2014 was "The Return of Garth Brooks." After a 13-year hiatus from touring, the country music titan announced a comeback tour that sent waves of excitement through fanbases, both new and old. The idea of seeing the legend back on stage, complete with his signature headset mic and explosive energy, was enough to cause a frenzy. He didn't just promise a good show; he promised an unforgettable experience. And did he deliver? With record-shattering attendance, multiple nights in single cities, and an energy that could power a small country, it's clear he did. He didn't just come back; he took over.
The momentum continued rolling right into 2015. With the sales from his new album, Man Against Machine, he officially dethroned Elvis Presley to become the best-selling solo album artist in U.S. history. That's right, Garth outsold the King. This achievement wasn't just a win for him; it was a testament to his timeless appeal and the unwavering loyalty of his fans. His music connects with people on a fundamental level, turning concert arenas into massive, joyous singalongs.
"Ain't Goin' Down ('Til The Sun Comes Up)"
Released in 1993 from the album In Pieces, this song is a caffeine shot in musical form. Co-written by Brooks, Kent Blazy, and Kim Williams, it tells the fast-paced story of a farm girl sneaking out for a night of fun. The rapid-fire lyrics and driving beat make it a signature concert opener and a challenge for anyone brave enough to attempt it at karaoke. It became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, solidifying its place as a fan favorite for its sheer, unadulterated energy.
"Papa Loved Mama"
This lively tune from the 1992 album Ropin' the Wind is a masterclass in country music storytelling with a dark, humorous twist. It paints a vivid picture of a trucker's wife having an affair, leading to a rather permanent, and fiery, conclusion. Co-written by Brooks and Kim Williams, the song's upbeat, toe-tapping rhythm contrasts sharply with its grim lyrics, creating a classic black-comedy anthem. It peaked at number three on the country charts and remains a crowd-pleaser for its catchy hook and dramatic narrative.
"The River"
A powerful ballad from the 1992 album Ropin' the Wind, "The River" showcases Garth's more inspirational and sensitive side. Co-written with Victoria Shaw, the song uses the metaphor of a river to explore the journey of chasing one's dreams. It resonated deeply with listeners, becoming a number-one hit on the Billboard country charts. The song's uplifting message and soaring melody have made it a go-to for graduation ceremonies and moments of reflection, proving that a dream is like a river: it's a constant, moving force.
"Rodeo"
Released in 1991 from the album Ropin' the Wind, this song captures the heart and soul of the cowboy spirit. Written by Larry Bastian, "Rodeo" tells the story of a man hopelessly drawn to the dangerous, thrilling life of a rodeo cowboy, much to the dismay of the woman who loves him. It became an instant anthem, peaking at number three on the charts and fueling a new wave of interest in the rodeo lifestyle. Its driving fiddle and classic country sound made it an immediate standout.
"That Summer"
This 1993 single from the album The Chase tells a classic coming-of-age story with a bit of an edge. The narrative follows a young boy's summer romance with an older, widowed woman, filled with secret meetings and forbidden feelings. Co-written by Brooks, Pat Alger, and his then-wife Sandy Mahl, the song's evocative lyrics and sing-along chorus helped it reach number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It perfectly captures the nostalgia and intensity of a summer that changes everything.
"The Thunder Rolls"
One of Brooks' most iconic and dramatic songs, "The Thunder Rolls" was released in 1991 from the album No Fences. Co-written with Pat Alger, the song tells a dark story of infidelity and its stormy aftermath. The original music video, which depicted domestic violence, was so controversial that it was banned by some networks. This only added to its mystique. The live version often includes a "third verse" about the woman getting her revenge, turning the song into an epic, thunder-clapping concert moment that fans eagerly await.
"Two Piña Coladas"
Here is the ultimate musical vacation. Released in 1998 from the album Sevens, this song became an instant party anthem for anyone needing an escape from the daily grind. The story follows a heartbroken man who heads to the beach and finds his cure in two piña coladas. The song's breezy, carefree vibe and catchy chorus sent it straight to number one, providing a perfect excuse for listeners everywhere to kick back, relax, and forget their troubles for a few minutes.
"Much too Young (To Feel This Damn Old)"
This is the song that launched a legend. As Garth's debut single from his self-titled 1989 album, it introduced the world to his unique brand of country music. The track, co-written by Brooks and Randy Taylor, tells the story of an aging rodeo cowboy contemplating his life on the road, set to a classic country sound. While it peaked at a respectable number eight on the charts, its true significance lies in being the first step in a career that would redefine the genre.
"If Tomorrow Never Comes"
A heart-wrenching ballad from his 1989 debut album, this was Garth's first number-one single. Co-written with Kent Blazy, the song is a poignant reflection on love and the importance of expressing it before it's too late. Brooks has said the song was inspired by the thought of losing the love of his life and her never knowing how much he cared. Its powerful emotion and relatable theme have made it a timeless classic and a staple at weddings and anniversaries.
"Callin' Baton Rouge"
Though originally recorded by the New Grass Revival, Garth Brooks made this song his own on the 1993 album In Pieces. The high-energy track, with its lightning-fast fiddle and banjo, tells the story of a man driving through the night to get back to his love in Baton Rouge. It has become one of his most beloved concert staples, known for its incredible energy and the crowd's enthusiastic participation. It’s the perfect windows-down, sing-at-the-top-of-your-lungs road trip song.
"Mom"
Released as a single from his 2014 album Man Against Machine, "Mom" is a touching conversation between God and an unborn child who is nervous about going to Earth. The song is a beautiful tribute to mothers everywhere, with lyrics that are both gentle and profoundly moving. Though it didn't climb as high on the charts as his classic hits, it reaffirmed Brooks' status as a master storyteller capable of tugging at the heartstrings and making listeners reach for the tissues.
"Shameless"
Originally a Billy Joel song, Garth Brooks covered "Shameless" on his 1991 album Ropin' the Wind and turned it into a country-rock power ballad. His passionate, full-throated performance transformed the song, showcasing his vocal range and raw emotion. The track went to number one on the country charts, proving that Brooks could not only write hits but also reinterpret them with his own unique style. It remains a powerful declaration of all-consuming love.
"Unanswered Prayers"
This 1990 number-one hit from the album No Fences is a perfect example of Garth's ability to tell a relatable, deeply personal story. Co-written by Brooks, Pat Alger, and Larry Bastian, the song describes running into an old high school flame and realizing that some of the things you once prayed for are better left unanswered. It’s a gentle reminder that life often has a better plan for us than we have for ourselves, and it solidified his connection with fans.
"The Dance"
Considered by many to be his signature song, "The Dance" is a profound ballad from his 1989 debut album. Written by Tony Arata, the song has a dual meaning, reflecting on both the end of a relationship and the end of a life. Brooks initially hesitated to record it, but it went on to become a number-one hit and one of the most inspirational songs in country music history. It beautifully captures the idea that the pain of loss is worth the joy of the experience.
"Friends in Low Places"
Released in 1990 from the album No Fences, this is more than a song; it's a global anthem. It’s the ultimate singalong for every bar, party, and wedding reception. The story of crashing a formal event to the shock of an ex-lover, all while backed by a chorus of rowdy friends, is pure, celebratory fun. The song spent four weeks at number one and became an instant classic. The famous "third verse," often performed live, only adds to its legendary status as the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
