10 Country Artists Who Just Sorta Disappeared

[@GradySmith]

Get ready to feel nostalgic. This had me wishing for new music from Jamey Johnson and The Wreckers, especially!

[@dragonkfg]

I was nostalgic, indeed, Grady!

[@shaynaglick9325]

Love this video!!!

[@SaneAsylum]

At least they left one of the pieces when they left: kzbin.infovideos

[@conyerspreveaux2604]

As a Alabama native I really wish Jamey Johnson would come back

[@Serenade2461]

Every time you mention women artists from the 90's I'm just sitting here going "Shedaisy, Shedaisy, say Shedaisy!" Thank you for finally mentioning them!!!!

[@Noone-zm3zb]

Who else still rocks out to “Chicks dig it”, and “In Color”?

[@pipower314159265]

I only got back into country the last few years after avoiding it high school and a bit of middle, but still somehow found "In Color" and it quickly became one of my favorites.

[@ethanleach9321]

I have a few Chris Cagle and Jamey Johnson songs on iTunes. Chris Cagle's song "Laredo" is still one of my all-time favorites.

[@Mackaylinn]

Walmart Parking Lot and What kind of Gone. Are also great songs imo.

[@prestonmelkerson7809]

In color is such a great song!

[@davehilton1613]

@@prestonmelkerson7809 I consider it a classic

[@katiegurksnis160]

I hope Jamey Johnson makes a comeback someday. He’s too good not to create more music.

[@Oliver0200]

I believe he says he just likes touring. That's what he enjoys the most and he's just gonna do what he wants and if he has fans then that's a plus. I unfortunately wouldn't expect an album from him at least anytime soon even though he's one I listen to every day. If you get tired of his albums look up his live covers he's done a ton at farm aid

[@katiegurksnis160]

Oliver Oh I’m definitely not tired of the albums he has. But I will look those up. I’ve heard he puts on a great show.

[@joelee5829]

yeah i have seen him 3 times in 2 years touring

[@TexasRed1961]

@@joelee5829 He was touring with Chris Stapleton. I was supposed to see in in Austin in March, but it was postponed until November 2020 and this week, it was postponed until November 2021.

[@stevenbramley9574]

I seen him in concert few yrs ago when, Should have seen it in color, was a hit, but gotta say his concert was BORING we even left b4 the show was over lol

[@SnxMan]

The band Perry hurts so much, I feel they had so much potential to go further.

[@jmcharles6916]

They tried to be edgy with one foot in pop music. If they had concentrated on BEING COUNTRY they would be more successful.

[@bigred4379]

Yeah I don’t get that either

[@Telecastersanonymous]

It’s quite depressing to me too, when they were just blowing up back in 2011-12-ish I seen them at a free concert in Louisville Kentucky. It was at the waterfront, right on the Ohio river. it was the 4th of July, an amazing night. It was one of the greatest nights of my life, so much fun. And to see the direction they’ve gone...it just sucks

[@TheCentralflorida]

They are a great example of how so many of these......"country"......artists of today become anything else because they aren't even close to actually country. You could almost pick any 5 new singers today and make a new backstreet boys

[@bigred4379]

@@TheCentralflorida I don’t know how to label them , really , but I agree... for the last four five years one sounds like the next and don’t blink one name replaces another and you still think it’s the same guy 😆

[@Lexking22]

Wow I miss Chris cagle. Who remembers Jo Dee Messina?! Loved her

[@jennifertaylor9817]

I saw that she was headlining at a fair last yr. Sad...we saw her perform several times and she was entertaining.

[@sandyseffrood4384]

She is awesome in concert!! She’s still out and about, just nothing new lately

[@darrinlindsey]

I'm All Right is still one of my favorite songs all time.

[@melaniesheets3100]

I saw a couple years ago Jo Dee played out a county fair near me then stopped touring because she was diagnosed with throat cancer. One of my favorite female country artists of like all time.

[@annchristian900]

Chris cagle is my absolute favorite I love him, I've seen them both in concert but awesome got autographs from both too.. I am glad Chris is happy w his wife and kids and farm wish he'd come back..

[@MikeKraemer87]

Honestly, id love to drop a record, build myself a nice house on about 100 acres and retire! I don't blame some of these folks for just getting the hell out of it all!

[@dchawk81]

That's my dream. Lol. Do just enough once to set me up for life. 😃

[@HeatherLynseyMusic]

You know, I can’t say I blame them either. It would be a dream to have one single.

[@henrydycha3738]

They have connections, fake country music.

[@chasejackson7248]

People rarely make money on album sales, touring and residual's make them money.

[@dawgsfan1196]

Chris Cagle was and is criminally underrated

[@debmundorf3551]

Gary Allen also

[@DPRyan-vd5pp]

My oldest sister Stacy graduated from Ross S. Sterling High School with Cagle in 1987! I remember hearing about her talking about “ this dude that’s always singing in class” lol, it was Chris Cagle

[@dawgsfan1196]

Chris Cagle was severely underrated

[@debbieburns3848]

Miss me baby is one of my favorite songs

[@seapanther53]

Laredo will always be one of my favorites.

[@garyallanfan0602]

Agreed I still jam out to play it loud to got my country on

[@RyderOnYT]

as long as the chicks were digging it 👀

[@milesb9359]

Chris Cagle’s really got some great songs. “What Kinda Gone” is one of my favorites. Great vid

[@srvfan25]

Chicks dig it is a great song too

[@jtimo38]

I wonder if the DUI judge threw the book at him when he told em that "the chicks dig it"

[@lukebernard7466]

What kinda gone is one of the most under rated country songs ever

[@milesb9359]

Scott Rieder Thanks for sharing that. I can’t say I’m all that surprised, he’s had more than his share of screwups. You know, after watching this video, I brushed back up on Chris’s discography on youtube, and I found a little Facebook live he did about a month ago. Played a couple songs, and I’d have to say that based on that video, he’s a better man than he may have been in the past. He did a bunch of shoutouts, showed love for the fans, and most of all, his family. I was happy to see it, and I’m sure you can find it if you’re interested.

