22 Incredible Singers Like Dolly Parton (You Must Hear)

Dolly Parton is a legendary figure in country music, known for her distinctive voice, storytelling prowess, and larger-than-life persona. Her influence extends far beyond the country genre, making her a beloved icon worldwide.

But Dolly isn’t the only powerhouse in the world of country and crossover music. Many other singers share her blend of talent, charisma, and dedication to the craft. This article explores some of the most famous singers who, like Dolly Parton, have left an indelible mark on music with their unique styles, unforgettable songs, and enduring legacies.

Whether through their trailblazing careers or their ability to connect deeply with audiences, these artists stand shoulder to shoulder with Dolly in shaping the sound of country music and beyond.

22 Talented Singers Similar to Dolly Parton That Will Blow Your Mind

These singers, like Dolly Parton, have made significant contributions to country music and are known for their distinctive voices, strong storytelling, and enduring influence on the genre.

Here’s a list of 22 singers who share similarities with Dolly Parton, either through their country music roots, storytelling ability, or iconic status in the genre:

#1 Loretta Lynn

Loretta Lynn, often referred to as the “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” is a legendary country music singer and songwriter known for her honest, autobiographical songs that reflect her experiences growing up in rural Kentucky. Born in 1932, Lynn began her music career in the early 1960s and quickly rose to fame with hits like “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind)” and “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man).” Her music, characterized by its straightforward lyrics and strong, independent female perspective, resonated with listeners and helped her become one of the most influential female artists in country music history.

Throughout her career, Lynn released multiple chart-topping albums and singles, earning numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Her impact on the genre is profound, as she paved the way for future generations of female country artists by addressing themes of love, heartache, and female empowerment in her music. Loretta Lynn’s legacy continues to inspire artists and fans alike.

#2 Reba McEntire

Reba McEntire, known as the “Queen of Country,” is one of the most successful and enduring female artists in country music history. Born in 1955 in Oklahoma, McEntire began her music career in the late 1970s and quickly gained recognition for her powerful voice and ability to convey deep emotion in her songs. Her breakthrough came in the 1980s with hits like “How Blue” and “Somebody Should Leave,” which showcased her unique blend of traditional country and contemporary pop influences.

Over the years, McEntire has released numerous chart-topping albums and singles, including “Fancy,” “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia,” and “Consider Me Gone.” In addition to her music career, McEntire has achieved success as an actress, starring in her own sitcom, Reba, and appearing in films and on Broadway. With over 90 million records sold worldwide and multiple awards, including Grammys, Reba McEntire remains a towering figure in country music and a beloved icon.

#3 Tammy Wynette

Tammy Wynette, known as the “First Lady of Country Music,” was one of the most influential and beloved vocalists in the history of the genre. Born in 1942 in Mississippi, Wynette rose to fame in the late 1960s with her hit single “Stand by Your Man,” which became one of the best-selling country songs of all time. Her music often dealt with themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience, resonating deeply with audiences and making her a defining figure in country music.

Throughout her career, Wynette released numerous hit songs, including “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” and “Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad,” and won several awards, including two Grammy Awards. Despite personal struggles, including multiple marriages and health issues, Wynette’s influence on country music is undeniable, and she remains a symbol of strength and determination. Her legacy as a pioneering female artist in country music continues to be celebrated.

#4 Patsy Cline

Patsy Cline was one of the most influential and revered vocalists in country music history, known for her rich, emotive voice and crossover appeal. Born in 1932 in Virginia, Cline began her music career in the 1950s and quickly gained recognition with hits like “Walkin’ After Midnight” and “I Fall to Pieces.” Her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, combined with her powerful voice, set her apart from her contemporaries and helped her become one of the first female country artists to achieve crossover success in the pop music world.

Cline’s career was tragically cut short when she died in a plane crash in 1963 at the age of 30, but her influence on country music is profound. Songs like “Crazy” and “Sweet Dreams” remain timeless classics, and Cline’s legacy as a trailblazer for women in country music continues to inspire generations of artists. Her contributions to the genre have earned her a lasting place in the annals of country music history.

