Sara Evans was one of country music's dominant female singers for nearly a decade beginning in 1998. The sheer strength of her voice makes her a lock for this list of country music's most powerful women.

Her hits and many ACM and CMA nominations for Top Female Vocalist inch her higher. "No Place That Far" was first, but it was "Born to Fly" that really made Evans a star, earning her the CMA for Music Video of the Year. Like Montgomery Gentry to Brooks & Dunn, Evans would frequently get edged out by Martina McBride in her category, but rarely is an awards shelf indicative of the career.

Gold and Platinum certifications for several albums and singles culminated in what is arguably her biggest hit, "A Little Bit Stronger." It's certainly her most meaningful as well. "Perfect" and "Suds In the Bucket" were delightful radio wins, but neither stuck to the soul like this 2010 story of redemption.

Vocalists like Evans are simply timeless, but she was always able to find songs that suited her stage in life. Early on it was more playful love affairs. Later it'd be a a lyric tinged with the wisdom of a woman closer to 40 than 20. She continues to evolve, releasing songs that are honest to who she is right now.

It's the Ultimate Women In Country Music Playlist!

Watch: Country Women Well-Represented in 2017 Taste of Country RISERS

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