Randy Houser greatest hits showcase the powerhouse vocalist’s journey from Mississippi to country music stardom, featuring chart-topping singles and fan favorites spanning over two decades. With an inimitable voice The New York Times describes as “wholly different, thicker and more throbbing, a caldron bubbling over,” Randy Houser has racked up multiple number one hits and millions in singles sales throughout his career. This comprehensive collection of Randy Houser’s best songs demonstrates his evolution from a promising songwriter to one of country music’s most distinctive voices.
Born Shawn Randolph Houser on December 18, 1975, in Lake, Mississippi, the singer-songwriter has carved out a unique space in country music with his blues-influenced sound and powerful vocal delivery. From co-writing hits for other artists to achieving his own commercial success, Houser’s catalog represents the best of modern country music. Whether you’re discovering his music through premium headphones or quality earbuds, these 20 essential tracks capture the essence of Randy Houser’s artistry.
Runnin’ Outta Moonlight
“Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” stands as one of Randy Houser’s biggest hits, reaching number one on the Country Airplay chart in August 2013 and earning platinum certification in both the U.S. and Canada. The song perfectly captures the urgency of romantic desire with its driving beat and memorable hook about making the most of limited time under the stars. This fresh take on a classic story of desperation, flirtation and falling in love underneath the stars showcased Houser’s ability to breathe new life into familiar country themes.
How Country Feels
The title track from Houser’s breakthrough 2013 album became his first number one hit, reaching the top of the Country Airplay chart in February 2013. This platinum-selling single features an irresistible hook and flirty lyrics as Houser chastises someone who “never rolled in the hay” or “never thrown it in four wheel,” promising to show them “how country feels.” The song’s success marked a turning point in Houser’s career, establishing him as a major force in country music. The accompanying music video won the CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year award, further cementing the song’s impact.
Boots On
“Boots On” was released as the second single from Houser’s debut album “Anything Goes” in February 2009 and became his first top ten hit, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song showcases Houser’s rock-influenced approach to country music with its driving guitar riffs and rebellious attitude. This fiercely rocking track quickly became his first Top 5 hit and established his reputation for delivering high-energy performances. The success of “Boots On” helped launch Houser’s career and remains a fan favorite at live shows.
We Went
“We Went” served as the lead single from Houser’s fourth studio album “Fired Up” and reached number one on the Country Airplay chart in March 2016. The song tells a story of young love and adventure with Houser’s characteristic vocal power driving the narrative forward. This track added a fourth number one hit to Houser’s catalog, proving his continued relevance in the changing country music landscape. The accompanying tour, dubbed the “We Went Tour,” showcased the song’s popularity among fans and radio alike.
Goodnight Kiss
“Goodnight Kiss” reached number one on the Mediabase Country Chart and number two on the Country Airplay chart, marking Houser’s first number one as a songwriter. The romantic ballad demonstrates Houser’s softer side while maintaining the vocal intensity that defines his sound. Released as the third single from “How Country Feels,” the song continued the album’s remarkable commercial success with four consecutive top-three singles. The track’s success as both a performer and songwriter showcase highlighted Houser’s multifaceted talents within the country music industry.
Like a Cowboy
“Like a Cowboy” stands as a powerful ballad that showcases Houser at his vocal best, featuring a compelling build in the pre-chorus before the soaring declaration “I’ll ride in on a sunny day, sing you a song, steal your heart away, like a cowboy.” The song reached number three on the charts, earned gold certification, and received a CMA nomination for Song of the Year. This track perfectly balances Houser’s rock influences with traditional country storytelling, creating an anthem that resonates with fans across multiple demographics. The song’s memorable hook and emotional delivery make it one of Houser’s most recognizable tracks.
Anything Goes
“Anything Goes” marked Randy Houser’s debut single, released in May 2008, and became a top 20 hit on the Billboard country singles chart. The song served as both his introduction to country radio and the title track for his debut album, establishing his presence in Nashville’s competitive music scene. Co-written by Brice Long and John Wiggins, the track caught the attention of David Letterman, who invited Houser to perform on his late-night show after hearing it on satellite radio. This early success demonstrated Houser’s potential and set the stage for his subsequent career achievements.