[@dawgsfan1196]

He's really underrated

[@scottmcintosh1636]

One to add to this was Blackhawk. Great band back in the 90’s.

[@rticle15]

Blackhawk's debut album was amazing. They had other projects so I don't know if they just moved on. Some of the members were from the Outlaws too.

[@doublelxp]

I think they faded out when Van Stephenson left (and later passed away.) First two albums were great.

[@dm9489]

Blackhawk was slated to perform a concert last year with Sawyer Brown, had tickets to go and was pumped about seeing them. Then COVID hit...... and we know what happened after that :( Always loved that band!

[@badlandskid]

Goodbye says it all

[@middlefinger1565]

Blackhawk is essentially the Outlaws with Van Stephenson (R.I.P) and sans Huey Thomasson.

[@richardburchett]

Deena Carter, Big & Rich, and Craig Morgan are some names that I didn’t think would disappear completely.

[@aimgrace]

Big & Rich are still all over Nashville, doing different things but still very involved in country music behind the scenes

[@lollypop2414]

Craig Morgan still tours and he's done some acting. Sadly his son passed away (drowning) in 2019 at age 19. I'm sure that's been really hard for him and his family.

[@nicksmith-rz2dl]

Big and rich still do music.

[@versansky75]

Craig Morgan had some legal issues that he is taking care of. Big & Rich still put out music..... Sometimes together, sometimes solo. And Deena Carter, I agree. I haven't heard from her in forever

[@jlarrybrewer1149]

@@versansky75 I grew up with Deana in Goodlettsville so I still talk to her. She still records and tours at least she did before COVID. She has released several really good albums since Strawberry Wine

[@yamasail]

I don't mind former country artists taking their music in a whole different direction as long as they sell it for what it is and don't try passing it off as country just because of their name.

[@lanettecox7442]

I loved Hal Ketchum 💙 Sadly he passed November 23, 2020. 💔 Loved watching him in concert. Super nice man. RIP Hal.

[@Red-Wolf-Ben]

😯😪 I'm just now hearing about this.... I always loved his song, "Small Town, Saturday Night."

[@diannegoyer121]

Oh no....loved Hal ..I can't believe it 🌟

[@blaisemacpherson7637]

@@Red-Wolf-Ben that was the first real song I learned on guitar at 12yo. We gonna howl at the moon shoot out the light

[@isurrenderall5544]

One of my altimeter favs! Miss him!

[@jayroy430]

I miss Mark Wills he had some great songs I still hear “nineteen something “ sometimes. “Wish you were here” was a big hit too.

[@terrywilliams5285]

Jacobs ladder

[@HelgaGrace2007]

Love Mark Wills

[@mattr918]

He's a pro 3gun shooter now and was on the fn America team. He's a friend of a friend of mine and said he was pushed out for wanting to make "real country music"

[@willhuey4891]

dont laugh at me was another one.

[@saltymcnuts1697]

Lovin every minute. Going to have to look it up now. And with that first kiss...,

[@SaltyStudley]

Who else remembers Emerson Drive?

[@wantsomecoffee]

I remember Emerson Bigguns. 😂Sorry, I couldn’t help it.

[@mamajodylynn5585]

They played my hometown in 2005! They were awesome

[@margaretbelcher4190]

They’re still touring in Canada. They’ve done a couple of shows in the states.

[@mattsloan9095]

I loved Emerson Drive!

[@Spitfirethedragon]

They are a Canadian band, and their releases are there these days with many number ones since their last hit in the states.

[@versansky75]

I didn't want to mention this, but I feel just heartbroken for what happened to Mindy McCready. She was doing so well in her career when all her tragic struggles happened. It was even sadder when she died and how her life suddenly ended..... And why

[@dragonflyy000]

I thought about her too. I lost v my youngest son in the same manner.... its just heartbreaking and leaves you with so many what-ifs and so many unanswered questions 💔

[@johncoe6304]

I know brian !

[@DrLuke49]

@@dragonflyy000 🙏😪❤💯

[@DrLuke49]

Mindy McCready was truly one of those tortured souls in the music world.

[@reneeg4817]

Her parents lived 20 mins from me. She was with Dean Cain for awhile. She was demonized.. So sad..

[@katyp.4615]

I’ve seen Chris Cagle three times within the last 6 years and he is AMAZING. He is so so grateful to be on stage every single time I see him. Just a stand up dude that you can tell loves to perform. I didn’t even think of him as “disappeared”.

[@armstrongjosh]

Anyone else love these videos but also have trouble watching them cause the nostalgia hits you so hard it hurts?

[@jillholly4175]

🙋‍♀️ Yes

[@Katbuc88]

Yessss

[@terrybrewer3162]

Yessalways is song was popular met a love, or break up

[@jordanmackinnon3877]

Lonestar kinda seams like a REALLY big one you missed, lots of big hits and they basically fell off the face of the earth.

[@stephaniegarcia7818]

Lonestar is still touring. My husband and I saw them in 2019.

[@nolanboles8492]

I always kind of blamed Rascal Flatts for Lonestar's downfall, don't ask me why.

[@cowboykody6775]

Big n Rich

[@lianelayman6584]

Yea I saw them at The Frederick, MD fair in 2019 with Teri Clark and then Ritchie left the group again.@@stephaniegarcia7818

[@susansev4499]

One of my favorites that I haven't heard of lately is Josh Turner.

[@darrinlindsey]

He's been doing KZbin videos during the pandemic.

[@ginabell694]

@@darrinlindsey I just discovered that yesterday. Love it.

[@ah5721]

Josh Turner is amazing and is better than the the ugly bro country (pop with a country twang) they play on the radio!

[@coltencassidy8970]

I just worked one of his concerts last year at a small resort

[@judithryle2113]

Cant stand josh turner

[@KuliJens]

Not surprised many of these were “disputes with the label”. Just confirms that these labels are filtering out the real talent to make way for radio garbage.

