29 Greatest & Most Famous Country Singers From Texas (Must Hear)

Texas has long been a fertile ground for country music, producing some of the genre’s most iconic and influential artists. From the rich traditions of honky-tonk and Western swing to the innovative sounds of outlaw country and modern pop-infused styles, Texas musicians have consistently pushed the boundaries of country music.

This article delves into the careers of famous country singers from Texas, highlighting their contributions to the genre and the unique Texan flavor they bring to their music.

Whether known for their storytelling, vocal prowess, or groundbreaking styles, these artists have left an indelible mark on the world of country music.

29 Most Talented Famous Country Singers From Texas That You Need to Know

These artists have all contributed significantly to the country music genre, each bringing a unique style and influence.

Here’s a list of 29 famous country singers from Texas:

#1 Willie Nelson

Willie Nelson, born on April 29, 1933, in Abbott, Texas, is one of the most iconic figures in country music. He began his career as a songwriter, penning hits like “Crazy” for Patsy Cline, before achieving fame as a performer. Nelson’s distinctive voice and innovative blend of country, jazz, blues, and folk earned him a massive following.

His 1975 album “Red Headed Stranger” and the hit single “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” solidified his status as a country legend. Known for his activism, distinctive braids, and memorable performances, Nelson has released numerous albums, including classics like “Stardust” and “Shotgun Willie.” He is also a co-founder of the annual Farm Aid concert and continues to tour and record, maintaining his status as a beloved icon in music.

#2 George Strait

George Strait, born on May 18, 1952, in Poteet, Texas, is often referred to as the “King of Country.” Strait’s career began in the early 1980s, and he quickly became known for his traditional country sound and smooth vocal style. With over 60 No. 1 hits, including classics like “Amarillo By Morning,” “Check Yes or No,” and “The Chair,” Strait has had an unparalleled impact on country music.

His ability to stay true to classic country while also appealing to modern audiences has earned him widespread acclaim. Strait has released more than 30 studio albums, selling over 70 million records in the United States alone. Known for his low-key, unassuming persona, Strait is also celebrated for his live performances, with his farewell tour setting attendance records. He continues to influence new generations of country artists.

#3 Waylon Jennings

Waylon Jennings, born on June 15, 1937, in Littlefield, Texas, was a pioneering figure in the outlaw country movement. Jennings began his career as a radio DJ and musician before joining Buddy Holly’s band, The Crickets, just before the tragic plane crash that took Holly’s life. In the 1970s, Jennings, alongside Willie Nelson and others, helped popularize the outlaw country genre, characterized by a raw, rebellious sound that stood in contrast to the polished Nashville sound. Jennings’ hits include “Good Hearted Woman,” “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” and “Luckenbach, Texas.”

His deep, resonant voice and authentic storytelling made him a beloved figure in country music. Jennings continued to influence the genre until his death in 2002, leaving a lasting legacy as a trailblazer who reshaped the boundaries of country music.

#4 Kenny Rogers

Kenny Rogers, born on August 21, 1938, in Houston, Texas, was a versatile singer known for his smooth voice and storytelling ability. Rogers gained fame in the late 1960s and 1970s, first with the group The First Edition and then as a solo artist. His crossover appeal in country and pop music led to a string of hits, including “The Gambler,” “Lucille,” and “Islands in the Stream,” a duet with Dolly Parton. Rogers’ success extended beyond music; he starred in television movies based on his songs and became a best-selling author.

He won numerous awards, including Grammys and Country Music Association Awards, and sold over 100 million records worldwide. Rogers’ warm, accessible style and memorable songs made him a beloved figure across multiple genres. He passed away in 2020, leaving a significant impact on both country and pop music.

#5 Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert, born on November 10, 1983, in Lindale, Texas, is a leading contemporary country music artist known for her powerful voice and strong, independent persona. Lambert gained national attention as a finalist on the television show Nashville Star in 2003. Her debut album, “Kerosene” (2005), showcased her blend of traditional and modern country styles, with hits like “Me and Charlie Talking” and “Kerosene.”

