Older Female Country Music Singers
Learn Their Best Acoustic Songs

Few eras in music are as inspiring as the golden age of female country singers who shaped the sound of Nashville and beyond. On this page, you’ll find easy acoustic guitar songs by legends like Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, Emmylou Harris, and Reba McEntire—all arranged for acoustic players.

Each lesson includes chords, rhythm patterns, and strumming tips, helping you capture the storytelling charm and timeless style that define classic female country music.

Hands On You is a country song recorded by Ashley Monroe, an American country singer-songwriter. It was released as a single from her fourth studio album, "Sparrow," in 2018.

Written by Ashley Monroe herself, alongside Jon Randall and Nicolette Hayford, "Hands On You" is a sultry and introspective ballad.

"Hands On You" showcases Ashley Monroe's distinct vocals, rich with emotion and nuance. The song's production combines traditional country elements with a contemporary twist, incorporating elements of pop and Americana.

It's A Heartache was  released in 1977 on the album Natural Force, “It’s a Heartache” became one of Bonnie Tyler’s biggest hits, reaching #3 US Billboard Hot 100 and #4 UK Singles Chart.

The raspy vocal style and simple chord progression make it ideal for acoustic players who love a raw country-rock feel.

Total Eclipse Of The Heart is from her 1983 album Faster Than the Speed of Night, this Jim Steinman-penned power ballad topped charts worldwide and won Billboard’s Top Female Vocal Performance.

Losing You was a big hit for Brenda Lee in 1963 when she released this track from her album Let Me Sing. It reached #6 on the Billboard Hot 100.

For rhythm here play a root down up root up down up and repeat with a few picking notes throughout. In standard tuning the chords you'll need are E, Abm, A, B7, Gbm, C, G, Am, Em and an F.

Every Little Thing is a song recorded by Carlene Carter, an American country singer-songwriter. It was released as the lead single from her album "Little Love Letters" in 1993.

Written by Carlene Carter herself, "Every Little Thing" is a heartfelt country ballad that showcases Carter's emotive vocals and vulnerable storytelling. The song explores the aftermath of a breakup and the lingering feelings of love and loss. The lyrics express the pain of moving on while reminiscing about the little details and moments that were once shared with a former lover.

Carlene Carter comes from a musical family, being the daughter of country music legends June Carter Cash and Carl Smith, and the stepdaughter of Johnny Cash. She has carved out her own successful career in country music, blending traditional country elements with rock and pop influences.

Shut Up And Drive was released in 1997 from her album Let Me In, “Shut Up and Drive” became Chely Wright’s first major hit, reaching #14 on Billboard Hot Country Songs.

The song’s mid-tempo groove  make it a fun acoustic choice for learners.

I'll Get Over You is a popular country song performed by Crystal Gayle. Richard Leigh wrote the song, and it came out in March 1976. This song was a big deal for Crystal Gayle because it became her first number-one hit on the country music charts.

It was her seventh song to make it onto the charts, showing that she was becoming more and more popular. The song is about moving on after a breakup, which is a topic many people can relate to.

Crystal Gayle's smooth voice and the song's catchy melody helped make it a hit with country music fans. This success was an important step in Crystal Gayle's career, proving she could create songs that would top the charts.

In standard tuning here play a root down up root up down up and repeats rhythm pattern with some down strokes in places. For chords you'll need a C, Dm, G, Am and a D7. No picking but a few riffs near the end.

Strawberry Wine is a signature hit from her 1996 debut album Did I Shave My Legs for This? reached #1 on Billboard Hot Country Songs and won Song of the Year at the CMA Awards.

A gentle, nostalgic ballad, it sounds beautiful finger-picked or softly strummed on acoustic guitar.

After Sweet Memories Play Born To Lose Again was recorded by Dottsy, a popular country singer in the 1970s and 1980s and hit the airwaves in 1977.

Bobby Braddock wrote this song about heartbreak and moving on after a failed relationship. The lyrics talk about feeling sad but strong after losing love. This song shows off Dottsy's great singing and her talent for expressing emotions through music.

While not her most famous song, it's a good example of her traditional country style that made her successful.

This one played with a capo 2nd fret in standard tuning with the chords G, C, D, G7 and a D7. You can play a root down up root up down up rhythm pattern here with a little picking.

El Camino was nominated for Song Of The Year at the 2011 Americana Awards in spite of the fact this song was never released as a single.

