It’s amazing how Lee Greenwood songs won the hearts of many country music fans back in the 1980s.
Growing up on a Sacramento farm, music has always been a part of Greenwood’s life. He began playing various musical instruments at a young age, and by the time he finished high school, he was already playing nearly all the instruments in the orchestra. Eventually, his musical expertise captured the attention of music-industry professionals, and his biggest break came in 1981 after moving to Music City.
As you would expect, Greenwood enjoyed a long string of hit records. He won several industry awards, including the Male Vocalist of the Year Awards, both from the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association. He truly has one of the most thriving careers in country music.
So, without further ado, we’re giving you the best Lee Greenwood songs throughout the years. Keep on scrolling below to find out.
1. God Bless the U.S.A.
From: You’ve Got a Good Love Comin’ (1984)
Greenwood wrote this patriotic anthem, which expresses his love for America and pays tribute to other Americans in history who had died for the country’s freedom.
While it was never a big hit, only peaking at No. 7 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, it became Greenwood’s signature song. Several conservative politicians, such as George Bush, have also used it in their campaigns. In 1991, “God Bless the USA” regained popularity when the United States went to war with Iraq.
2. Don’t Underestimate My Love for You
From: Streamline (1985)
This romantic ballad has been a fan-favorite, especially during weddings, as it could be the perfect first dance song for any newlyweds. It’s also a great declaration of love to win over the heart of that special someone, as the song serves as a good reminder of how powerful true love can be.
3. Ring on Her Finger, Time on Her Hands
From: Inside Out (1982)
Here’s one of Greenwood’s biggest hits. This song tells the story of a married couple – from the day they promised to love one another for the rest of their lives to the day their love started getting sour due to the husband’s constant absence. Eventually, the wife turned to a stranger to find intimacy.
4. I.O.U. (I Owe You)
From: Somebody’s Gonna Love You (1983)
Several ladies of the early ’80s swooned over this romantic ballad that it peaked at No. 6 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart while reaching No. 4 in the Canadian country chart. “I.O.U.” also did quite well on the Adult Contemporary charts and became his second-biggest crossover hit next to “God Bless the U.S.A.”
5. Hopelessly Yours
From: A Perfect 10 (1991)
Country icon Keith Whitley co-wrote the song with songwriters Curly Putman and Don Cook, and it was first released by George Jones in 1986.
For You
Five years later, Greenwood covered the song as a duet with country singer Suzy Bogguss. Their rendition of “Hopelessly Yours” earned a nomination for Best Country Vocal Collaboration at the Grammy Awards and ranked No. 12 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.
6. Going, Going, Gone
From: Somebody’s Gonna Love You (1983)
Greenwood earned his second No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with “Going, Going, Gone,” and it stayed in the country chart for twelve remarkable weeks. In the song, Greenwood finds himself in regret for losing the woman he loves. He’s fully disappointed that he did not pay attention when there were several signs. Now, it’s much too late to change her mind.
7. Hearts Aren’t Made to Break (They’re Made to Love)
From: Streamline (1985)
Here’s another heartbreaking ballad by Greenwood that, without a doubt, resonated with many fans as it ranked No. 1 both on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart and the Canadian country chart. Written by Roger Murrah and Steve Deah, the song tells the story of a man left by his lover after taking her for granted.
8. Mornin’ Ride
From: Love Will Find Its to You (1986)
“Mornin’ Ride” stayed atop Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart for a week, even spending a total of fifteen weeks. The song is a beautiful ballad of how a couple spends their mornings together – when there ain’t much moving in the world outside.
9. Somebody’s Gonna Love You
From: Somebody’s Gonna Love You (1983)
Greenwood earned his first No. 1 hit on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with this song that encourages a brokenhearted woman to give love a second chance – and with none other than him. “You’ve been hurt so seriously. You act so cold, but it’s so easy to see. You’re a waste of real good love,” the song goes.
10. Dixie Road
From: Greatest Hits (1985)
Greenwood marked the third No. 1 single on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart since he kicked off his recording career with this song that reflects on friendship and memories. “Dixie Road” is the perfect track to listen to whenever you find yourself missing a dear friend you wish to spend some fun time with.
The heartwarming and cheerful track also hit No. 1 on the Canadian country chart.
Truly, Lee Greenwood songs are some of the best gems in country music. After all, he’s an icon in the genre. How about you? Which ones are your favorite?
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