10 Best Country Records Every Collection Needs

Digital downloading and streaming have become the primary way most people consume music. Currently, vinyl is enjoying a stunning resurgence as music enthusiasts want to own a real and tangible version of the albums they love. We understand that there are exceptional records that every music lover should own, and we have identified and listed here the 10 best country records every collection needs. Although there are a few established classics, we have identified a few surprises here.

Here are the 10 best country records every country music fan needs to include in their record library.

10 Big Truckin’ Hits–The Road Hammers (BEST COUNTRY RECORDS)

Canada’s best-selling country music band, The Road Hammers, recently released “10 Big Truckin’ Hits”. The artists released the vinyl as a way of celebrating the Record Store Day. This is a must-have record because it comprises the band’s biggest tracks like “East Bound and Down,” “Get On Down The Road,” “Mud,” and “I’m A Road Hammer.”

Side Effects–Dallas Smith (BEST COUNTRY RECORDS)

“Side Effects” is Smith’s highest-ranked record, and it should not be a surprise because it is packed with hit tracks like the title song “Side Effects,” “Sky Stays This Blue,” and “Autograph.” Each of these three songs hit number 1, making Smith the first Canadian artist to release three number 1 country songs from a single record. Amazingly, “Sleeping Around” also hit #1, and made this the first country record to contain four number 1 hits, making it one of the best country music records that you must own.

Jolene–Dolly Patron (BEST COUNTRY RECORDS)

“Jolene” was Dolly Patron’s 15th solo studio record. The title song “Jolene” was Patron’s second solo #1 country song. “I Will Always Love You” was Dolly’s second single that has been covered by many renowned artists including Whitney Houston in 1992.

Fearless–Taylor Swift (BEST COUNTRY RECORDS)

Before Taylor Swift became the massive star she is today, her second studio record “Fearless” catapulted her career to greater heights that she has maintained to date. “Fearless” won two Grammy Awards for the Country Album of the year 2010 and the Album of the Year. With amazing hits like “White Horse,” “You Belong With Me,” and “Love Story.” The album set the path for what became the fascinating sound of pop-country, and this is what makes it be a must-have.

40 Greatest Hits–Hank Williams (1979)

Hank is one of the country’s all-time greatest legends and has been considered by many as a very significant American songwriter and singer of the 20th century. This was a two-album compilation comprising 40 of the artist’s biggest tracks. Many fans have ranked “40 Greatest Hits” as one of the best records of all time. It is a must-own for a seasonal record collector or any music enthusiasts.

At Folsom Prison–Johnny Cash (BEST COUNTRY RECORDS)

After recording his hit track “Folsom Prison Blues” back in 1955, Cash was so enthralled with recording his performance at a prison. Although the idea took time to materialize, Cash recorded two shows and performed on January 13, 1965, at California’s Folsom State Prison. John was backed by the Tennessee Three, Carl Perkins, and June Carter. Originally, “At Folsom Prison” record comprised 15 tracks from the first show, but only had two tracks from his second show, hence the total of 17 tracks.

Shake These Walls–Tim Hicks (BEST COUNTRY RECORDS)

“Shake These Walls” was Tim Hicks third studio record and indeed remains to be his best album for many years even though there is a new album coming soon featuring tracks like “Slow Burn,” “Stompin’ Ground” and “Slide Over.” Grab the vinyl today and enjoy “Shake These Walls.”

Imaginary Appalachia–Colter Wall

Listed as one of our rising country artists, this album was Colter Wall’s debut and is available on vinyl. This is a great album that features “Sleeping on the Blacktop” that become famous in “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” which was an Oscar award-winning movie.

Gypsy Road–Dean Brody (BEST COUNTRY RECORDS)

“Gypsy Road” is one of the greatest records released by Brody. As Dean Brody’s fifth studio record, “Gypsy Road” comprised mesmerizing songs like “Love Would Be Enough,” “Monetary,” and “Bring Down The House.” Listening to this album on vinyl is a fantastic way to enjoy its amazing tracks.

Come on Over–Shania Twain

“Come On Over” is an all-time best-selling country record by a female artist. This was Twain’s 3rd album and one that cemented her place as the most successful country music artist commercially.