Style: Traditionally-minded mainstream country; compare to Brad Paisley, George Strait, and Dierks Bentley
Top tracks: “Time Is Love,” “Pallbearer,” “I Was There”
Propelled into country music stardom by 2003’s judgment day hit “Long Black Train,” this multi-platinum singer-songwriter has gambled a substantial career on faith-based verses and traditional-minded music. This is a rare combo among pop-country’s drinkin’, stealin’ and cheatin’ standards. On his fifth studio recording Turner stays the course, charting morally committed, classic country singles. While one-woman love tunes and stirring songs of faith suit Turner’s personal convictions well, the sad-pickin’ mandolin, a despairing pedal steel, and Turner’s unmistakable baritone are especially effective when married to the melancholy lyrics of “Pallbearer.”
