Top 50 Most Popular Female Country Singers (2023)

Country music is a famous and much-loved genre of music that has its origins in rural America and can be traced back to the early 1920s. It is a typical American musical style which includes both ballads and peppy dance numbers.

This genre of music can be described through multiple sub-genres like blues, bluegrass, honky-tonk, and folk music. The type of musical instruments used is also varied with a variety of instruments, including the acoustic guitar, banjo, fiddle, electric guitar, ukulele, harmonica, etc.

However, the best part about country music, in my opinion, is its simple lyrics that revolve around love, loneliness, faith, belief, etc. Country music has offered us numerous music geniuses who have won our hearts with their profound lyrics and soulful rendition.

We have Jim Reeves, Johnny Cash, Garth Brooks, Kenny Rogers, etc. However, the topic of this article will be those female country singers who have stolen our hearts. Entoin lists all those fabulous country singers from Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Patsy Cline, etc., to Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill, Dixie Chicks, etc., who have taken us through a gamut of emotions with their songs and music.

50. Gabby Barrett

Gabby Barrett is a talented country singer who rose to fame on the reality TV show "American Idol" in 2018. Born on March, 2000, in Pennsylvania, she developed a passion for music at a young age.

After finishing third on "American Idol," Gabby signed a record deal with Warner Music Nashville. Her debut single, "I Hope," released in 2019, became a massive hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

It also achieved multi-platinum certification. Gabby's powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics have garnered her a loyal fan base.

She has released other successful singles, such as "The Good Ones" and "Footprints on the Moon," solidifying her position as a rising star in the country music industry.

49. Sierra Ferrell

Sierra Ferrell is a singer, songwriter, and musician from West Virginia who blends country, gypsy jazz, folk, and Latin styles in her music. She gained popularity by releasing an assortment of covers, original material, and live performances on her YouTube channel.

In 2021, she released her debut album, Long Time Coming, featuring singles like "Jeremiah," "Why'd Ya Do It," "In Dreams," "Rosemary Wine," etc. The album was produced by Gary Paczosa and featured several bluegrass musicians, including Sarah Jarosz and Billy Strings.

Long Time Coming received critical acclaim and a five-star review in the UK-based publication Country Music People. Sierra Ferrell has raw talent and authentic musical style, making her a promising artist to watch in the country music scene.

48. Margo Price

Margo Price is an American singer-songwriter who brings a refreshing blend of traditional country, outlaw country, and Americana to her music.

Her songs often tackle personal and societal struggles with honesty and vulnerability. Price's music is characterized by her powerful and emotive vocals, accompanied by rich instrumentation that incorporates elements of classic country, blues, and rock.

With her compelling storytelling, she addresses themes of heartbreak, resilience, and social commentary, creating a deep connection with her listeners.

Margo Price's sound pays homage to the country music legends of the past while maintaining a contemporary edge. Her critically acclaimed albums, such as "Midwest Farmer's Daughter" and "All American Made," showcase her range and versatility, cementing her status as a significant figure in modern country music.

47. Ashley McBryde

Ashley McBryde is an American country singer-songwriter born in Arkansas. She released two self-released albums between 2006 and 2011. In 2016, country artist Eric Church heard her extended play Jalopies & Expensive Guitars. This led her to a new contract with Warner Music Nashville.

Her debut single "A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega" was released in 2017 and was followed by her debut album Girl Going Nowhere in 2018. "Never Will", her second album, strengthened her presence in the country music scene with its single "One Night Standards".

McBryde has received several awards, including one Grammy, one CMA Award, and three ACM Awards. In 2022, she also received an invite to join the Grand Ole Opry.

McBryde's musical style blends country with rock, bluegrass, and country pop.

46. Carly Pearce

Carly Pearce is an American country singer known for her soulful voice and heartfelt storytelling. She started her music career at a young age and gained recognition with her breakout hit, "Every Little Thing," in 2017.

Pearce's music blends traditional country elements with contemporary pop influences, resulting in a sound that appeals to a wide audience. Her songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth, with emotionally charged lyrics that resonate with listeners.

Pearce's has released successful albums like "Every Little Thing" and "Carly Pearce," showcasing her versatility and establishing herself as a rising star in the country music industry.

Pearce has been influenced by bluegrass performers and contemporary country artists, notably Shania Twain and Trisha Yearwood.

45. Maren Morris

Maren Morris is an American singer-songwriter who has made a significant impact on the country music scene. She began her career writing songs for other artists before releasing her debut studio album, "Hero," in 2016.

