We asked five up-and-coming women country singers about their favorite songs, influential artists in their lives, and the good advice they’ve gotten — mostly from Mom.
Some would agree that all you need to know you can learn from your Mom and George Strait. From being mentally strong to trusting God's plan, we get the lowdown on good advice and great music from some of country music's top rising female artists. The other payoff? A killer Spotify playlist at the very end.
Callie Twisselman
Credit: Courtesy of Callie Twisselman
Current Single:
Favorite Songs
60s: “It Ain’t Me Babe” by Johnny Cash
70s: “Here You Come Again” by Dolly Parton
80s: “Amarillo by Morning” by George Strait
90s: “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” by Shania Twain
00s: “Cowboy Casanova” by Carrie Underwood
10s: “The House That Built Me” by Miranda Lambert
Musical Influences
I’ve always been drawn to Johnny Cash and his unapologetic approach to creating music. He spoke his truth and knew exactly who he was as an artist and that has really been something I try to do in my songwriting and artistry. Who doesn’t love Dolly Parton! A woman who is not only an icon but an amazing businesswoman and songwriter. She inspires me so much to push the boundaries in my own career and always dream big. I grew up listening to George Strait. I remember I would never skip a song on his CDs because every one of them was so good! And sharing the same passion for the cowboy way of life definitely made him a true inspiration for my love of country music. Shania was another artist I grew up on. I remember watching her music video for “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and being mesmerized by not only her voice but her sense of fashion. Watching Carrie Underwood, who was also a small-town country girl like me, win American Idol was so inspiring! I just loved how she had such a humble personality but then a huge, amazing voice to go with it. I remember watching Miranda Lambert on Nashville Star and being so inspired by her songwriting. She is one of the reasons I learned to play guitar and songwriter myself!
Most Influential Woman in My Life
One of the most influential women in my life as well as my music career, is my mother. She’s taught me so much and is also where my love of music came from! She was a singer in a local country band back home when I was growing up.
Best Advice
The best advice I received from my mom was to never give up on my dreams. And if I believe in myself enough other people will too.
Most Admired Women Artists
The women in music I most admire creatively are Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift. I think those two women are so creative in their passion for the art of music and are continuously evolving.
Becca Bowen
Credit: Kelsey Cotton
Current Single:
Favorite Songs By Decade
60s: “I Fall to Pieces” by Patsy Cline
70s: “Jolene” by Dolly Parton
80s: “Mama He’s Crazy” by The Judds
90s: “Carried Away” by George Strait
00s: “Redneck Woman” by Gretchen Wilson
10s: “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton
20s: “’Til You Can’t” by Cody Johnson
Musical Influences
All of these artists from these different eras have made such an impact on my music. Dolly Parton I would say is one of the most influential artists regarding my career. I’ve always loved her storytelling through songwriting. Her music inspired me to start writing my own music at a young age. She leaves an impression on her audience unlike any other artist I’ve ever seen.
Most Influential Woman in My Life
My mom has always been a great influence and support in my life and in my music career. She was my first voice teacher. My mom and dad set up a sound system in my garage when I was 6 years old. I will never forget practicing and dreaming about where that could lead me. I never looked back from that moment. Now I’m in Music City having rehearsals there as a recording artist. My mom’s encouragement planted that music dream in my heart, and I am forever grateful.
Best Advice
Put God first and he will lead you in the right direction for your future.
Most Admired Women Artists
Lainey Wilson, Reba, Shania Twain, and Dolly Parton are some of my absolute favorites.
Tori Rose
Credit: Justin Mayonette
Current Single:
Favorite Songs
60s: “Don’t Come Home a Drinkin’” by Loretta Lynn
70s: “Here You Come Again” by Dolly Parton
80s: “Family Tradition” by Hank Williams Jr.
