Mary Chapin Carpenter

On June 13, 1989, Mary Chapin Carpenter released her second album, 'State of the Heart'.

The two performers took the stage in celebration of their friend and musical contemporary Joan Baez at the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony.

Sure, some of these artists scored major hits, but if you ask us, they're due a much bigger spot in the genre's history books.

For more than 30 years, Mary Chapin Carpenter has helped define country music.

We still listen to these regularly!

On June 13, 1989, country music's mainstream audience met Mary Chapin Carpenter.