If you’re a fan of country music, Emmylou Harris is an artist who needs no introduction.
She’s been a staple in the genre for decades, and her timeless songs are essential to any great country music playlist.
Her career has seen numerous hits over time, and it can be hard to pick out the best of the best.
But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
Here’s our list of the 13 best Emmylou Harris songs of all time.
From her early days as part of Gram Parsons’ Flying Burrito Brothers to her solo years on Reprise Records, Emmylou Harris has crafted some of the most beautiful songs in modern music.
Whether it was a poignant ballad or an upbeat toe-tapper, she consistently wrote lyrics that gave voice to people longing for freedom and liberation while still holding onto hope.
In honor of this incredible artist, let’s take a look at fifteen of her greatest hits.
1. “Roses In The Snow”
“Roses In The Snow” is a timeless classic from Emmylou Harris.
Known for her beautiful voice, Harris delicately brings the song to life with her signature style.
The soft strums of the guitar set the stage for her heartfelt lyrics, as she paints a picture of love and loss in rural America.
From the gentle chorus to its light-hearted instrumental bridge, this track is sure to touch your soul.
Each element works together seamlessly to create an unforgettable soundtrack that will stay with you long after it’s over.
It’s no wonder why “Roses In The Snow” is one of Emmylou Harris’ greatest hits – it’s simply perfect.
2. “All I Left Behind”
Emmylou Harris’s “All I Left Behind” is a classic that has been beloved by fans for decades.
It’s a song of reflection, looking back on life and all the precious moments that have been lost.
It’s an emotional journey, filled with regret but also hopes for the future.
The lyrics are simple yet powerful, and Emmylou’s voice exudes a sense of longing and sorrow that resonates deeply with listeners.
With its emotive melody and poignant words, it’s no wonder why “All I Left Behind” continues to be one of her most popular songs.
Its timelessness speaks to us all, reminding us to cherish our memories while also finding the strength to embrace the unknown.
Clinging to what we can’t change is futile; instead, we must focus on how far we have come and how much further we can go.
3. “Boulder To Birmingham”
Leaving “All I Left Behind” behind, Emmylou Harris sets her sights on the next song in her greatest hits repertoire: “Boulder To Birmingham”.
It’s a stunningly beautiful piece of music that speaks to the loss and sadness of death but also celebrates the life of someone special.
With its ethereal harmonies and emotive lyrics, it’s no surprise that this song has been covered by many artists over the years.
The tenderness and fragility of this track are especially poignant when sung by the legendary Emmylou Harris, whose unmistakable voice conveys a sense of longing and grief that resonates with listeners all around the world.
4. “That’s All It Took”
“That’s All It Took” is an absolute classic and a must-listen for any fan of Emmylou Harris.
This song is a perfect blend of country and folk, with beautiful harmonies that will stick in your head long after you’ve finished listening.
The lyrics are full of heartache and longing, but there’s also a sense of hope that can be found.
The guitars are shimmering and the drums are steady and powerful, providing the perfect backdrop for Harris’ stunning vocals.
It’s no wonder why this song has become one of her most beloved and enduring hits – it really captures the spirit of freedom that so many people crave.
“That’s All It Took” is truly timeless, allowing listeners to connect with its message no matter when or where they may be.
5. “Goin’ Back To Harlan”
Emmylou Harris’s stirring song, “Goin’ Back To Harlan”, is an uplifting anthem of hope and freedom.
The song captures the essence of the American spirit with its sweeping melodies and driving rhythm.
It tells a story of a person who feels trapped in their current life but is determined to find a way out.
The lyrics are full of bittersweet longing, yet they also offer encouragement and optimism that better days ahead can be found.
It’s no wonder why this song has become a classic hit among music fans – it offers both comfort and inspiration in equal measure!
6. “We Believe In Happy Endings”
Emmylou Harris has a talent for writing songs that are both deeply moving and uplifting – and her greatest hits are no exception.
Her lyrics have an unmistakable power that can take you away from your daily worries and into a world of emotion, where anything is possible.
The emotion she conveys in her voice alone is enough to move even the most stoic listener.
With a career spanning nearly six decades, it’s no wonder that so many of her songs have become timeless classics – and none more than “We Believe In Happy Endings”.
Whether you’re looking for a pick-me-up or just need a moment to reflect, this song should be your go-to.
It’s sure to lift your spirits and transport you to another place entirely; one where nothing can stand in your way.
7. “Pancho & Lefty”
Ah, “Pancho & Lefty”.
This classic country duet by Emmylou Harris is one of the greatest songs ever written.
With its haunting melody and heartbreaking lyrics, it’s a song that will stick with you no matter how many times you hear it.
The storyline follows two close friends who are struggling to make ends meet in a world that doesn’t always treat them fairly.
It’s a timeless story about friendship and loyalty, reminding us all why we should never give up on our dreams or each other.
8. “Together Again”
Emmylou Harris’ song “Together Again” is a classic that captures the essence of longing for a loved one.
This track showcases her stunning vocals and heartfelt lyrics as she beautifully sings about being reunited with someone she loves.
It’s an uplifting and inspiring song that speaks to the soul, and it’s no surprise why it has become such a beloved anthem for many people.
There’s something about this track that touches on deep emotions, reminding us all of our own desire for liberation and connection with another person.
It’s no wonder why it remains one of Emmylou’s most popular songs and a timeless classic in its own right.
9. “C’est La Vie”
Emmylou Harris’ song, “C’est La Vie”, is a timeless classic that continues to inspire generations of people.
This upbeat and uplifting tune is the perfect representation of Emmylou’s infectious spirit and her ability to bring joy through her music.
The lyrics are full of hope and positivity, with a catchy melody that will have you singing along in no time.
With its inspiring message and captivating beat, “C’est La Vie” is sure to stay on your playlist for years to come.
From the first note to the last, this delightful track is an anthem for freedom and liberation – it’s a reminder that life can be unpredictable but ultimately worth living.
So go ahead, turn up the volume, and let Emmylou take you away with this classic song!
10. “Beneath Still Waters”
Switching gears from the upbeat and cheerful vibes of “C’est La Vie”, we come to one of Emmylou Harris’ most iconic songs, “Beneath Still Waters“.
This song captures the essence of her earlier works, with its hauntingly beautiful melody and the powerful emotion that lies underneath every lyric.
The song starts off slowly, almost like a lullaby, before building up to a powerful crescendo of emotion.
The lyrics describe a person in dire straits, struggling to make sense of their life and looking for solace in the depths of their own heart.
It’s truly a stunning piece of music that speaks to the soul and serves as a reminder that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always beauty “Beneath Still Waters”.
11. “Where Will I Be”
There’s no denying Emmylou Harris’ ability to craft timeless music that speaks to the soul.
Her song “Where Will I Be” is a perfect example of this, with its beautiful lyrics and emotive melody.
This track takes us on an emotional journey as it deals with questions of identity and belonging, something we can all relate to at some level.
The song has a bluesy feel, with Harris’ signature vocal style adding depth and emotion to the lyrics.
The instrumentation is sparse but effective, providing the perfect backdrop for her voice to shine through.
With its thoughtful lyrics and incredible production value, it’s no wonder that “Where Will I Be” has become one of Emmylou Harris’ most beloved songs.
It’s truly a masterpiece!
12. “Two More Bottles Of Wine”
It’s time to pour another round of drinks because Emmylou Harris’ classic hit “Two More Bottles of Wine” is sure to get you up and out of your seat.
A driving rhythm and blues-inspired number, this track is a musical journey that celebrates the joys of life, even in the face of adversity.
With its timeless message about living life to the fullest, it’s no wonder “Two More Bottles of Wine” has become one of Harris’ most beloved hits.
Let yourself go and sing along with Emmylou Harris’s “Two More Bottles of Wine” – it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience!
13. “All My Tears”
Emmylou Harris’s song “All My Tears” is an ode to the struggles and joys of life, poignantly expressed through her iconic voice.
With its heartbreakingly beautiful lyrics and captivating rhythm, it’s no surprise that it is one of the most beloved songs in her repertoire.
The song speaks to our highest and lowest moments, from joyous celebrations to moments of deepest despair – truly a timeless classic.
It’s a reminder that even when we feel broken and lost, there is still hope for renewal and redemption.
This is a song that reminds us that life brings both beauty and sorrow, and we must learn to embrace both.
Every time you listen to “All My Tears”, you can’t help but be moved by its profound emotion – it truly is one of Emmylou Harris’s greatest masterpieces.
Best Emmylou Harris Songs – Final Thoughts
I’ve really enjoyed looking back on some of Emmylou Harris’ greatest hits.
She has a timeless sound that resonates with people all over the world.
Her music is packed full of emotion, and her lyrics can be truly inspiring.
Whether you’re looking for a break-up anthem or something to keep you company on a road trip, Emmylou has got you covered.
I hope this list has inspired you to give her music a listen – I promise it won’t disappoint!