Whistlin’ Dixie
“Whistlin’ Dixie” served as the lead single from Houser’s second studio album “They Call Me Cadillac,” debuting at number 59 on the Billboard Country Songs chart in October 2009. The song showcases Houser’s Southern roots and his ability to blend traditional country themes with contemporary production values. While not achieving the commercial success of his later hits, “Whistlin’ Dixie” represents an important stepping stone in Houser’s artistic development. The track’s regional pride and storytelling elements would become recurring themes throughout his catalog.
What Whiskey Does
“What Whiskey Does” features Hillary Lindsey as a duet partner and served as the lead single from Houser’s 2019 album “Magnolia.” The song explores the complex relationship between alcohol and emotional pain, with both vocalists delivering powerful performances that complement each other perfectly. Producer Keith Gattis worked with Houser to create a sound that “had to lean on songs and melodies, not a bunch of tricks and loops,” reflecting the album’s artistic direction. This collaboration demonstrates Houser’s willingness to explore different musical territories while maintaining his distinctive vocal approach.
Song Number 7
“Song Number 7” was released as the second single from the “Fired Up” album in March 2016, reaching number 43 on the Country Airplay chart. While not achieving the commercial success of its predecessor “We Went,” the track showcases Houser’s storytelling abilities and musical versatility. The song’s moderate chart performance reflected the changing landscape of country radio during this period. Despite its limited commercial impact, “Song Number 7” remains a solid example of Houser’s craftsmanship as both a vocalist and songwriter.
Still That Cowboy
“Still That Cowboy” represents one of Houser’s most significant recent collaborations, featuring Miranda Lambert in a heartfelt tribute to enduring love with seamless vocal chemistry. Written by Houser, Matt Rogers, and Josh Hoge as an ode to his wife Tatiana, the song reflects his personal growth and family priorities. Lambert praised the collaboration, stating she had “loved his voice forever” and felt honored to be asked to participate in the recording. The track appears on Houser’s “Note To Self Deluxe” album, showcasing his continued relevance in contemporary country music.
Note To Self
The title track from Houser’s 2022 album represents one of his most introspective and honest compositions, offering deliberate reflection that challenges listeners to consider hard truths about life and relationships. The song functions as a kind of follow-up to Tim McGraw’s “Humble and Kind” in spirit, touching upon strength, honesty, materialism, relationships, and personal growth. The track earned RIAA Gold certification, marking Houser’s first Gold record with Magnolia Music Group. With its plaintive guitar solo and drum-driven crescendo, “Note To Self” stands as one of the most compelling country songs of recent years.
Country Back
“Country Back” represents Randy Houser’s latest musical statement, described as “a full throttle proclamation of all things country” that was picked up by over 60 reporting stations at country radio prior to its official release. The song reflects Houser’s commitment to traditional country values while maintaining contemporary appeal. As a Billboard-lauded “golden-voiced Mississippi native,” Houser uses this track to reaffirm his dedication to authentic country music in an evolving musical landscape. “Country Back” demonstrates that Houser’s artistic vision remains as relevant and powerful as ever in his career.
Rub A Little Dirt On It
“Rub A Little Dirt On It” delivers essential wisdom often forgotten in today’s fast-paced world, reminding listeners that difficult times are temporary and can sometimes be alleviated by turning to places of beauty and tranquility. The song features a collaboration with Riley Green on the deluxe version of “Note To Self,” written by Houser with Jeff Hyde and Ryan Tyndell. The track’s message of resilience and finding solace in nature resonates with country music’s core values. Its inclusion on the deluxe album alongside other collaborations shows Houser’s ability to connect with younger country artists while maintaining his distinctive voice.
Country Round Here Tonight
“Country Round Here Tonight” features a collaboration with Justin Moore, written by Houser with Brice Long and Jeff Hyde. The song celebrates rural life and small-town values with the kind of authenticity that has defined Houser’s best work throughout his career. As part of Houser’s recent output, the track continues his exploration of what it means to live a country lifestyle in contemporary America. The collaboration with Moore brings together two powerful voices in modern country music, creating a dynamic that enhances both artists’ strengths.