[@orlock20]

I don't believe they are filtering out the talent, but rather the profits. A more successful act will want more money. If the act is just the face of the project, then they can be replaced.

[@supermike0822]

@@orlock20 Exactly. Nashville is full of rising stars waiting to be discovered. Artists get crap deals that they are initially happy to receive, then later want more control and money, and the label says "We made you... sorry... next...."

[@DrDeath-pk2tt]

Mike Adams Nashville is trash period ! They don’t know real music anymore

[@bfr123456]

Most of the time when “label disputes” happen, its because the artist that has the surprise hit has a little “too good” of a record deal-they are getting writing credits and publishing rights and now that they are popular, the label will not get the majority of the revenue...label just gets rid of them and uses the “Nashville” formula to use studio musicians to pedal copy and past the exact same type song and style to some young artist who doesn’t know their way around the music business and sure enough, they get a hit, tour, but don’t end up with any money.

[@dragonkfg]

Listen to "The Last DJ" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Describes what you said well!

[@Tracywhited2]

Bobbie Gentry is just a musical and lyrical goddess. Bless her. She’ll always be in of the may favorites

[@Thejwill24]

One I would include would be Gloriana. They had a few hits from 2009-2012. They released their last album in 2015 and then they broke up 2 years later.

[@lukewilsonhere]

I freaking miss The Band Perry, makes me sad every time I think about it. They’re harmonies were second to none.

[@patriciasnyder6915]

I loved Jimmy Wayne. Though I miss his music, what a great transition to an amazing service for children.

[@tonymurray6518]

His biography is an amazing, emotional read! If you haven't already read it.

[@Firefly1138]

Gretchen Wilson. I completely forgot about her until she showed up at the CMA Awards last year

[@truckercowboyed2638]

She looked tired to me tho, like she's been through hell

[@Spitfirethedragon]

She released a new album last year.

[@stevenbramley9574]

I think she went down hill because she was on the radio like FAST, she had her songs then songs with Big n Rich and all them, just think it was 2 much 2 fast...

[@jennifersman7990]

She made some headlines in my area when she got busted for disorderly conduct with the TSA reps at the airport

[@bigred4379]

NOW YOURE TALKIN!! I LOVE THAT WOMAN!! Sassy, real, and a fantastic country voice .

[@thatgirlisawkward]

Gary Allan hasn't released an album is SO long. Freaking love him and I'm surprised he wasn't on this list

[@jeanniemainzer8551]

He's got a new one. The lead song is amazing!

[@kenh9681]

Gary Allen always my favorite male country singer after Waylon Jennings. I kinda stopped listening to country a good while back but have over 4000 albums all country from the 70s 80s 90s and early 2000s. Todays country just lost me along the way. Gary Allen in a category all of his own.

[@rachael8078]

Gary Allen lives in Hendersonville tn and pretty much raised his kids after his wife died. I was his daughters substitute teacher in middle school and then oddly enough was in her anatomy class years later when I went back to college.

[@aadams8419]

I’m going to a Gary Allan concert in May.

[@rachael8078]

@@aadams8419 oh that will be fun!

[@mrmc9278]

I loved The Wreckers album. Every song could have been a hit. Their harmonies were great, and Crazy People is a fantastic song.

[@terrak72]

Yes!!!!

[@DPRyan-vd5pp]

Cigarettes is their best song!

[@MB-de5ho]

I miss John Michael Montgomery- greetings from Germany 🇩🇪🙋🏼‍♂️

[@theoriginalkaro]

M B he still sings with his brother Eddie. He was in Montgomery Gentry and still tours with Eddie and the band. They were scheduled to play here in my town in August but it has been postponed due to Covid.

[@larrymoonlight2786]

Hey endlich mal ein Deutscher Fan

[@denabluechicken]

i saw JMM in concert in 2017 - was very nostalgic

[@captainhalfgreybeard4684]

...would love to see JM Montgomery...team up w his brother Eddie (now alone in the duo Montgomery Gentry).

[@johnstacey7653]

Always wondered what happened to him. He was huge in the later 90's turning out hit after hit then didn't hear anything. Later I heard he stopped to spend time with his family.

[@jasonmoore8987]

The Wreckers put out a perfect album ...all songs are amazing ...no filler

[@DJMeCa]

I LOVED this video Grady! I found myself going, “oh my God, I loved him/her”, as some of them had some pretty big songs! It got me thinking that this could be a great series of videos if you ever wanted to go that route. The cool part is that it may help remind people of some talented folks who could use a resurgence. Just quickly went through my head, and here are some other artists that have split up, left the business, turned to songwriting, acting, and one that has passed. Here’s some for you: Clay Davidson, Emerson Drive, Little Texas, Gary Allan, Gibson Miller Band, Hal Ketchum, Highway 101, Jack Ingram, James Otto , Jeff Carson, Josh Gracin, Keith Anderson, Kevin Sharp, Larry Stewart, Lisa Brokop, Mark Collie, Michael Peterson, Phil Stacey, Ricochet, Shelby Lynne, Suzy Boguss, Trick Pony. Man, you made me create a new playlist I’m gonna love! Thanks for always doing such a great job!

[@Spitfirethedragon]

Emerson Drive is not gone. They are still making hits in Canada. Little Texas did made a comeback around 10 years ago. Gary Allan still releasing new music. Jack Ingram is showing up on the Texas music charts. Jeff Carson is a cop now. His son is in the business now. Josh Gracin new songs came out last year. Kevin Sharp is dead. Ricochet are still doing new music and tour, but the constant band shakeup killed their career. Chase Bryant's uncles were co-founders of the group.

[@Dustindonahue01]

Clay Davidson still hurts his one album "Unconditional" is still on constant rotation in my cd player

[@pamelaparker7032]

Gary Allan is still touring and definitely worth a listen. Wish he would reappear. Great talent. Not bad looking either 😉

[@DeekFTW]

If The Band Perry just went on a "hiatus" and started releasing things under a new project I think they would have found more success with it. Instead, they ostracized their fans while failing to build a foothold with their newfound sound.

