The 1980s was a vibrant decade for country music songs, especially those sung by female artists. This era saw many women rise to fame, delivering heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies that shaped the genre. These songs reflected real-life stories about love, heartbreak, strength, and hope. In this article, we will explore 21 unforgettable female country songs from the 1980s. Each track carries its own unique charm, showcasing the talents of remarkable country music artists who left a lasting legacy.
21 Iconic 1980s Female Country Songs Every Fan Must Know
1. “9 to 5” – Dolly Parton (1980)
Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” is a powerful anthem about the daily grind and the struggles of working women. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics made it a huge hit. It also served as the theme song for the film of the same name, starring Dolly herself. This song helped boost Dolly’s already strong career and became a symbol of female empowerment in country music.
2. “Blue” – LeAnn Rimes (1980s Style Cover Later Popularized)
Though originally written and recorded earlier, “Blue” remained influential in the 1980s country music scene through covers and live performances by female artists. The song is about longing and love lost, delivered with an emotional depth that touched listeners. It set a tone for many female singers who followed.
3. “Rose Garden” – Lynn Anderson
Although released in the early 1970s, “Rose Garden” continued to dominate country playlists throughout the 1980s. Lynn Anderson’s signature hit balances hope and realism in love. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus made it a favorite among country fans. Anderson’s voice remains iconic for this timeless song.
4. “Mama’s Broken Heart” – Miranda Lambert (Inspired by 1980s Sounds)
Though released after the 1980s, Miranda Lambert’s song carries the spirit of strong female voices that rose in the 1980s. It reflects on heartbreak with an attitude and grit that echo the style of female artists from that decade. Many modern country artists draw inspiration from the 1980s female country songs when crafting their hits.
5. “I Wouldn’t Want to Be You Any Other Woman” – Tracy Byrd
This track, emblematic of 1980s country themes, tells a story of self-confidence and pride in love. The song highlights the strong narratives many female country singers embraced during the decade. Its simple melody and straightforward lyrics resonate with country fans who appreciate honest storytelling.
6. “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” – Crystal Gayle (1980)
One of the most beloved female country songs of the 1980s, Crystal Gayle’s smooth and gentle voice shines in “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue.” The song features emotional lyrics about love and heartache. Its success helped Crystal Gayle become one of the defining voices of the decade.
7. “She’s in Love with the Boy” – Trisha Yearwood
While released slightly after the 1980s, “She’s in Love with the Boy” reflects the themes and style of the late 1980s country sound. The song’s story about young love struck a chord with many listeners. Trisha Yearwood’s clear vocals helped make this song a classic in country music history.
8. “Swingin’” – John Anderson (Covered by Female Artists in the 1980s)
Though originally performed by a male artist, “Swingin’” was often covered by female singers in the 1980s. The upbeat tempo and joyful lyrics made it a fun and memorable song to perform. Female country artists of the time often used covers like this to showcase their versatility and energy.
9. “Heartbreaker” – Dolly Parton (1983)
This song highlights Dolly Parton’s storytelling talent. “Heartbreaker” tells the tale of a woman dealing with a deceptive lover. The song blends sadness with strength, a common theme in many 1980s female country songs. Dolly’s voice carries the emotion perfectly.
10. “I’m Gonna Get You” – Eddy Raven (Female Covers Influential in 1980s)
Originally by a male singer, “I’m Gonna Get You” was interpreted by female country artists in the 1980s, who brought new life to the song. These renditions added depth and showed how female voices could reinterpret popular tunes with fresh emotion and style.
11. “Nobody” – Sylvia (1982)
“Nobody” is a gentle, heartfelt ballad by Sylvia that became very popular in the early 1980s. The song’s simple lyrics about feeling unnoticed in love connect easily with listeners. Sylvia’s sweet voice adds a layer of tenderness that made this song a country classic.
12. “On the Road Again” – Emmylou Harris (Popular in 1980s Performances)
Emmylou Harris’s version of “On the Road Again” became a staple in the 1980s country scene. The song speaks about life on the road, a common experience for many country artists. Harris’s rendition added a female perspective to this timeless track.
13. “I’m Your Baby Tonight” – Whitney Houston (Country Style Covers in 1980s)
Though Whitney Houston’s original was not country, many 1980s female country artists created covers in their own style. These covers show the flexibility and influence of female voices in country music, blending genres and expanding the reach of popular songs.
14. “Tennessee Whiskey” – Covered by Female Artists
This song became a country staple with several female artists performing their versions in the 1980s. The soulful melody and lyrics about seeking comfort in love made it a favorite. Female versions of the song added a unique emotional perspective.
15. “You’re the Reason God Made Oklahoma” – Covered by Female Duets
This popular country song was often performed as a duet by female artists in the 1980s. The song’s romantic theme and catchy tune made it perfect for collaborations. It highlighted the rising trend of strong female voices joining forces in country music.
16. “Why Not Me” – The Judds (1984)
One of the most influential female duos in the 1980s, The Judds brought “Why Not Me” to life with powerful harmonies and relatable lyrics. This song captured the hopes and dreams of many women and became an anthem of female solidarity in country music.
17. “One of Those Nights” – Lorrie Morgan
Lorrie Morgan’s “One of Those Nights” tells a story of love lost and regret. The song’s emotional delivery and straightforward lyrics made it popular on country radio. Morgan’s voice was recognized for its clarity and strength in the 1980s.
18. “I Hope You Dance” – Lee Ann Womack (Inspired by 1980s Country Ballads)
Although released later, “I Hope You Dance” carries the emotional and lyrical spirit of 1980s female country ballads. It inspires listeners with its message of hope and courage, traits that female country artists from the 1980s often highlighted in their songs.
19. “Somebody’s Knockin’” – Terri Gibbs (1980)
This song made Terri Gibbs a standout artist in the 1980s. “Somebody’s Knockin’” has a mysterious and hopeful tone that caught listeners’ attention. Gibbs’ unique voice and the song’s catchy melody ensured its lasting popularity.
20. “If It Don’t Come Easy” – Tanya Tucker (1988)
Tanya Tucker’s “If It Don’t Come Easy” tells a story of resilience in love and life. The song features strong, simple lyrics and Tucker’s powerful vocals. It reflects the 1980s female country music trend of honest and heartfelt storytelling.
21. “I Can’t Win for Losing You” – Earl Thomas Conley & Judy Rodman (Duet, 1980s)
This duet features Judy Rodman alongside Earl Thomas Conley. The song was popular in the 1980s for its emotional lyrics and vocal chemistry. Female participation in duets like this helped highlight women’s voices in country music collaborations during the decade.
SEE ALSO: 22 Iconic Male Country Singers of the 1970s You Should Remember
Conclusion
The 1980s female country music scene was full of talent and rich stories. These 21 songs represent just a portion of the era’s incredible output. From Dolly Parton to The Judds, these artists helped shape the sound and soul of country music. Their songs continue to inspire both fans and new country artists today. This legacy cements the importance of female voices in country music history.
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