"Welder" is Elizabeth Cook's fourth studio album, known for its blend of traditional country sounds with a modern edge. "El Camino" is a standout track from the album, showcasing Cook's storytelling ability and her unique vocal style.

Elizabeth Cook's album "Welder" received critical acclaim for its strong songwriting, engaging performances, and Cook's distinctive voice. While "El Camino" may not have achieved mainstream commercial success, it has been praised by fans and critics for its infectious energy and memorable lyrics.

Let Me Let Go is from Faith Hill’s 1998 album Faith, “Let Me Let Go” climbed to #1 on Billboard Country Airplay and was later featured in Message in a Bottle.

It’s a heartfelt ballad in G major, ideal for acoustic players working on chord transitions and vocal phrasing.

Grandma's Song is a track recorded by Gail Davies. It was featured on her self-titled debut album, "Gail Davies," released in 1978. The song was also included on her later album, "I'll Be There," released in 1983.

"Grandma's Song" is a heartfelt country ballad that pays tribute to the special bond between a granddaughter and her grandmother. The lyrics capture the memories, wisdom, and unconditional love that are often shared between generations. The song's emotional depth and Davies' emotive vocals make it a sentimental and poignant track.

More Hearts Than Mine was released in 2019 on Lady Like, this debut single reached #1 on Billboard Country Airplay and earned Grammy nominations for Best Country Song and Performance.

Its soft piano roots translate perfectly to acoustic guitar using simple open chords and emotional dynamics.

Nullabor Song was released in 2002 from Kasey Chambers’ album Barricades & Brickwalls, “Nullarbor Song” captures the vast Australian landscape and the loneliness of travel through heartfelt storytelling.

Although not a chart single, it became a fan favorite for its haunting lyrics and acoustic-driven simplicity, showcasing Chambers’ trademark country-folk style and emotional delivery.

See Rock City appeared on Kate Campbell’s 1996 debut album of the same name. The song paints vivid scenes of small-town southern life and spiritual reflection, blending folk and Americana influences. Praised by critics for its poetic writing and pure acoustic style, it established Campbell as one of Nashville’s most literate and soulful singer-songwriters of the 1990s.

Save Me was featured on k.d. lang’s 1992 Grammy-winning album Ingénue, “Save Me” highlights her smooth, emotive vocals and minimalist arrangement.

While overshadowed by the hit single “Constant Craving,” the song deepens the album’s introspective tone. Its haunting melody and sparse production make it an excellent acoustic study in phrasing and tone control for guitarists and singers alike.

Breakaway is a song recorded by Kelly Clarkson, originally released as the title track and second single from her second studio album, "Breakaway," in 2004. The song was co-written by Avril Lavigne, Bridget Benenate, and Matthew Gerrard.

"Breakaway" is a powerful pop-rock anthem that speaks to the desire for independence, self-discovery, and following one's dreams. The lyrics express a longing for freedom from limitations and the courage to embrace new opportunities. The song resonates with listeners who may feel trapped or unsatisfied with their current circumstances, inspiring them to break free and pursue their aspirations.

"Breakaway" helped establish Kelly Clarkson as a pop powerhouse and showcased her strong and versatile vocals. The song became an anthem for many, encapsulating themes of self-empowerment and personal growth. Its universal message continues to resonate with listeners, making it a fan favorite and a significant part of Kelly Clarkson's discography.

Due to its popularity, "Breakaway" has been covered and performed by various artists, solidifying its status as a modern pop classic.

Do Ya is a country song recorded by the late American country singer-songwriter KT Oslin.  It was the first single from her second album, "This Woman." The song mixes country, pop, and R&B styles.

"Do Ya" is about a confident woman asking a man to show he really likes her. It's a fun and strong song that shows off KT's clever writing.

The song became very popular, reaching number one on the country music charts and even playing on pop radio stations. It won KT a Grammy Award and made her one of the biggest country stars of the late 1980s.

For rhythm here you'll be blending in some bass riffs as you do a  down down up down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern. Use the chords G, C, D, A7, and a G7. There is no lead required here in standard tuning.

Tell Me Why was  released in 2018, “Tell Me Why” by The Voice finalist Lauren Duski gained attention for its poignant lyrics and stripped-down country-pop feel. Though it didn’t chart on Billboard, the song resonated with fans for its raw honesty and emotional depth. Its open-chord structure makes it a beautiful fit for acoustic interpretation and solo performance.

