Top 10 Country Classic Rock Songs of the 70s

The 1970s were a golden era for country rock, laying the foundation for future generations of country musicians. Here are 10 iconic country rock songs from that decade:

Take Me Home, Country Roads
“Take Me Home, Country Roads,” also known simply as “Country Roads,” is a beloved track penned by Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert, and John Denver. Featured on Denver’s 1971 album Poems, Prayers & Promises, this song quickly became an anthem for those yearning for home.

Kiss An Angel Good Morning
Written by Ben Peters, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’” was made famous by Charley Pride. Released in October 1971 as part of his album Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs, this song remains one of Pride’s most well-known hits.

The Devil Went Down to Georgia
“The Devil Went Down to Georgia” was a fiery hit for the Charlie Daniels Band, released on their 1979 album Million Mile Reflections. The song tells the thrilling story of a fiddle battle between a young man and the devil, and it has become a country classic.

Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys
This iconic song was first recorded by Ed Bruce, who co-wrote it with his wife Patsy Bruce. The tune appeared on Bruce’s 1976 self-titled album and later gained widespread popularity through the rendition by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings.

The Gambler
“The Gambler,” written by Don Schlitz, became synonymous with Kenny Rogers after he recorded it. The song’s narrative about a card player imparting life wisdom has made it one of the most enduring tracks in country music history.

Hello Darlin’
“Hello, Darlin’,” performed and written by Conway Twitty, was released in March 1970 as the lead single from his album Hello Darlin. The song is a poignant ballad about love lost and remains one of Twitty’s signature songs.

Good Hearted Woman
Co-written by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, “Good Hearted Woman” became a defining song of the outlaw country movement. It’s a tribute to the strong women who stand by their men, no matter what.

Jolene
Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” released on October 15, 1973, as the lead single and title track from her album Jolene, is one of her most enduring hits. The song, with its heartfelt plea to another woman, has become a classic in country music.

Coal Miner’s Daughter
“Coal Miner’s Daughter,” written and performed by Loretta Lynn, was released as a single in 1970 and reached No. 1 on the Billboard country chart. The song, which tells the story of Lynn’s upbringing, was also featured on her 1971 album of the same name.

Behind Closed Doors
Kenny O’Dell wrote “Behind Closed Doors,” which was recorded by Charlie Rich and released in 1973 as the title track of his album. The song became Rich’s first No. 1 hit on the country charts and remained on the chart for 20 weeks, solidifying its place as a country classic.