Call Me
“Call Me” finds Houser “pining to hear from his lover,” expressing the sentiment that he’d “rather be fighting than not speaking at all” with the poignant line “3am is the loneliest time when we’re fighting; sometimes nothing speaks any louder than silence.” Co-written with Paul Overstreet and Andrew Albert, the ballad showcases Houser’s ability to convey vulnerability and emotional depth. The song builds from a soft beginning into a heavy-hitting chorus, demonstrating the dynamic range that makes Houser’s vocals so compelling. “Call Me” represents the more introspective side of his “Note To Self” album.
American Dreamer
“American Dreamer” touches on patriotism and the diligence passed down throughout generations to work hard with pride, reflecting traditional American values through Houser’s personal lens. Written by Houser with Brett Warren and Brad Warren, the song appears on his “Note To Self” album as part of his reflective period. The track combines personal storytelling with broader cultural themes, creating a song that resonates with listeners who share similar values about hard work and perseverance. “American Dreamer” showcases Houser’s ability to address serious themes while maintaining musical accessibility.
Remember How To Pray
“Remember How To Pray” serves as a reflective, spiritual conclusion to the “Note To Self” album, featuring Houser reflecting on his faith and its importance throughout the ups and downs of his life. The song gives credit to his Maker while acknowledging “Every now and then, I lose my way,” and was co-written with Kendell Marvel. This quiet, acoustic composition provides a fitting bookend to an album focused on personal growth and self-reflection. The track demonstrates Houser’s willingness to explore spiritual themes with honesty and vulnerability.
Workin’ Man
“Workin’ Man,” written by Houser with Randy Montana, illuminates the tenacity and persistence of America’s blue-collar workers among the struggles they face day-to-day to support themselves and their families. The song celebrates the dignity of hard work while acknowledging the challenges faced by working-class Americans. With lyrics like “Morning coffee in his steel toe boots, drink it up, lace ’em up, light that fuse,” the song captures the daily reality of blue-collar life. “Workin’ Man” represents Houser’s connection to his Mississippi roots and his understanding of everyday struggles.
Cancel
“Cancel” draws on spiritual introspection to promote forgiveness, calling for empathy while emphasizing the importance of listening to others and avoiding judgment. The song features a collaboration with Cody Johnson on the “Note To Self Deluxe” album, with Houser noting that “something so meaningful to me was also important enough to him to want to be a part of it.” Billboard praised Houser as he “reflects on the state of the world today and encourages forgiveness” in this thought-provoking composition. The track addresses contemporary social issues while maintaining Houser’s commitment to authentic storytelling and meaningful messages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Randy Houser’s biggest hit song?
“Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” stands as Randy Houser’s biggest hit, reaching number one on the Country Airplay chart in August 2013 and earning platinum certification in both the U.S. and Canada. The song’s commercial success and lasting popularity make it his most recognizable track among mainstream country music fans.
How many number one hits does Randy Houser have?
Randy Houser has achieved four number one hits throughout his career: “How Country Feels,” “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight,” “Goodnight Kiss,” and “We Went.” These chart-toppers span from 2013 to 2016, representing the peak period of his commercial success.
What was Randy Houser’s first hit song?
“Anything Goes” was Randy Houser’s first charting single, released in May 2008 and reaching the top 20 on the Billboard country singles chart. However, “Boots On” became his first major hit, reaching the top five and establishing him as a significant new voice in country music.
What is Randy Houser’s latest album?
Randy Houser’s latest release is “Note To Self Deluxe,” which expanded his 2022 “Note To Self” album with four new collaborations featuring Miranda Lambert, Cody Johnson, Riley Green, and Justin Moore. The deluxe version was released in 2025 and includes his recent single “Country Back.”
Did Randy Houser write songs for other artists?
Yes, Randy Houser co-wrote “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” with Jamey Johnson and Dallas Davidson, which became a major hit for Trace Adkins in 2005, reaching number two on the Hot Country Songs chart and helping establish Houser’s reputation in Nashville. He has also written songs for other artists throughout his career, showcasing his talents as both a performer and songwriter.