In 2015, Keith Urban saluted the undeniable influence of the artist formerly known as John Cougar, Eric Church reassured us he understood, Kelsea Ballerini demanded we show her meaningful love and Chris Stapleton traveled life's open road.

But it was Cam who set the house on fire, releasing a ballad that captured what country music does best: wring emotion out of personal experience and make it relatable to all. Here are the year's 25 best country singles.