#5 Emmylou Harris

Emmylou Harris is a celebrated country and Americana singer-songwriter known for her angelic voice, eclectic musical style, and influential career that spans several decades. Born in 1947 in Birmingham, Alabama, Harris first gained recognition as a collaborator with Gram Parsons, helping to pioneer the country-rock genre. Her solo career took off in the 1970s with the release of albums like Pieces of the Sky and Elite Hotel, which blended country, folk, and rock influences and featured hits like “Boulder to Birmingham” and “Together Again.”

Harris has continued to evolve her sound over the years, exploring genres such as bluegrass, gospel, and Americana, while maintaining her roots in country music. She has won 14 Grammy Awards and is a member of both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Americana Music Association’s Hall of Fame. Emmylou Harris’s contributions to music are vast, and she remains a revered figure in both country and Americana music circles.

#6 Shania Twain

Shania Twain, born in 1965 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, is one of the best-selling female artists in country music history and is often referred to as the “Queen of Country Pop.” Twain’s breakthrough came with her 1995 album The Woman in Me, which featured hits like “Any Man of Mine” and “Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?” The album’s success marked the beginning of Twain’s rise to superstardom, blending country with pop sensibilities in a way that appealed to a broad audience.

Her follow-up album, Come On Over (1997), became the best-selling studio album by a female act in any genre and included iconic tracks like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and “You’re Still the One.” Twain’s ability to craft catchy, relatable songs with wide appeal earned her multiple Grammy Awards and solidified her place as a trailblazer in the country music genre. Despite facing personal and health challenges, including a battle with Lyme disease, Twain remains an influential figure in music and continues to inspire artists and fans alike.

#7 Faith Hill

Faith Hill is one of the most successful female country music artists of all time, known for her powerful voice and crossover appeal. Born in 1967 in Mississippi, Hill was adopted as an infant and grew up in a loving, supportive environment that nurtured her passion for music. She moved to Nashville at the age of 19 to pursue her dreams and quickly rose to fame with her debut album Take Me as I Am in 1993, which featured the hit single “Wild One.” Hill’s blend of country and pop elements helped her stand out in the industry, and she continued her success with albums like Breathe and Faith.

Her music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment, resonating with a wide audience. Hill has won multiple Grammy Awards, CMA Awards, and ACM Awards, and she has also found success as an actress and television personality. Married to fellow country star Tim McGraw, Faith Hill’s influence on country music is profound, and she remains a beloved figure in the genre.

#8 Martina McBride

Martina McBride, born in 1966 in Kansas, is known for her powerhouse vocals and socially conscious music, which often addresses issues such as domestic violence and women’s empowerment. McBride began her music career in the early 1990s, quickly gaining recognition with her debut album The Time Has Come (1992). However, it was her second album, The Way That I Am (1993), that established her as a major force in country music, featuring hits like “Independence Day” and “My Baby Loves Me.”

McBride’s ability to convey deep emotion through her music, combined with her strong, clear voice, has made her one of the most respected vocalists in country music. She has released numerous successful albums over the years, earning multiple Grammy nominations and CMA Awards. In addition to her music career, McBride is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in support of women’s rights and health issues. Her contributions to country music and her advocacy efforts have solidified her legacy as a powerful voice in the genre.

#9 Trisha Yearwood

Trisha Yearwood is a Grammy-winning country music singer, actress, and author, known for her rich voice and emotional delivery. Born in 1964 in Monticello, Georgia, Yearwood rose to fame in the early 1990s with her debut single “She’s in Love with the Boy,” which became a number-one hit and established her as a rising star in country music. Her debut album, Trisha Yearwood (1991), was a commercial success, and she continued to build on that momentum with subsequent albums like Hearts in Armor and The Song Remembers When.