Morris's music transcends traditional country boundaries, blending elements of pop, rock, and R&B into her sound. Known for her powerful and soulful vocals, she tackles a wide range of topics in her songwriting, including love, empowerment, and social issues.

Her breakthrough hit, "My Church," garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, earning her widespread recognition. Morris has since released chart-topping singles like "The Middle" (with Zedd and Grey) and "Girl," solidifying her position as a prominent figure in both country and pop music.

Her artistic versatility, unique style, and poignant lyrics have earned her numerous awards and a devoted fan base. Morris won one Grammy award, five Academy of Country Music Awards, one American Music award and five Country Music Association Awards.

44. Maybelle Carter

Mother Maybelle Carter was an American country musician who played a significant role in turning the guitar into a lead instrument by developing the Carter scratch technique which was named after her.

She was a member of the Carter Family act and she later performed with her daughters in the Carter Sisters and Mother Maybelle group.

She mostly sang harmonies with the group, occasionally taking on a more prominent role, and rarely sang lead on radio shows. She reunited with the original Carter Family in the 1950s and continued to perform with her daughters in the mid-1960s through the early 1970s.

Maybelle also released solo albums, including "Mother Maybelle Carter" in 1959 and "Living Legend" in the late 1960s. Maybelle Carter's contribution to country music continues to inspire musicians to this day.

43. Lee Ann Womack

Lee Ann Womack is a highly respected American country singer whose career spans several decades. Born on August 19, 1966, in Texas, she rose to prominence in the late 1990s with her distinctive blend of traditional country and contemporary sounds.

Womack's rich and emotive vocals captivate listeners, allowing her to deliver powerful performances that resonate with authenticity. Her breakthrough single, "I Hope You Dance," became a massive crossover hit, earning her critical acclaim and multiple awards.

Throughout her career, Womack has released several successful albums, including "There's More Where That Came From" and "The Way I'm Livin'," showcasing her versatility and artistry.

She has explored various themes in her music, ranging from love and heartbreak to introspection and personal growth. With her timeless talent and unwavering dedication to her craft, Lee Ann Womack continues to be a beloved figure in the country music genre.

42. Jessie Colter

Jessi Colter is an American country singer who emerged in the mid-1970s and is known for her collaborations with husband Waylon Jennings and her 1975 crossover hit "I'm Not Lisa." After the release of her first album "A Country Star Is Born", Colter signed with Capitol Records in 1975. She had her breakthrough with "I'm Not Lisa," which topped the country music charts and reached the top five on the pop listing.

She released several successful studio albums throughout the late 1970s, toured with Jennings, and had a hit duet album, Leather and Lace, in 1981. Colter's career declined in the 1980s as she focused on caring for her husband, but she remained active and released an album of children's music in 1996.

41. Lucinda Williams

Lucinda Williams is an influential American singer-songwriter known for her heartfelt and introspective music. She emerged as a prominent figure in the folk and Americana genres.

Williams' career gained momentum in the late 1980s and early 1990s with the release of critically acclaimed albums like "Car Wheels on a Gravel Road" and "Essence." Her raw and honest songwriting, combined with her distinctive raspy vocals, have garnered her a dedicated following.

Williams has been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards and her songs have been covered by numerous artists across various genres.

Throughout her career, she has remained true to her artistic vision, delivering powerful and poignant lyrics that delve into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human emotions. Lucinda Williams continues to be revered as a trailblazer and a revered voice in American roots music.

40. Lynn Anderson

Lynn Anderson was a highly acclaimed American country singer who made a lasting impact on the genre. Born in North Dakota, she rose to prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s with her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence.

She charted numerous other successful singles throughout her career, showcasing her versatility and range as a performer. With her smooth and expressive voice, Anderson brought a fresh and modern sound to country music, blending elements of pop and folk into her songs.

"Rose Garden" was the biggest hit that Anderson delivered after she joined Columbia Records in 1970. Anderson's music explores many sub-genres of country music such as the Nashville Sound, Countrypolitan, bluegrass, western, and gospel.

39. Connie Smith

Connie Smith is an American country music singer and songwriter with a contralto vocal style that has influenced other female country singers.

She tasted success with "Once a Day" that was her first single with RCA Victor Records. The song was nominated for many awards and hit the number 1 spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Connie Smith also became the first female artist to have a number one single for eight weeks.

Smith continued to release popular hits throughout the 1960s and 1970s but eventually went into semi-retirement in 1979 to focus on her faith and raising her children. She returned to music in the mid-1980s and permanently in the 1990s when she worked along with Marty Stuart.