[@katelynbrown98]

I don't mind their new sound, BUT it sounded too much like Lady Antebellum or Little Big Town.

[@edvaira6891]

They were the biggest surprise here! They had a REALLY solid career building...and they just farted it away

[@curvygirl813]

I really miss them. I thought they were unique with their Bluegrass based sound.

[@charlesbolton8471]

@@curvygirl813 I really liked their first album. It seemed almost like they wanted to be another Nickel Creek. However, the Band Perry combined lacked the talent of any single member of Nickel Creek. I’m not putting down The Band Perry in any way they (or anyone else) can be successful without being virtuosos like the members of Nickel Creek, but they didn’t build their career pushing boundaries the way that Nickel Creek did so I think that might be part of the reason that they haven’t transitioned well.

[@GameRoomKid]

Bucky Covington, Rick Trevino, James Bonamy, The Wilkinson’s, Sunny Sweeney, Eric Heatherly, Casey James, etc. You could do lists of pretty much every single 90’s and 2000’s artist.

[@christinekirby1]

For the Wilkinson's, the father (Steve) decided to retire, and while his children (Amanda and Tyler) were writing music for a potential solo album for Amanda, her and her bother decided to form a duo called Small Town Pistols, and they released two albums under that name.

[@alton791]

I like Eric Heatherly’s Flowers On The Wall.

[@IHeartAtx]

Sunny's still around I follow her on Insta and she just started touring again.

[@shannakelly490]

Bucky!

[@spencerallegra]

The band Perry’s move to pop music hurts my soul.

[@89Octane90]

Sure does I saw them live in 2011 opening for Brad Paisley and they kicked ass.

[@kylierichardson5061]

They still make good music

[@BrittsBites402]

Same

[@jangeltrain]

Also, like, the first rule of marketing is have a consistent message. Their constant rebranding is such a bizarre action to take in an industry where being recognizable is so incredibly necessary.

[@emmahartvig9966]

Seems like they’re not even famous anymore

[@jakebutler291]

I feel like the Band Perry sort of pulled a Taylor Swift... but not as well unfortunately :(

[@JCourts2k23]

Jake Butler I was thinking the same exact thing

[@pamelaparker7032]

I didn't realize they were gone until I saw this video. Wow. Big mistake.

[@JCourts2k23]

Same here

[@cougar24]

But Taylor Swift did it more gradually and not all at once. She still had a few country sounding songs on a few albums before totally going over to pop. Her pop songs aren't mindless Pop music either. They still have substance like her country music did.

[@stevenbramley9574]

I went and seen the band perry in concert when they were still "Country", just sad that they went into a different music directon...:(

[@dudefromlaveenaz]

A few years ago I had the pleasure of helping move chairs closer to a stage at a gym that was built specifically for people with disabilities, we got to talk about life, how thankful we are for all we had, and about family. That guy was Jimmy Wayne, one of the most down to earth dudes ever and I wish him the best that life has to offer.

[@muzikdude1188]

I had wondered about The Band Perry myself. It seemed like they were all the rage one day and just gone the next...I figured there had to be some sort of story behind it.

[@emileebeimers732]

I always thought fancy was only sung by Reba. My mind is blown

[@peggyrider2364]

Emilee Beimers One of the best songs ever sung by a woman 😍😍😍😍

[@Spitfirethedragon]

Reba is known for making remakes good. 3 of the 4 songs that I know went to number 1. The one Beyonce song she did never made the top 20.

[@ashleyjustice3008]

Same with "Who's Cheatin' Who"-my mind is blown!

[@5roundsrapid263]

When I was a teenager, I figured out every “new” country song I liked was a remake from earlier decades. That’s when I stopped listening to modern country!

[@joefree9890]

I was a small boy when fancy came out in the 60's.. They literally played it to death on the radio... We all grew to hate the song... .lol😣😊

[@Chey60]

Please do a part 2. This was so fun. Thank you for uploading.

[@Dillion203]

Jamey Johnson’s high cost of living is a great song.

[@squirtletown5307]

Dillion cost of living is a Ronnie Dunn from Brooks and Dunn debut sole album.

[@courtneyb7194]

Its actually cost of living high. I agree amazing song

[@fantasyfiction101]

I'd say Jessica Andrews, she released "Who I Am" and "Helplessly, Hopelessly." She stopped performing in 2008 that's who I thought of immediately.

[@barbfox8754]

Collin Raye is another singer from the 1990’s that vanished and I loved his music.

[@krypticcoil9540]

Me too! I still listen to that dude regularly

[@sdhen1980]

Yes I loved all his songs mu favorite was i can still feel u

[@jenniferyates6622]

I named my oldest son Collin Raye for him!

[@melaniebuchanan780]

He had it rough. He had a teenage daughter who had a special needs daughter. He gave up his career to take care of them. Sadly his granddaughter passed and now he lends his voice to efforts that benefit severely disabled people.

[@denismguitar1552]

And he is 60 years old now. You don’t see many 60+ singers anymore.

[@dustielliott8869]

Terri Clark- Gretchen Wilson- Andy Griggs- Darryl Worley- sunny Sweeney. Just a couple off top of my head.

[@wandalucas7838]

Yes Andy Griggs!! I listen to him all of the time.

[@tennvols6383]

Definitely Gretchen Wilson, Terri Clark had pretty good success for some years in the 90s

[@woodfordreserve6673]

If you’ve heard of Sunny Sweeney, hen you’ve probably also heard of Heather Myles and Amber Digby, both excellent Real country artists

[@tinamarch325]

Sunny Sweeney just released a new song a few weeks ago...she is still going strong in the Texas country scene along with Cody Jinks and Ward Davis

[@vr6535]

Terri is still performing in her home country Canada

[@TheCagedBirdSings]

How about *Daryl Worley* ? To this day I love his 1at album "Hard Rain Don't Last" !

