Year in review: The 20 best country albums of 2021

One of the most compelling new voices in country music, Mickey Guyton's full-length debut makes strong statements about equality in the genre, both for women and artists of color. 

Sure, it's technically a bluegrass album, but country fans who love a little twang will find a lot to enjoy in "Renewal," the latest album from Billy Strings. It's a stunning and deeply personal record, one that will definitely stand the test of time. 

This stripped-down collection of tunes from Miranda Lambert showcases the artist at her best. Recorded in Marfa, Texas, each song feels intimately personal, especially tracks like "In His Arms." There are also more fun tunes like the "Jolene" inspired "Geraldene" and an acoustic version of her hit "Tequila Does." 

Neotraditionalist Alan Jackson is back, with a collection of songs that stays true to his country roots. There's a lot of deeply personal songs on this 21-track collection, and plenty of commentary on the state of modern country music. 

A triple album, Eric Church's "Heart & Soul" includes some of the artist's best tracks to date, like "Hell of a View." Recorded in just 28 days in North Carolina, the project offers a deeper look into a modern country outlaw. 

With her debut album "Reckless," Morgan Wade proved that she's a force to be reckoned with. Powerhouse vocals combine with compelling lyrics to produce instant classics like "Wilder Days." 

Though it's technically an EP, "29" is a strong contender for one of the year's top country albums. Written in the aftermath of Pearce's divorce, it's devastatingly personal and packed with excellent lyricism. 

One of country music's greatest living icons, Loretta Lynn proved that she's still got it in a major way with "Still Woman Enough," a collection of classics and new tunes that serves as a master class in Lynn's stellar catalog. 

Rooted firmly in gospel, country, soul, and blues, "Our Country" is one of the genre's most sonically diverse records of the year. And it sure doesn't hurt that these songs are fueled by Miko Marks's astoundingly good voice. 

Arguably one of the most fun bands in country music right now, Mike and the Moonpies can always be counted on for perfect honky-tonk tunes. Not familiar with the band? Give "Paycheck to Paycheck" a listen for an example of their rollicking, Red Dirt-influenced style. 

This Dallas singer-songwriter has earned the praise of critics and fans alike across his three releases, and his latest, "See You Next Time" is perhaps his most compelling work. With haunting vocals, lyrics that are packed with killer stories, and classic instrumentation, Joshua Ray Walker has proven that he's one of the most interesting new acts in country music. 

With a sound that spans a wide range of genres, it's hard to pin Charley Crockett down as simply a country artist. But fans of the genre will appreciate Crockett's tunes nonetheless, especially on "Music City USA." 

Hailing from East Texas, Vincent Neil Emerson is one of those country artists that's flown under the radar for far too long. His self-titled 2021 record is a real stunner, perfect for fans of artists like Colter Wall and Brent Cobb. 

Signed to the late John Prine's Oh Boy Records, Emily Scott Robinson is one of Americana's most sonically interesting artists. On "American Siren," roots, folk, and country influences collide with incredible lyrics to produce one of the year's most exciting new releases. 

With a decidedly country sound and frank point-of-view, Lainey Wilson's "Sayin' What I'm Thinkin'" is a breath of fresh air. The song's biggest single, "Things A Man Oughta Know," is also one of those songs that will still be on everybody's playlists years later. 

Even though her music doesn't get much radio airplay, there's nobody making better country music right now than Brandi Carlile. With expansive sonic influences, Carlile's powerful vocals, and innovative instrumentation, songs like "Broken Horses" and "This Time Tomorrow" are instant classics. 

This concept album from genre-bending artist Sturgill Simpson tells the story of Dood, an 1800s cowboy in search of his love Juanita, who's been kidnapped by bandits. Equal parts sad, charming, and beautifully written, it's a fine example of Simpson's lyrical prowess. 

Recorded in 2019, when Wanda Jackson was 82 years old, "Encore" is the definition of country cool. It's classic Wanda Jackson, with that rockabilly influence and characteristic sass, and perfect for fans nostalgic about the good ol' days when classic country ruled the airwaves. 

The first full-length album from incredible talent Joy Oladokun, "In Defense of My Own Happiness" is an album about survival and resilience. In addition to Oladokun's incredible singing and lyrics, the album also boasts appearances from Nashville hitmakers like Maren Morris. 

Technically more in the folk category, but if Alison Krauss is involved, it totally counts as country. The second collaboration between Krauss and Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant, this album is packed with beautiful harmonies that will stand the test of time.