Randy Travis

Travis burst onto the country scene in the mid-1980s, around the same time as a few other seemingly like-minded new traditionalists. He combines a smoothly expressive baritone with self-penned material that features lyrical depth as well as great honky tonk-style instrumental work. Starting in 1985 with the single "On the Other Hand," Travis has gone into the charts and sold a huge number of records. He virtually kicked open the door for the "country hunk" phenomenon, although by the time the '90s rolled around, the "hat pack" (Garth Brooks, Clint Black, etc.) steamrolled past him. He was still a country radio favorite and strong seller throughout the decade. In 2000, Travis released the hugely successful Inspirational Journey, which combined aspects of traditional country and contemporary worship music. The album was a hit on country radio as well as contemporary Christian outlets. Many of the songs were also featured on Touched by an Angel, in which Travis also guest-starred. Travis has since released country/Christian albums in rapid succession: Worship and Faith (2003), Passing Through (2004) and Glory Train (2005). In 2008, he released the CD/DVD Around the Bend.