[@bearball49]

I love him and still listen to his old music and follow him for new music.

[@gordonmills2748]

"Second Wind" really helped me through a tough time in my life, and I was lucky enough to thank him in person for that song. Nice guy. Huge. I mean, he's built like a tree trunk. We shared a beer on his tour bus awhile back.

[@bloozedaddy]

@@gordonmills2748 yeah...that's one of my favorite songs for sure...and I've been recording and playing here in Nashville since 1989. Daryl was friends with one of my bandmates so he got up onstage a few times during my gigs. Cool guy...and you're right...he's a biggun...6'7" ish I think.

[@chrism6880]

I miss my friend Darryl Worley

[@achildr1]

Daryl is the man. Got to film him last year at the Keith Whitley tribute concert.

[@Beserker3737]

I saw Jamey Johnson in concert a few years back and it was one of the best shows I’ve ever been to. Played a bunch of Last Waltz songs too, which I loved.

[@itachigirl163]

Gretchen Wilson. Emerson Drive. Joe Nichols. Phil vassar.

[@WheelsOfGlitter22]

Phil Vassar still plays but mostly in casinos I saw him a few years back at a New Year’s show.None of his new music as good as his old stuff

[@dobazajr]

Joe Nichols is still active and mostly he is doing gigs.

[@MendoMoto]

Phil Vassar put out a new album this year, I’ve been really enjoying it. Not perfect, but sounds a lot like his older albums.

[@tjn2254]

Joe Nichols has come out with a lot of songs recently

[@troyowens9734]

Saw Joe Nichols In concert last year

[@TE5LA-GAMING]

You gotta think about it this way: A one-hit wonder is better than a no-hit wonder.

[@mikebronc2902]

Jason Michael Carroll. David Nail. Jack Ingram. Bucky Covington. I haven't heard from these guys in a long time. Loved all of their music

[@twostepcub]

SHEdaisy's Christmas album is still one of the best-ever holiday records.

[@ilyou101258]

I still listen to Chris Cagle all the time. The songs I listen to the most are “What Kinda Gone” and “Let There Be Cowgirls”. Both of those songs are iconic!

[@jeanniemainzer8551]

"What Kind of Gone" is a hilarious song. I smile every time it comes on.

[@iluvephramy]

Love Michelle Branch and followed her to the Wreckers. Stand Still, Look Pretty was an awesome 2000s album! Also loved Jessica Harp and her solo album. Was gutted when she announced she was taking a step back from her solo career.

[@tendraftsdeep]

Sammy Kershaw, Mark Collie, John Michael Montgomery, Hal Ketchum...

[@JeffGraves]

John Michael Montgomery would be an interesting one. He released some good albums in the early and mid 2000s (little girl, letters from home, etc) and then I think (and could be totally wrong here) had some sort of drug issue. His vocal chords were severely messed up. I saw him in 2012 and could not believe it. Any person could've sang better than he was doing on stage. I heard he had some surgery last year and is now singing back at a similar capacity. I'd suggest looking up his live performances over the past 4-5 years to hear what I'm talking about. No vocal control or range. He was still lip syncing sold, i love the way you love me and I can love you like that.

[@wantsomecoffee]

Hal Ketchum plays the Opry.

[@mamajodylynn5585]

Yes make a 90s country musician video please!

[@Spitfirethedragon]

Sammy Kershaw is on the top 60 BillBoard Radio Airplay Indicator Chart for My Friend Fred. Hal Ketchum recently announced that he is ailing.

[@chrismurphyracing94]

JMM was on a song with Colt Ford of that tells you where his career is

[@timmyeyez5871]

Dont forget Julie Roberts and her songs " wake up older", "men and mascara" and "break down here " and Gary Nichols " working unbroken ground "

[@rodneylim2604]

Julie Roberts auditioned for The Voice a few seasons ago, but sadly couldn't get a chair to turn.

[@viniavorhees9113]

Yesssss!!!! I LOVE Julie Roberts!!! 💜💜

[@kaytiemyers2698]

Break down here was amazing

[@ironcast]

@@kaytiemyers2698 Yes definitely one of my favorites and I have it saved in my KZbin favorites.

[@ksto0625]

She has MS, has been a struggle for her to play consistently over time. That really set her back professionally.

[@zeldadishman7601]

Omg thank you for reminding me of “do you believe me now.” I use to love that

[@robertgetz529]

That song was the total bomb and the best of any on this list

[@janina9789]

Tracy Byrd, Watermelon Crawl was my first favorite song when I was 5 years old. I know he is still active, but not very visible these days.

[@kevinswinyer3176]

Actually, Tracy Byrd retired quite a few years ago, just about the same time as Ricky Van Shelton. They both grew tired of the antics of Nashville's Music Row Bigshots. George Strait, and Alan Jackson had a huge hit together with a song called "MURDER ON MUSIC ROW", which pretty much sums up what Nashville Execs have done to Country Music over the years.

[@Megalita27]

I saw Tracy Byrd at a small venue in New braunfels, TX in March right before things closed. Great show.

[@childoftheking8245]

I still KZbin watermelon crawl sometimes

[@FoolisH409]

Visible here in Texas, even does local car dealership commercials 😆

[@lianelayman6584]

Tracy Byrd still does lots of concerts and a while ago he was on Tracy Lawrence podcast

[@crystalfrederick9281]

Aaron Tippin had some good songs, then his wife couldn't take it so he just quit to be a family man. That's fine if he's happy but I miss him.

[@blizzardbeach6301]

I love his songs! A true country singer! Really miss him!

[@wareagle4789]

He still tours. We just saw him a couple of weeks ago here in Florida.

