Country music has a rich history, deeply rooted in storytelling, emotional depth, and simple yet captivating melodies. Over the years, some artists have taken country music and blended it with other genres, creating a fresh and innovative sound. These “mixed” country singers bring a unique flavor to the genre, offering listeners something beyond traditional country. This article will take you on a journey through some of the most highly recommended mixed country singers, exploring their notable songs that blend genres like rock, pop, and even hip-hop, while staying true to their country roots.
Top 8 Recommended ‘Mixed’ Country Singers and Their Tracks
1. Kane Brown – “Heaven”
Kane Brown is one of the most popular mixed-country artists of his generation, blending country with R&B and pop influences. His song “Heaven” is a perfect example of this fusion. The soft, melodic guitar paired with his smooth, R&B-inspired vocals gives this love ballad a dreamy atmosphere. It’s a simple love song, but the production and his vocal delivery elevate it to something truly special. The song captures the feeling of bliss one experiences in a relationship, making it a favorite for fans of both country and pop.
2. Lil Nas X – “Old Town Road”
Lil Nas X broke boundaries with his genre-defying hit “Old Town Road.” The song mixes traditional country themes like horses and cowboy hats with trap beats, creating an unexpected yet infectious sound. Featuring Billy Ray Cyrus, the remix version went viral, proving that country music could successfully blend with modern hip-hop elements. The track’s catchy hook and playful lyrics made it a hit across multiple genres, earning it a place in country music history despite its unconventional sound.
3. Florida Georgia Line – “Cruise”
Florida Georgia Line is another group known for mixing country with pop and rock elements. “Cruise,” their breakout hit, is a quintessential example of this blend. The song’s upbeat, feel-good vibe combines country storytelling with pop-friendly hooks and rock-inspired guitar riffs. “Cruise” became an anthem for summer road trips and nights by the bonfire, offering something for fans of both country and mainstream pop. It’s easy to see why this track became such a massive hit, appealing to a wide range of listeners.
4. Kacey Musgraves – “High Horse”
Kacey Musgraves has been a trailblazer in the country music scene for years, often blending elements of pop and disco into her sound. “High Horse” is a shining example of her ability to push the boundaries of country music while still staying true to her roots. With its upbeat tempo, disco-inspired beats, and clever lyrics, “High Horse” takes listeners on a fun, danceable journey. Musgraves’ smooth vocals and sharp wit shine through in this track, making it a favorite for both country and pop fans alike.
5. Sam Hunt – “Body Like a Back Road”
Sam Hunt is known for his unique style, blending country with pop and hip-hop elements. His hit single “Body Like a Back Road” is a laid-back, flirtatious track that showcases his ability to mix genres seamlessly. The song features a catchy beat, playful lyrics, and Hunt’s signature conversational singing style, making it a hit with fans of multiple genres. “Body Like a Back Road” is perfect for a summer drive, combining the best of country storytelling with a pop sensibility.
6. Maren Morris – “The Middle”
Although Maren Morris is primarily known as a country artist, she has successfully ventured into pop territory. Her collaboration with Zedd on “The Middle” is a perfect example of this. The song blends Morris’ country-tinged vocals with electronic beats, creating an infectious pop anthem. While “The Middle” isn’t a traditional country song, Morris’ voice adds a country flair to the track, showing her versatility as an artist. This song is a great example of how modern country singers can step outside the box and create something fresh.
7. Jason Aldean – “Dirt Road Anthem”
Jason Aldean is known for his rock-influenced country sound, but “Dirt Road Anthem” adds a twist with its hip-hop-inspired verses. The song is a nostalgic ode to small-town life, with Aldean singing about bonfires, trucks, and dirt roads. However, what sets it apart is the rap-like delivery of the verses, giving the song a modern edge. “Dirt Road Anthem” is a great example of how country music can evolve while still staying true to its roots. The mix of traditional country themes with contemporary influences made this song a massive hit.
8. Keith Urban – “The Fighter” (feat. Carrie Underwood)
Keith Urban is no stranger to mixing genres, and his song “The Fighter” featuring Carrie Underwood is a perfect example of his ability to blend country with pop and rock elements. The song is an upbeat, catchy duet that showcases Urban’s guitar skills and Underwood’s powerhouse vocals. “The Fighter” has a strong pop influence, with a danceable beat and sing-along chorus, but Urban’s country roots still shine through in the lyrics and instrumentation. This track is a testament to Urban’s ability to push the boundaries of country music while still appealing to traditional country fans.
See Also: Unveiling The Ultimate Slow Country Music Playlist
Conclusion
The evolution of country music has been significantly shaped by artists who are unafraid to push boundaries and experiment with different sounds. These mixed-country singers are a testament to the genre’s versatility and its ability to adapt to modern musical trends. By blending country with pop, rock, R&B, and even hip-hop, these artists have brought country music to a wider audience while staying true to the genre’s storytelling roots. As country music continues to evolve, it’s clear that genre-blending artists will play a crucial role in its future. Their unique sounds not only redefine the boundaries of country music but also create an inclusive and diverse musical landscape.
