When you go back in time as far as the 1970s, you realize what forgotten treasures there are in country music. Albums that slipped between the cracks and slid out of sight. Many were by amazing singers. Despite changes in taste and in the genre itself, these LPs have remained significant. They are a testimonial to the talent, artistry, and fearlessness of their creators. They are as valid and meaningful today as when the mini skirt and the Hula Hoop reigned supreme. So let's revisit these classics from virtuosos like Kris Kristofferson to give them some extra love.
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'Silk Purse' by Linda Ronstadt
Ronstadt's body of work is diverse and remarkable. She never stayed in one groove for too long. The "Faithless Love" singer was always boldly shape-shifting. This was the only album Ronstadt made in Music City. Per Rolling Stone, "She got so down-home, she even posed for the cover photo in a pigsty." The tracks on Silk Purse included classic jewels like Hank Williams' "Homesick Blues" and the Shirelles' "Will You Love Me Tomorrow." Per the outlet, people might have questioned whether this was just "a hippie chick singing Country...." Nope, Linda Ronstadt was the real deal. Always. She prioritized authenticity and we prioritized her.
'My Tennessee Mountain Home' by Dolly Parton
Parton is a multimillionaire today. She has staked her claim on many worlds, such as music, philanthropy, business, and book publishing. But Parton never forgot or downplayed her modest roots. The "Jolene" singer expressed her love for home on this album. Per American Songwriter, "This 1973 album is basically Parton's autobiography." It's the encapsulated story of her life, from its beginnings to Nashville. The LP features songs like the title track and "The Letter."
'Kristofferson' by Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson is an undeniably towering figure in country music, both as a singer and a songwriter. His contribution to the gene, in the 1970s and after, is so immense that it's hard to calibrate. Per The Boot, this freshman album from him in 1970 showcases now-classic songs such as "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Sunday Mornin' Comin Down." Per the outlet, Kristofferson unveiled "a hippie-ish, singer-songwriter brand of country music."
'Wanted: The Outlaws' by Waylon Jennings, Tompall Glaser, Jessi Colter, and Kris Kristofferson
The Boot reverently referred to this as "one of the most iconic country albums of all time." It helped usher in the outlaw movement in the genre in 1976. These four adventurous mavericks pushed back hard on the commercialism, superficiality, and infiltration of pop in country music. They made their voices heard, sonically and philosophically. What they did found favor. They created the first country LP that ever went platinum. Quite an enduring achievement on many levels that characterized the 1970s.
