If you had to build a Mount Rushmore with instruments that make up country music, I’d argue the fiddle would be one of the first to be carved out. If you’re on the hunt for some songs that could make Charlie Daniels rise again, look no further:
Stompin’ Grounds- Flatland Cavalry
This song comes from the band’s first studio album, Humble Folks. Intently placed fiddle solos by Wesley Hall, make this one perfect for any setting. It could be your go-to crowd-pleaser request at a dancehall or your favorite feel-good tune for just sitting on your back porch drinking a Shiner as the lyrics mention.
Long Hot Summer Day- Turnpike Troubadours
If this Turnpike classic doesn’t give you daydreams of sitting by a body of water, sweating your ass off in the middle of summer while drinking the coldest beverage you can find, I don’t know what will. With a fiddle intro recognizable ten counties wide, we are not responsible if every neighbor that enjoys good music is at your door yelling, “Turn it up”, within thirty seconds of the first note.
Oklahoma City (Single) – Zach Bryan
Another song that deserves to be mentioned in this mix is Oklahoma City by Zach Bryan. Fiddle notes are beautifully woven into the already poignant lyrics in this version that was released as a single back in August of 2020. Zach later made a few changes in the studio before adding it to his third album, American Heartbreak.
Hummingbird- Shane Smith and the Saints
Any song by Shane Smith and the Saints could easily make this list. Hummingbird is no exception. The third single from this group, released in June of 2022, is beautifully layered with fiddle notes by Bennett Brown. While listening to the phenomenal instrumentals laid down by all members of the band, take a look at the lyrics to see it hits on a few deeper topics that often impact many relationships.
Crazy- Aaron Watson
Originally recorded by Pat Green, the version that makes this list is a cover by Aaron Watson. Recorded for Dancehall Dreamin’, a tribute album to the aforementioned Green, Watson adds fiddle instrumentals to the already elegant love song written by Green for his wife. If you are in search of a melody for the first dance at your wedding or a smooth ballad to dream about one day to, look no further.
