10 Country Artists You Didn’t Know Wrote for Other Genres

Country music is known for its heartfelt lyrics and storytelling, but many of your favorite country stars have talents that extend beyond the genre. Some of them have written hits for pop, rock, and even hip-hop artists.

Here’s a look at 10 Country Artists You Didn’t Know Wrote for Other Genres that you might not expect.

1. Chris Stapleton

Chris Stapleton’s deep, soulful voice has made him a standout in country music, but his songwriting talents are incredibly versatile. Before his solo career took off, Stapleton wrote songs for Adele, including her hit “If It Hadn't Been for Love,” proving his ability to craft compelling lyrics for any genre.

2. Shane McAnally

Shane McAnally is one of the most successful country songwriters, with hits by Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert. However, McAnally has also written pop songs, like “Somebody to Love” for Lea Michele and contributed to Sam Hunt’s genre-bending album Montevallo, blending pop, country, and R&B.

3. Kacey Musgraves

While known for her own dreamy, genre-blurring country-pop records, Kacey Musgraves has also written songs for artists outside of country. She co-wrote “High Horse,” which blends disco and pop elements, showing her flair for cross-genre songwriting.

4. Jaren Johnston (The Cadillac Three)

Jaren Johnston, frontman of The Cadillac Three, has written country hits for Keith Urban and Tim McGraw. However, he’s also penned songs for rock bands like Aerosmith (“Can’t Stop Lovin’ You” featuring Carrie Underwood), proving his writing chops transcend genres.

5. Maren Morris

Before she found her breakout success in country music, Maren Morris was already writing songs for pop artists. One of her biggest credits is writing “Second Wind” for Kelly Clarkson. Morris’ ability to blend genres is also apparent in her own hits, like “The Bones,” which crosses into pop territory.

6. Brett James

Brett James is a Grammy-winning country songwriter with hits like Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel.” But his talent goes beyond country. He wrote “Change” for Christina Aguilera and “Out Last Night” for Kenny Chesney, blending his country roots with a pop sensibility.

7. Hillary Lindsey

As a songwriter, Hillary Lindsey has worked with top country acts like Lady A and Little Big Town. However, she’s also co-written hits for pop superstars like Miley Cyrus (“Wrecking Ball”) and Demi Lovato (“Confident”), showcasing her range as a cross-genre hitmaker.

8. Brandy Clark

Brandy Clark’s talent as a country storyteller has earned her multiple Grammy nominations. Yet, her songwriting extends into other genres too. She co-wrote “Follow Your Arrow” for Kacey Musgraves, a song that resonated with pop audiences due to its inclusive themes and modern sound.

9. Ryan Hurd

Known for his work in country music and as Maren Morris’s ex-husband, Ryan Hurd has also written for a variety of artists. He’s penned pop songs, like “Lonely Tonight” for Blake Shelton and Ashley Monroe, blending country and pop influences seamlessly.

10. Keith Urban

Keith Urban may be one of the biggest names in country, but his music has always had a pop-rock edge. Urban has collaborated with artists from other genres, co-writing songs like “That’s When” with Taylor Swift, demonstrating his ability to write across different styles.

The universal appeal of a well-crafted song is undeniable. Country music isn’t just confined to twangy guitars and southern drawls, and whether it's pop, rock, or even R&B, country artists continue to shape the sound of modern music beyond Nashville. Are you surprised by these country artists who wrote songs for other genres?

Sources: HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE