With the close of 2010, CMT has looked back at the twenty greatest videos of the year. Starting things off is a great trio.
20-Rascal Flatts- Why Wait
This video featured special guest star David Arquette. A Vegas setting, the video humorously depicts a man desperate to marry, and to keep, his girlfriend.
19-Lee Brice-Love like crazy
This newcomer to the business had a good year in 2010. The song lasted 55 weeks Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, beating the long-lasting hit from1949. Eddy Arnold’s “Bouquet of Roses”, which lasted 54 weeks. After a slow climb to the number one slot, Brice has learned that good things come to those who wait.
18- Chris Young- The Man I Want to be
This song to me has a personal message. As a Christian, I am constantly struggling to be the person I want to be, and that I should be. Young put into words a message that can pertain to so many. After all, isn’t that the definition of a good country song?
17– Miranda Lambert- Only Prettier
This hit for Miranda was on the CD entitled, “Revolution”, and indeed, it was. Two other releases from this CD helped make it reach certified platinum.
16-Zac Brown Band- Highway 20 Ride
This group has come out on top of many award ceremonies, as well as the music charts. The Zac Brown have released hit after hit with such titles as “Toes”, “Chicken Fried” and “Free. I predict great things to come in 2011 from the Zac Brown Band.
15-Jason Aldean-My Kind of Party
Aldean has always been a strong name in Country music, since his “Hicktown” single debut in 2005. In 2006, he won the Top New Male Vocalist from the Academy of Country Music Awards. He has had hits along the way, such as “She’s Country” and “Johnny Cash”. In addition, Aldean has sold over one million copies within the United States.
14-Lady Antebellum-Our Kind of Love
I don’t think there is a person alive that hasn’t at least heard this name. Lady A. has ruled many of the music awards throughout 2010. The group has had hits like “Need You Now”, “I Run To You”, and “Looking For A Good Time”. This trio is on a roll, and it is highly likely that they will continue just as strong in 2011.
13-Luke Bryan- Rain is a Good Thing
This particular song is one that relates to the country folks. Describing the process of farm work and farm play, Bryan’s hit is a prime example of what country music is all about.
12-Carrie Underwood- Temporary Home
This song is absolutely one of the most beautiful, soulful hits of all time. Three situations, real life situations, are covered in this song. An orphan passed from family to family, a recovering drug addict mom trying to make a better life for her and her child and an older man leaving this world. The religious part of the song is very heart touching, especially to those who have lost a loved one. Underwood’s work in this video is also outstanding, very sincere and heart-felt.
11- Reba- Tun on the Radio
As with any idea or concept, some new songs released are recycled hits from a few years back. This particular song, for instance, is a concept taken from Toby Keith’s hit, “How Do You Like Me Now?” Reba’s song is directed to an ex, and while the song itself has a nice beat to it, it lacks in originality. For fans new to country music though, it is no wonder that the video did so well.
10- The Band Perry- If I die young
This new group to CMT has really seemed to grab everyone’s attention. To be so new to the genre, ending up in the top 10 videos of the year definitely shows their strength. This group is out of the starting gate quick, and predictions are high that they will continue their fast pace in future chart races.
9-Jerrod Neimann- Lover, Lover
Neimann has had three radio hits within 2010, including the comical “I pray for you”. The newest song from him is a very catchy, unique sounding hit. The video seemed to be an instant hit, and is one of my favorite songs from our previous year. Fans are anxiously awaiting more great songs from this newcomer.
8-Brad Paisley- Water
What can be said of Paisley that hasn’t already been written? very little, I suppose. Brad Paisley is constantly releasing hit after hit, rather it be on the radio or the video charts. Numerous awards have been taken home by Paisley, including many earned Entertainer of the Year awards. Many hits have been based on his own personal life, allowing fans a glimpse into his family life. In my opinion, Brad Paisley is one of the greatest performers in the country genre, past and present.
7-Keith Urban- ‘Til Summer Comes Around
6-Miranda Lambert- The House That Built Me
Through many different publications, Lambert has given thanks to fiance Blake Shelton for giving this song to her. The pair were driving home one evening and were listening to demos for Lambert. But it wasn’t until Shelton started his demo that Lambert discovered this song. She has gone on to say that this song has touched her heart very strongly, and often has a hard time performing the song live without showing true emotion.
5-Kenny Chesney- The Boys of Fall
This is probably the theme song for every small town, football driven school system. It is a great song, and many adults as well as children can apply this song to their childhood and young adult hood. Another great song from Chesney.
4- Zac Brown Band-Free
This is the kind of love song ballad that fans of ZBB have come to expect. What could more peaceful than just roaming from one place to the next with the one you love beside you. No bills, no worries, just happiness. What a sweet reality for a few, but just a dream to many.
3-Lady Antebellum- American Honey
2010 was a great year for Lady A., and their latest hit earned them the third highest video of the year. With such a great year preceding them, country music fans are anxious to see what 2011 holds in store for this group.
2-Taylor Swift- Mine
Taylor’s current song remained at the number one slot for 13 weeks. This is no surprise to Swift’s fans, as she has had a very successful run, right from the start of her career.
1-Carrie Underwood- Undo It
While I don’t personally favor this song, Carrie Underwood has always shown strength and uniqueness in every project she signs up for. Her strong vocals and powerful storytelling abilities is no doubt the reason behind her high amount of success within country music.
2010 was a great year for country music and its’ fans, and 2011 promises many new hits from newcomers as well as current giants.