Lambert’s music often features themes of resilience, empowerment, and personal reflection, resonating with a wide audience. She has won multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards, and Academy of Country Music Awards. Albums like “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” (2007) and “Revolution” (2009) solidified her reputation as a major force in country music. Lambert continues to be an influential figure, known for her authentic storytelling and commitment to her craft.

#6 Lyle Lovett

Lyle Lovett, born on November 1, 1957, in Houston, Texas, is a singer-songwriter known for his unique blend of country, jazz, blues, and folk. Lovett’s career took off in the mid-1980s with his self-titled debut album, which featured hits like “Cowboy Man.” He is known for his witty, introspective lyrics and distinctive voice. Lovett’s music often defies traditional genre boundaries, incorporating diverse musical influences that appeal to a wide audience.

He has released critically acclaimed albums such as “Pontiac” (1987) and “Lyle Lovett and His Large Band” (1989), earning four Grammy Awards along the way. In addition to his music career, Lovett has appeared in several films and television shows, showcasing his talents as an actor. His thoughtful songwriting and genre-blending style have made him a respected figure in American music.

#7 Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Musgraves, born on August 21, 1988, in Golden, Texas, is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her modern take on country music. Musgraves gained widespread attention with her debut album “Same Trailer Different Park” (2013), which won the Grammy Award for Best Country Album. The album featured hits like “Merry Go ‘Round” and “Follow Your Arrow,” which showcased her distinctive blend of traditional country elements with contemporary themes.

Musgraves is known for her clever lyrics and progressive approach to country music, often addressing topics like LGBTQ+ rights, self-acceptance, and small-town life. Her subsequent albums, including “Pageant Material” (2015) and “Golden Hour” (2018), further established her as a unique voice in the genre, with “Golden Hour” winning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year. Musgraves’ work continues to push the boundaries of country music while maintaining a broad appeal.

#8 Lee Ann Womack

Lee Ann Womack, born on August 19, 1966, in Jacksonville, Texas, is a celebrated country music singer known for her traditionalist style and powerful vocals. Womack rose to fame in the late 1990s with her hit single “The Fool” from her self-titled debut album (1997). Her signature song, “I Hope You Dance,” from the album of the same name (2000), became a crossover hit, reaching audiences beyond the country genre and earning her a Grammy Award.

Known for her emotive delivery and deep understanding of classic country themes, Womack has released several acclaimed albums, including “There’s More Where That Came From” (2005) and “The Lonely, the Lonesome & the Gone” (2017). Her work often reflects a blend of traditional country and contemporary influences, making her a respected figure in both mainstream and roots-oriented circles.

#9 Clint Black

Clint Black, born on February 4, 1962, in Long Branch, New Jersey, and raised in Katy, Texas, is a prominent country singer-songwriter and musician. Black burst onto the country music scene in 1989 with his debut album “Killin’ Time,” which produced five number one singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks charts, including “A Better Man” and “Killin’ Time.” Known for his smooth voice, skilled guitar playing, and songwriting talents, Black quickly became one of the leading figures in the country music boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s.

His success continued with albums like “Put Yourself in My Shoes” (1990) and “The Hard Way” (1992). Over the years, Black has maintained a consistent presence in the industry, known for his traditionalist sound and lyrical storytelling. He has also ventured into acting and business, further expanding his influence beyond music.

#10 LeAnn Rimes

LeAnn Rimes, born on August 28, 1982, in Jackson, Mississippi, and raised in Garland, Texas, is a versatile singer known for her powerful voice and crossover appeal in both country and pop music. Rimes gained national attention at the age of 13 with her hit single “Blue,” which showcased her vocal maturity and drew comparisons to Patsy Cline. The song was part of her debut album “Blue” (1996), which went multi-platinum and earned her two Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist.

