If you’re anything like me, in order to get any work done or feel motivated to get through your day, you need your trusty friend: your earbuds.Â
For me, this summer was dominated by country music, and what kind of helpful journalist would I be to not share the great tracks I listened to?Â
Without further ado, here are my top five picks for country albums that you should listen to, whether you’re studying or taking a stroll on campus.Â
1. still hungover by Ella Langley
It certainly has been the year of Ella Langley, with her song “Choosin’ Texas” topping charts for weeks, but let’s not forget about her 2024 album “still hungover.” This debut album features some of her most recognizable discography that established Langley’s sound as a new standout country artist. This album will take you through all the emotions, whether you feel like crying or throwing on a pair of boots and dancing.
Top Songs: “hungover,” ” i blame the bar,” “paint the town blue,” “weren’t for the wind”
2. Banks of the Trinity by Cody Johnson
Talk about an album with no skips! CoJo does it again with his latest album, “Banks of the Trinity.” While this isn’t Johnson’s most imaginative album, the songs are catchy, heartbreaking, and the well-roundedness of the tracks will leave you ready for a second listen as soon as you reach the last one.
Top Songs: “Horseback,” “Hello Lonesome,” “I Want You,” “Kissing a Married Woman,” “Time Bomb”
3. Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound by Hank Williams Jr.
Here’s an oldie, but a goody — who doesn’t love some outlaw country music? This short, thirty minute album is a great starter to some of the older country tunes that defined the genre. These rowdy tracks are sometimes the only thing that can get me through a day where I wake up on the wrong side of the bed.
Might I suggest this album if you’re tired of the sappy love songs and deep sorrowful tunes? If you feel like breaking down a door and being a little out-of-line, take half an hour to listen to “Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound.”
Top Songs: “Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound,” “Outlaw Women,” “Women I’ve never had”
4. 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs by Dolly Parton
Now, who would I be to not include the nearly undisputed queen of country music? Dolly Parton’s recent passing reminded me to throw on one of her albums during a morning walk, and wow, I had truly forgotten how great this pop-country album is. Don’t get it twisted, though, this album didn’t just make my list because of Parton’s passing.
Her music remains relevant and exciting beyond its years. This upbeat album will undoubtedly add a little bit of pep to your step to carry on with your day, whether you’re working a nine to five or pulling an all-nighter for your first test of the year.
Top Songs: “9 to 5,” “House of the Rising Sun,” “Deportee”
5. Longleaf Lo-Fi by Muscadine Bloodline
“Longleaf Lo-Fi” by Muscadine Bloodline just might be the perfect way to end the day. I promise, if you put this album on your speaker before bed, you’re going to have a blissful sleep wrapped in baritone tunes and gorgeous guitar strumming. In this 2025 full-length LP, Muscadine Bloodline switches things up from their usual heavier and quick-paced songs. They opt for songs that bring country back to its roots, romance, yearning and deep emotion.Â
Top Songs: “My Meridian,” “Maybe I’ll Say It (featuring Tenille Townes),” “59”
Whether you’re taking a stroll through campus or just hoping to make it through a chill day, give these albums a try. Country music isn’t for everyone, but I promise if you give these albums a go, you’ll find some fragment of the art that you enjoy. Think of this as my good luck gift to you for the start of your new semester and my hope that you’ll explore new music this year!