Blue is a country song recorded by LeAnn Rimes. It was released as the debut single and the title track of her first studio album, "Blue," in 1996 when she was just 13 years old.

"Blue" is a traditional country ballad that showcases Rimes' powerful vocals and mature sound beyond her years. The song tells the story of a young girl who is heartbroken and feeling blue after her love has left her. The lyrics express the feelings of loneliness, longing, and sadness associated with a lost love.

I Hope You Dance was  released in 2000 on the album I Hope You Dance, this inspirational ballad became Lee Ann Womack’s signature song, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and crossing over to #14 on the Hot 100.

Winning both CMA and Grammy Awards, it remains a modern classic often played at graduations and weddings — and sounds timeless on acoustic guitar.

Take Me Back To Texas  was included on Lee Ann Womack’s 2006 album There’s More Where That Came From.

The song evokes traditional country roots with its waltz tempo and steel guitar influence.

Though not a major single, it’s a fan favorite for its nostalgic tone and pure acoustic style that recalls the storytelling warmth of early country music.

Don't Come Home a Drinkin (With Lovin' on Your Mind)" is a classic country song recorded by Loretta Lynn. She wrote it with her sister Peggy Sue Wells. It was the main song on her album with the same name from 1966.

The song is about a woman who's tired of her husband drinking and cheating. She tells him not to come home expecting love if he's been unfaithful.

This song became Loretta's first big hit, reaching number one on the country music charts. It showed off her strong voice and brave songwriting. People liked how honest and direct it was.

For this one play root down up root up down up and repeat rhythm pattern in standard tuning. A little picking here with the chords D, G, A, A7 and an E.

Except For Monday is a country song recorded by Lorrie Morgan, an American country music singer. It was released as the second single from her third studio album, "Something in Red," in 1991.

Written by Reed Nielsen and Wendy Waldman, "Except for Monday" is an upbeat and catchy country-pop song. It tells the story of a woman who finds solace and joy in her relationship, even though life may throw challenges and disappointments her way.

"Except for Monday" became one of Lorrie Morgan's biggest hits and remains one of her signature songs. It achieved significant success on the country charts, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

Rose Garden is a famous song written by Joe South in 1967. At first, a few different singers recorded it, but it didn't become a big hit right away. In 1970, country singer Lynn Anderson decided to record the song. At first, her producer didn't think it was right for her, but Anderson convinced him to let her try.

It turned out to be a great decision! The song became a huge success, not just in country music but also on pop charts. It was popular all over the world and hit number one in many countries. Anderson's version of "Rose Garden" was so good that she won a Grammy Award for it in 1971.

This song helped make Lynn Anderson famous and is still remembered as one of the biggest country-pop crossover hits of its time.

Play a steady down up down up with some walking bass notes in this one. No lead however in standard tuning and a capo 2nd fret. For chords you'll need a C, Dm, G, F, A#, A7 and an Fm.

Help Me Make It Through The Night appears on her 2011 album Sweet Dreams, a tribute to classic country ballads.

Originally written by Kris Kristofferson and made famous by Sammi Smith in 1970, Barnett’s rendition preserves the song’s slow, torch-style emotion.

Her soaring vocals and rich acoustic arrangement make it ideal for learners exploring old-school country phrasing and rhythm.

In My Little Corner Of The World was released in 1974 on the album In My Little Corner of the World, Marie Osmond’s cover of this Anita Bryant song highlights her sweet tone and traditional Nashville sound.

The track reached #40 on the Billboard Country chart, further cementing Osmond’s image as one of country-pop’s leading young voices. Its steady 3/4 rhythm translates beautifully to acoustic guitar in an easy waltz style.

Pick Me Up On Your Way Down was recorded for her 2014 album Everlasting, covering the Charlie Walker 1958 hit.

Her soulful country-blues delivery and stripped acoustic production breathe new life into this honky-tonk classic.

The song showcases smooth chord transitions and laid-back rhythm—perfect for acoustic players practicing dynamic control and tone.

Pushin Time  was released in 2016 on The Weight of These Wings, “Pushin’ Time” is a heartfelt duet with Anderson East, blending vulnerability with rich acoustic texture.

The song reflects on love’s fragility and emotional growth, carried by Lambert’s warm, earthy tone.

With its gentle fingerpicking and slow tempo, it’s a great study in modern country ballad style for acoustic guitar.