Harris in 1980. Originally written by Dallas Frazier, the song is a slow, mournful ballad about hidden heartache. Harris’s rendition of the song is beautifully understated, with her soft, emotive voice carrying the weight of the lyrics. The steel guitar in the background adds to the song’s melancholic tone, creating a hauntingly beautiful sound. This track showcases Harris’s ability to interpret classic country songs with depth and sensitivity, making it one of her most memorable hits. Its emotional depth has helped it remain a fan favorite over the years.
8. “Save the Last Dance for Me”
In 1979, Emmylou Harris recorded her version of “Save the Last Dance for Me,” originally made famous by The Drifters in 1960. Harris’s interpretation of this song is more country-inflected, with a laid-back tempo and a twangy guitar accompaniment. Her vocals are soft and sweet, giving the song a romantic, nostalgic feel. While the original version was upbeat and lively, Harris’s take is more subdued, which adds a sense of intimacy to the lyrics. This track is a perfect example of her ability to take a well-known song and make it her own, infusing it with her unique style and emotion.
9. “Pancho and Lefty”
Harris’s rendition of “Pancho and Lefty” is another standout track from her 1981 album Evangeline. Written by Townes Van Zandt, the song tells the story of two outlaws and their tragic fates. Harris’s version features a duet with Willie Nelson, adding an extra layer of depth to the storytelling. Her voice, with its clear and haunting quality, perfectly complements the melancholy lyrics. The song’s sparse arrangement allows the vocals and the story to take center stage, creating a haunting and memorable listening experience. This track highlights Harris’s skill as a storyteller and her ability to convey complex emotions through her music.
10. “Wayfaring Stranger”
“Wayfaring Stranger” is a traditional American folk song that Emmylou Harris recorded for her 1980 album Roses in the Snow. Her version of the song is stripped down and haunting, with minimal instrumentation that allows her voice to shine. The song tells the story of a weary traveler who is seeking solace in the afterlife. Harris’s ethereal vocals add a sense of longing and spirituality to the song, making it one of her most powerful performances. The simplicity of the arrangement, combined with her emotive delivery, makes this track a standout in her discography.
See Also: Rock N Roll vs Blues, Jazz and Country Music: What’s the Connection?
Conclusion
Emmylou Harris’s contributions to country music are undeniable, and her greatest hits showcase the breadth of her talent. From heart-wrenching ballads to playful, upbeat tracks, her music has a timeless quality that continues to resonate with listeners. Whether she is covering a classic song or delivering a heartfelt original, Harris’s unique voice and emotive delivery make her one of the most respected artists in the genre. Her ability to blend traditional country sounds with folk, rock, and even gospel elements has allowed her to create a diverse and influential body of work. Emmylou Harris’s greatest hits are not just songs; they are stories that reflect the human experience, and her ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level is what has made her music endure through the years. For both longtime fans and those discovering her for the first time, Emmylou Harris’s greatest hits offer a rich and rewarding musical journey.