Rimes continued to explore a range of musical styles, achieving success with albums like “Sittin’ on Top of the World” (1998) and “Twisted Angel” (2002). Her hit single “How Do I Live” became one of the best-selling singles of the 1990s. Known for her vocal versatility and ability to blend country with pop and adult contemporary genres, Rimes has enjoyed a long and successful career, selling over 37 million records worldwide.

#11 Don Williams

Don Williams, born on May 27, 1939, in Floydada, Texas, was known as the “Gentle Giant” of country music due to his smooth baritone voice and laid-back style. Williams began his solo career in the early 1970s after initially being part of the folk-pop group Pozo-Seco Singers. He quickly became a beloved figure in country music with a string of hits, including “Tulsa Time,” “I Believe in You,” and “It Must Be Love.”

Williams’ music often featured simple, heartfelt lyrics and a warm, inviting sound, making him a favorite among country fans. He won numerous awards throughout his career, including the Country Music Association’s Male Vocalist of the Year in 1978. Williams continued to record and tour until his retirement in 2016, leaving a lasting legacy as one of country music’s most respected and beloved artists. He passed away in 2017.

#12 Charley Pride

Charley Pride, born on March 18, 1934, in Sledge, Mississippi, and later moving to Texas, was one of the first African American singers to achieve major success in the country music industry. Pride’s breakthrough came in the late 1960s with hits like “Just Between You and Me,” which earned him a Grammy Award nomination.

He became a major star with his rich baritone voice and classic country style, producing numerous hits such as “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’,” “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone,” and “Mountain of Love.” Over his career, Pride achieved 29 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and became a member of the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. His success helped break racial barriers in country music, making him a trailblazer and an icon in the genre. Pride passed away in 2020, leaving behind a significant legacy.

#13 George Jones

George Jones, born on September 12, 1931, in Saratoga, Texas, was one of the most influential and revered figures in country music. Known for his distinctive voice and emotive singing style, Jones’ career spanned more than five decades, during which he recorded numerous classic country hits. Some of his most famous songs include “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” “The Grand Tour,” and “She Thinks I Still Care.” Jones was known for his ability to convey deep emotion and authenticity in his performances, earning him the nickname “The Possum.”

His tumultuous personal life, including battles with alcoholism and turbulent relationships, often influenced his music and added to his legendary status. Despite these challenges, Jones continued to produce and perform until his death in 2013. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest country singers of all time, leaving a profound impact on the genre.

#14 Kris Kristofferson

Kris Kristofferson, born on June 22, 1936, in Brownsville, Texas, is a legendary singer-songwriter, actor, and musician known for his profound contributions to country music. Kristofferson’s songwriting skills brought him to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, with classics like “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” and “Help Me Make It Through the Night.” His songs, characterized by their introspective and often philosophical lyrics, were covered by numerous artists, including Johnny Cash, Janis Joplin, and Willie Nelson.

Kristofferson also enjoyed success as a performer, with notable albums like “Kristofferson” (1970) and “The Silver Tongued Devil and I” (1971). In addition to his music career, he has had a successful acting career, appearing in films such as “Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid” and “A Star Is Born,” for which he won a Golden Globe Award. Kristofferson’s work has earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

#15 Johnny Rodriguez

Johnny Rodriguez, born on December 10, 1951, in Sabinal, Texas, is a pioneering figure in country music, known for being one of the first Hispanic country music artists to achieve significant success in the genre. Rodriguez’s breakthrough came in the early 1970s with his debut single “Pass Me By (If You’re Only Passing Through),” which reached the top of the country charts. His ability to blend traditional country sounds with Latin influences, along with his smooth vocal style, made him a standout artist.

Rodriguez enjoyed a string of hits throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including “You Always Come Back (To Hurting Me),” “Ridin’ My Thumb to Mexico,” and “Just Get Up and Close the Door.” His contributions to country music have paved the way for future generations of Hispanic artists in the genre. Despite facing personal challenges, Rodriguez remains a respected figure in country music, known for his unique voice and trailblazing career.

