Top 5 Montana Songs That are NOT Country to Help Celebrate 406 Day

When you think of a "Montana song," what is the first thing that pops into your head? For me, it is the classic Merle Haggard tune "Big City."

"Turn me loose and set me free, somewhere in the middle of Montana."

When asked about "Montana songs," I am willing to bet that the first song that pops into just about anyone's mind is a country song. Let's face it, Montana is a country music kind of place. A place that has inspired countless country artists to write songs. But, have you ever really listened to a "Montana song" that is NOT country music?

There are many alternative, folk, and pop artist that have been inspired by Big Sky Country.

There are many different types of people in Montana. Not all Montanans wear boots and a cowboy hat. Whether it be a former member of a chart-topping boy band or a Grammy award-winning songwriter, Montana has inspired more than just country songs.

Check out our Top 5 Montana Inspired Songs that are NOT country songs.

1) Frank Zappa - Montana

This song is bizarre. But, that is what Frank Zappa was all about. A song about a man who wants to "Move to Montana and raise a crop of dental floss." As odd and humorous as the song is, it is considered one of Zappa's best compositions. With backup vocals performed by the legendary vocalist, Tina Turner.

2) Justin Timberlake - Montana

Justin Timberlake has been a resident of Montana for years now. He and his wife, Jessica Biel,  felt that Montana was the best place to raise their kids. Turns out, Timberlake fell in love with Montana. So much so that he made an album inspired by the state. According to elitedaily.com, JT says the album "Man of the Woods" is

really inspired by my son, my wife, my family, but more so than any album I’ve ever written, where I’m from," he said. "And it’s personal.

3) Daya - Montana

Daya is a singer/songwriter who has spent plenty of time on the Billboard Top 100. Her song "Hide Away" peaked at number 23 on the Billboard Top 100 in 2015. It seems like Daya was inspired by Big Sky Country. Check out her music video for her song "Montana."

4) Owl City - Montana

Owl City is a multi-platinum recording artist out of Minnesota. The electronic music sound helped create their hit song "Fireflies" in 2009. In 2018 Owl City released their 6th studio album "Cinematic." The album featured a song simply called "Montana."

5) James Taylor - Montana

James Taylor is a 6 time Grammy award-winning singer/songwriter. He is also a member of the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame. James was inspired so much by Montana, that he wrote a song that was included in his 2015 album "Before this World."