[@Chrispy9393]

I listen to Aaron Tippin on repeat when I mow my lawn! There's nothin' wrong with the radio! :)

[@adamcooper9839]

My mom met him and his wife couple years ago at a store in Franklin and he was very happy they noticed him because he said most people don’t and he gladly signed a cd my mom got for me because I am a big fan

[@crystalfrederick9281]

@@adamcooper9839 he is a real nice guy. My mom and I saw him live once. He was signing autographs and taking pictures after. When it was our turn my mom couldn't work the camera he was very patient & sweet, even joked with her about it.

[@iceman242436]

Blackhawk seemed to disappear after their 2nd album. Amazing that a band could reach such heights (7x platinum), then vanish. Best country band of all time.

[@dylanr8481]

Fuck yeah!!!!

[@blufey2925]

I can't believe when you were listing Chris Cagle's big hits you didn't mention Laredo. Thats the one I always think of first.

[@sylviacharlene]

Laredo is my absolute favorite Chris Cagle song

[@heatherfox9672]

My favorite song of his!

[@MAGVD]

Also miss me baby

[@bobbytalks2you602]

So I work at a Country Music Radio Station as an on air personality and as an assistant program director. I have been doing this for around a decade, which is hard for me to believe how long it’s been since I got my first job. Anyway, in my 10yrs of watching artist come and go and selecting what we play in the air it never stops amazing me how quickly artist come and go. Sometimes we get artist that should have huge hits without doubt, but no on will ever hear their music. The music industry is nuts! Thanks for your insights and thoughts on the country music industry.

[@donkeysaurusrex7881]

I’m sure there’s less of a percentage in it, but I wish there were still old school call in shows with old school DJs. You’ve got audience interaction, people talking about songs, artists, and life, and the chance for songs to really live their lives. Do you have a lot of freedom to make your playlist as you see fit, or is there a corporate office or label rep pushing you to abandon month old songs for whatever they see as the hot new thing?

[@chrisclark5204]

@@donkeysaurusrex7881 Now days it's about money for radio stations. Whoever pays the most gets their artists on the play list, that's why you hear some of the songs played like 50 or 60 times a day.

[@charlesbolton8471]

@@chrisclark5204 That right there is EXACTLY the reason that mainstream music both Country and Pop is the dumpster fire that is has become. Thank god the real music is still out there for those of us who are willing to look for it and/or make ourselves.

[@Tsukasloth]

SHeDAISY are still one of my favourites! I’d love to hear some new music from them :(

[@morgs0812]

They're still one of my faves of all time! Their writing was incredible and harmonies fantastic! I'm still holding out hope for new music haha

[@middlefinger1565]

SheDaisy is doing Celtic music or something now. Following in the Corrs footsteps.

[@classrockin]

Just love SheDaisy! I saw them perform live in 2006 while promoting their last album....fantastic show.

[@stephaniehowe0973]

Agreed I loved them

[@middlefinger1565]

@@beckylc3526 Irish Mormons? Gee...imagine that 🤔

[@ladywunderkind9390]

Man I miss Jamey Johnson. I can remember listening to him on the radio in my dad's truck, on some old dirt road in Michigan.

[@andreasantore7015]

he is still out touring. I just saw him last year. he just got tired of the labels trying to fit him into boxes he has no interest in fitting into.

[@amandamilbrodt4423]

"In color" is a great song.

[@Eliminator5555]

The Band Perry's demise is so sad. Their first album is AMAZING! And the sophomore wasn't bad either. They performed for free in Pigeon Forge a few years ago. I didn't go because it was once they had taken that ridiculous turn.

[@rodbilbrey3211]

I saw them in concert opening for Blake Shelton years back. They were awesome! Such a mistake to go pop. Whatever they want though.

[@bigred4379]

I loved them too.. but then .. at the end.. I kinda got to the point where I could not stand to hear that stupid song one more time. What was it? GIRL CRUSH . idk maybe it was just bad management .. that led to their fading out. Too much of a good thing??

[@fredfirestoner763]

@@bigred4379 seems like they are musicians and they get hired for gigs like the bar owner tells them this is a biker bar so they say no problem we got costumes for that

[@jacquelinel8156]

@@bigred4379 Girl Crush was by Little Big Town. If I never hear that song again it’ll be too soon.

[@bigred4379]

@@jacquelinel8156 🥴ohhhh.. you’re right .. 😄👍🏽

[@CorasCreativeCorner]

I’ve been listening to Chris Cagle and Gary Allen for the last few weeks, I miss the good country

[@irishlove7151]

Gary Allen is one of the most underrated singers of our time if you ask me. I absolutely love him.

[@Vingreg65]

smoke rings in the dark

[@kriswood699]

Gary Allan has consistently put out top tier music and has never got the love he deserves.

[@Goodnightland]

Gary plays mostly the Southwest, esp New Mexico - California. His released a new song last month (Waste of a Whiskey Drink) but it has yet to chart.

[@Countrygirltori24]

I was playing my ipod on shuffle (yes I still use one) and Jamie O'Neill came on and I was like "whatever happened to her?" She had some big hits too.

[@ashleyjustice3008]

Yes! Her song "Somebody's Hero" was great & makes me cry every time.

[@Robin-cv1ou]

Maybe she still performs in Australia, since I think that's where she came from. I remember hearing "There is No Arizona" often. I also liked "Every Little Thing" and "When I think about Heaven." She also had a duet with Mark Wills--now where did he go? He also had some great songs.

[@timechangeseverybody3608]

Yes. I love Arizona

[@kimikowittkopp8034]

Awwwww, I remember The Wreckers. That whole album was amazing!

[@shelbyandblush]

The Wreckers made an excellent album that will be forever be one of my favorites. It is a masterpiece. ♡

[@mikeharbold4453]

The Band Perry that really surprised me I can't believe that they changed their music just like that I never knew that.

[@masterj2682]

The wreckers were amazing, the whole album was great, I listened to it over and over. I wish they would've done more

[@carolinepearce1179]

Still crying over The Band Perry. I miss their country music more than I can say...

[@ashleyjustice3008]

I liked their song "You Lie".

