3 Country Hits From the 2000s That Bring the Honky-Tonk Vibe

These iconic country songs will transport you to a lively barroom, no matter where you are.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:24pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract close-up image of shimmering, glittering country music textures like sequins, rhinestones, and distressed leather, captured in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to evoke the energy and glamour of a lively honky-tonk.The glitz and grit of a honky-tonk come alive through the textured, high-contrast glamour of these iconic country music hits.Today in Nashville

All you need to do is close your eyes and let these country hits from the 2000s transport you to a honky-tonk. The three songs - 'Save A Horse (Ride A Cowboy)' by Big & Rich, 'Here For The Party' by Gretchen Wilson, and 'Play Something Country' by Brooks & Dunn - are staples at honky-tonk bars and guaranteed to get any room feeling like a lively barroom down south.

Why it matters

These iconic country songs from the 2000s have become synonymous with the honky-tonk experience, capturing the energy, fun, and camaraderie of a lively country music venue. By curating a playlist of these hits, you can recreate that atmosphere anywhere and transport yourself to a rowdy barroom, even in the comfort of your own home.

The details

Big & Rich's 'Save A Horse (Ride A Cowboy)' is a staple track heard up and down Broadway in Nashville, known for its innuendo-filled lyrics and ability to get a crowd energized. Gretchen Wilson's 'Here For The Party' features a memorable opening line and a melody that begs listeners to get up and dance, whether line-dancing or swing. And Brooks & Dunn's 'Play Something Country' is an ode to country music fans' love of the genre, with lyrics that call for cranking up the band and letting the good times roll.

  • These three country hits were all released in the early 2000s.

The players

Big & Rich

An American country music duo consisting of Big Kenny and John Rich, known for their unique blend of country, rock, and hip hop.

Gretchen Wilson

An American country music singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the early 2000s with her debut single 'Redneck Woman'.

Brooks & Dunn

A popular American country music duo composed of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, who were one of the most successful country acts of the 1990s and 2000s.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“All you need is the right music to set the scene. The three country songs below would all do perfectly well in making your room feel like a barroom down south.”

— Alex Hopper, Author

The takeaway

These three country anthems from the 2000s have become quintessential honky-tonk songs, capturing the raucous energy, camaraderie, and fun of a lively country music venue. By curating a playlist of these hits, you can recreate that atmosphere anywhere and transport yourself to a rowdy barroom, even in the comfort of your own home.