Smith's sound is defined by the Nashville Sound musical style, featuring traditional elements like steel guitar and twangy vocals. She has been recognized for her vocal delivery and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2012.

38. Dottie West

Dottie West was a trailblazing American country singer and songwriter whose career spanned several decades.

West's distinctive voice and versatility allowed her to explore various musical styles, including traditional country, pop, and gospel. She achieved notable success with her powerful ballads and catchy uptempo hits.

West's collaborations with male country artists, such as Kenny Rogers, produced chart-topping duets. She was also one of the first female artists to win a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance.

West's songs often delved into themes of love, heartbreak, and female empowerment, resonating with audiences worldwide.

Her remarkable talent, enduring hits like "Here Comes My Baby" and "Country Sunshine," and her contributions to country music have solidified her legacy as a beloved and influential figure in the genre.

37. Bobbie Gentry

Bobbie Gentry, born Roberta Lee Streeter, was a pioneering American singer-songwriter who produced and composed her own material. She achieved international fame with her song "Ode to Billie Joe" in 1967, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for four weeks and won Gentry two Grammy awards for Best New Artist and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1968.

Bobbie Gentry, an iconic country singer, achieved significant accomplishments during her career. She left a lasting impact on country music with her unique storytelling and captivating performances.

After a successful run of variety shows in Las Vegas, Gentry lost interest in performing and retired from the music industry. She wrote and performed "Another Place, Another Time" for the film "Macon County Line" and was the subject of a film based on her hit song, "Ode to Billie Joe."

36. Tammy Wynette

Tammy Wynette was an American country music artist, actress, and author. She is considered one of the genre's most influential and successful artists. Wynette was born and raised in Tremont, Mississippi, and married Euple Byrd at the age of 17.

After several marital setbacks, she moved to Tennessee, and entered a contract with Epic Records in 1966. Under the production of Billy Sherrill, she released the single "Your Good Girl's Gonna Go Bad" in 1967. It was her first hit single.

Later in the 1960s, Wynette sang many more fits that topped the Billboard country singles, including "I Don't Wanna Play House", "D-I-V-O-R-C-E," and the self-penned "Stand by Your Man."

Wynette died in 1998 due to several intestinal health problems that led to hospitalizations and addictions to prescription painkillers. Wynette has sold an estimated 30 million records worldwide and has received several awards and inductions into music associations, including into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

35. Kitty Wells

Kitty Wells was a pioneering American country singer who revolutionized the role of women in country music. Born on August 30, 1919, in Tennessee, she became the first female solo artist to achieve significant success in the genre.

Wells' powerful and emotive vocals, combined with her honest and relatable lyrics, resonated with audiences. Her breakthrough hit, "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," challenged traditional gender roles and became a chart-topping success.

Wells continued to produce numerous hit singles, including "Makin' Believe" and "Amigo's Guitar." Known as the "Queen of Country Music," her trailblazing career paved the way for future female artists in the genre.

Wells' impact on country music is immeasurable, and her legacy as a pioneer and inspiration endures to this day.

34. Jennifer Nettles

Jennifer Nettles is an American country singer, songwriter, and actress who gained fame as the lead vocalist of the duo Sugarland. Born on September 12, 1974, in Georgia, she possesses a powerful and soulful voice that has garnered widespread recognition.

Nettles is famous for her dynamic stage presence and her ability to blend elements of country, pop, and rock in her music. As part of Sugarland, she achieved chart-topping success with hits like "Stay," "All I Want to Do," and "Stuck Like Glue."

Nettles' distinct vocal style, heartfelt lyrics, and engaging performances have earned her numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and Country Music Association Awards.

In addition to her work with Sugarland, she has also pursued a successful solo career, releasing acclaimed albums such as "That Girl" and "Playing with Fire." Jennifer Nettles continues to captivate audiences with her talent, versatility, and genuine passion for music.

33. Deana Carter

Deana Kay Carter is an American country music singer-songwriter who gained fame in 1996 with the release of her debut album "Did I Shave My Legs for This?" The album was certified 5× Multi-Platinum in the United States, selling over 5 million copies and produced three number-one hits on the Billboard country charts.

Since then she released five studio albums, with a total of 14 singles, including three number-one hits. In addition to her music career, Carter appeared on the OST of the film Anastasia, in 1997. She delivered her rendition of "Once Upon a December".

She has also co-written a song with Matraca Berg, "You and Tequila", which was later covered by Kenny Chesney and nominated for Song of the Year at the 2011 CMA Awards.

Carter formed her own record label, Little Nugget Records, and released her seventh studio album, "Southern Way of Life," in 2013.

32. Trisha Yearwood

Trisha Yearwood is a highly accomplished American country singer whose career has spanned several decades. Born on September 19, 1964, in Georgia, she rose to prominence in the early 1990s with her powerful vocals and heartfelt performances.

Yearwood's impressive catalog of hits includes chart-toppers like "She's in Love with the Boy," "How Do I Live," and "Walkaway Joe." Her rich and emotive voice, combined with her impeccable storytelling ability, has resonated with fans worldwide.

Yearwood's success extends beyond music, as she has also ventured into acting, hosting, and cookbook writing.

With multiple Grammy Awards and an induction into the Grand Ole Opry, Trisha Yearwood has solidified her status as a country music legend. Her enduring talent, authenticity, and dedication to her craft continue to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of country artists.

31. Sara Evans

Sara Evans is a highly accomplished American country singer known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt performances. Born on February 5, 1971, in Missouri, she rose to fame in the late 1990s with her breakout hit, "No Place That Far."

Evans achieved significant success with chart-topping singles like "Born to Fly," "Suds in the Bucket," and "A Little Bit Stronger."

Her music blends traditional country elements with contemporary sounds, showcasing her versatility as an artist. With her warm and expressive voice, Evans has captivated audiences with emotionally charged ballads and uptempo anthems.

She has earned numerous accolades, including awards from the Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association. Sara Evans' enduring career, marked by her talent, authenticity, and relatable lyrics, has solidified her place as a respected figure in the country music industry.

30. Emmylou Harris

Emmylou Harris is a legendary American singer-songwriter who has made a profound impact on country, folk, and Americana music. Born on April 2, 1947, in Alabama, her career began in the 1970s when she joined Gram Parsons as a backup vocalist.

Harris soon emerged as a solo artist, releasing critically acclaimed albums like "Pieces of the Sky" and "Elite Hotel." Her angelic voice, heartfelt interpretations, and ability to blend genres captivated audiences.

Harris collaborated with numerous artists and received widespread recognition for her duets with country legend Willie Nelson and folk icon Bob Dylan.

Throughout her career, she has continuously pushed boundaries, experimenting with different musical styles and incorporating social and environmental themes into her work.

With numerous Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, Emmylou Harris remains a revered and influential figure in the music industry.

29. Kelsea Ballerini

Kelsea Ballerini is an American country-pop singer known for her unique blend of contemporary pop sensibilities with traditional country elements. Born on September 12, 1993, her music exhibits a catchy and melodic sound, infused with relatable and introspective lyrics.

Ballerini's vocals possess a sweet and youthful quality that effortlessly conveys emotion and vulnerability. Her songs often explore themes of love, self-discovery, and personal growth, resonating with a broad audience.

While she embraces her country roots, Ballerini incorporates modern production and pop hooks into her music, making it accessible to fans beyond the country genre. Her success can be attributed to chart-topping hits like "Love Me Like You Mean It," "Peter Pan," and "Miss Me More," which showcase her ability to craft infectious melodies and anthemic choruses.

Kelsea Ballerini's musical style embodies a contemporary blend of country and pop, contributing to her rise as a prominent figure in the modern country music scene.

28. Brenda Lee

Brenda Lee, born on December 11, 1944, is an American singer who achieved immense popularity in the 1960s. She is known for her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and diverse musical range.

Lee's fame skyrocketed with her hit songs like "I'm Sorry," "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," and "Sweet Nothin's." Often referred to as "Little Miss Dynamite" due to her petite stature and explosive vocal performances,

Lee became a trailblazer for women in the male-dominated music industry. Her music transcended genres, encompassing rock and roll, pop, country, and R&B.

She garnered numerous accolades and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Brenda Lee's enduring legacy lies in her iconic hits, remarkable vocal talent, and her impact on popular music as one of the most successful female artists of her era.

27. LeAnn Rimes

LeAnn Rimes is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame in country music with her debut album "Blue" at age 13. She has since become a crossover artist with successful records in pop, contemporary Christian, and other musical genres.

Rimes has released nine studio albums, including "Twisted Angel," "What a Wonderful World," "This Woman," and "Spitfire." She has sold over 37 million records worldwide and has had over 40 singles on international charts since 1996.

She is known for her hit songs, including "How Do I Live," "Can't Fight the Moonlight," and "I Need You." Rimes has also acted in television and feature films, including "It's Christmas, Eve" and "Country Comfort."

26. Martina McBride

Martina McBride is an American country music singer known for her powerful vocals, emotive performances, and thought-provoking lyrics. Born on July 29, 1966, in Kansas, McBride rose to prominence in the 1990s and has since become one of the genre's most successful female artists.

She is famous for her chart-topping hits, including "Independence Day," "Concrete Angel," and "A Broken Wing," which often tackle sensitive subjects such as domestic violence and social issues.

McBride's music blends traditional country sounds with contemporary elements, incorporating influences from pop and rock. With her incredible range and vocal control, she delivers heartfelt performances that resonate with audiences worldwide.

McBride's powerful voice and her ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level have solidified her status as a country music icon and an advocate for women's empowerment.

McBride has also been nominated for 14 Grammy Awards.

25. Gretchen Wilson

Gretchen Wilson is an American country singer who burst onto the music scene in the early 2000s with her dynamic and rebellious persona. Born on June 26, 1973, in Illinois, she gained immediate attention with her debut single, "Redneck Woman," which became a crossover hit and an anthem for empowered women.

Wilson's music embodies a blend of traditional country with rock and blues influences, characterized by her gritty vocals and bold lyrics. She released successful albums like "Here for the Party" and "All Jacked Up," earning her numerous awards, including a Grammy.

While her commercial success has fluctuated over the years, Wilson's impact as a trailblazer and her unapologetic attitude continue to resonate with fans. Her career exemplifies a fierce independence and a dedication to authenticity, making Gretchen Wilson an influential figure in modern country music.

24. Crystal Gayle

Crystal Gayle is a country music singer from America who was prominent in the 1970s and 80s with her country-pop sound. She began her career singing background for her older sister, Loretta Lynn but found greater success with a new record contract and Nashville producer Allen Reynolds.

Gayle's biggest hit, "Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue," topped the country chart and crossed over to the pop charts, making her one of the most successful crossover artists of the time.

Gayle continued to have hits through the late 1980s, then shifted to recording various genres in the 1990s. She has won one Grammy Award and multiple other awards and accolades.

Gayle's musical style is rooted in country but also incorporates pop and folk influences, and she is known for her smooth vocal delivery.

23. Tanya Tucker

Tanya Tucker is an American country music singer and songwriter who had her first hit, "Delta Dawn", at the age of 13. She has had a flourishing career with a succession of songs that featured in top-10 and top-40 hits, and several CMA award nominations.

Tucker's music evolved to become more country pop-styled and up-tempo, making her popular again in the late 1980s with three number-one country singles and eight consecutive top-10 hits. She was awarded the "Female Vocalist of the Year" award in 1991.

Tucker's 2019 album, "While I'm Livin'" won a Grammy Award, and she was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2023. Her documentary, "The Return of Tanya Tucker Featuring Brandi Carlile" was also released in 2022.

22. Naomi Judd

Naomi Judd is an American country music singer, songwriter, and activist who, along with her daughter Wynonna Judd, formed the highly successful country duo The Judds.

Born on January 11, 1946, in Kentucky, Judd's career took off in the 1980s as The Judds became one of the most acclaimed acts in country music history. Their harmonies and heartfelt performances captivated audiences, leading to a string of hit singles and albums.

Naomi's warm and expressive voice, combined with her songwriting skills, contributed to their success. However, Judd's career faced obstacles when she was diagnosed with hepatitis C, leading to her retirement from touring.

Despite this, she continued her advocacy work and wrote several books, inspiring others with her resilience. Naomi Judd's contribution to country music, her powerful storytelling, and her enduring legacy as part of The Judds have made her an iconic figure in the genre.

21. Wynonna

Wynonna Judd is an American country music singer and songwriter who achieved widespread fame as one-half of the highly successful mother-daughter duo, The Judds.

Born on May 30, 1964, in Kentucky, she possesses a powerful and soulful voice that has garnered her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

After the duo disbanded, Wynonna embarked on a successful solo career, showcasing her versatility and musical range. Her solo hits include "No One Else on Earth," "I Saw the Light," and "To Be Loved by You."

Judd's music combines country with elements of rock, blues, and pop, reflecting her diverse influences. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards.

Wynonna Judd's captivating vocals, emotional depth, and ability to connect with audiences have solidified her as a respected and influential figure in the country music industry.

20. Jean Shepard

Jean Shepard was a pioneering honky-tonk singer-songwriter in country music. She released 73 singles and recorded 24 studio albums between 1956 and 1981, with one of her singles reaching number one on the Hot Country Songs chart.

