1970s Country Musicians That Deserve Rediscovering

It’s difficult to recreate the allure of 1970s country music. It was an era of genuine skill, unadulterated emotion, and poignant songs. Legends like Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton garnered the most attention, but many amazing musicians went unnoticed, leaving behind music that is worth hearing again. Let’s re-examine a few of these overlooked treasures!

Wynn Stewart
Despite not becoming a number-one artist, Wynn Stewart had a significant impact on the history of country music. He is cited by legendary musicians like Merle Haggard and Buck Owens as one of their main influences. Although Stewart had been creating music for a long time before the 1970s, his work during that decade is particularly noteworthy. Songs like “Sing A Sad Song” (1977) and “After The Storm” (1976) highlight his ageless tone and poignant narration. If you’ve never heard of Stewart before, you should definitely check out his albums After the Storm and Baby It’s Yours.

Red Simpson
Do you enjoy listening to country music about trucks and the highway? Red Simpson is responsible for the famous theme! The truck-driving country music cliché was invented by Simpson, opening the door for innumerable songs in succeeding decades. For lovers of this niche, his 1972 album I’m A Truck (And Other Songs Of The Road) is still a classic, peaking at No. 4 on the US Country charts. Red Simpson was a true pathfinder of his era, and his music embodies the spirit of hard work and the freedom of the highway.

Sunday Sharpe
Sunday Sharpe had a brief but impactful career in the 1970s, leaving behind a legacy of powerful vocals and heartfelt songs. She’s best remembered for her hits “I’m Having Your Baby” and “A Little At A Time.” In 1975, she released her only album, I’m Having Your Baby, which showcased her incredible talent. Unfortunately, her career didn’t extend beyond the 1970s, but her music remains a testament to her potential. Sharpe’s voice carries the kind of emotional depth that sticks with you long after the song ends.

Dottie West
Traditional country aficionados are familiar with Dottie West, but the general public has frequently ignored her talents. West paved the way for female country musicians and encouraged many women to pursue careers in the genre. Coca-Cola advertisements helped make her crossover song “Country Sunshine” famous, and her duets with Kenny Rogers from the 1970s are still regarded as classics. West’s work demonstrates her ability as a singer and songwriter by masterfully fusing pop and traditional country influences.