With the current popularity of country music and the ease with which artists can record and release music, it seems that new faces join the genre every week. However, it is fair to say that none of them would be doing what they’re doing if not for those who came before and laid the foundations. Luckily, some of those artists are still around. In fact, some of the oldest living country legends are still actively making music.
While it’s nice to see new faces come along and move the genre forward, it’s also important to celebrate the artists who helped lay the groundwork. Today, we will look at some of the oldest country legends who are still living and active.
1. Willie Nelson—The Oldest Living Country Legend (91 Years Old)
Willie Nelson is the oldest living country legend. He’s also the most active artist on this list. Some of the other elders of the genre continue to record and may play the occasional show, but Nelson is still touring. He’s also still putting out multiple albums every year. Between his tours, the Outlaw Music Festival Tour, and Farm Aid, Nelson likely spends more time in front of crowds than the rest of the list combined.
Nelson released his debut single “No Place for Me” in 1957. However, he didn’t truly find his stride until the ‘70s with songs like “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain,” “Bloody Mary Morning,” and “If You’ve Got the Money I’ve Got the Time.” His 76th solo album—and second release of the year—Last Leaf on the Tree will drop on November 1.
2. Bill Anderson—Still Going Strong After More Than 60 Years (86 Years Old)
“Whispering” Bill Anderson is a living legend who has been writing and recording country music since the late ‘50s. He penned timeless hits like “City Lights,” “Still,” “Once a Day,” and more. Today, Anderson doesn’t tour much. However, he’s a mainstay at the Grand Ole Opry and regularly performs there.
Anderson released his debut single “Take Me” in 1957 and found success with a string of hits throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s. He released his most recent EP, Forevermore in September.
3. Connie Smith—The Oldest Living Female Country Legend (83 Years Old)
Connie Smith is a living legend who has been writing and recording country and gospel music since the early ‘60s. With a vocal style that has been compared to Patsy Cline, Smith has stood as an inspiration for generations of artists.
Smith started her career with the Bill Anderson-penned “Once a Day” in 1964. The song went to the top of the country chart and kicked off a string of hits. Her most recent album Love, Prison, Wisdom and Heartaches dropped in April.
4. Dolly Parton—Still Recording and Making the World a Better Place (78 Years Old)
Dolly Parton is a living legend who also happens to be a country star. While she built her platform with her singing and songwriting, she has added acting and writing multiple books to her resume over the years. Additionally, she readily and regularly gives back to the people of East Tennessee with various philanthropic efforts. Unfortunately, Parton has retired from touring. However, she is still recording.
Parton released her debut single “Puppy Love” in 1959. She found her stride in the ‘70s with enduring hits like “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You,” “Here You Come Again,” and more. Parton will release her next album, Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA—Family, Faith, & Fables on November 15.
Featured Image by Gary Miller/FilmMagic
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