Shepard's career took off in 1953 with the release of her duet with Ferlin Husky, "A Dear John Letter", which became the first post-World War II record by a female country artist to sell over a million copies.

Shepard had several other hits in the 1950s before experiencing a commercial comeback in the mid-1960s with the hit "Second Fiddle (To an Old Guitar)" and a string of subsequent hits.

She was a member of the Grand Ole Opry from 1955 until her death in 2016.

19. Wanda Jackson

Wanda Jackson, born in 1937, is an American singer and songwriter who recorded and released music in rock, country, and gospel genres. She is known as "The Queen of Rockabilly" and was among the first women to have a career in rock and roll.

She had her first hit single with the country song "You Can't Have My Love" under Decca Records in 1954. She toured with Elvis Presley and moved to Capitol Records, where she recorded several rock singles, including "Let's Have a Party".

In the 1960s, she moved back to the country genre, and in 1971, she made gospel music a priority. Jackson completed her final studio project in 2021 after deciding to retire in 2019.

Her vocal growl and ability to yodel have been discussed extensively in the music community by historians and critics.

18. Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Musgraves is an American country-pop singer-songwriter known for her refreshing and progressive approach to country music. Born on August 21, 1988, in Texas, she rose to prominence with her critically acclaimed debut album "Same Trailer Different Park" in 2013.

Musgraves' music challenges traditional country norms, offering witty and introspective lyrics that explore topics like love, self-discovery, and societal norms. With her sweet and melodic voice, she seamlessly blends elements of country, pop, and folk, creating a unique sound that appeals to a wide audience.

Musgraves' breakthrough hit "Follow Your Arrow" became an anthem of individuality and acceptance. Her subsequent albums, including "Golden Hour," have garnered widespread acclaim, earning her numerous Grammy Awards, including the coveted Album of the Year.

Kacey Musgraves' music represents a fresh and progressive perspective within the country genre, and her talent and authenticity continue to captivate listeners around the world.

17. Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is an American singer-songwriter who became the first female country artist to write a U. S. platinum-certified debut album. After releasing her first three albums exploring country pop, she experimented with rock and electronic styles on her fourth album "Red" and completely transitioned to synth-pop on her fifth album "1989".

Swift's subsequent albums were influenced by political disillusionment and ventured into indie folk and alternative rock. Swift has sold over 200 million records globally, is one of the best-selling musicians in history, and has received critical acclaim, including 12 Grammy Awards and numerous other accolades.

She has been influenced by various country artists, including Shania Twain, Faith Hill, and the Dixie Chicks as well as alt-country artists like Patty Griffin and Lori McKenna. Swift is known for her artistic reinventions and venturing into various music genres.

16. The Chicks

The Chicks, formerly known as Dixie Chicks, is an American country music band consisting of Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire, and Emily Strayer. The band was founded in Dallas, Texas, in 1989 and played predominantly bluegrass and country music before signing with Monument Records Nashville in 1997.

With Maines replacing the previous lead vocalist, the Chicks achieved success with their albums Wide Open Spaces (1998) and Fly (1999), which achieved multi-platinum sales and several chart-topping singles. In 2003, Maines' controversial comments about the Iraq war caused backlash from fans, leading to a hiatus and the release of Taking the Long Way in 2006.

The Chicks have won 13 Grammy Awards and have become the best-selling all-woman band and best-selling country group in the US. In 2020, they removed "Dixie" from their name, citing negative connotations, and released their first album in 14 years, Gaslighter.

15. Barbara Mandrell

Barbara Mandrell is an American country music singer, musician, actress, and author. She was born in Texas and raised in California in a musical family, where she learned to play several instruments.

She performed on the television program Town Hall Party as a regular at age 13. In 1969, she signed her first recording contract with Columbia Records and was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1972.

Mandrell's successful career includes six number-one singles and 25 top-ten singles on the Billboard country songs chart, several major music awards, and hosting her own prime-time television show in the early 1980s.

She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2009.

14. June Carter

June Carter Cash was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, actress, author, comedian, philanthropist, and humanitarian born on June 23, 1929. She won five Grammy Awards, was a member of the Carter Family and the second wife of Johnny Cash.

Carter Cash played guitar, banjo, harmonica, and autoharp and acted in several films and television shows. She wrote the song "Ring of Fire", which became a number-one hit for her husband.

Carter Cash continued to work with Cash on record and on stage for the rest of her life, recording a number of duets with Cash and being a regular on The Johnny Cash Show.

She released three solo albums during her lifetime: Appalachian Pride, Press On, and Wildwood Flower. June Carter Cash died on May 15, 2003.

