Making way for bluebonnets to bloom, Houston’s famous rodeo season ends as springtime begins. As the cowboy boots go back in many Houstonians closets, the Texas pride remains present. Undeniably a part of that pride, country music lives on through the open lands of Texas. Warming up to the genre might take some time for some, but the sentimental ladies of country music show another side to twang. Here are some golden oldies that even a country skeptic would enjoy. 

1. “I Fall to Pieces” by Patsy Cline

Patsy Cline’s first No. 1 hit helped redefine pop country in the 60s. Written by Hank Crochan and Harland Howard with vocals from The Jordanaires, it helped put Cline on the country music map.

2. “Coal Miner’s Daughter” by Loretta Lynn

Kentucky native Loretta Lynn continued the legacy of her friend Patsy Cline. Known for writing her own songs, Lynn was a pioneer for women in country music. Played by Sissy Spacek in the 1980 Lynn inspired film “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” she became an accredited figure outside the country music scene.

3. “Bad Case of the Blues” by Linda Martell

Unfortunately one of the lesser recognized female stars, Linda Martell was the first black woman to sing at the Grand Ole Opry. With 3 No. 1 hits, Martell made unfathomable differences in the genre. Martell’s short lived success is a reminder of the true roots of country music.

4. “Stand by Your Man” by Tammy Wynette

Another No. 1 hit on the country charts, Tammy Wynette’s scratchy gut felt voice resonated with many women. Known for her short yet dramatic marriage to the influential country singer George Jones, Wynette was much more than a wife. Wynette left this world with more than 20 No. 1 hits.

5. “Right or Wrong” by Wanda Jackson

Blending her love for rock and roll and country, Wanda Jackson had a smooth crossover to the rockabilly genre. Jackson’s voice was unforgettable and she remains a staple in the beginning of country music for women.

6. “What’s Your Mama’s Name” by Tanya Tucker

Starting her career at the young age of 13, Tanya Tucker moved many hearts with her unexpected matured voice. Living through a career filled with tabloid drama, Tucker stuck true to her eclectic spirit. Her rise to stardom came at the cost of backlash from many, but her influence is prominent.

7. “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” by Kitty Wells

The only solo woman to achieve country music success in the early 50s. Kitty Wells wasn’t a glittery girl, but her soulful voice and success was a stepping stone for those that followed her.

8. “One of These Days” by Emmylou Harris

An iconic friendship with country rock pioneer Gram Parsons pushed Emmylou Harris’s influence in contemporary music. 14-time Grammy winner, Harris’s artistic and activist ideas were revered by many.

9. “There’s a Fool Born Every Minute” by Skeeter Davis

Breaking hearts with her 60s hit “The End of The World,” Skeeter Davis was another woman to make the crossover on pop and country charts. Once touring with Elvis Presley and The Rolling Stones, her audience was always growing. Davis was a Grand Ole Opry member until she passed in 2004.

10. “Love is Like a Butterfly” by Dolly Parton

Among the most popular woman in the music scene, Dolly Parton brings audiences together. Flashy costumes and amusement park franchise aside, Parton’s smile is infectious and her voice is a familiar comfort.