27 Best Country Singers Of The 60s

19. June Carter Cash

June Carter Cash was a Grammy-winning country singer born on June 23, 1929, in Maces Spring, Virginia. She was known for her incredible singing talent and her contributions as a songwriter, author, dancer, actress, comedian, philanthropist, and humanitarian.

June came from a family of country music royalty and married the legendary Johnny Cash. As part of the Carter Family legacy, June Carter Cash made significant contributions to the world of country music. She performed alongside her husband, Johnny Cash, and they created numerous hit songs that became classics in the genre.

Her passion for music was evident through her powerful vocals and captivating performances.

Aside from her musical career, June Carter Cash pursued other creative endeavors. She wrote books about her life experiences and shared stories from the road with humor and authenticity.

She has multiple Grammy awards and an enduring legacy in country music history.

June Carter Cash's impact on the music industry and society will always be remembered.

20. Margie Singleton

Margie Singleton made her mark in the country music scene during the 1960s as a prominent solo recording artist and duet performer. Her unique voice and compelling performances captivated audiences, positioning her among notable figures of this era.

She had an incredible ability to harmonize with some of the biggest names in the country, sharing stage and studio moments with stars like George Jones and Faron Young.

Born on October 5, 1935, in Coushatta, LA, Margie quickly climbed the ladder of success due to her unmatched talent. The height of her musical journey arrived when she released her most celebrated hit song that swept across radio stations nationwide.

This achievement carved out a special place for Margie Singleton in country music history's annals.

21. Tom T. Hall

Tom T. Hall, known affectionately as “The Storyteller,” was a pivotal figure in the country music landscape of the 1960s. Born in 1936 in Olive Hill, Kentucky, Hall had a knack for creating lyrically rich, vivid narratives that resonated deeply with his audience.

His most famous songs, like “Harper Valley PTA” and “Ballad of Forty Dollars,” weren't just music; they were captivating stories that explored the breadth of the human experience.

By the end of the 60s, his influence had begun to change the storytelling paradigm in country music, setting the stage for a more reflective and narrative-driven direction in the genre.

22. Charley Pride

Charley Pride was a trailblazer in country music in the 1960s, breaking barriers as one of the genre's first black superstars. Born in 1934 in Sledge, Mississippi, Pride's smooth baritone and traditional sound resonated deeply with audiences. His impressive string of hits, including “Just Between You and Me” and “All I Have to Offer You (Is Me),” demonstrated that great music transcends racial and cultural boundaries.

In an industry dominated by white artists, Pride's immense success marked a significant milestone for diversity in country music.

23. Bobby Bare

Bobby Bare, a pivotal figure in the country music scene of the 1960s, brought an unmistakable authenticity to his music that continues to resonate with audiences.

A pioneer of the Outlaw Country movement, Bare's willingness to push boundaries and challenge the status quo helped reshape country music, making it more reflective of the times and personal experiences.

24. Maybelle Carter

Maybelle Carter was a pioneer in country music. She was born on May 10, 1909, and her contribution to the genre is unforgettable. Known as “Mother Maybelle,” she was a talented musician and a member of the renowned Carter Family trio.

One of her significant contributions to country music was being one of the first musicians to use the Carter style of guitar playing. Sadly, Maybelle Carter passed away on October 23, 1978, leaving an incredible legacy that continues to influence and inspire generations of country musicians today.

25. Wanda Jackson

The infamous “Queen of Rockabilly” transformed her sound in the 1960s. Wanda Jackson stepped far from her roots and to a more country and pop-oriented sound. This shift allowed her to appeal to a broader audience while still maintaining her unique vocal style.

Wanda achieved significant crossover success with the song “Let's Have a Party,” which became one of her signature hits. Blengin rockabilly and pop influences and Wanda was a staple name for country in this decade, and it showed her ability to adapt to changing musical trends.

26. Eddy Arnold

Often referred to as the “Tennessee Plowboy”, Eddy Arnold was one of the best country singers of the 1960s. Known for his smooth voice and crossover appeal, Arnold's style of country music often incorporated elements of pop, which made it easier to listen for new audiences of the genre.

Some of his notable hits from this era include “Make the World Go Away,” “The Last Word in Lonesome Is Me,” and “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye.” The 1960s saw Arnold incorporating modern production techniques and arrangements while still having his distinct voice and emotional delivery at the forefront of every track.

27. Roy Acuff

Nicknamed the “King of Country Music”, in the 1960s, Roy Acuff was already a highly respected figure due to his contributions in the previous decades. He had established himself as a pioneer, known for his traditional country sound and his involvement in the Grand Ole Opry, where he still constantly performed in this decade.

While his commercial success had peaked in the earlier decades, Acuff still released several albums and recordings during the 1960s. His music typically stayed true to his traditional country roots, and was mainly seen as a performer more so than a recording artist.

Top Country Singers Of The 60s, Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 60s was a golden era for country music and produced some of the greatest singers ever. From the powerful vocals of Patsy Cline to the storytelling genius of Johnny Cash, these artists left an indelible mark on both country music and popular culture.

Their timeless songs continue to captivate audiences today and solidify their status as true legends in the genre.