20 Country Songs Turning 20 in 2024 That You Won’t Believe

The most remarkable aspect of this list of country songs turning 20 in 2024 is their enduring presence on the radio today.

Hits from artists such as Shania Twain, Kenny Chesney, and Keith Urban lead the charge. The list also includes John Michael Montgomery’s final hit, Gretchen Wilson’s debut, and a notable superstar collaboration which is somewhat somber now, given that two-fifths of the artists involved have passed away within the last year.

• Tim McGraw’s “Live Like You Were Dying” was the most-played song of 2004.
• That same year, Chesney secured the CMA Entertainer of the Year, while Toby Keith won the ACM.
• Sugarland and Rodney Atkins also made their debuts that year.

We’ve selected the 20 most memorable songs from 2004 to remind you what a fantastic year it was. The conversations back then mirrored today’s: women faced challenges in getting radio airplay, pop and traditional country vied for chart dominance, and critiques surfaced about new artists not adhering to the style of legends like Hank.

Looking back, it’s hard to imagine songs like Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road” being seen as anything but country, though opinions were divided two decades ago.

Reflect on our list and try to recall where you were when you first heard these tunes. If you enjoy this kind of content, consider checking out our friends at Ultimate Classic Rock, who have compiled a list of 20 great rock albums also hitting the 20-year mark in 2024.