If you're a fan of country music, you know that few artists have left as indelible a mark as Emmylou Harris. With a career spanning over five decades, her discography is a treasure trove of musical gems. Ready to dive into a journey through her albums? Buckle up, because we’re about to explore the best Emmylou Harris albums, ranked and complete with release dates and standout tracks.
Why Emmylou Harris?
Emmylou Harris isn’t just a singer; she’s a storyteller, a pioneer, and a collaborator who has worked with some of the biggest names in music. From her haunting voice to her heart-touching lyrics, she has a unique ability to connect with listeners. Let’s take a stroll through her extensive albums list and discover the top Emmylou Harris songs that have defined her career.
The Best Emmylou Harris Albums Ranked
1. Wrecking Ball (1995)
Released in 1995, Wrecking Ball is often hailed as Emmylou’s magnum opus. Produced by Daniel Lanois, this album showcases a more experimental side of her artistry.
- Top Tracks: “Wrecking Ball,” “Sweet Old World”
- Notable Collaborations: Lanois himself contributes significantly to the sound.
2. Blue Kentucky Girl (1979)
This album is a classic for a reason. Blue Kentucky Girl combines traditional country with a touch of rock and folk.
- Top Tracks: “Blue Kentucky Girl,” “Beneath Still Waters”
- Notable Collaborations: The legendary Gram Parsons features heavily in the album’s influence.
3. Red Dirt Girl (2000)
A personal favorite for many fans, Red Dirt Girl is an emotional journey that highlights Harris’ songwriting prowess.
- Top Tracks: “Red Dirt Girl,” “My Baby Needs a Shepherd”
- Notable Collaborations: Co-writers include the talented Gillian Welch.
4. Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town (1978)
This album perfectly encapsulates the late 70s country scene. With rich storytelling, it’s a staple of her discography.
- Top Tracks: “Easy from Now On,” “Two More Bottles of Wine”
- Notable Collaborations: Produced by Brian Ahern, showcasing a polished sound.
5. Luxury Liner (1977)
A blend of traditional country and rock, Luxury Liner solidified Harris' status in the music industry.
- Top Tracks: “Luxury Liner,” “To Daddy”
- Notable Collaborations: Features contributions from the likes of The Hot Band.
Complete Emmylou Harris Albums List with Release Dates
Here's a handy table for the ultimate Emmylou Harris albums list with release dates. This should help you keep track of her impressive catalog:
| Album | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Gliding Bird | 1970 |
| Emmylou Harris | 1976 |
| Elite Hotel | 1975 |
| Luxury Liner | 1977 |
| Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town | 1978 |
| Blue Kentucky Girl | 1979 |
| Roses in the Snow | 1980 |
| Evangeline | 1981 |
| Cimarron | 1981 |
| White Shoes | 1983 |
| Last Date | 1984 |
| The Ballad of Sally Rose | 1985 |
| Thirteen | 1986 |
| Emmylou Harris | 1995 |
| Wrecking Ball | 1995 |
| Red Dirt Girl | 2000 |
| Stumble Into Grace | 2003 |
| All I Intended to Be | 2008 |
| Hard Bargain | 2011 |
| The Traveling Kind | 2015 |
| The Very Best of Emmylou Harris | 2016 |
Top Emmylou Harris Songs from Her Albums
Let’s not forget the music! Here are some of the top Emmylou Harris songs that have become anthems over the years.
- “Beneath Still Waters” from Blue Kentucky Girl: A haunting ballad that showcases her vocal range.
- “Wrecking Ball” from Wrecking Ball: An emotional powerhouse of a song.
- “Red Dirt Girl” from Red Dirt Girl: A beautiful narrative that resonates with many.
- “Two More Bottles of Wine” from Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town: A classic tale of love and loss.
Emmylou Harris Collaborations on Albums
Throughout her career, Harris has collaborated with a variety of artists, enriching her music with diverse influences. Here are some standout collaborations:
- Gram Parsons: Their partnership in the early 70s set the stage for much of her early work.
- Linda Ronstadt & Dolly Parton: The trio’s album Trio is a timeless classic.
- Mark Knopfler: Their collaboration on All I Intended to Be is a match made in musical heaven.
Conclusion: A Legacy in Music
Emmylou Harris’s discography is a testament to her talent and versatility. With a blend of heartfelt lyrics, stunning vocals, and memorable collaborations, her albums have left a significant mark on the music landscape. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her music, exploring her albums is a journey worth taking.
So, what’s your favorite Emmylou Harris album? Dive into her discography, and who knows—you might just discover your new favorite song!
