Live albums have always tended to be a substantial hit-and-miss in country music. Even some cool ones lose their effectiveness after just one or two listens. Only some artists possess the talent to craft a live album that truly captures the essence of their performance with new versions that are fun to listen to independently of the studio version. However, those who do make it an impressive album. Examples of successful live projects include Zach Bryan’s astounding All My Homies Hate Ticketmaster (Live From Red Rocks) and Cody Johnson & The Rockin’ CJB Live. While those albums are great, not even some legends like George Strait could perfect a live album that was as good as his studio records. We’ve assembled a list of six country artists with captivating live shows that would make an exceptional live album.
Charles Wesley Godwin
Charles Wesley Godwin has dabbled with live projects as he released a few songs live from Echo Mountain and another collection of songs, “Live From The Church,” but he’s never released a recorded concert in front of a live audience. Hearing Godwin showcase his talents alongside the Alleghany High would be a gripping listen. His upbeat songs like “Hardwood Floors” always get the crowd dancing and can have that same effect on people listening on streaming platforms. On the other hand, songs like “Seneca Creek” regularly enthrall his audiences, creating incredibly cool moments. He wraps his show with a cover of John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” Fans got a taste of Godwin’s version on his Family Ties album, and a live version is the opening track on Zach Bryan’s All My Homies Hate Ticketmaster. Godwin can hold the audience in the palm of his hand, and it could impact even more people by sharing the gravitas of his live shows on a record.
Wyatt Flores
At just 23 years old, Wyatt Flores has won the hearts of country music fans everywhere. His vulnerability, both on and off the stage, has resonated with many listeners as he has publicly tackled many difficult conversations. He has never shied away from wearing his heart on his sleeve, which is always evident in his life set. Wyatt can immediately take charge of a room, whether 500 or 50,000 people. His set is full of emotion and energy, giving the audience a bit of everything. The Oklahoman poet has connected with his fans in a way not many artists can, especially when he’s on stage in a live setting. A live album with a broader audience contextualizing connection would be fantastic to hear.
Chris Stapleton
Perhaps the most apparent artist on this list is Chris Stapleton. He is, far and away, one of the best vocalists country music has ever seen. No matter the setting or situation, his voice will always stand out. Stapleton recently released a live version of his single “I Think I’m In Love With You” featuring Dua Lipa from the ACM Awards. His gritty vocals are astounding, and the live instrumentation is incredible; on top of all that is the ever-present chemistry between him and his wife, Morgane. She does background vocals for his music, creating remarkable, harmonious moments between the pair in his live show. Chris and Morgane live the dream as they play music for thousands of people with the one they love most. They sound great together in the studio, but the intangible magic of hearing them live is even more attractive. Stapleton is one of the best ever to do it, and it feels like a disservice not to have his live music available to stream.
Red Clay Strays
The last year has been a huge one for the Red Clay Strays. Thanks to their monster hit “Wondering Why,” they have developed a massive fan base. The group has a distinct sound that seamlessly blends different genres into a flavor that’s all their own. The lead singer, Brandon Coleman, is known for his high effort delivery, especially in their live show. They have also reached the level of recognition where the crowd participation is through the roof. Part of what makes live albums cool is the energy in the building. For the project to work, it must feel like you’re listening from inside the building where the concert was played. This is something the Red Clay Strays can do better than most. Audiences aren’t going to their concerts just to “Wondering Why.” The people who are spending the money are their true fans. That is what can elevate the show. Over the last year, the band has posted different live shows on their YouTube channel that sound amazing, and it would be a real treat to get them on streaming platforms.
49 Winchester
49 Winchester has developed one of the most extraordinary sounds in country music that gets criminally overlooked. For now, they only play in rooms of less than 1000 people, but they can still put on an unforgettable show. Their music has a relaxed and exciting vibe, and their presence as a group does, too. They have an Appalachian rock sound unlike any other and arguably sound better live. 49 Winchester is also a fine example of a band whose concerts are full of true believers who scream every word to every song. When that’s the case, it takes the album to the next level, creating a feeling that you’re listening amidst the crowd. They also mix in elements of surprise as they have done songs with artists like Wyatt Flores during their set. 49 Winchester is flatly one of the best bands around; listeners deserve to see that on all fronts.
Noah Kahan
There is considerable debate about whether Noah Kahan is a categorically country artist. However, there are plenty of parallels to country music, and that’s even clear in his set, from the instruments on-stage to his poetic knack for storytelling. Kahan can capture and hold the attention of the entire room. No matter where he is, he has all eyes on him, which is a compelling trait. Moreover, his cult following has gained tremendous momentum in the last year, filling arenas with some of the most passionate fans in all music. Kahan also makes little tweaks to his songs, so the live versions are individually memorable and don’t feel like a re-make of the studio recording. He’s also been known to bring out other singers for sweet collabs, like Kelsea Ballerini and Jelly Roll. Noah Kahan knows how to create moments in his show that stir the senses, and having those songs on a record would only deepen his passionate following.