#16 Gary P. Nunn

Gary P. Nunn, born on December 8, 1945, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, and raised in Brownfield, Texas, is a prominent figure in the Texas country music scene. Nunn gained recognition as a member of The Lost Gonzo Band, collaborating with artists like Jerry Jeff Walker and Michael Martin Murphey during the progressive country movement of the 1970s. Known for his songwriting prowess, Nunn wrote “London Homesick Blues,” which became the theme song for the long-running television show Austin City Limits.

Nunn’s music often celebrates the Texas lifestyle and culture, blending traditional country, rock, and folk influences. He has released numerous albums as a solo artist, including “Nobody But Me” and “What I Like About Texas.” Nunn is celebrated for his contributions to the Texas music scene and continues to perform and record, maintaining a dedicated fan base.

#17 Tanya Tucker

Tanya Tucker, born on October 10, 1958, in Seminole, Texas, is a country music icon known for her powerful voice and enduring career. Tucker rose to fame at the age of 13 with her hit single “Delta Dawn,” which showcased her mature vocal abilities and set the stage for a successful career. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Tucker released a string of hits, including “What’s Your Mama’s Name,” “Lizzie and the Rainman,” and “Strong Enough to Bend.” Known for her distinctive voice and ability to convey deep emotion, Tucker has been a prominent figure in country music for decades.

She has received numerous awards, including two Country Music Association Awards and three Academy of Country Music Awards. Tucker’s career experienced a resurgence with the release of her 2019 album “While I’m Livin’,” produced by Brandi Carlile and Shooter Jennings, which won a Grammy Award. She remains an influential and beloved figure in country music.

#18 Pat Green

Pat Green, born on April 5, 1972, in San Antonio, Texas, is a country music singer-songwriter known for his contributions to the Texas country and Red Dirt music scenes. Green began his music career in the mid-1990s while attending Texas Tech University, gaining a loyal following through grassroots promotion and live performances. He achieved widespread recognition with his 2001 album “Three Days,” which featured the hit singles “Wave on Wave” and “Carry On.”

Green’s music often blends traditional country with rock and folk influences, characterized by his engaging lyrics and energetic performances. He has released several successful albums, including “Wave on Wave” (2003) and “Cannonball” (2006). Green is known for his dedication to the Texas music scene and has been a major influence on the genre’s development. He continues to tour and record, maintaining a strong fan base and a respected position in country music.

#19 Ray Price

Ray Price, born on January 12, 1926, in Perryville, Texas, was a legendary country music singer and songwriter known for his smooth voice and innovative contributions to the genre. Price’s career spanned over six decades, during which he introduced the “Ray Price Shuffle,” a 4/4 beat that became a hallmark of honky-tonk music. He gained fame with hits like “Crazy Arms,” “Heartaches by the Number,” and “For the Good Times.”

Price was known for his versatility, seamlessly transitioning from honky-tonk to lush Nashville Sound ballads. His rich baritone voice and emotive delivery made him a favorite among country fans and fellow musicians. Price won multiple awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1996. Price continued to record and perform until his passing in 2013, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the greats in country music.

#20 Mark Chesnutt

Mark Chesnutt, born on September 6, 1963, in Beaumont, Texas, is a traditional country music singer known for his honky-tonk style and rich, soulful voice. Chesnutt emerged in the late 1980s and became one of the leading figures in the 1990s country music scene. His debut album, “Too Cold at Home” (1990), produced several hits, including the title track and “Brother Jukebox.” Chesnutt’s music often features themes of love, heartbreak, and blue-collar life, resonating with a wide audience.

He continued to enjoy success with albums like “Longnecks & Short Stories” (1992) and “What a Way to Live” (1994), which included hits like “Old Flames Have New Names” and “I’ll Think of Something.” Known for his traditionalist approach, Chesnutt has been praised for staying true to the roots of country music while also appealing to contemporary fans. He continues to tour and record, maintaining a dedicated fan base and a respected position in the genre.