13. Patty Loveless

Patty Loveless is an American country music singer who signed with MCA Records in 1985 and achieved breakthrough success by the end of the decade. She released five albums with MCA before moving to Epic Records in 1993, where she released nine more albums, four of which are certified platinum in the United States.

Loveless's music is defined by a mix of sounds, including neotraditional country, country pop, and bluegrass music. She has collaborated with Vince Gill, George Jones, and Dwight Yoakam among others.

Loveless has won five awards from the Country Music Association, two from the Academy of Country Music, and two Grammy Awards. In 2023, she was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Her vocal style is described as strong yet vulnerable, with comparisons to Loretta Lynn and Emmylou Harris.

12. Anne Murray

Anne Murray is a Canadian singer who has sold over 55 million album copies worldwide during her over 40-year career. She has won four Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1979, and is the first Canadian female solo singer to reach No. 1 on the U. S. charts.

Murray has also won a record 24 Juno Awards, three American Music Awards, three Country Music Association Awards, and three Canadian Country Music Association Awards. She has been inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, the Juno Hall of Fame, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Canadian Broadcast Hall of Fame.

Her hits include "Snowbird," "You Needed Me," "Danny's Song," "Broken Hearted Me," and "Another Sleepless Night."

11. RosanneCash

Rosanne Cash is a prominent American singer-songwriter, author, and daughter of country legend Johnny Cash. Although primarily a country artist, her music draws from many genres, including Americana, pop, folk, rock, and blues.

In the 1980s, she released several genre-crossing singles that charted on both the country and pop charts, including "Seven Year Ache," which topped the U. S. country singles chart. Cash won a Grammy Award in 1985 for "I Don't Know Why You Don't Want Me" and has received 12 other Grammy nominations.

She has had 11 No. 1 country hit singles, 21 Top 40 country singles, and two gold records. In addition to her successful music career, Cash has written three books and edited a collection of short stories.

10. Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood is an American country singer who gained fame after winning American Idol in 2005. She is the only country artist to debut at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart with her single "Inside Your Heaven." Underwood's debut album, Some Hearts (2005), was the best-selling solo female debut album in country music history, and she won three Grammy Awards for it.

She has since released several successful albums, including Carnival Ride (2007), Play On (2009), Blown Away (2012), and Cry Pretty (2018). Underwood has won numerous accolades, including eight Grammy Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, and 17 American Music Awards.

She has sold 85 million records worldwide and is the highest-certified female country artist of all time. In addition to music, she has ventured into fashion and writing, releasing her fitness clothing line CALIA by Carrie in 2015 and the New York Times best-selling fitness and lifestyle book Find Your Path in 2020.

Rolling Stone ranked Underwood as number 158 on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time in 2023.

9. Loretta Lynn

Loretta Lynn was an American country music singer and songwriter who had a successful career spanning over six decades. She released multiple gold albums and had several hits such as "I'm a Honky Tonk Girl," "Don't Come Home A-Drinkin' (With Lovin' on Your Mind)," and "Coal Miner's Daughter," which was later turned into a musical film based on her life.

Lynn won three Grammy Awards and was nominated 18 times. She was the most awarded female country recording artist as of 2022 and the only female ACM Artist of the Decade for the 1970s.

Lynn scored 24 No. 1 hit singles and 11 number-one albums. She stopped writing music in the 1970s because of contracts with the Wilburn Brothers, with whom she had a business relationship.

Lynn ended her 57-year touring career after suffering a stroke in 2017 and breaking her hip in 2018.

8. Patsy Cline

Patsy Cline was an American singer and one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. She had several major hits during her eight-year recording career, including two number-one hits on the Billboard Hot Country and Western Sides chart.

Cline began her career at the local radio station WINC when she was fifteen. In 1957, she made her first national television appearance on Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts, and "Walkin' After Midnight" became her first major hit.

After she moved to Decca Records in 1960, her musical sound shifted, and she achieved consistent success under the direction of producer Owen Bradley. In 1963, Cline was killed in a plane crash along with country performers Cowboy Copas, Hawkshaw Hawkins, and manager Randy Hughes.

Since her death, Cline has been cited as one of the most celebrated, respected, and influential performers of the 20th century.

7. Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert is an American country singer, songwriter, and guitarist from Longview, Texas. She started her career in early 2001 with the release of her self-titled debut album independently. In 2003, she finished third on the TV show Nashville Star, and since then, she has been a member of the Pistol Annies, a group formed in 2011.

