Im surprised so many people recommending the same five modern country artists. That's a good pick.

I'd like to add a few: Ray Wylie Hubbard, Ryan Bingham, Buddy Miller, Hayes Carll, Weary Boys, Shovels and Rope, Malcom Holcombe, and I'll even throw in John Prine, Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark because OP needs to know those guys too because they're legends