merle haggard

In the 1980s, more than ever before, country artists and songwriters were perfecting the art of the story song.

During times of unimaginable loss, these country songs can soothe the soul.

After all, everyone has a story to tell — and country music has a lot to say.

Some of these songs bring the artist's career full-circle, while others tell a haunting story of a life cut short.

They know the heartbreak they sing about.

They were called Young Country then and, appropriately, looked to the radio for inspiration.

Including several delinquent youths, at least two singers battling addiction and one jealous rage that ended in murder.

The Boot counts down country music's best songs about winter.

'A Cody Johnson Christmas' will drop on Nov. 19 and include two new original songs and several familiar standards.

Twelve country artists have received Kennedy Center Honors over the years.

Do you know the nicknames of your favorite country stars?

There's nothing quite like a live country music show ... but the next best thing might just be a live country music album.