Lambert has been honoured by the Grammy Awards, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and the Country Music Association Awards. She has released several successful albums, including Kerosene (2005), Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (2007), Revolution (2009), Platinum (2014), The Weight of These Wings (2016), Wildcard (2019), and Palomino (2022).

She is recognized as the artist with the most Academy of Country Music Awards in history. In 2021, she collaborated with Jon Randall and Jack Ingram for the album The Marfa Tapes, and in the same year, she was listed on Time's 100 Most Influential People.

6. Shania Twain

Shania Twain is a Canadian singer-songwriter and actress widely known as the best-selling female artist in country music history. She has sold over 100 million records and won five Grammy Awards, two World Music Awards, and 39 BMI Songwriter Awards.

Twain's second studio album, The Woman in Me (1995), sold over 20 million copies worldwide and earned her a Grammy Award. Her third studio album, Come On Over (1997), became the best-selling studio album by a woman in any genre, selling over 40 million copies worldwide, and won four Grammy Awards.

Her sixth studio album, Queen of Me, was released in 2023. Twain's success in the music industry has garnered her several titles, including the "Queen of Country Pop", and she has received many accolades throughout her career.

5. Reba McEntire

Reba McEntire is a country music singer and actress known as "the Queen of Country." She has sold over 75 million records worldwide and has had over 100 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, with 25 reaching number one.

McEntire has also acted in films and television, including starring in her own sitcom, Reba, for six seasons. In addition, she owns several businesses, including a clothing line. McEntire's music career gained momentum in the early 1980s, with several top-ten country hits and became increasingly successful throughout the decade with seven studio albums and ten more number-one hits.

Her sound has been influenced by country icons such as Bob Wills, Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, Barbara Mandrell, and Patsy Cline. She has been credited with incorporating contemporary sounds into traditional country music while maintaining her signature vocal style.

4. Alison Krauss

Alison Krauss is an American bluegrass-country singer and fiddler who entered the music industry at a young age. She signed with Rounder Records in 1985 and released her first solo album in 1987.

Krauss has released 14 albums, appeared on numerous soundtracks, and sparked renewed interest in bluegrass music in the United States. She has won 27 Grammy Awards from 42 nominations, ranking her fourth overall.

Krauss was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 2019 and was inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in 2021. She possesses a soprano voice that has been described as "angelic." Krauss has a close involvement with her group, performs in the bluegrass and country genres, and rarely performs music she has written herself.

3. Linda Ronstadt

Linda Maria Ronstadt is an American singer who performed and recorded in diverse genres such as rock, country, light opera, the Great American Songbook, and Latin music. She has received numerous awards, including 11 Grammy Awards, 2 Academy of Country Music awards, and an Emmy Award.

Ronstadt has released 24 studio albums and 15 compilation or greatest hits albums. She charted 38 US Billboard Hot 100 singles, 21 of which reached the top 40, ten reached the top 10, and one reached number one ("You're No Good").

She has collaborated with artists in diverse genres and has sold more than 100 million records, making her one of the world's best-selling artists of all time. Ronstadt retired in 2011 and revealed shortly afterwards that she is no longer able to sing as a result of a degenerative condition.

2. Faith Hill

Faith Hill, born Audrey Faith McGraw, is a successful American country music singer and actress. Hill is known for her soulful, throaty voice and intimate storytelling through music. She has sold over 40 million albums worldwide and has won five Grammy Awards, 15 Academy of Country Music Awards, and six American Music Awards.

Hill's debut album, Take Me as I Am, was released in 1993 and achieved great success with the chart-topping hit "Wild One". Hill became the first female country singer in 30 years to hold Billboard's number-one position for four consecutive weeks.

Hill has also had crossover success with albums such as Faith (1998) and Breathe (1999), which produced hit singles such as "This Kiss" and "Breathe". Hill is married to country music artist Tim McGraw, and the couple has three daughters together.

1. Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton is an American singer-songwriter, actress, philanthropist, and businesswoman known primarily for her decades-long career in country music. Her career spans over fifty years, during which she has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling female artists of all time.

Parton's music includes the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA)-certified gold, platinum, and multi-platinum awards. She has had 25 singles reach no. 1 on the Billboard country music charts, a record for a female artist, and has composed over 3,000 songs.

Parton has also had success as an actress, starring in films such as 9 to 5 and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Parton has received 11 Grammy Awards, ten Country Music Association Awards, five Academy of Country Music Awards, four People's Choice Awards, and three American Music Awards.

She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999 and received the National Medal of Arts in 2005. In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, she is a philanthropist and businesswoman, co-owning The Dollywood Company and founding the Dollywood Foundation.