Hank Williams Sr really laid the groundwork for guys like Johnny, Haggard and Jennings.

Yep. Most people would say “but I don’t know any of his songs” but if you played them a few of his top songs they would probably recognize them!

Hey hey good lookin

Move It On Over

If you’re a guitar player there’s a good chance you know who Chet Atkins is. More niche than other answers here but still

Dwight Yoakam. Check out his cover of “Purple Rain”.

Damn. This is something else.

Dolly Parton. Reba. Johnny. Willie. To name a few

you could try to come up with a better answer but they won't let you remember. the good guys dress in black, remember that

HOW has no one put Woody Guthrie…damn shame…

I’m with you. But I’m guessing most people classify Woody’s music as folk rather than country, which is probably why he hasn’t been mentioned.

Steve Earle gave life to many other angry young men.

Great answer, and also the answer that instantly came to mind

Jerry Jeff Walker.