Those who are fans of ‘90s country owe a debt of gratitude to Randy Travis. The living legend was one of a handful of artists who pushed back against the heavily pop-influenced sound of country music in the mid-80s. His staunch adherence to the traditional sounds of country music made him a precursor to the “Class of ‘89” which included greats like Alan Jackson and George Strait. They arguably continued his work in carrying the neo-traditional country sound into the ‘90s.
Travis was a singer whose baritone was silky smooth and instantly recognizable. He was also a great songwriter. And, when it came to picking outside songs, he knew a hit when he heard it—14 of his 16 No. 1 singles were outside cuts. Unfortunately, a near-fatal stroke robbed him of his ability to sing in 2013. However, his star burned so bright that he continues to be a lauded figure …