Deep in the heart of Texas, a state renowned for its rich musical heritage, lies a trove of extraordinary talent that has captivated audiences around the world. From soul-stirring country melodies to powerful gospel harmonies and foot-stomping blues rhythms, the Lone Star State has birthed a multitude of iconic singers who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. In this article, we delve into the lives and careers of ten famous singers from Texas who have risen to international acclaim. These remarkable artists have not only embodied the spirit of their Texan roots but have also transcended boundaries, captivating listeners with their unique vocal prowess, magnetic stage presence, and heartfelt storytelling. From the velvety smooth voice of the “King of Country” to the soulful croons of the “Queen of Tejano,” this diverse group of Texas-born singers represents a wide array of musical genres and styles. Join us on a musical journey as we explore the lives and legacies of these extraordinary individuals who have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the annals of music history. Discover the vibrant tapestry of sounds that has shaped the musical landscape, and gain a deeper appreciation for the undeniable talent that has emerged from the great state of Texas.
1. Buddy Holly
Buddy Holly was a famous musician from Texas. He blended country, folk, and rhythm and blues to make his own unique sound. This was a new style of music, which influenced future musicians.
He formed his band, The Crickets, in the late 1950s. They became popular with songs like "That'll Be the Day" and "Peggy Sue". Sadly, Holly died in an airplane crash at 22 years old. But he left a lasting impression on music.
Holly wrote his own music. He was one of the first to use double-tracking vocals. And he produced his own songs, which was uncommon in those days.
In 1986, Buddy Holly got inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Kenny Rogers also comes from Texas!
2. Kenny Rogers
Kenny Rogers, the legendary country singer from Houston, Texas, rose to fame in the 70s. His hits like "Lucille" and "The Gambler" sold over 120 million records worldwide. He also tried his hand at acting, starring in films and TV shows. He won multiple awards including three Grammys, eight Country Music Association Awards, and two Academy of Country Music Awards. He was known for his distinctive voice and captivating stories in his lyrics.
What's unique about Kenny Rogers? He collaborated with a wide variety of artists across genres. He sang duets with other country singers such as Dolly Parton, Ronnie Milsap, and Alison Krauss. But he also worked with pop icons like Lionel Richie, Sheena Easton, and Barry Gibb. His versatility opened up a broader audience than most other country musicians.
Kenny Rogers' music still resonates with fans of all ages, carrying on his legacy.
3. Ornette Coleman
Ornette Coleman was an American jazz pioneer from Fort Worth, Texas. His saxophone style used unusual harmonies and melodies, which challenged traditional jazz. He was both praised and critiqued. Nonetheless, he stayed true to his vision and kept pushing boundaries.
Coleman made history by becoming the first jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize for his album Sound Grammar. His legacy continues to inspire artists worldwide.
At an early age, Coleman received a plastic saxophone from his mother. This ignited his love for music and led him to become one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
Ornette Coleman's influence on music is immense. His unique style and dedication to innovation shaped modern jazz and inspired many musicians.
4. Roy Orbison
Roy Orbison was born in Vernon, Texas. He rose to fame in the 1960s with hits such as "Oh, Pretty Woman" and "Crying". His vocal range and emotional delivery set him apart from other artists. He blended country, rockabilly, and pop music to create a timeless sound.
Despite suffering from poor eyesight, he developed an impeccable ear for sound which helped him succeed. He recorded at Monument Records in Nashville, instead of Hollywood or New York City like most artists.
Roy Orbison is an influential artist. He inspired countless musicians and laid down the building blocks for multiple genres. Usher may not have been born in Texas, but his dance moves prove he can two-step with the best of them!
5. Usher
Usher, a Texas-based celebrity singer, has been on top of the R&B and pop scene for ages. His stunning voice and amazing dance moves have gained him supporters throughout the world. He is not only a Grammy award-winning star, but also an actor and songwriter. His break-out album, "My Way," was released in 1997, with hits like "You Make Me Wanna" and "Nice & Slow". He is also renowned for his philanthropic activities, such as creating the New Look Foundation in 1999, which offers young people leadership training.
