Top Sam Hunt Albums: Every Release Ranked

Sam Hunt has taken the country music scene by storm with his unique blend of country charm and pop sensibility. I’ve been following his rise to fame, and it’s been nothing short of meteoric. From his debut to his latest hits, his albums have become the soundtrack for countless fans.

Ranking Sam Hunt’s albums isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about the memories and emotions tied to each song. I’ve spent hours listening, analyzing, and even singing along to his tracks. Now, I’m ready to dive deep and share my personal take on which albums hit the mark and which are the ultimate chart-toppers.

Stay tuned as I break down Sam Hunt’s musical journey, album by album, and reveal my definitive ranking. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to his music, you’re in for a treat as we explore the heart and soul of his discography.

Sam Hunt’s Debut Album: “Montevallo”

When “Montevallo” hit the shelves in 2014, it wasn’t just an album release; it was the beginning of a new chapter in country music. Sam Hunt’s debut effort resonated with fans across the globe, marking a significant shift in the genre’s landscape. The record’s blend of country sensibilities with R&B grooves and pop hooks showcased Hunt’s knack for genre fusion, turning him into a standout artist almost overnight.

The significance of “Montevallo” can’t be overstated. With its release, it peaked at number one on the Top Country Albums chart and number three on the Billboard 200, cementing Sam Hunt’s place in the music world. Let’s look at some pivotal tracks that made this happen:

• “Take Your Time”
• “Leave the Night On”
• “House Party”
• “Break Up in a Small Town”

These singles not only dominated the charts but also contributed to the album being certified triple platinum by the RIAA, a testament to its commercial success and appeal. The song “Take Your Time,” specifically, became a crossover hit, charting not only on country radio but also making waves on pop and adult contemporary stations.

What made “Montevallo” so special was its autobiographical nature. The album’s title, a nod to the Alabama town where Hunt’s college sweetheart lived, added a layer of personal authenticity to the songs. The tracks were riddled with stories and emotions that listeners could relate to, making the album more than just a collection of songs – it became a soundtrack to life moments for many.

Diving into the musical composition, we find that “Montevallo” wasn’t afraid to push boundaries. The production effortlessly wove electronic elements with traditional country instrumentation, creating soundscapes that were fresh and innovative. This bold move attracted fans from outside the country realm, expanding Hunt’s audience significantly.

While critics praised “Montevallo” for its originality and catchy melodies, it was the fans who gave the album its staying power. To this day, the echoes of “Montevallo” are heard in the works of upcoming artists and in the playlists of fans worldwide.

The Evolution of Sam Hunt: “Southside”

Following the remarkable success of “Montevallo,” there was palpable anticipation around what direction Sam Hunt would take next. Five years later, “Southside” broke the silence. Released in April 2020, this album was a significant move for Hunt as it aimed to both honor the roots of country music and branch out into new territory.

“Southside” showed Hunt’s growth as an artist. The record is a collection of tales about love, heartbreak, and self-discovery that nestle comfortably within the expectations of country music themes. Yet, Hunt’s approach to storytelling was more evolved, showcasing a deeper level of emotional intelligence. The album debuts 12 tracks, each with its own unique fingerprint, and listeners get a glimpse into Hunt’s personal journey since rising to fame.

The production on “Southside” is a testament to Hunt’s commitment to pushing genre boundaries. Tracks like “Hard to Forget” weave in sample hooks from older country songs, while “Body Like a Back Road” – which actually teases the album long before it’s release – is a masterclass in blending catchy pop rhythms with Southern charm. This daring concoction of sounds did more than just surprise listeners; it set yet another precedent for what modern country music can sound like.

It’s undeniable that “Southside” houses some of Hunt’s strongest work. The lead single “Kinfolks” speaks to the nostalgia of home and familiar love, effortlessly climbing charts and resonating with fans across the globe. The album’s success continued with a strong showing on both the country and popular music charts.

• “Kinfolks” – a nostalgic track reaching out to roots.
• “Young Once” – a look back at the reckless often romantic times of youth.
• “2016” – a poignant ballad that hints at personal regrets.

Through “Southside,” Sam Hunt does not just share his evolution; he invites his fans to grow alongside him, both musically and personally. While he retains his characteristic fusion of genres, he refines it further, expanding his own musical lexicon and, by extension, that of country music itself.

