The end of the year always brings plenty of lists. Top albums, top songs, most streamed etc. I like to put together my own list. While other lists compile all kinds of data and arrogant critical opinions, my list is made up of the albums that I listened to the most. I figure they're the best albums if I spent that much time with them.
These are my top 10 favorite country albums of 2020. There's no particular order here, so don't get mad by the ranking.
What are your favorites from 2020? Hit me up on Instagram @stpierreonair
1) Gone West - Canyons
I know they decided to go their separate ways pretty much as soon as this album came out, but that didn't hurt my excitement for the music. All four of the individuals that made up Gone West are incredible on their own, so this combination was like a dream come true for me.
2) Lee Brice - Hey World
This came out toward the end of the year but that didn't stop me from playing it on repeat. Lee Brice is one of the most under-appreciated artists in Nashville. I have a feeling you'll be seeing this album on a lot of awards lists next year.
3) Kelsea Ballerini - kelsea
It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of hers. What I really loved about this album is that she brought back the sass I fell in love with on album number 1. She lost a bit of it on album 2 but it was back in full force with this one.
4) Kip Moore - Wild World
I was lucky enough to get a few of the songs off this album at the start of the year so I got to experience most of it for all of 2020. It was one of the few things that helped me get through the madness. Kip has a way with words and I love that he's already set to put out a deluxe version with more songs.
5) Tenille Townes - The Lemonade Stand
I thought Tenille Townes was going to take over the world in 2020. It didn't go down quite as I had expected (and hoped) but she made deep connections with her audience and fan base. This girl works so hard to open her heart to all of those willing to be a part of her life. And she truly loves it.
6) Russell Dickerson - Southern Symphony
Another album that came out at the end of the year. I spent most of December jamming out to this one. There's something about Russell's positivity and energy that really draws me in. He's such a genuine guy and that radiates throughout his music.
7) Cam - The Otherside
Cam had some label troubles that took her out of the spotlight for a little bit, but she came back with a bang on The Otherside. Her stunning voice was highlighted in such a special way. I loved the whole album but "Like A Movie" really stood out to me for some reason. I'm a sucker for a catchy hook!
8) Hardy - A Rock
Hardy put out an album in 2019 that was all duets with other artists. It was incredible but seemed to slip through the cracks for a lot of folks. He released his official solo debut in September and it did not disappoint.
9) Lindsay Ell - Heart Theory
Lindsay and I joke that I'm an OG fan. I've been riding the Lindsay train since the beginning. She's always had the talent, the look and the voice, but it is Heart Theory that brought them all together. There's a different level of emotion on this album that we hadn't heard from Lindsay before and I love it.
10) Ingrid Andress - Lady Like
I expect some big things from Ingrid. Her voice is so unique and her song writing style is taking Nashville to a new level. Some people may listen to the music and say "That's not my country" and those people need to get over it. The stories in her lyrics are the best I've heard in years.