Country music has long been a staple of American culture, capturing the hearts of listeners with its unique blend of storytelling, emotion, and down-home charm. The year 2015 was a notable one in the world of country music, with a mix of established artists and rising stars dominating the charts. From tales of love and heartbreak to anthems of life in the countryside, these songs captured the spirit of the time and left an indelible mark on the genre. Let’s dive into the top 10 country songs of 2015, starting with number 10 and working our way to the top spot.
#10: “Break Up in a Small Town” – Sam Hunt
Sam Hunt’s “Break Up in a Small Town” struck a chord with many due to its relatable storytelling and innovative blend of country and R&B influences. In this track, Hunt laments the difficulties of getting over a past lover in a place where everyone knows everyone else’s business. Its unique sound and heartfelt lyrics earned “Break Up in a Small Town” a spot on 2015’s top country charts, showcasing Hunt’s crossover appeal and ushering in a new flavor to the genre.
#9: “Strip It Down” – Luke Bryan
Luke Bryan, known for his energetic performances, switched gears with the intimate ballad “Strip It Down.” This song invites listeners into a more vulnerable space, where the simplicity of love is celebrated. With its slow piano melody and Bryan’s smooth vocals, the song captures the essence of stripping away the complexities of life to focus on a deep romantic connection. “Strip It Down” resonated with fans, making it one of the year’s sexiest and most heartfelt country hits.
#8: “Burning House” – Cam
Cam’s hauntingly beautiful “Burning House” tells a powerful story of regret and unfulfilled love. The ethereal soundscape coupled with Cam’s emotive delivery creates a stirring ballad that stands out for its poignant lyrics and striking imagery. “Burning House” was not only a breakthrough hit for the artist but also a testimony to the lyrical depth and musical richness that country music can convey.
#7: “Kick the Dust Up” – Luke Bryan
Returning to the more upbeat side of country, Luke Bryan’s “Kick the Dust Up” is a rollicking party anthem that celebrates rural life and good times. The song’s infectious beat and catchy chorus made it an instant hit, encouraging listeners to let loose and dance. Bryan’s ability to produce both sensitive ballads and high-energy bangers demonstrates his versatility and solidified his status as one of the genre’s top performers in 2015.
#6: “Girl Crush” – Little Big Town
Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush” stirred up controversy due to its provocative title and lyrics, which led to a broader dialogue about love and jealousy. The song’s compelling narrative, combined with a soulful melody, captivated audiences, turning “Girl Crush” into a massive crossover success. It’s a testament to the group’s harmonious vocals and clever songwriting, contributing to the song’s longevity and critical acclaim.
#5: “Like a Wrecking Ball” – Eric Church
Eric Church has a knack for penning songs that push the boundaries of traditional country music, and “Like a Wrecking Ball” is no exception. A steamy love song that metaphorically compares a passionate return home to a lover with the impact of a wrecking ball, Church’s powerful voice and the bluesy guitar licks helped this track become one of the most memorable country songs of 2015.
#4: “Sangria” – Blake Shelton
Blake Shelton’s sultry hit “Sangria” blends a Spanish vibe with traditional country instrumentation, making for an intoxicating mix. The song’s seductive lyrics and Shelton’s charismatic delivery made “Sangria” a mainstay on the charts and a favorite for listeners seeking a romantic country anthem. The accompanying music video further emphasized the song’s steamy narrative, solidifying its place as one of the year’s standout tracks.
#3: “Take Your Time” – Sam Hunt
With “Take Your Time,” Sam Hunt brought a fresh perspective to country music storytelling. The song seamlessly merges country sensibilities with pop and R&B influences, showcasing Hunt’s signature conversational singing style. Its innovative structure and relatable lyrics about pursuing a love interest thoughtfully and respectfully resonated with a broad audience, making “Take Your Time” a defining hit of the year.
#2: “Die a Happy Man” – Thomas Rhett
Thomas Rhett’s heartfelt “Die a Happy Man” is a touching love letter to his wife, and it quickly became the wedding song of the year. Rhett’s earnest vocals and the song’s tender lyrics paint a picture of a man so deeply in love that nothing else compares. “Die a Happy Man” showcases the softer, more romantic side of country music and captures the essence of true contentment found in loving relationships.
#1: “Traveller” – Chris Stapleton
At the top of our list, we have Chris Stapleton’s “Traveller,” a song that perfectly encapsulates the feelings of stark introspection and the journey of life. Stapleton’s gritty and powerful vocals, coupled with the plucky acoustic guitar, give this song a timeless quality. When Stapleton performed “Traveller” at the 2015 CMA Awards, it marked a pivotal moment in his career and the genre as a whole, leading to widespread recognition and numerous awards. This song is not just the top country hit of 2015, but also a reminder of the evocative storytelling and authenticity that lies at the heart of country music.
Each of these top 10 country songs of 2015 brought something unique to the airwaves, capturing the diverse stories and sounds that country music fans adore. With heartfelt ballads, foot-stomping anthems, and cross-genre influences, 2015 was a year of innovation and tradition, leaving a lasting imprint on the musical landscape. As these songs continue to be played and cherished, they stand as a testament to a memorable year in country music history.