Who’s the best country singer of all time? According to Rolling Stone‘s new ranking of the 200 best singers across all genres, it’s Patsy Cline. She comes in at #13, just a dozen spaces behind Aretha Franklin, who lands on top.
Elvis Presley‘s at #17, just ahead of George Jones at #24, who’s often referred to as the greatest country singer who ever lived. Tammy Wynette‘s back at #127, while Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris all make the top 100. RS puts Loretta Lynn at #132.
Founding fathers like Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers make the list, alongside legends Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Brenda Lee and George Strait.
Carrie Underwood‘s the highest-ranked contemporary country singer at #158, while Chris Stapleton‘s several spots back at #170. His recent CMA Awards collaborator, Patty Loveless, sneaks in at #177.
You can check out the full list of Rolling Stone‘s 200 Best Singers of All Time here.
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