#21 Jack Ingram

Jack Ingram, born on November 15, 1970, in Houston, Texas, is a country music artist known for his contributions to the Texas country and Americana music scenes. Ingram started his music career in the mid-1990s, gaining a following with his energetic live performances and engaging songwriting. His early albums, such as “Livin’ or Dyin'” (1997), showcased his blend of country and rock influences. Ingram achieved mainstream success with his 2006 album “Live: Wherever You Are,” featuring the hit single “Wherever You Are,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

Known for his authentic storytelling and gritty voice, Ingram has continued to release acclaimed albums, including “Big Dreams & High Hopes” (2009) and “Midnight Motel” (2016). He remains a respected figure in the country music community, celebrated for his commitment to the Texas music tradition.

#22 Asleep at the Wheel (Band led by Ray Benson)

Asleep at the Wheel, founded in 1970 and led by Ray Benson, is a Texas-based band known for its revival of Western swing music. Benson, born on March 16, 1951, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, moved to Texas and became a central figure in the Austin music scene.

The band gained national attention in the 1970s with hits like “The Letter That Johnny Walker Read” and their renditions of classic Bob Wills songs. Asleep at the Wheel has won multiple Grammy Awards and released over 20 albums, blending country, jazz, and swing music elements. Their dedication to preserving and popularizing Western swing has earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Benson’s deep voice and commanding stage presence have made him an iconic figure in American roots music.

#23 Robert Earl Keen

Robert Earl Keen, born on January 11, 1956, in Houston, Texas, is a singer-songwriter known for his storytelling prowess and influential role in the Texas country and Americana scenes. Keen’s music often features vivid narratives and a mix of humor and poignancy, as seen in songs like “The Road Goes on Forever” and “Corpus Christi Bay.” His debut album, “No Kinda Dancer” (1984), laid the groundwork for a career that would include critically acclaimed albums like “A Bigger Piece of Sky” (1993) and “Gringo Honeymoon” (1994).

Keen’s work has been covered by numerous artists, and he has developed a loyal following for his live performances, known for their engaging and intimate atmosphere. His contributions to the Texas music scene have earned him recognition as a key figure in Americana music.

#24 Joe Ely

Joe Ely, born on February 9, 1947, in Amarillo, Texas, is a singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his eclectic blend of rock, country, and Tex-Mex influences. Ely’s music career began in the 1970s with the formation of The Flatlanders, a band that included fellow Texas musicians Butch Hancock and Jimmie Dale Gilmore. Ely’s solo career took off with the release of his self-titled debut album in 1977, which showcased his unique blend of styles and storytelling.

Songs like “She Never Spoke Spanish to Me” and “All Just to Get to You” highlight his ability to blend gritty narratives with dynamic musical arrangements. Ely has toured extensively, both as a solo artist and with other notable acts, including The Clash. His contributions to music have been recognized with various awards, and he continues to be a respected figure in the Texas music scene.

#25 Radney Foster

Radney Foster, born on July 20, 1959, in Del Rio, Texas, is a country singer-songwriter known for his articulate lyrics and smooth vocal style. Foster first gained recognition as part of the duo Foster & Lloyd, which produced hits like “Crazy Over You” and “What Do You Want from Me This Time.” He launched his solo career with the critically acclaimed album “Del Rio, TX 1959” (1992), featuring the hit single “Just Call Me Lonesome.” Foster’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and introspection, blending traditional country with contemporary elements.

He has continued to release well-received albums, including “See What You Want to See” (1998) and “Everything I Should Have Said” (2014). In addition to his work as a performer, Foster has written songs for other artists, further establishing his reputation as a talented and versatile songwriter.

#26 Stoney LaRue

Stoney LaRue, born on March 29, 1977, in Taft, Texas, is a country singer-songwriter associated with the Red Dirt music scene, which blends country, rock, and folk influences. LaRue began his music career in the late 1990s, performing in Texas and Oklahoma.

