For Country Music Month, we’re taking a look at some of the best songs about strong women. It’s a really tough list to compile, because “strong” is about many different things. Is the woman in the song righting a wrong, seeking revenge, just being “ornery,” or is she a great example to others? It’s fun to figure out, and here’s our list. What did we leave out?

10) Martina McBride- “Independence Day” – This song almost didn’t make the list – I agonized about it, but the woman in question does one “strong” thing, which as the song admits, “Now I ain’t sayin’ it’s right or it’s wrong but maybe it’s the only way”. Still, as an anthem against domestic abuse, it’s one amazing song.

9) Gwyneth Paltrow- “Country Strong” – Pretty obvious, right?  Not a huge hit, but it does tie a nice bow in a pretty decent Country movie.

8) Gretchen Wilson- “Redneck Woman” – “I ain’t ever been the Barbie-doll type” sings Gretchen, and we know that this is not a woman to be messed with.  The most empowering or scariest thing about hearing this song in your favorite bar is how many women shout “Hell Yeah!” every time they hear it.  Guess it depends on your point of view.

7) Shania Twain- “Man I Feel Like A Woman” – Here, by contrast, is a woman who can “go totally crazy, forget I’m a lady” and “color my hair – do what I dare” while wearing men’s shirts and short skirts. Less intimidating than #8, but don’t forget, it’s by the same woman who sang “Any Man Of Mine better be proud of me, even when I’m ugly he still better love me”.