Yearwood’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience, resonating deeply with her audience. In addition to her successful music career, Yearwood is also a bestselling cookbook author and hosts the popular cooking show Trisha’s Southern Kitchen. Her ability to connect with fans through both her music and her culinary talents has made her a beloved figure in country music and beyond.

#10 June Carter Cash

June Carter Cash was a singer, songwriter, and actress who played a pivotal role in the history of country music, both as a solo artist and as the wife of Johnny Cash. Born in 1929 in Maces Spring, Virginia, into the legendary Carter Family, June grew up surrounded by music and made her first recordings as a child. She was known for her lively personality and her talent for playing multiple instruments, including the guitar, autoharp, and banjo. June’s solo career included hits like “Juke Box Blues” and “No Swallerin’ Place,” but she is perhaps best known for her collaborations with Johnny Cash, with whom she recorded several duets, including the iconic “Jackson” and “It Ain’t Me Babe.”

June Carter Cash’s influence on country music extended beyond her performances, as she also co-wrote some of Johnny Cash’s most famous songs, including “Ring of Fire.” Her contributions to the genre and her role in shaping the careers of other country music legends have earned her a lasting legacy as one of the most important figures in country music history.

#11 Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert is a contemporary country music star known for her fiery personality, powerful vocals, and ability to craft deeply personal and often rebellious songs. Born in 1983 in Longview, Texas, Lambert gained national attention as a finalist on the television show Nashville Star in 2003. Her debut album Kerosene (2005) was a critical and commercial success, featuring hits like “Kerosene” and “Gunpowder & Lead.” Lambert’s music is characterized by its raw emotion, sharp lyrics, and blend of traditional and contemporary country sounds.

Throughout her career, Lambert has released several critically acclaimed albums, including Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and The Weight of These Wings, earning her multiple Grammy Awards, CMA Awards, and ACM Awards. She is also a member of the country trio Pistol Annies, further showcasing her versatility as an artist. Miranda Lambert is celebrated as one of the most influential and trailblazing women in modern country music.

#12 Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood rose to fame as the winner of the fourth season of American Idol in 2005 and quickly became one of the most successful female country artists of the 21st century. Born in 1983 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Underwood’s debut album Some Hearts (2005) was an instant success, featuring hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats.” Her powerful voice, combined with her ability to blend country with pop elements, helped her appeal to a broad audience.

Underwood has continued her success with albums like Carnival Ride, Blown Away, and Cry Pretty, producing a string of chart-topping singles and winning multiple Grammy Awards, CMA Awards, and ACM Awards. Known for her dynamic stage presence and ability to convey deep emotion through her music, Carrie Underwood has sold over 70 million records worldwide. She remains a dominant force in country music and a role model for aspiring artists.

#13 Linda Ronstadt

Linda Ronstadt is a versatile singer known for her ability to perform in a wide range of musical genres, including country, rock, pop, and Latin music. Born in 1946 in Tucson, Arizona, Ronstadt first gained fame in the late 1960s as the lead singer of the folk-rock group The Stone Poneys, with whom she scored a hit with “Different Drum.” She launched her solo career in the early 1970s and quickly became one of the most popular and influential female artists of the decade, with hits like “You’re No Good,” “Blue Bayou,” and “When Will I Be Loved.”

Ronstadt’s ability to seamlessly transition between musical styles earned her critical acclaim and commercial success, with 11 Grammy Awards and more than 100 million records sold worldwide. In addition to her success in rock and pop music, Ronstadt also explored traditional Mexican music, recording several Spanish-language albums that celebrated her heritage. Her contributions to music have earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and she remains one of the most respected and beloved artists of her time.

#14 Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Musgraves is a Grammy-winning country music singer-songwriter known for her sharp, witty lyrics and willingness to challenge traditional country music norms. Born in 1988 in Golden, Texas, Musgraves began her music career as a teenager, eventually gaining national attention with her major-label debut album Same Trailer Different Park (2013). The album, which included the hit single “Merry Go ‘Round,” earned Musgraves critical acclaim for its honest, often humorous take on life in small-town America.

