2014: Not only was it a huge year for music in general, but it was an even bigger year for country music. More so than anytime in the past, country music has begun to crossover into mainstream pop and rock, and is now featured more and more on top 40 radio stations and top hits music channels alike. While some artists stay true to their country roots, it seems as though the genre is still expanding and gaining a greater following. A ton of great music was released this year — breakout artists found their niche, and some of our favorites continued to crank out the hits. With all of this in mind, here is a list of the top ten country albums of 2014:
10. Cole Swindell - Cole Swindell
Coming in at number 10 on our countdown is Cole Swindell's self-titled debut album. A breakout "bro-country" artist in 2014, Swindell is no stranger to the country music scene, as he rose to fame as a successful songwriter first, writing several smash hits for Luke Bryan, Thomas Rhett, and even Chris Young. This album is sure to give you a little bit of everything — there's some upbeat music perfect for a game day tailgate as well as some heartbreak music for the rough times.
9. Riser - Dierks Bentley
One of Dierks Bentley's most prized albums, this one is full of bittersweet emotions. "Riser" was written and recorded just after the death of Bentley's father and the birth of his son. The album has quite a range of songs as well, with his biggest hit of 2014 "I Hold On" all the way to the whimsical "Drunk on a Plane." If there's one thing this album doesn't lack — it's diversity. It's definitely worth checking out!
8. Ignite the Night - Chase Rice
It seems as though 2014 truly was the year of breakout artists, as Chase Rice was yet another artist who rose to greater fame after a smash hit. This album took off after "Ready Set Roll" rose on the charts, and with a mid-2014 release, no one should be surprised if this album carries over some hits into the new year. Chase Rice may not be an A-lister just yet, but he's sure on his way with an album like this.
7. Anything Goes - Florida Georgia Line
It seems as though country music and top 40 music alike cannot be mentioned anymore without Florida Georgia Line coming up at some point. Fresh after the success of their debut album, "Here's to the Good Times," it's clear these boys aren't going anywhere. Two singles off the album have already been huge successes, and it will be no surprise when several more follow suit. They may not be the traditional country stars with their pop influences, but it's obvious they are here to stay in country music.
6. Platinum - Miranda Lambert
Miranda Lambert has been one of country music's leading ladies for several years now, and after the release of "Platinum," she isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Lambert holds nothing back on this album full of confident fearless tracks, and who can forget the collaboration with the queen of country music herself, Carrie Underwood — "Somethin' Bad?" 2014 was a big year for Miranda, winning Female Vocalist of the Year at the CMA Awards again. No one be surprised if she's up for another repeat in 2015.
5. The Big Revival - Kenny Chesney
Kenny Chesney has been around country music for many years now, and has become one of the top selling touring artists in music in general — selling out stadiums across the U.S. and more. "The Big Revival" is just another notch in his belt with feel good hits like "American Kids" and "Til It's Gone". Kenny may be one of the older guys on the country scene at this point, but it's clear he can keep up with the youngins, and he only gets better with time.
4. 747 - Lady Antebellum
Any country music fan is used to Lady Antebellum's emotional love song ballads. "747" has its fair share of those, but Lady Antebellum further diversifies their sound by taking on some fun upbeat music such as "Bartender," "Long Stretch of Love," and "Freestyle." Whether you're a long time Lady A fan, or just a country music fan — this album has a little something for everyone.
3. Old Boots, New Dirt - Jason Aldean
Jason Aldean has become one of the biggest names in country music over the past decade, blending country with a rock edge and producing exciting music along the way. His latest album pushes the boundaries just a bit further, adding some pop and electronic beats to the background while still cranking out smash hits. "Burnin' it Down" and "Just Gettin' Started" have already taken off on the charts, and country music fans should be ready for just a few more from Aldean as this album is packed with hits to come.
2. Montevallo - Sam Hunt
While Sam Hunt may not be the most recognizable name in country music, he has already left his mark by writing some big hits for Keith Urban, Billy Currington, and many more. His first full-length album reached number 1 on the country charts, proving he has what it takes to be more than just a writer. "Montevallo" not only blends upbeat pop with a traditional country feel, but Hunt also provides some hip hop beats and subtle rhythmic spoken word. (Some may call it rapping even?) Call it what you want, but this is without a doubt an album for the books, as Sam Hunt has not only solidified his place in the country music industry, but also pushed the boundaries of country music for years to come.
1. The Outsiders - Eric Church
Hands down, the best album in country music this year goes to Eric Church. "The Outsiders" is masterfully written, with punny songs such as "Cold One" all the way to raw storytelling with "Talladega" and "Give Me Back My Hometown. It also goes to the next level with rock hits such as "That's Damn Rock & Roll." This is, without a doubt, one of the most diverse and well written albums not only of the year, but in a very VERY long time. Eric Church has earned himself a place in the country music history books with this one — and I think I speak for many people when I say that I can't wait to see what he does next.