[@toriann56]

Oh Geezzzz. I'm so glad you reminded me of Buddy Jewel!! I loved his music and his singing was so smooth too!! And as few others commented, I really enjoyed seeing The Band Perry again!! I loved some of their songs! I have to agree that they sure don't make country music like they used to.. back in the 50's, 60's and 70's!! Now those country singers could really sing their stories!! Then Allen Jackson came along and brought back the tenderness in many songs.. Thank you for posting and sharing this wonderful video, Grady Smith!! Please find others who have been absent and mia, Blessings to you!

[@morgfarm1]

Seems like Everyone in the comments missed this one: Jamie O'Neal. had a massive hit in like.. '99 or 2000 with 'There is No Arizona' and 'When I think About Angels', both off her debut album 'Shiver'. She ended up releasing a new album around 5 years later with the single 'Trying to Find Atlantis' from the album 'Brave', and then the album God Don't Make Mistakes in 2007 (Going off my music collection here). Haven't heard anything since then. Brave and Shiver were both excellent albums. I didn't hear much off God Don't Make Mistakes, but that particular lead track wasn't as good as any of the last songs she'd put onto Radio.

[@JeremiahKlarman]

“She’s Somebody’s Hero” too!! One of my faves.

[@kathyholli50]

Jamie had one of the best voices in country music, in my opinion. Wish she kept recording.

[@morgfarm1]

@@kathyholli50 Turns out she's been; Found out thru Apple Music she's got a couple new albums out, one of which is comprised of re-recordings of a few of her better songs from Shiver; kinda how Brooks & Dunn re-recorded some of their big hits with other artists, Jamie did much the same.

[@RuffNStormy]

Love Chris Cagle! I still listen to him and Emerson Drive, Aaron Lines, Jimmy Wayne, Jack Ingram, Steve Holy, Billy Currington and a few more I can't think of right now

[@mikeflinn8983]

Jimmy Wayne's "Do You Believe Me Now" is one of my all-time favorite songs, glad to hear he's advocating for kids in the foster system.

[@deegriminger2292]

I like that song too

[@frankiebutler2894]

Jimmy Wayne seems like a real nice guy.

[@kimberlyfoster5657]

love me some Alabama- Randy Owens mmm, Tracey Lawrence, Restless Heart, Blackhawk, Lonestar all those good songs and bands from the 90's

[@Lilliecwalinski16]

Oh man. 2021, Randy Owen & the others are back at it AGAIN They have a new album southern drawl!!

[@dragonflyy000]

Ohhh I DEF miss Alabama! The very 1st country group I ever got into as a teenager. Then loved Restless Heart, and Diamond Rio too!! Great days of country music! Thank goodness for KZbin!!!

[@susanbezio1529]

Tracy is still here. He's releasing 3 albums this year. Still great songs, great real country music. Please check him out.

[@JeremiahKlarman]

John Michael Montgomery!!

[@jeannamoree2172]

Also find out about Restless Heart, Diamond Rio, Shenandoah, Sawyer Brown, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band?? Some of my old school faves!!

[@robbiejoymeadows803]

This was focusing on one hit or one album wonders

[@wareagle4789]

Nitty Griity Dirt Band is still around and they've added a few new members. Their new fiddle player, Ross Holmes, is a complete asshole. Sawyer Brown still plays a few gigs every now and then, but with only one or two originals.

[@katrinakrug9841]

Diamond Rio is still touring..

[@countryradiousa6306]

Katrina Krug and Dana Williams also hosts his own radio show to stay relevant, and it’s pretty good.

[@gaoutlaw]

Restless Heart is still going very regularly

[@annakout]

I miss the band Perry. They were so good, hopefully they will find their way back home.

[@markbronson6724]

I miss Jason Michael Carroll to. He's amazing live! Lot's of energy that guy!

[@curtquiggins6692]

He also holds the title of saddest country song of all time. His song makes He stopped loving her today seem like a party song. If you can listen to "Alyssa Lies" without shedding a tear, check your pulse.

[@leerjet31]

Jamey johnson is a living legend he has been touring small venues he is just enjoying life

[@mattbrewer9035]

He opened for Lynyrd Skynyrd a few years ago:)

[@calliemaddiecats5457]

Chris Cagle was and always will be one of my favorite artists. Everytime I hear one of his songs I smile. His daughter had never seen him in concert before, so a year or two ago, he did one show just for her. ❤

[@xvxv711]

I saw Chris in concert....he cried 50% of the time (he was very thankful people showed up)

[@cmpicha2934]

Anyone know what happened to Lonestar? They were my absolute favorite back in the day and then it seemed like they fell off the face of the earth.

[@micdrop344]

They split up for a time and came back together years later. No bad blood, just different priorities. They're performing together nowadays at fairs and amphitheaters

[@Vingreg65]

@@micdrop344 Amazed was my all time fav song

[@xzx_sparky_xzx]

They had an album in like 2016, then haven't heard much since then

[@sportsjefe]

@@Vingreg65 Amazed probably made them a billion dollars, you wouldn't see me again either after a hit that big.

[@joshculver4381]

Richie McDonald wanted to be a solo Christian singer.

[@corinnawynne]

Jamey Johnson is still touring. I was supposed to see him in OK in june.

[@Frdgamer]

Thanks, I had no idea.

[@ilizhof]

He was actually in Indianapolis last March. To be honest, I was surprised to see his name again (since he kinda... stopped), but lots of fans came out to see him!

[@Awesometrax]

He featured on the title song of Brantley Gilbert's latest album too... which is arguably the best song on that album.

[@orangeandblackattack]

I was gonna say, Elizabeth Cook talks about his tour dates..but ya gotta be listening to xm Outlaw Country..not Trashville radio or label sources..they wouldn't be able to sign outlaw artists because outlaws know Nashville is "just a bunch of f$#&?#$ sh!t" (per Hank 3) where you are told what to wear, what to sing... They tried their crap on Cross Canadian Ragweed and they told them where to go. Nashville actually told an artist they would sign him, but he couldn't wear his cowboy hat or mention Texas in his songs. Gtf outta here!

[@pamelaparker7032]

We saw j Johnson last year at a benefit concert. He is still around.

[@deniseatdevoncheycreations2312]

This was very interesting, very melancholy, and I actually shed a few tears. I remember every one of these artists and loved most of them. Thanks for the memories!

[@michaels4550]

I’ve been waiting for new Frankie Ballard music for four years now. His Twitter bio says he’s working on a new album, but I don’t know for what label or when it’ll be released.

[@alikayyal9050]

Omg i totally forget about him

[@Mackaylinn]

Frankie Ballard is one of my favorites. His cover of 'You'll Accompany Me' is one of my favorite cover songs.

[@nataliem32]

Omg Frankie used to be my absolute favorite. I knew every song off El Camino he’s so awesome idk where he went :( miss him!

[@mattdyer1315]

It All Started With A Beer was a truly underrated song

[@jdhartsough]

I'd love to see Frankie touring smaller venues. Of all the concerts and festivals I've been to it's always the smaller places that were the most memorable.

[@Virgovixen10]

Jamey Johnson is still part of the Nashville Night life. He was until the virus, playing with his friends James Otto and Randy Hauser and several famous songwriters around town. I am fortunate enough to live in Nashville and catch some of his shows....still a great, down to earth and genuinely nice guy! Many of these singer-songwriters are out and about In Nashville. They are preforming because they love music and sharing it with people. They are not out for fame and fortune! They are just REAL, Down to earth, pure talent that refuse to be tainted by the mentality of the music industry! Much love to y’all....from Nashville.✨💫

[@benmac940]

Good to hear, just a shame for those of us not in Nashville who don't get to enjoy it.

[@charlesbolton8471]

@@benmac940 There’s great original music everywhere if the people will just get out and support it. However, live music venues had been on the decline even before the pandemic hit and many preferred to hire acts that primarily play covers because that is what brings in the money. That’s why it’s important to get out and support the people playing original music.

[@benmac940]

@@charlesbolton8471 I never said there wasn't. Only how its difficult if not impossible to find decent country music albums atleast where I am and there's certainly none performing round where I am. So how are you meant to support them?

[@davecotant9186]

yeah thats what the industry does to some of these artist.....i'm a huge mark knopfler fan from dire straits rock days......he quit the rock scene and did work with emmy lou harris, chet atkins, and just got back to his roots doing folk music. i love him now more than ever. in 2019 dire straits were inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame and knopfler never even came to it. he said that part of his life was gone and he didnt want to celebrate it anymore. he is happy with making his style of music now and is still going strong. thats the same story for many of these artists as well. they make it big, but they just want to be themselves and not "owned" by a company

[@brothercrash559]

I met Jimmy Wayne back in 2009 when I was living in Nashville. We became friends as we had a similar upbringing. Haven't talked to him in years but he was a solid dude.

[@davidpepiton1187]

I just had a private concert by Jimmy Wayne last year here in Phoenix for a brain injury non-profit the performance was great.

[@jenmalcom7004]

Jamie Johnson was rejected by mainstream country, so he does more "outlaw" stuff.

[@Eliminator5555]

Love Chris Cagle's music. I sadly missed one of his performances here in Knoxville due to a weird circumstance.

[@SuperCrazybumblebee]

When the Wrecker's album came out I assumed it was two single artists having some fun together. I thought one album was the plan.

[@stephaniesantana7318]

That’s what Michelle & Jessica had said originally. So this whole bad blood thing confuses me.

[@jennifervincent784]

Thanks for this list, nice walk down memory lane! I miss Chris Cagle! He was one of my fav's, and every time he comes on, I always think "what happened to him" :)

[@CensoredFreedom615]

Buddy Jewel sang the national anthem at Nashville Speedway last weekend

[@bullbusteradventures1978]

I always wondered what happened to Ty Herndon, Paul Brant, Lila McCann and Brian White. I have albums (Cassettes & CD’s) by all of them that I still listen to today.

[@mandacm]

Ty Herndon is still around and tours. He was my favorite in high school. You should google him.

[@bullbusteradventures1978]

Amanda Cormier I follow his KZbin

[@Vingreg65]

lila was wonderful

[@terrymeister6506]

Lila Mcain decided she in love with munching the grass

[@captainhalfgreybeard4684]

Jamie O’Neil...?! Wade Hayes?! Yankee Grey?! Buffalo Club?! Andy Griggs?!

[@DavidBaral]

"When Jimmy's career started to wane" OK Grady. Don't think for one minute that you got away with that one.

[@ashleyjustice3008]

I think Jimmy Wayne also did some acting. I think I saw him in a Hallmark Christmas movie at some point.

[@amillionbees]

I'm still so sad we never got a second Wreckers album 😭 Maybe one day...

[@cardinalrobbins9453]

I'm so glad you mentioned Bobbie Gentry. She was amazing in her heyday.

[@christinerobinson4866]

It amazes me how she wrote all those songs. The lyrics are amazing how they all fit together in story and song.

[@venetabritt2771]

I agree, I loved her music.

[@blackfinjrblackfinjr3555]

She didn’t write ‘the night the lights went out’- Bobby Russell wrote it

[@paraprincess93]

Jamey Johnson still tours regularly. I have seen him in concert 4 times in the past 2 years. I love his music!

[@tiffanyhaberacker]

I was just talking about this with my husband while we were listening to Y2K country music. Except ours was LeAnn Womack. I loved her music, but just realized that she just blibbed off the face of the Earth at some point because I have no clue what happened with her.

[@jimreeves5212]

She was touring with Alan Jackson. Might still be. A lot of these country artists radio wont play because they're country!!

[@jacquelineoswald3287]

I loved Shedaisy. Their Sweet Right Here album is so good and I still listen to it all the time.

[@deanacollins3508]

Their first album had such unique harmonies & I loved it, but their later albums just sounded generic to me.