Furthermore, Usher has tried his hand at acting, appearing in flicks like "In the Mix" and television shows like "Moesha". Additionally, he was a coach on NBC's singing competition series "The Voice", helping upcoming singers.
One of the most interesting facts about Usher is that he did not learn to swim until later in life due to a near-drowning experience as a child. However, he conquered this fear in 2015 by taking swimming lessons and even appeared in an episode of Bear Grylls' adventure series where they swam across icy rapids.
Usher's ability and hard work have granted him a unique spot among the biggest music stars from Texas. His music and charity work make him an inspiration for many aspiring artists. Everything's bigger in Texas, including Beyoncé's fame and bank balance.
6. Beyoncé
Nelly, from Texas, is an iconic and influential musician. She started with Destiny's Child and is now an amazing solo artist – with platinum albums, Grammy awards, and record-breaking performances to her name.
Beyoncé is also known for pushing boundaries. Her 2016 Super Bowl performance featured Black Panther-inspired costumes and comments on police brutality. She also released a visual album that highlighted feminist and racial issues.
Nelly is also known for her business savvy. She created Parkwood Entertainment in 2008 – a company that covers music production, management, fashion collaborations, and charitable organizations.
Nelly is a powerhouse in the music industry and has made an impact on society. She continues to break barriers and amaze audiences worldwide.
7. Nelly
Nelly is an acclaimed American rapper, singer, and songwriter who has sold over 20 million albums. He grew up in St. Louis, Missouri and Texas. His music has earned him four Grammy Awards and two American Music Awards. He also acted in movies such as 'Snipes' and 'Reach Me.'
His debut album, 'Country Grammar,' released in 2000, is one of the highest-selling rap albums ever. The title track topped the Billboard Hot 100 list for seven weeks. He has worked with various country artists like Tim McGraw and Florida Georgia Line.
Nelly has shown his generous side through his non-profit organization, 4Sho4Kids Foundation. He even hosted a charity game show called 'Nelly's Need to Know,' with the prize money going to children battling cancer.
8. Barry White
Barry White – the "Walrus of Love" – hailed from Texas. His deep and soulful voice sold over 100 million records worldwide. Hits include "Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Babe" and "You're the First, the Last, My Everything." He also wrote, arranged, and produced songs.
White won three Grammys and was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame posthumously in 2004.
A fun fact about him is that he started as a session musician. He wrote tunes for Nina Simone, The Banana Splits, and Bob & Earl. Unfortunately, health issues plagued him but he kept performing until his death in 2003.
Explore Barry's early music and songwriting to discover more about this iconic Texan singer!
9. Stevie Ray Vaughan
Stevie Ray Vaughan – the renowned guitarist and singer from Texas – still inspires musicians today. His signature blues sound electrified stages worldwide and had a massive influence on rock and roll.
In the 1980s Vaughn and his band, Double Trouble, gained multiple Grammy awards. Sadly, he died in a helicopter accident at the peak of his career. But his legacy lives on.
What makes Vaughan stand out from other Texas musicians is his unique sound. He blended traditional blues with contemporary rock and R&B, and used Jimi Hendrix's techniques.
If you want to experience Stevie Ray Vaughan's music, there are several options. You could listen to classics like "Texas Flood" or "The Sky Is Crying," or attend one of the tribute concerts.
Vaughan is an icon, both in Texas and around the world. He continues to be an inspiration for countless artists.
10. Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson is an iconic singer from Texas, whose name is synonymous with country music. His voice is captivating and his musical accomplishments are impressive.
He has released over 200 albums and won various awards such as Grammys, CMA awards, and even an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. He wrote the classic hit, "Crazy" which was popularized by Patsy Cline in 1961.
Willie is known for his unique style of infusing different genres such as blues, jazz, and pop into country music. He also stands for marijuana legalization and helps farmers through Farm Aid concerts.
Did you know that 'Shotgun Willie' was his debut album on Atlantic Records? It was released in 1973 and changed the sound of country music forever.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
