3- “Rose Garden,” Lynn Anderson
In recent years, an entire Country Music Hall of Fame exhibit hinged on the greatness of Joe South’s lyrics and iconic, strings-heavy accompaniment that crosses the streams of Nashville Sound polish and delightfully weird baroque pop.
4- “Kentucky Rain,” Elvis Presley
Although most associate this Elvis Presley hit with oldies radio, it actually previewed the talents of a couple of country music game-changers. That’s Ronnie Milsap playing piano on this Eddie Rabbitt co-write.