Sam Hunt’s Collaborative Efforts: “Between the Pines”

Before the widespread success of “Montevallo” and the genre-defying “Southside,” I explored an acoustic mixtape that would become a pivotal stepping stone for Sam Hunt. “Between the Pines,” originally released in 2013, was a camouflaged gem that offered a raw look into Hunt’s musicality and storytelling prowess. This compilation wasn’t just a solo affair; it was a collaborative endeavor that shined a light on Hunt’s ability to work with a variety of songwriters and producers to refine his signature sound.

“Between the Pines” features stripped-down arrangements, proving that at the heart of every track, the storytelling is king. Here are a few highlights from this mixtape that helped elevate Hunt’s budding career:

• “Raised On It” became a fan favorite, and its acoustic rendering on this mixtape encapsulates the charm of simple yet evocative lyrics paired with a melodious guitar.
• “Cop Car,” a track that later appeared on “Montevallo,” was initially brought to life through the raw acoustic version from “Between the Pines,” revealing Hunt’s songwriting finesse.

The acoustic set was not only instrumental in shaping Sam Hunt’s sound but also in how it attracted a following that appreciated the authenticity and the stripped-back nature of his music. I’ve noticed his collaborative work on this mixtape offers a different vibe from his full studio albums and accentuates his vocal talents without the accompaniment of heavy production.

What stands out in “Between the Pines” is the seamless melding of Hunt’s voice with the understated instrumentation. His collaborations with fellow songwriters and producers showcase his versatility and hint at the success that would come with his later projects.

Through songs like “Goodbye,” “Ex to See,” and “Saturday Night,” “Between the Pines” became a fundamental expression of Sam Hunt’s artistic journey, planting the seeds for the narrative-driven country music coupled with rhythmic pop influence that fans would come to adore in his subsequent albums.

Sam Hunt’s Unreleased Gems: “X2C”

Before “Montevallo” soared in the country music charts, there was an EP that murmured of Sam Hunt’s rising stardom: “X2C.” Although not as commercially successful as his full-length albums, “X2C” became a treasure trove of early works for avid fans. This 2014 preluding EP gave listeners a glimpse of Hunt’s potential, and while it’s often overshadowed by his later hits, it’s a vital piece of his discography that deserves recognition.

The EP consists of four tracks that blended contemporary country with touches of R&B and pop, laying down the foundation for Hunt’s unique style. The tracks on “X2C” weren’t just songs; they were statements of an artist testing his boundaries, finding his voice in a genre that thrives on tradition. With each melody and verse, listeners could hear Hunt inching towards the stardom that would soon come his way.

I found “X2C” particularly compelling because it showed Hunt’s willingness to experiment. Unlike “Between the Pines,” where the acoustic breeze carried his stories, “X2C” pushed the envelope with bolder production. This sound experimentation wasn’t just a phase; it was a forecast of the seismic shifts Hunt would bring to country music.

Here are the tracks that made “X2C” a fan favorite:

• “Leave the Night On”
• “Ex to See”
• “House Party”
• “Break Up in a Small Town”

Each track conveyed the energy and relatability that’s synonymous with Hunt’s artistry. “Leave the Night On” and “House Party” became anthems for carefree nights, while “Ex to See” and “Break Up in a Small Town” resonated with the emotional tug-of-war of love and loss.

As I explore Hunt’s full discography, “X2C” stands out as a bold declaration of his artistry. It’s an undeniable marker in his musical journey, showcasing a raw and unfiltered Hunt. Its significance within Hunt’s career can’t be overstated, as it set a precedent for the creativity and genre-bending techniques he would further develop in his mainstream works.

Conclusion

Sam Hunt’s musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From the raw, acoustic vibes of “Between the Pines” to the genre-defying sounds of “X2C” and onto the polished storytelling of “Montevallo” and “Southside,” he’s proven his ability to evolve without losing the essence of what makes his music resonate. His willingness to push boundaries and blend genres has not only defined his career but also reshaped the landscape of country music. As we’ve seen, each album and mixtape has been a stepping stone, paving the way for a new era of country-pop fusion. Sam Hunt’s discography is a testament to his artistry and an invitation to watch his continued evolution in the music industry. I’m excited to see where his creative impulses take him—and us—next.