20 Essential Country Albums From Women Since 2010

Women have released some of the most compelling country music albums of the past decade. Whether it's Miranda Lambert's stunning 2016 double album The Weight of These Wings or the progressive songwriting of Kacey Musgraves' Grammy Award-winning debut, 2013's Same Trailer Different Park, it's evident that the genre's female artists have plenty to say.

Over the years, country traditionalists including Margo Price, Angaleena Presley, Brandy Clark and Ashley Monroe have won over audiences with their honest lyrics and unique storylines. Meanwhile, former American Idol and The Voice winners Carrie Underwood and Danielle Bradbery, as well as TV singing competition hopefuls Lauren Alaina and Kellie Pickler, have proved that their vocal talents are deserving of the spotlight.

Also during the decade, country legends Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire have continued to show that age is no hindrance when it comes to making country music that speaks to the soul. Additionally, newcomers Ashley McBryde, Maren Morris and Maddie & Tae showcase the genre's ever-expanding sound and laser focus on heartfelt songwriting.

We listened to several dozen country albums released by women between 2010 and 2019, and narrowed down the impressive laundry list of offerings to these 20 essential albums that need to be heard. There are barn burners (Gretchen Wilson's I Got Your Country Right Here), country-pop offerings (Kelsea Ballerini's The First Time, Taylor Swift's Speak Now), and albums that reflect the origins of country music (the Pistol Annies' Hell on Heels). Rest assured, there are plenty standout records by women that will survive the test of time.

20 Essential Country Albums By Women Released Since 2010: