27 Best Male Country Singers Of The 60s
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21. Sonny James
Sonny James emerged as a distinctive and captivating voice in the 1960s country music landscape. He was introduced to music early by his parents, who were amateur musicians.
His first major hit was “Young Love,” which topped the country and pop charts. In the 1960s, he dominated the country charts with hits such as “You’re the Only World I Know” and “Take Good Care of Her.”
In 1967, he received the first of two back-to-back Male Vocalist of the Year awards from the Academy of Country Music. He was also inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2006.
22. Roger Miller
Roger Miller was a highly influential American singer-songwriter in the 1960s, known for his honky-tonk-influenced novelty songs.
One of his biggest hits from the era was “King of the Road,” showcasing his songwriting abilities and charismatic stage presence.
In addition to his singing talents, Miller was an accomplished songwriter, guitarist, fiddler, drummer, T.V. star, and Broadway composer. He won an impressive 11 Grammy Awards, spanning various categories such as Best Country & Western Song and Best Country Vocal Performance.
23. Bill Anderson
Nicknamed “Whispering Bill” for his soft, intimate vocal style, Bill Anderson revolutionized country music in the 1960s with uniquely evocative delivery.
Anderson’s breakthrough hit was “City Lights,” a song he wrote at 19, popularized by Ray Price in 1958. However, it was during the 1960s that Anderson’s solo career flourished with famous singles like “Po’ Folks” and “Mama Sang a Song.”
Anderson was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1975. He was also the first country singer to receive a BMI Icon Award in 2002.
24. Billy “Crash” Craddock
Billy Craddock is a memorable artist for his music, unique energy, and charm. He adopted the stage name Billy “Crash” Craddock, a nod to his youthful energy and irreverent persona.
His early career took off in the late 1950s with a rockabilly style in Australia with tracks like “Boom Boom Baby” and “One Last Kiss.” His international success paved the way for his country music resurgence in the U.S.
By the mid-1970s, Craddock had firmly established himself as a country star in the U.S., with hits like “Rub It In” and “Sweet Magnolia Blossom.”
25. Jim Ed Brown
Jim Ed Brown was a talented country singer who made his mark on the music scene in the 1960s. He started his career as part of the group The Browns alongside his two sisters.
He had a successful solo career in the 60s, with many of his songs reaching the top of the charts. These include “Pop a Top” and “I Don’t Want to Have to Marry You,” his hit duet with Helen Cornelius.
In 2015, Brown was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, showcasing his lasting impact on the genre.
26. Dick Curless
With his rich baritone voice and signature eyepatch, Dick Curless was one of the most intriguing artists in the landscape of 1960s country music.
His journey into country music began when he started his radio show. However, his big break came in the 60s, with the release of his most iconic song, “A Tombstone Every Mile.” It resonated deeply with truckers and country music fans alike.
Curless released several notable tracks throughout his career, such as “Bury the Bottle with Me” and “Big Wheel Cannonball.”
27. Roy Drusky
Although less well-known than the others on this list, Roy Drusky’s silky voice and suave stage presence cemented his name in country music history.
His big break came in the 1960s, with the release of his chart-topping hit “Yes Mr. Peters,” a humorous duet with Priscilla Mitchell. Famous tracks include “Peel Me a Nanner” and “Long Long Texas Road.”
Drusky was also invited to join the Grand Ole Opry, a highly prestigious platform for any country artist.
Top Male Country Singers Of The 60s, Final Thoughts
The golden age of country music in the 1960s witnessed the rise of many talented artists who left a permanent mark on the genre. These 60s male country singers, with their unique styles and authentic storytelling, shaped the course of country music and continue to inspire future generations today.
