When you think of country music, your mind might immediately drift to cowboy hats, Southern drawls, and dusty Texas roads. But its roots run deeper than Texas, Nashville, or the Appalachian Mountains. Originating from a blend of folk traditions brought by European immigrants, country music weaves together themes of love, hardship, and everyday struggles, all set against the backdrop of string instruments like the guitar, fiddle, and banjo.
Internationally, many musical genres share country music’s focus on storytelling and rural life, even if the sound slightly differs. In Mexico, genres like ranchera and norteño evoke similar themes of love, heartbreak, and cowboy culture, deeply tied to the country’s folk traditions. Sertanejo from Brazil echoes the same rustic spirit, focusing on life in the countryside, much like country music does in the US.
Even in Germany, schlager music, which blends folk elements with modern pop, has a lot in common with the sing-along, feel-good aspects of country. Across Europe, folk genres also resonate with similar themes, capturing the soul of rural life through acoustic instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics. And while Asia might not have a direct equivalent, country-inspired folk genres there often tell stories of local life and work, much like country music does.
These styles share the spirit of community, heritage, and stories of life’s highs and lows, making them the international cousins of US country music.
So let’s take a look at the most popular 2024 Global Country Music Hits, yes, from all over the world! You might find a new favorite tune to tap your boots to!
US: Alt-Country
Luke Combs released “Fathers & Sons” in June 2024, continuing his stronghold in the country genre.
Zach Bryan also put out “The Great American Bar Scene” in July, a much-anticipated follow-up to his previous albums.
Listen to Alt-Country on Streema.com
Mexico: Rancheras
Christian Nodal, a prominent figure in Mexican country (ranchera/norteño), has new tracks for 2024, continuing to lead the genre with fresh releases this year.
Listen to Rancheras on Streema.com
Brazil: Sertanejo
- In the sertanejo world, Marília Mendonça has posthumous releases that still dominate the Brazilian charts. Gusttavo Lima also released new music in 2024.
Listen to Sertanejo on Streema.com
Germany: Schlager
Ben Zucker, one of Germany’s top schlager artists, delivered new hits in 2024 that blend modern country with traditional folk influences.
Listen to Schlager on Streema.com
UK: Country-Pop
Ward Thomas, a rising country duo from the UK, released “Music for The Weekend” in early 2024.
Listen to Country-Pop on Streema.com
That’s the 2024 Global Country Music Hits scene in a nutshell! From the United States to Brazil, Germany, and beyond, country music is proving itself to be a universal language. What’s your favorite country hit this year?
