2024 was a year of exciting releases for women in country music. This new crop of talented artists delivered some of the year’s most memorable songs. These releases showcased a diverse range of musical styles, from traditional country with its signature twang to more contemporary pop-influenced sounds. Moreover, many of these songs embraced themes of empowerment and self-reliance, reflecting a broader trend in women’s country music in 2024. Here are 10 of the best singles released by women in country music in 2024:

Anne Wilson – “Stand”

Anne Wilson, a Grammy-nominated artist known for her powerful vocals and Christian country music, released her inspiring single “Stand” on September 13th, 2024. The song encourages listeners to stand strong in their faith and beliefs, even when facing adversity. Wilson’s emotive vocals and the song’s uplifting melody create an anthem of resilience and hope.

“Stand” emerged from a unique songwriting experiment where Wilson invited fans to contribute lyrics via social media. Despite some initial negative feedback, Wilson embraced the collaborative process and crafted a song that celebrates the power of unity and perseverance.

Tigirlily Gold – “I Tried A Ring On”

Tigirlily Gold, a country duo consisting of sisters Kendra and Krista Slaubaugh, released their catchy single “I Tried A Ring On” on January 22nd, 2024. The song captures the excitement and anticipation of a woman trying on an engagement ring, hinting at a future proposal. With its upbeat melody and playful lyrics, “I Tried A Ring On” is a celebration of love and commitment.

The duo, known for their close-knit harmonies and relatable songwriting, deliver a performance that is both charming and energetic. “I Tried A Ring On” showcases Tigirlily Gold’s ability to craft catchy country-pop anthems with a modern twist.

Madeline Merlo – “Broken Heart Thing (feat. Dustin Lynch)”

Madeline Merlo, a Canadian country artist, teamed up with American country star Dustin Lynch for the duet “Broken Heart Thing,” released on October 11th, 2024. The song explores the aftermath of a breakup, with each singer offering their perspective on heartbreak and healing. Merlo’s sweet vocals blend seamlessly with Lynch’s smooth voice, creating a captivating and relatable duet.

“Broken Heart Thing” is a standout track from Merlo’s six-song EP, “One House Down (from the girl next door)”. The song highlights Merlo’s ability to craft emotionally resonant country-pop songs with a contemporary edge.

Ashley Puckett – “Anchor”

Ashley Puckett, a rising country music artist from North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, released her heartfelt single “Anchor” on May 17th, 2024. The song, a poignant ballad about offering unwavering support to a loved one struggling with inner turmoil, showcases Puckett’s vocal talent and songwriting skills. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship where one partner seeks to be a steadfast presence in the face of life’s storms. Lines like “I’ll be your anchor in the storm, even if you drift away” perfectly capture the song’s message of unconditional love and support.

“Anchor” is a beautifully crafted single that blends country and pop influences. The song’s production is a nod to traditional country sounds, with gentle guitar strums and a steady rhythm section creating a warm and comforting atmosphere. Puckett’s clear and emotive vocals glide effortlessly over the melody, drawing listeners into the song’s emotional narrative. Despite its popularity, no chart position or sales data is available for “Anchor”.

Interestingly, the inspiration for “Anchor” came to Puckett during a birthday trip to Miami. While on a rooftop bus tour with her sister and father, after getting matching anchor tattoos, she found herself humming the lyrics to the chorus. This song marked the end of a period of writer’s block for Puckett, and she has been writing prolifically ever since. There is no information available about a music video being released for “Anchor” in 2024.

Mae Estes – “Good Ol’ Boys”

Mae Estes, a rising country artist known for her traditional sound, released “Good Ol’ Boys” on September 13th, 2024. The song tackles a sensitive topic, addressing the issue of hidden abuse and manipulation within seemingly respectable communities. With its powerful lyrics and haunting melody, “Good Ol’ Boys” is a brave and timely anthem that sheds light on an important issue.

Estes, recognized as the AIMP 2024 Rising Songwriter-Artist of the Year, delivers a vocal performance that is both vulnerable and strong. “Good Ol’ Boys” showcases Estes’ commitment to using her music to address important social issues.

Tanner Adell – “Cowboy Break My Heart”

Tanner Adell, a rising country star, made history in 2024 by becoming the first female country artist to perform at the BET Awards. During her groundbreaking performance, she debuted her latest single, “Cowboy Break My Heart,” a catchy and upbeat track about heartbreak and moving on.

The song, with its infectious melody and relatable lyrics, quickly gained popularity among country music fans. “Cowboy Break My Heart” marked Adell’s first release since signing with Love Renaissance (LVRN) and solidified her status as a rising force in country music.

Pamela Hopkins – “Burn It Down”

Pamela Hopkins, a country artist with over 1.5 million streams, released her empowering anthem “Burn It Down” on September 27th, 2024. The song tells the story of a woman who chooses to rise above betrayal and reclaim her self-worth after being cheated on by her partner, who was stolen by a friend. Hopkins’ powerful vocals and the song’s driving rhythm perfectly capture the protagonist’s fiery resolve .

The lyrics are sharp and evocative, with lines like “You should’ve known betraying me’s like throwing a match on kerosene” vividly illustrating the protagonist’s determination to leave the past behind . The chorus is particularly gripping, with Hopkins singing, “I’m gonna burn it down, burn it down / Watch it all go up in flames / Every memory, every vow / Gone up in smoke and ash.”  Hopkins herself has said about the song, “This song is very much about finding strength in a difficult situation.” 

“Burn It Down” is a bold and unapologetic anthem that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever experienced betrayal . The song’s message of empowerment and self-reclamation is both timely and timeless . 

Kylie Frey – “My John Wayne”

Kylie Frey, a Louisiana-born country artist, released her heartfelt single “My John Wayne” on December 4th, 2024. The song is a tribute to the iconic cowboy figure, celebrating strength, resilience, and a love for the Western lifestyle. Frey’s powerful vocals and the song’s traditional country sound create an anthem for those who embrace the cowboy spirit.

Known for her authentic lyrics and rodeo background, Frey delivers a performance that is both genuine and captivating . “My John Wayne” showcases Frey’s ability to blend classic country sounds with modern storytelling.

Emily Ann Roberts – “Joy To The World”

Emily Ann Roberts, a rising country artist known for her traditional sound, released her festive single “Joy To The World” on November 15th, 2024. The song is a classic Christmas carol with a modern country twist, featuring Roberts’ sweet vocals and a joyful melody.

Roberts, who gained recognition as the runner-up on season nine of The Voice, delivers a performance that is both heartwarming and uplifting. “Joy To The World” is a perfect addition to any holiday playlist.

Hailey Whitters – “Fighting For”

Hailey Whitters, a rising country artist known for her relatable lyrics and authentic storytelling, released her empowering single “Fighting For” on August 23rd, 2024. The song is an anthem of resilience and determination, encouraging listeners to never give up on their dreams and to keep fighting for what they believe in.

Whitters, who has been praised for her honest songwriting and infectious melodies, delivers a vocal performance that is both vulnerable and strong. “Fighting For” showcases Whitters’ ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level and inspire them with her music.

Conclusion

2024 was a year of diverse and exciting releases for women in country music. From established stars to rising artists, these women delivered some of the year’s most memorable and impactful songs. Their music explored themes of love, loss, resilience, and empowerment, resonating with fans across the country and beyond. Many of these songs, such as “Burn It Down” by Pamela Hopkins and “Stand” by Anne Wilson, embraced themes of empowerment and self-reliance, reflecting a broader trend in women’s country music in 2024.

Musically, these singles showcased a diverse range of styles, from the traditional country sound of Ashley Puckett’s “Anchor” to the more contemporary feel of Tanner Adell’s “Cowboy Break My Heart.” This diversity highlights the versatility and creativity of women in country music, who continue to push boundaries and shape the future of the genre. As we move into 2025, it’s clear that women in country music are a force to be reckoned with, and their voices will continue to be heard loud and clear.