Laura Klonowski
Country music is well known for creating outstanding album and today marks the first ever National Album Day so to celebrate we have compiled a list of iconic Country LPs. Some are from the 90s while others are more recent with the record making history and or helping to break an artist into the mainstream.
So sit back and enjoy our list of Iconic and breakout Country albums on National Album Day:
Up! – Shania Twain – 2002
Up! was the third consecutive Diamond selling album released by the most successful female in Country Music; Shania Twain. It spawned hit singles such as ‘I’m Gonna Getcha Good’ ‘Forever and For Always’ and ‘Ka-Ching’. It topped charts across the world and cemented Twain’s place in history.
Cartwheels – Ward Thomas – 2016
Ward Thomas released their sophomore LP and major label debut ‘Cartwheels’ two years ago and it confirmed them a place in the record books. The album topped The Official UK Album Chart making them the first ever British Country act to score a number 1 LP. It also contained hit singles including ‘Carry You Home’ and ‘Guilty Flowers’.
Come On Over – Shania Twain – 1997
‘Come On Over’ is arguably the most iconic Country album of all time. Having sold more than 40million copies worldwide it still remains to this day the biggest selling album by a female Country artist of all time. It also includes a string global hit singles and some of Twain’s most recognisable songs such as ‘Man! I Feel Like A Woman’, ‘You’re Still The One’, ‘From This Moment On’ and ‘That Don’t Impress Me Much’.
Dream Country – Sarah Darling – 2017
US Country sensation Sarah Darling released her breakout album ‘Dream Country’ last year and it is a stunning soundscape that takes you on beautiful journeys with hits such as ‘Halley’s Comet’ and ‘Where Cowboys Ride’. This record helped to make Darling a household name in the UK Country scene and is a huge favourite amongst fans.
Heart Break – Lady Antebellum – 2017
‘Heart Break’ is the latest Grammy nominated release from Lady Antebellum and once again they proved their status as the standout band in Country music. This record is a pop infused standout that includes major hit singles such as ‘You Look Good’ and ‘Hurt’. It delivers a delicious slice of Country-Pop heaven and highlights the tight harmonies of Dave Haywood, Hillary Scott, and Charles Kelley.
My Universe – The Shires – 2016
The second studio album from The Shires saw them pushing boundaries with their infectious blend of homegrown Country-Pop and cemented their status as the leaders in UK Country. It was their second consecutive top-ten album and earned them a place in the record books as the fastest selling British Country act of all time. It also spawned hit singles including ‘Daddy’s Little Girl’, and ‘A Thousand Hallelujahs’.
Now – Shania Twain – 2017
2017 saw the legendary Shania Twain return with her first studio album in fifteen years. It was solely written by Shania and showcases her incredible songwriting talents. This is Twain’s most open and honest body of work to date and is a real highlight in her catalogue. It topped the charts around the globe and included massive singles such as ‘Life’s About To Get Good’, ‘Swingin’ With My Eyes Closed’ and ‘Poor Me’.
I Don’t Believe We’ve Met – Danielle Bradbery – 2017
Danielle Bradbery’s hugely successful sophomore album ‘I Don’t Believe We’ve Met’ sky rocketed her to global fame and the American rising star is now a major part of the UK Country scene. Breakout singles such as ‘Hello Summer’, ‘Worth It’ and ‘Sway’ are major highlights on this standout record of one of the most exciting talents in Country Music.
Every Little Thing – Carly Pearce -2017
Carly Pearce’s debut record has really put her on the map and she is one of the fastest growing artists in Country Music. Her first album showcases her vocal range and stellar songwriting skills and cements her place in Country fans’ hearts. Hit singles including ‘Dare Ya’ and ‘Hide The Wine’ are also featured.
The Woman In Me – Shania Twain- 1995
‘The Woman In Me’ album was the record that made a star of Shania Twain. It is the album that made chart history and became a Diamond selling phenomenon and made Twain a global superstar. A timeless body of work that includes hits such as ‘Whose Bed Have Your Boot Been Under?’, ‘If You’re Not In It For Love’ (I’m Outta Here)’, and ‘Any Man Of Mine’ remains a firm fan favourite.
The Waiting Game – Una Healy – 2017
The former Saturdays star made her way into Country last year with the release of her stunning debut album ‘The Waiting Game’. It’s a stellar collection and really showcases Healy’s sweet vocal tone. It also includes the hit single ‘Stay My Love’ featuring Nashville’s Sam Palladio.
From Where We Stand – Ward Thomas – 2014
This debut album from Ward Thomas saw them dubbed “Britain’s first Country stars” a label much deserved. This self released record put them on the map and topped the UK Country Album Chart and peaked just outside The Official UK Album Chart Top 40 debuting at 41. It also includes hit singles ‘Push For The Stride’, ‘The Good and The Right’ ‘Guest List’ and ‘Town Called Ugley.
The Driver – Charles Kelley – 2016
2016 saw Lady Antebellum taking a hiatus and band member Charles Kelley took this time to release his debut solo album ‘The Driver’. It’s a compelling record that showcases Kelley’s talents to the max and it became a major chart success in the US.
Which album[s] are you listening to in celebration of National Album Day? Let us know over on Twitter @CelebMix.
