3 of the Sappiest Country Love Songs From the 2020s

These over-the-top romantic tracks from Luke Combs, Blake Shelton, and Cody Johnson capture the essence of true love.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Country music has always been known for its sentimental love songs, and the 2020s have been no exception. This article highlights three of the sappiest country love songs released in the past few years, including Luke Combs' "Love You Anyway," Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani's "Happy Anywhere," and Cody Johnson's "The Painter."

Why it matters

These songs reflect the enduring popularity of romantic country ballads and the artists' personal experiences with love. They provide insight into the evolving themes and perspectives in contemporary country music, which continues to resonate with listeners seeking heartfelt expressions of affection.

The details

Luke Combs' "Love You Anyway" is a declaration of unconditional love, written about his wife Nicole. Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani's "Happy Anywhere" celebrates the joy of being together regardless of location. Cody Johnson's "The Painter" is a metaphor for his wife Brandi, who has brought color and beauty to his life.

  • In 2023, Luke Combs released "Love You Anyway" on his album Gettin' Old.
  • "Happy Anywhere" by Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani was released in 2020 on Shelton's album Body Language.
  • Cody Johnson's "The Painter" was released in the 2020s, though the exact year is not specified.

The players

Luke Combs

An American country music singer-songwriter known for hits like "Beautiful Crazy" and "Beer Never Broke My Heart."

Blake Shelton

An American country music singer, songwriter, and television personality, known for his role as a judge on "The Voice."

Gwen Stefani

An American singer, songwriter, and television personality, known as the lead vocalist of the band No Doubt and for her successful solo career.

Cody Johnson

An American country music singer-songwriter, known for his traditional country sound and hits like "On My Way to You" and "Nothin' on You."

Brandi Johnson

Cody Johnson's wife, who inspired the song "The Painter."

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What they’re saying

“There's just some things that leave a man no choice / Like a compass needle needing its true North / Even if I knew the day we met you'd be the reason this heart breaks / Oh, I'd love you anyway.”

— Luke Combs (americansongwriter.com)

“Yeah, the beauty of the northern lights / In my mind is faded / The blue sky over Telluride / Next to you is kinda overrated / The winding road, let it twist / My home's wherever your heart is / I'm running wide open / I was born with my feet in motion / But since I met you, I swear / I could be happy anywhere.”

— Blake Shelton (americansongwriter.com)

“I don't remember / Life before she came into the picture / Brought the beauty I was missing with her / Showed me colors I ain't never seen / She took chances / With every wall I built, she saw a canvas / I thank God every day for how He made her / My life was black and white, but she's the painter.”

— Cody Johnson (americansongwriter.com)

The takeaway

These sentimental country love songs from the 2020s showcase the enduring appeal of romantic ballads in the genre. They reflect the personal experiences and perspectives of the artists, providing a glimpse into the evolving themes and emotions expressed in contemporary country music.