4 Country Hits From the 1970s That Were Originally Recorded by Other Artists

There are many country classics that most associate with one particular artist; however, in some cases, it was merely a cover. Some of the most iconic country tracks from the 1970s were originally recorded by someone else, even though they do not get as much credit.

“The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers

“The Gambler,” released in 1978, is one of Kenny Rogers’ most recognizable songs; however, he is not the owner of the lyrics. Before Rogers, Don Schiltz wrote and recorded the song in 1976. However, the song did not gain any success until Rogers’ 1978 recording. Rogers went on to win Best Country Vocal Performance for “The Gambler” at the 22nd annual Grammys in 1980.

“Angel From Montgomery” by Bonnie Raitt

“Angel From Montgomery” is one of the most profound classics in country music. Many often associate the song with Bonnie Raitt; however, the song was written and recorded by John Prine in 1971, three years before Raitt’s version was released. In 2020, Raitt paid tribute to Prine, performing “Angel From Montgomery” at the 62nd Grammys, just three months before his death in April.

“Delta Dawn” by Tanya Tucker

“Delta Dawn” is famously associated with Tanya Tucker, as her version has become the most heard. However, the song was originally written by Larry Collins and Alex Harvey and recorded by Bette Midler. Tucker recorded her version of the track at only 13 years old. Despite being so young, she got nominated for a Grammy for “Delta Dawn.” She was nominated for Best Country Vocal Performance at the 15th Grammys in 1973. Although Tucker lost to Donna Fargo’s “Happiest Girl In The Whole USA,” her rendition of “Delta Dawn” became iconic and was a stepping stone for her career.

“Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain” by Willie Nelson

Many people often think of Willie Nelson’s version when thinking of “Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain”. However, a few others recorded the song before he did. Fred Rose originally wrote the song for Hank Williams. Williams first recorded the song in 1951. Following that, in 1959, the song was recorded by Gene Vincent. It was not until 1975 that Nelson recorded the song himself, crafting the most well-known version of the song. He went on to win the Grammy for Best Country Vocal Performance at the 18th Grammys in 1976 for “Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain”.