Musgraves continued to push boundaries with her subsequent albums, Pageant Material and Golden Hour, the latter of which won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 2019. Her music blends traditional country elements with pop, psychedelic, and electronic influences, creating a unique sound that has resonated with a broad audience. Known for her bold, unapologetic approach to songwriting and her commitment to authenticity, Kacey Musgraves has become one of the most influential voices in contemporary country music.

#15 Alison Krauss

Alison Krauss is an American bluegrass-country singer and fiddler, known for her angelic voice and exceptional musicianship. Born in 1971 in Decatur, Illinois, Krauss began her music career at a young age, winning fiddle competitions and recording her first album at the age of 14. She gained widespread recognition in the 1990s as the lead singer of Alison Krauss & Union Station, a band that blended traditional bluegrass with contemporary country sounds. Krauss’s 1995 album Now That I’ve Found You: A Collection brought bluegrass to a broader audience, and her collaboration with artists like Robert Plant further showcased her versatility.

Krauss has won 27 Grammy Awards, making her one of the most awarded artists in Grammy history. Her contributions to the genre have helped elevate bluegrass music to new heights, and she is celebrated for her ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation. Alison Krauss’s influence on both bluegrass and country music is profound, and her legacy as a musician is well-established.

#16 Lee Ann Womack

Lee Ann Womack is an American country music singer and songwriter known for her traditional country sound and emotive storytelling. Born in 1966 in Jacksonville, Texas, Womack grew up surrounded by music and was influenced by classic country artists like George Jones and Tammy Wynette. Her self-titled debut album in 1997 produced several hits, but it was her 2000 single “I Hope You Dance” that catapulted her to international fame. The song became a crossover hit, reaching audiences beyond country music and earning Womack multiple awards, including a Grammy.

Womack’s music is characterized by its blend of traditional country and contemporary influences, and she has continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including There’s More Where That Came From and The Lonely, the Lonesome & the Gone. Known for her rich, soulful voice and her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, Lee Ann Womack remains one of the most respected and admired artists in country music.

#17 Rosanne Cash

Rosanne Cash is an American singer-songwriter and author, known for her introspective lyrics and blend of country, folk, and rock influences. Born in 1955 in Memphis, Tennessee, Cash is the eldest daughter of country music legend Johnny Cash and his first wife, Vivian Liberto. She began her music career in the late 1970s and achieved commercial success with her 1981 album Seven Year Ache, which produced three number-one hits on the country charts. Cash’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and identity, and she has been praised for her thoughtful, literate songwriting.

Over the years, Cash has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including King’s Record Shop and The River & the Thread, the latter of which won three Grammy Awards. In addition to her music career, Cash is also a published author and has written several essays and a memoir. Her contributions to music and literature have earned her a lasting legacy, and she continues to be a powerful voice in the American music landscape.

#18 Wynonna Judd

Wynonna Judd is an American country music singer and songwriter, best known as one half of the mother-daughter duo The Judds. Born in 1964 in Ashland, Kentucky, Wynonna began her music career alongside her mother, Naomi Judd, in the early 1980s. The Judds quickly became one of the most successful acts in country music, with hits like “Mama He’s Crazy,” “Why Not Me,” and “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout the Good Old Days).” The duo’s harmonious blend of traditional country, bluegrass, and pop influences earned them numerous awards and widespread acclaim.

After Naomi retired due to health issues in 1991, Wynonna launched a successful solo career, releasing hit albums like Wynonna and Tell Me Why. Her powerful voice and strong stage presence have made her one of the most beloved figures in country music. Wynonna has continued to tour and record music, maintaining her status as a country music icon and a testament to the enduring appeal of The Judds.

#19 Tanya Tucker

Tanya Tucker is an American country music singer and songwriter who first rose to fame as a teenage sensation in the early 1970s. Born in 1958 in Seminole, Texas, Tucker released her debut single “Delta Dawn” at the age of 13, which became a major hit and established her as a rising star in country music. Her early success continued with hits like “What’s Your Mama’s Name?” and “Blood Red and Goin’ Down,” making her one of the most popular country artists of the decade.

