The 1960s was a pivotal decade in the history of country music, with a wave of female artists rising to prominence and leaving an indelible mark on the genre. These women helped shape the sound and direction of country music, with their powerful voices, relatable lyrics, and unique performances. Many of these artists not only enjoyed commercial success but also set the stage for future generations of female country singers. This article highlights some of the most influential female country artists of the 60s and their most memorable songs.
From honky-tonk anthems to heartbreaking ballads, the female country stars of the 1960s captivated audiences with their ability to convey raw emotion and powerful storytelling. They tackled themes of love, loss, heartbreak, and empowerment, making their songs relatable to listeners across the nation. Whether through their incredible vocal range, innovative songwriting, or memorable performances, these artists set the stage for the continued evolution of country music. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best-known female country artists from the 1960s and the songs that defined their careers.
The 9 Best Legendary Female Country Artists of the 60s
1. Patsy Cline – “Crazy”
Patsy Cline’s “Crazy,” written by Willie Nelson and released in 1961, is arguably one of the most iconic country songs ever recorded. The song showcases Cline’s exceptional vocal ability, blending sadness with longing in a way few others could. “Crazy” is about unrequited love and the feeling of being unable to move on. Cline’s soulful delivery, combined with the lush orchestral arrangement, elevated the song into a timeless classic. “Crazy” became a defining song of Patsy Cline’s career and cemented her as one of the greatest country artists of all time.
2. Loretta Lynn – “Coal Miner’s Daughter”
“Coal Miner’s Daughter,” released in 1970, is Loretta Lynn’s signature song and a testament to her working-class roots. While it came just after the 60s, it reflects the themes that were central to her music throughout the decade. The song is a deeply personal account of Lynn’s upbringing in rural Kentucky. The lyrics describe her childhood experiences growing up in poverty, with her father working as a coal miner. With its straightforward, heartfelt storytelling and Loretta’s unmistakable voice, “Coal Miner’s Daughter” became an anthem of resilience and family pride.
3. Tammy Wynette – “Stand by Your Man”
Tammy Wynette’s 1968 hit “Stand by Your Man” became one of the most controversial and enduring songs in country music history. Written by Wynette and Billy Sherrill, the song encourages women to stand by their husbands, no matter the circumstances. While it sparked debates about gender roles and marriage, it also resonated deeply with many listeners, especially in the context of 60s country music. Wynette’s passionate performance of the song, with her emotive delivery and commanding presence, solidified her as a leading figure in country music, earning her the title “The First Lady of Country Music.”
4. Dolly Parton – “Dumb Blonde”
Though Dolly Parton is more commonly associated with the 1970s, her 1966 hit “Dumb Blonde” is a great example of her early career. The song, which she wrote herself, is a playful declaration of independence. Parton takes aim at stereotypes, rejecting the notion that being a blonde means being naive or shallow. “Dumb Blonde” showcases Parton’s ability to blend wit and charm with her undeniable vocal talent. The song was a commercial success and helped launch her career in Nashville, setting the stage for her later achievements.
5. Kitty Wells – “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels”
Released in 1952, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” by Kitty Wells is one of the most important songs in country music history. While technically released before the 1960s, it had a lasting influence throughout the decade. The song is a response to Hank Thompson’s “The Wild Side of Life,” which depicted women in a negative light. Wells’ version offered a more sympathetic perspective, showing that women who frequented honky-tonks were not inherently bad, but often driven to such places by difficult circumstances. The song established Wells as a pioneering female artist in country music and was a precursor to the rise of other women in the genre during the 60s.
6. Jean Shepard – “A Dear John Letter”
“A Dear John Letter,” released in 1966, is one of Jean Shepard’s most memorable hits. The song tells the story of a woman writing a letter to her lover, telling him that she is leaving him. It became one of Shepard’s signature songs, combining a traditional country sound with a heartbreaking narrative. Shepard’s voice, filled with sorrow and regret, made “A Dear John Letter” a perfect example of the emotional depth that characterized much of 60s country music. The song’s success helped solidify Shepard’s place as a prominent figure in the country music world.
7. Barbara Mandrell – “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool”
Barbara Mandrell is often associated with the 1970s and 1980s, but her early career began in the 60s. “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” is a 1981 hit, but it reflects the deep country roots she developed during her formative years. The song was about celebrating country music at a time when it wasn’t as mainstream, and it became an anthem for traditional country fans. Mandrell’s impeccable vocal style and the song’s catchy chorus made it a hit, and her long career is built on her commitment to preserving country music’s heritage, a sentiment that grew during the 1960s.
8. Skeeter Davis – “The End of the World”
Skeeter Davis’ “The End of the World,” released in 1962, is a melancholic country-pop crossover that captured the emotional devastation of lost love. The song was a major hit, reaching the top of both the country and pop charts. Davis’ delicate voice, combined with the song’s lush orchestral arrangement, created a hauntingly beautiful track that resonated with listeners. “The End of the World” remains one of Davis’ signature songs and is a testament to her ability to blend country with pop elements, making it accessible to a wider audience.
9. Jeannie C. Riley – “Harper Valley PTA”
“Harper Valley PTA,” released in 1968, is a groundbreaking song by Jeannie C. Riley that tells the story of a woman who stands up to the judgmental attitudes of a small-town community. The song’s bold lyrics and catchy melody made it an instant hit, and it became a cultural phenomenon. Riley’s sassy delivery and the song’s empowering message helped it top the charts, and it became a defining moment in her career. “Harper Valley PTA” is one of the most famous and controversial songs in country music history.
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Conclusion
The female country artists of the 1960s played a crucial role in shaping the future of country music. With their powerful voices, relatable lyrics, and innovative performances, these women broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of country singers. From Patsy Cline’s emotional ballads to Loretta Lynn’s rebellious anthems, these women created songs that resonated with listeners and continue to inspire artists today. Their contributions to country music in the 1960s remain an essential part of the genre’s history, ensuring their place in the annals of country music’s legacy.
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