Top Songs of 2009

From veteran singers to fresh-faced newcomers ... traditional country to pop-crossovers, our favorite songs of 2009 run the gamut, as the genre opened its doors to more diversity than ever in this last year of the decade.

10. 'Do I,' Luke Bryan

While best known for his fun, uptempo music, Luke proves his heart breaks just like the rest of us with this emotional ballad, on which he also reveals a hidden talent -- he's one heckuva piano player.

9. 'People Are Crazy,' Billy Currington



"This song is absolute perfection," David Letterman gushed, after Billy performed it on his show. Well said, Dave.

8. 'Strange,' Reba McEntire

The Queen is back ... and better than ever! Even though Reba is happily married, she perfects the plight of the single girl in this catchy tune.

7. 'Big Green Tractor,' Jason Aldean

Written by James Collins and David Lee Murphy, this fun, chart-topping love song actually makes farm equipment seem sexy.

6. 'Toes,' Zac Brown Band

This track proves Zac is his generation's Jimmy Buffett. He's got his toes in the water, bum in the sand ... and 2009's best feel-good song.

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5. 'Sweet Thing,' Keith Urban



Love looks (and sounds) so good on Keith. This chart-topper is the highlight of his 'Defying Gravity' album, with lyrics that take you back to your goose-bumpy first date.

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4. 'You Belong With Me,' Taylor Swift

This song about a high school crush transcends ... well, high school. Moms, daughters and grandmoms alike can relate to this fetching ditty about a girl who longs for a guy ... who longs for another girl.

3. 'Need You Now,' Lady Antebellum

They won the CMA Single of the Year honors for 'I Run to You' and may just have topped that with this new song from the trio's sophomore album. 'Need You Now' showcases Lady A's unique harmonies better than ever, along with their intense sex appeal.

2. 'I Told You So,' Carrie Underwood, featuring Randy Travis

Never has a remake sounded so good. Carrie's angelic voice combined with Randy's mesmerizing lyrics do this 1988 hit more than justice.

1. 'Welcome to the Future,' Brad Paisley

Brad Paisley should teach songwriting lessons. This poignant tune highlights how far we've come, from technological advances to racial equality. "It's rare that you feel musically that something you do is more important than just entertainment," Brad tells Entertainment Weekly. " And I feel like this song is maybe more important than just entertainment."