90s: “The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’” by Travis Tritt
00s: “All Jacked Up” by Gretchen Wilson
10s: “Something in the Water: by Carrie Underwood
20s: “Rolling Stone” by Lainey Wilson
Musical Influences
All of these songs and artists have impacted my music in so many more ways than I can even describe. I will say I think my very honest and raw lyrics have stemmed from all of these artists. Hank Williams Jr., Travis Tritt, Loretta Lynn are all very “say it how it is” lyricists. My very big vocals have definitely been influenced by all of these female artists.
Most Influential Woman in My Life
I would definitely say my mom, for sure. She’s the woman I look up to the most for everything, and she has always helped me with my music. When I first started taking piano, I remember she would sit down with me for hours and help me. She loves music as much as I do and has exposed me to so many great artists and all different genres. She’s pushed me when I’ve wanted to give up. She is the most driven and strongest woman I know. I have always looked up to her in every part of my life and career, and she’s a big reason I am where I’m at today.
Best Advice
The best piece of advice I’ve received from my mom is “The music business involves a lot of rejection, so be mentally strong enough to keep yourself going.”
Most Admired Women Artists
The women in music I most admire creatively are definitely Dolly Parton, Gretchen Wilson, Carrie Underwood, Loretta Lynn, and Adele.
Jordana Bryant
Credit: Courtesy of Jordana Bryant
Current Single:
Favorite Songs by Decade
60s: “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
70s: “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
80s: “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton
90s: “Fancy” by Reba McEntire
00s: “What Hurts the Most” by Rascal Flatts
10s: “All Too Well” by Taylor Swift
20s: “Next Thing You Know” by Jordan Davis
Musical Influences
Over the years, Dolly, Reba, and Taylor have all shaped the landscape of music with their unique voices and storytelling. Not only has their music redefined the boundaries of country and pop music, but they’ve empowered generations of women, myself included, with their resilience, authentic lyrics, and unwavering dedication to their craft.
Most Influential Woman in My Life
The most influential woman in my life, both personally and professionally, would have to be my mom. She’s been my biggest supporter from the very beginning and has always encouraged me to pursue my passion for music.
Best Advice
The best advice my mom has given me would definitely have to be to just be myself. It’s so simple, but it really rings true, especially in the music industry! Whether it’s writing music or even in day-to-day life, I always try to live by her words and be as honest, vulnerable, and authentic as possible.
Most Admired Women Artists
That’s a tough question, but I’d have to say Taylor Swift is the artist whose creativity I admire the most. From her clever Easter eggs to the way she’s built her brand over the years, I think she’s a true inspiration for me in my career. I also really admire how she’s stayed true to herself over the years but also given herself space to grow not only as a person but as an artist.
Erin Kirby
Credit: Courtesy of Erin Kirby
Current Single:
Favorite Songs by Decade
60s: “Rather Go Blind” by Etta James
70s: “Your Memory’s Gone to Rest” by Tammy Wynette
80s: “Mr. Weatherman” by Hank Williams Jr.
90s: “Two Dozen Roses” by Shenandoah
00s: “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele
10s: “Tryin’ to Love Me” by Jason Aldean
20s: “Dirt Cheap” by Cody Johnson
Musical Influences
I love music for the lyrics and how the artist uses their voice. This has inspired me to make sure my music is very me and not be afraid to be a little outside of the box. I listen to many different genres, but country music is where my heart is. Still, every now and then I am not afraid to add a little bit of soul into what I am writing.
Most Influential Woman in My Life
My mom and my best friend are both big influences in my life. They remind me to have fun, to love life, and to let go every now and then. When it comes to women who influence my music career, I would have to say Jessie J is my biggest one! Jessie J isn’t afraid to use her gift, and she has such a big heart that shows through everything she does!
Best Advice
Jessie J has taught me many lessons, but one of the biggest is that we need to lift one another up! She told me that women are strong alone, but we are mighty together!
Most Admired Women Artists
I am extremely inspired by so many female songwriters. Women like Trannie Anderson and Heather Morgan are inspiring to me because they are so creative, they love their job, and they are not afraid to speak on their relationship with the Lord!
Header credit: Becca Bowen
