We’ve all heard that well-worn saying, “They don’t make ‘em like they used to.” Plenty of vintage items, from clothes to appliances, show how true that statement is. If you need any more proof, just browse through a list of old country songs. Sure, there are plenty of modern artists making great music. However, there’s something special about those songs that come from a bygone era.
If you’re looking for some old songs to complete a country playlist or just looking for a blast from the past, you’re in the right place. These songs have been floating around for decades, but are still solid country gold, even if they probably wouldn’t make it on the radio today.
“I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” by Hank Williams (1949)
No list of old country songs would be complete without something from Hank Williams. He released a handful of hit songs that have since become classics. “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” is one of those. It has everything you could ask for–Williams’ iconic voice, striking imagery, and a healthy dose of sadness.
[RELATED: 5 Songs for Anyone Who Wants to Dive Into Classic Country Music]
“Mom and Dad’s Waltz” by Lefty Frizzell (1951)
Lefty Frizzell is another one of those foundational country artists whose songs never get old. He combined the smooth crooning of Hollywood cowboys and the lonesome moan of honky tonk singers and became the standard for generations of vocalists, including George Jones and others who went on to become icons.
“Sixteen Tons” by Tennessee Ernie Ford (1955)
“Sixteen Tons” is one of those old country songs you can point to when you hear people complain about the genre’s lyrical content. You won’t find any scantily-clad girls, tailgates, backroads, or beer here. Instead, it’s about the plight of coal miners before labor unions helped them fight for better working conditions. It’s more than a dose of vintage class solidarity, though. It’s also a great song.
“El Paso” by Marty Robbins (1959)
“El Paso” is so good that ir barely feels like an old country song. No matter when you hear this Marty Robbins classic, it feels fresh. His storytelling abilities are on full display here in what might be the best Western ballad of all time.
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Author: Clayton Edwards