His breakthrough came with the release of the live album “Live at Billy Bob’s Texas” (2007), which showcased his energetic performances and strong songwriting. LaRue’s studio albums, such as “Velvet” (2011) and “Us Time” (2015), feature hits like “Oklahoma Breakdown” and “Feet Don’t Touch the Ground.” Known for his gravelly voice and authentic lyrics, LaRue has built a loyal fan base through extensive touring and engaging live shows. He continues to be a prominent figure in the Red Dirt and Texas country music scenes.

#27 Cody Johnson

Cody Johnson, born on May 21, 1987, in Sebastopol, Texas, is a country music singer-songwriter known for his traditional country sound and independent approach to the music industry. Johnson began his career performing in local venues and gradually built a following with his energetic performances and heartfelt lyrics. His self-released albums, including “A Different Day” (2011) and “Cowboy Like Me” (2014), showcased his ability to blend traditional country themes with a modern sensibility.

Johnson gained national attention with his 2016 album “Gotta Be Me,” which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. Known for his authentic voice and commitment to his craft, Johnson has continued to release successful albums, including “Ain’t Nothin’ to It” (2019) and “Human: The Double Album” (2021). His music often reflects his Texas roots and cowboy lifestyle, earning him a dedicated fan base.

#28 Kevin Fowler

Kevin Fowler, born on May 11, 1966, in Amarillo, Texas, is a country music artist known for his fun, upbeat songs and energetic live performances. Fowler began his music career as a guitarist in rock bands before transitioning to country music in the late 1990s. He gained recognition with his independent album “Beer, Bait & Ammo” (2000), featuring the title track and songs like “The Lord Loves the Drinkin’ Man.”

Fowler’s music often combines humorous lyrics with traditional country instrumentation, making him a favorite among Texas country fans. His subsequent albums, including “Loose, Loud & Crazy” (2004) and “How Country Are Ya?” (2014), have produced hits like “Hard Man to Love” and “Love Song.” Known for his engaging stage presence and relatable lyrics, Fowler continues to be a popular figure in the Texas country music scene.

#29 Billy Joe Shaver

Billy Joe Shaver, born on August 16, 1939, in Corsicana, Texas, was a legendary singer-songwriter known for his raw, poetic lyrics and contributions to the outlaw country movement. Shaver’s songwriting gained attention in the early 1970s when Waylon Jennings recorded several of his songs on the landmark album “Honky Tonk Heroes.” Shaver’s own recording career included classic albums like “Old Five and Dimers Like Me” (1973) and “I’m Just an Old Chunk of Coal” (1981), featuring songs that showcased his gritty, autobiographical storytelling.

Known for his distinctive voice and deeply personal lyrics, Shaver’s music often explored themes of struggle, redemption, and resilience. Despite facing numerous challenges in his personal life, Shaver remained a respected and influential figure in country music. He continued to perform and record until his passing in 2020, leaving behind a legacy as one of the genre’s great storytellers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What impact did Willie Nelson have on the country music genre?

Willie Nelson is a pioneering figure in country music, known for his unique blend of traditional country, jazz, blues, and folk. His influential works like “Red Headed Stranger” and his role in the outlaw country movement have significantly shaped the genre.

How did George Strait earn the title “King of Country”?

George Strait earned the title “King of Country” through his consistent delivery of hit songs, with over 60 No. 1 singles, and his traditional yet appealing sound. His career spans several decades, during which he has sold over 70 million records in the United States alone.

What contributions did Charley Pride make to country music?

Charley Pride was one of the first African American artists to achieve major success in country music, breaking racial barriers with hits like “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’.” His smooth voice and classic country style earned him numerous awards and a lasting legacy in the genre.

How did Kacey Musgraves differentiate herself in the country music scene?

Kacey Musgraves set herself apart with her clever, progressive lyrics and modern take on country music, often addressing unconventional topics like LGBTQ+ rights and self-acceptance. Her critically acclaimed albums, such as “Golden Hour,” have won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.