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Emmylou Harris, the queen of country and folk, has bestowed upon us decades of heartfelt melodies, poignant lyrics, and collaborations that remain iconic in the world of music. With an extensive catalog that spans from her early days in the late ’60s to recent years, Harris’s discography is both vast and influential. Here’s an attempt to rank her albums, based on a combination of sales, critical acclaim, and fan favorites.
Emmylou Harris Albums Ranked
Wrecking Ball (1995)
Renowned for its distinct departure from Harris’s traditional country sound, Wrecking Ball saw her dive deep into atmospheric and alternative country, guided by the genius production of Daniel Lanois. Tracks like “Where Will I Be” and the titular “Wrecking Ball” remain fan favorites, showcasing Harris’s versatility.
Roses in the Snow (1980)
Taking on a bluegrass vibe, Roses in the Snow became one of Harris’s most acclaimed albums. Tracks like “Wayfaring Stranger” encapsulate the essence of this album, a love letter to traditional folk and bluegrass.
Red Dirt Girl (2000)
Another masterpiece in Emmylou’s arsenal, this album stands out not just for its soulful melodies but also as Harris’s foray into songwriting, penning 11 of the 12 tracks.
Pieces of the Sky (1975)
The album that truly launched Emmylou’s solo career. With her rendition of “Boulder to Birmingham,” Harris paid tribute to her mentor, Gram Parsons, resulting in a poignant and touching musical experience.
Elite Hotel (1975)
Building on the success of her previous album, Elite Hotel featured hits like “Wheels” and “Sin City,” showcasing her evolving musical style and her firm grounding in country music.
Emmylou Harris Albums Ranked By Sales
- Wrecking Ball (1995) – 1 million copies
- Roses in the Snow (1980) – 900,000 copies
- Red Dirt Girl (2000) – 850,000 copies
- Pieces of the Sky (1975) – 800,000 copies
- Elite Hotel (1975) – 750,000 copies
Emmylou Harris Notable Live Performances
- Grand Ole Opry Debut, 1975
- Winterland Ballroom, 1976 with The Hot Band
- Glastonbury Festival, 1992
Emmylou Harris Album Guests
- Wrecking Ball – Features Neil Young and U2’s Larry Mullen Jr.
- The Traveling Kind – A collaboration with Rodney Crowell
- At the Ryman – Features The Nash Ramblers
In the vast landscape of country music, Emmylou Harris’s voice has resonated through the decades, echoing themes of love, loss, and the human experience. Her albums, each a chapter in her musical journey, have influenced countless artists and brought joy to millions.
If you’re a fan of Emmylou, consider diving into the discographies of similar artists like Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, Joan Baez, Gillian Welch, and Alison Krauss. Each, in her own right, has contributed immensely to the realms of country, folk, and beyond.