Martina McBride songs are an irrefutable part of the country music canon. She can stop time with a single powerful note in an emotional ballad, but can still make you dance in your car to her more lighthearted, upbeat tunes.

McBride is a respected vocalist and a veteran of the country music industry, having been in the biz since the mid-'90s and still turning out hits today. Her songs inspire hope, empower the voiceless and make a positive impact on the world. In appreciation of her long career filled with so many outstanding songs, we've compiled a list of the 10 best Martina McBride songs.

  • 10

    "Where Would You Be"

    From 'Greatest Hits' (2001)

    One of four new songs added to McBride's Greatest Hits album in 2001, "Where Would You Be" is an emotional lament of an uncertain relationship, wrapped in the star's signature dynamic vocals. The song rose to No. 3 on the Billboard country charts, affirming McBride's position as country music royalty and this as one of Martina McBride's best songs.

  • 9

    "This One's for the Girls"

    From 'Martina' (2003)

    "This One's for the Girls" is an anthem of encouragement to women everywhere. Every girl on the planet has experienced the struggles McBride sings about, whether 13, 25 or 42, and the song reminds them that others have been there, too. Its singalong melody and relatable, uplifting message took it to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Country chart and straight into the hearts of fans.

  • 8

    "How Far"

    From 'Martina' (2003)

    While "How Far" never made it to the Top 10 on the country charts, this story of a woman at the end of her rope with her relationship connected with fans in a big way. Its powerful chorus and swelling bridge give it a raw emotion almost any woman can identify with. McBride's voice soars in this song, earning it the No. 8 slot on our 10 Best Martina McBride Songs list.

  • 7

    "I Love You"

    From 'Emotion' (1999)

    This carefree pop-country love song, which appeared on the soundtrack to the movie Runaway Bride, is a fun departure from McBride's emotional and touching ballads. "I Love You" describes that elated feeling at the beginning of a new relationship, when everything is new and exciting and you may not be quite thinking straight. Its singable chorus and happy melody propelled this song to No. 1 on the Billboard country charts.

  • 6

    "Wild Angels"

    From 'Wild Angels' (1995)

    The title track of McBride’s second album, "Wild Angels" is a down-home country kind of tune with a memorable melody and uplifting message. This song was McBride’s first No. 1 hit -- the one which launched her into country music stardom.

  • 5

    "Valentine"

    From 'Evolution' (1997)

    A tender love ballad first appearing on Jim Brickman’s album Picture This, "Valentine" is a love letter in its truest form. McBride sings with honesty and warmth as her voice is accompanied by Brickman’s elegant piano. The song was a hit in multiple genres, peaking at No. 3 on the Adult Contemporary charts, and became a classic in McBride’s repertoire.

  • 4

    "I'm Gonna Love You Through It"

    From 'Eleven' (2011)

    More than 15 years after her first No. 1, McBride was still producing chart-topping hits. "I’m Gonna Love You Through It" was more than just a song, though. It was a mantra for anyone battling cancer -- and their loved ones. Told through the point of view of a 38-year-old woman diagnosed with cancer, McBride sings of a strong love that helps us walk through difficult times. The song was nominated for a Grammy in 2012 and remains encouraging to anyone fighting cancer or chronic disease.

  • 3

    "A Broken Wing"

    From 'Evolution' (1997)

    This swinging country ballad is a testament to strength in weakness, telling the story of a woman who gets up the courage to leave an abusive relationship. True to McBride’s style, "A Broken Wing" inspires hope and champions the empowerment of women. The song features a jaw-dropping vocal performance by the star. It climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard country charts, which cements it in our Best Martina McBride Songs list.

  • 2

    "Concrete Angel"

    From: 'Greatest Hits' (2001)

    McBride's always leaned toward messages with a heavier theme, and none of the best Martina McBride songs are any heavier than "Concrete Angel." The song tells the story of a young girl whose abuse at the hands of her mother goes unaddressed despite the fact that people notice it. The powerful song ends with the abusive mom killing her child.

  • 1

    "Independence Day"

    From 'The Way That I Am' (1993)

    Though a fan favorite, this story of an unconventional path to freedom from an oppressive home life was controversial on the airwaves due to the character’s morally questionable means to her end. Despite this, "Independence Day" went on to win two CMA Awards, as well as a Grammy for Best Country Song. The declaration of freedom allows McBride’s voice to shine and stays with listeners long after they’ve heard it.

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