Justin Moore and His Chart-Toppers That Defined Modern Traditional Country Music

Nashville and country music are evolving, but Justin Moore has managed to keep things unapologetically country. A champion of twang, grit, and authentic storytelling, he’s held firm to his roots while still scoring big on the charts and managing to earn listeners from other genres. His hit songs have become more than just country anthems; they have become the bridge between traditional and modern-day mainstream sounds. And in doing so, he has proven that you can honor your roots without sounding like you’re stuck.

Moore’s early influences include Hank Williams Jr., whom he considers to be “overlooked” despite how talented he is. He also compared Williams Jr. to Elvis Presley, especially his impact on country music. Moore also believed the Louisiana native has the best vocal range and is the best musician and songwriter in country music history.

In 2009, when he released his debut album, he included the song “Hank It” as a nod to the country music superstar. Moore had a chance to collaborate with Williams Jr. on the re-recording of “Born To Boogie” in 2016.

Moore’s musical journey began when he performed at age 3, singing "Honky Tonk Man" by Dwight Yoakam. Aside from Williams Jr., other musical influences include George Jones, Vern Gosdin, and Willie Nelson. These superstars shaped his traditional country music sound and his commitment to it.  

During his career, Moore has had seven No. 1 hits (for now. These hits are “You Look Like I Need a Drink,” “Somebody Else Will,” “Point at You,” “Lettin’ The Night Roll,” “Small Town USA,” “If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away,” and “Til My Last Day.” These tracks helped establish Moore as a force in traditional country music while achieving mainstream success.

His recent success with “This Is My Dirt” is more proof. The track reached No. 1 on the MusicRow Country Breakout Radio Chart in 2024, while also achieving No. 12 on the Billboard Country Airplay Chart and No. 11 on the Mediabase Chart. His songs might take time to climb charts, but Moore didn’t mind since the songs ultimately found their audience.  

Despite industry changes, Moore is committed to traditional country sounds. According to him, country music has become more diverse, and he’s proud to be in a position to wave the flag for traditional country music. He’s also earned one of country music’s most loyal fan bases because of his willingness to stay true to himself.

2023 was the best year for country music, showing a significant 24% increase in audio streams from the previous year. Contemporary country music is also attracting listeners across other demographics because of the increase in fusing traditional elements with other genres, including rock, pop, and R&B.

Moore was able to stay true to his roots because of his philosophy of “bending but not breaking” and how he navigated periods when country music shifted in different directions.

Moore’s chart-toppers helped define the modern traditional country movement. His achievements include RIAA Double Platinum certification for “If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away” and Platinum certification for “You, Me and Whiskey” featuring Priscilla Block. Moore knew that these career milestones were possible because of his fans, whom he thanked on social media: “Can't thank our fans enough for this… y’all made ‘You, Me, And Whiskey’ platinum as well as ‘If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away’ 2x platinum. Thank each and every one of you for supporting my music throughout the years. It doesn't go unnoticed.”

His influence extends beyond his own music and is set to continue to inspire a broader appreciation for traditional country values.