Why: Jack Ingram had a No. 1 hit in 2005 with 'Wherever You Are' and followed that up with five Top 20 hits like 'Barefoot and Crazy.' His mainstream country resume isn't as long as some others who take letters on this list of the best country artists from A to Z. Prior to signing with Big Machine Records, however, Ingram was a major star in Texas, where he still performs regularly.

Honorable Mention: Burl Ives.

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