Tucker’s career has spanned over five decades, during which she has released numerous hit albums and singles, earning multiple awards and accolades. Known for her distinctive voice and ability to convey emotion in her songs, Tucker has remained relevant in the country music scene, with her 2019 album While I’m Livin’ earning critical acclaim and a Grammy Award for Best Country Album. Her resilience and talent have made Tanya Tucker a beloved figure in country music, and she continues to inspire new generations of artists.

#20 Gretchen Wilson</h

Gretchen Wilson is an American country music singer known for her no-nonsense, down-to-earth persona and powerful voice. Born in 1973 in Pocahontas, Illinois, Wilson burst onto the country music scene in 2004 with her debut single “Redneck Woman,” which became a number-one hit and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. Her debut album Here for the Party was a commercial success, featuring hits like “Here for the Party” and “When I Think About Cheatin’.”

Wilson’s music is characterized by its blend of country, rock, and Southern influences, and she quickly became known for her energetic performances and relatable lyrics. Despite facing challenges in the industry, Wilson has continued to release music and tour, maintaining a loyal fanbase. Her impact on country music, particularly as a female artist unafraid to embrace her roots, has solidified her place in the genre’s history.

#21 Crystal Gayle

Crystal Gayle is an American country music singer known for her smooth voice and crossover appeal in the 1970s and 1980s. Born in 1951 in Paintsville, Kentucky, Gayle is the younger sister of country legend Loretta Lynn. She began her music career in the early 1970s, but it was her 1977 single “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” that catapulted her to international fame. The song topped the country charts and crossed over to the pop charts, earning Gayle a Grammy Award and solidifying her status as a leading country-pop artist.

Gayle continued to release a string of successful albums and singles, including hits like “Talking in Your Sleep” and “Half the Way.” Known for her long, flowing hair and elegant stage presence, Gayle’s music often blended traditional country with pop elements, making her one of the most versatile and popular artists of her time. Her contributions to country music have earned her numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and she remains a beloved figure in the genre.

#22 Brenda Lee

Brenda Lee is an American singer and one of the most versatile vocalists of the 20th century, known for her work in rockabilly, pop, and country music. Born in 1944 in Atlanta, Georgia, Lee began her career as a child star, earning the nickname “Little Miss Dynamite” for her powerful voice and energetic performances. She achieved major success in the late 1950s and early 1960s with hits like “Sweet Nothin’s,” “I’m Sorry,” and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” the latter of which has become a holiday classic.

Lee’s ability to effortlessly switch between genres made her a standout artist in a competitive music landscape, and she became one of the first female artists to achieve international stardom. Over the course of her career, she has sold more than 100 million records and has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Brenda Lee’s influence on multiple genres and her enduring legacy as a pioneering female artist make her a true icon in American music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which singer from the list is known for her powerful ballad “I Hope You Dance” and has a strong influence in traditional country music?

Lee Ann Womack is known for her hit ballad “I Hope You Dance,” which became a crossover success and solidified her influence in both traditional country music and mainstream audiences.

Who on the list began her career as a teenage sensation with the hit “Delta Dawn” and continued to be a country music icon for decades?

Tanya Tucker gained fame as a teenager with her hit “Delta Dawn” and has maintained a successful career, becoming a country music icon with a career spanning over five decades.

Which singer on the list is often credited with bringing bluegrass music to a broader audience and has won 27 Grammy Awards?

Alison Krauss is credited with popularizing bluegrass music to a wider audience and has won 27 Grammy Awards, making her one of the most awarded artists in Grammy history.

Who among the listed singers is known for her crossover success with hits like “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” and has a strong presence in both country and pop music?

Crystal Gayle is known for her crossover success with hits like “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” blending country and pop music, and becoming a leading artist in both genres.