We’re counting down the top 10 female country singers of all-time – and later down the page, the top artists of the modern era.
Top 10 female country singers of all-time
10. Carrie Underwood
Rising to fame after ‘American Idol’, Underwood became the queen of country in the 2000s and still has a huge fan base. She’s topped the charts, sold out arena tours and become an international superstar.
9. Miranda Lambert
A mix of classic country with a modern twist, Lambert has always paid homage to country music traditions while becoming one of the genre’s biggest stars. ‘The House That Built Me’ is an absolute classic.
8. Tammy Wynette
One of the best singer/songwriters of her generation, she helped bring a woman’s perspective to male-dominated country music and would record a string of hits. One of the biggest stars of the 1960s.
7. Emmylou Harris
On and off the stage, Emmylou Harris had a significant impact on country music and is still performing today. Her music has transcended genres. An unbelievable singer, she has received unrivalled acclaim.
6. Faith Hill
Faith Hill had a huge impact on country music at the height of her fame and produced an array of big hits. Her influence on country music and other female artists is obvious.
5. Maybelle Carter
A member of the original Carter family, she became a matriarch of country music in the 1950s. A member of the prestigious Grand Ole Opry, she was a legendary figure in country music for decades.
4. Shania Twain
Shania Twain changed the game in the 1990s, becoming that once-in-a-decade artist who takes a genre in a different direction. Her high energy shows and catchy songs made her a country legend.
3. Reba McEntire
Reba McEntire has had a huge influence on country music and her songs have topped the charts for decades. She paved the way for a lot of female artists through the 1990s in particular.
2. Patsy Cline
What a tragedy it was to lose Patsy Cline at age 30, so early in her career. ‘Crazy’ remains one of the greatest country tracks of all-time. Even after her death, she remained one of the most influential country artists.
1. Dolly Parton
It’s impossible to go past Dolly when it comes to the top of the list. Not only has she produced countless hits, but she’s become an icon not just of country music but music more broadly. Without question, the greatest.
Top 10 female country singers of the modern era
10. Ashley McBryde
Ashley McBryde has been hitting the high notes in country music for years now but is still producing hits and has a huge following. Her songs have evolved as she’s gotten older and her voice is currently as good as ever.
9. Carrie Underwood
The only artist to make both our legends and currents list, Carrie Underwood remains a hit maker today and continues to sell out shows. A little quieter on the scene these days, she is still one of country’s biggest stars.
8. Ashley Cooke
A rising star of the genre in the United States, Ashley Cooke is quickly gaining ascendency and will be one of country’s biggest stars before you know it. Catchy music, a big social media following and a huge star already.
7. Lauren Alaina
With a country twang and a great mix of classic and modern country, Lauren Alaina remains one of country’s most recognised performers. Definitely worthy of her place in the top 10.
6. Carly Pearce
A regular at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville where she has built much of her fame, the ‘Every Little Thing’ singer has had quite the ride in country music. A little quiet lately, but recently burst back onto the scene via a duet with Riley Green.
5. Kacey Musgraves
Always been a little outside of the mainstream, but with a huge following behind her. Kacey Musgraves continues to dominate the charts whenever she releases new music and is one of the most respected artists in country music.
4. Lainey Wilson
Fresh from an Australian tour, Lainey Wilson continues to win major country music awards the world over and has had a string of number ones. She is without question the biggest cross-over artist in country music.
3. Kelsea Ballerini
A huge star in international country music but probably has been looked over too many times for some of the big awards. Writes with absolute heart and soul, and has produced non-stop hits as her career has evolved.
2. Megan Moroney
She may not be every country fan’s cup of tea, but it is impossible to deny the incredible force behind Megan Moroney right now. She is riding an incredible wave of hits, sold out shows and an unbelievably loyal fan base.
1. Ella Langley
Currently one of country music’s biggest stars, Ella Langley can’t do much wrong at the moment. Her recent US tour ticket sales have gone crazy, and she’s banking top 10 hits like they’re nothing. The best of the currents.
This post was produced by our newsroom.