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Muna Tengi
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The Top 10 Musicians In Amarillo, Texas
Amarillo, Texas, is not only known for its iconic landscapes and Route 66 landmarks but also for its vibrant and diverse musical history. This West Texas city has produced a variety of talented musicians across multiple genres, ranging from country to rock to jazz. With a strong tradition of storytelling and a deep connection to the wide-open spaces of Texas, Amarillo's musicians have left a lasting impact on both the local music scene and beyond. Here are some of the top musicians who have emerged from Amarillo, Texas.
1. Terry Stafford
One of the most famous musicians from Amarillo is Terry Stafford, best known for his hit song “Suspicion.” Released in 1964, the song reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, making Stafford a household name. His voice had a similar timbre to that of Elvis Presley, and "Suspicion" is often compared to Presley's style. Another notable song by Stafford is “Amarillo by Morning,” which he wrote in 1973. The song became iconic when George Strait recorded it in 1983, turning it into a country classic.
Though Stafford never achieved the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to both pop and country music have made him a celebrated figure in Amarillo’s musical history. His songwriting skills and his smooth vocal style have ensured that his legacy endures in the annals of American music.
2. Buck Owens
Buck Owens, though born in Sherman, Texas, spent much of his formative years in Amarillo before moving to California. Owens is widely considered one of the most influential figures in country music, particularly for his role in developing the “Bakersfield Sound,” a genre of country music that mixed twangy guitar riffs with a raw, edgy tone. His band, the Buckaroos, produced numerous hits, including “Act Naturally,” “Love’s Gonna Live Here,” and “I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail.”
While Owens is often associated with California, his Amarillo roots were pivotal in shaping his musical career. His no-nonsense attitude and working-class sensibility were deeply influenced by his early years in Texas. Owens went on to become a co-host of the long-running TV show Hee Haw, further solidifying his place in country music history.
3. Jimmie Dale Gilmore
Though often associated with Lubbock and the larger Texas music scene, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, one of the founding members of the Flatlanders, has deep ties to Amarillo. Known for his high, lonesome voice and his ability to blend country, folk, and rock, Gilmore has been a key figure in the development of Texas country and Americana music. His introspective lyrics and spiritual themes have resonated with fans across generations.
With albums like Spinning Around the Sun and Braver Newer World, Gilmore has made a significant mark on the Americana music landscape. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, and the wide-open spaces of West Texas, reflecting the stark beauty of Amarillo and the surrounding Panhandle.
4. Kevin Fowler
Texas country music star Kevin Fowler hails from Amarillo, and his music embodies the high-energy, beer-and-barbeque spirit of Texas. Known for hits like “Beer, Bait & Ammo,” “Pound Sign (#?*!),” and “Loose, Loud & Crazy,” Fowler has built a loyal fan base across the state with his blend of honky-tonk, country rock, and humorous lyrics. His upbeat sound and charismatic stage presence have made him a staple of the Texas country scene.
While Fowler spent much of his early career in Austin, his Amarillo upbringing is a major influence on his music. The West Texas landscape and culture are reflected in his songs, which celebrate small-town life, working hard, and having a good time. Fowler continues to tour and release new music, keeping the Texas country tradition alive and well.
5. T. G. Sheppard
Born in Humboldt, Tennessee, T. G. Sheppard moved to Amarillo early in his career, where he began his journey in country music. Known for his smooth, pop-country sound, Sheppard rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with a string of hits, including “Devil in the Bottle,” “I’ll Be Coming Back for More,” and “Last Cheater’s Waltz.” His music often blends traditional country with elements of pop, giving him crossover appeal and a broad fan base.
Sheppard’s Amarillo connection helped him build a foundation in the music industry, and he has maintained a successful career for decades. His blend of catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics has earned him numerous accolades, and he remains a beloved figure in the country music community.
6. Cooder Graw
Cooder Graw is one of Amarillo’s most beloved bands, known for their unique blend of Texas country and rock. Formed in the late 1990s, the band quickly gained a following with hits like “Llano Estacado,” “Shifting Gears,” and “Better Days.” Their sound combines traditional country storytelling with gritty rock elements, making them a standout act in the Texas music scene.
Cooder Graw’s energetic live shows and heartfelt lyrics have earned them a dedicated fan base across Texas and beyond. Their connection to Amarillo is central to their identity, and their music often reflects the rugged, independent spirit of West Texas.
7. Tulia
Tulia, a country music band formed in Amarillo, has gained recognition for their rich harmonies and traditional country sound. Named after the small town of Tulia, Texas, the band is known for their authentic, roots-oriented approach to country music. Songs like “Desert Wind” and “Hard Times” showcase the band’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with classic country instrumentation.
Tulia’s connection to the Texas Panhandle is evident in their music, which often pays homage to the people and landscapes of West Texas. Their traditional approach to country music has resonated with fans who appreciate the timeless appeal of the genre, and they continue to be a major presence in the Texas country music scene.
8. Marti Brom
Marti Brom is a versatile singer from Amarillo who has made a name for herself in the world of rockabilly, country, and blues. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Brom has released several critically acclaimed albums, including Not for Nothing and Wise to You! Her music draws heavily from classic American genres, and she has been praised for her ability to blend rockabilly’s high energy with the emotional depth of country and blues.
Brom’s Amarillo roots have helped shape her unique sound, and she remains a respected figure in the rockabilly and Americana music scenes. Her dedication to preserving the classic sounds of American music while adding her own modern twist has earned her a loyal following both in the U.S. and internationally.
9. Jackson Taylor & The Sinners
Jackson Taylor & The Sinners are a high-energy country rock band with deep ties to Amarillo. Known for their rebellious attitude and outlaw country sound, the band has gained a strong following with hits like “Whiskey Bent and Hellbound,” “Cocaine,” and “No Apologies.” Their gritty lyrics and raw, honest approach to country music have earned them a dedicated fan base that appreciates their no-holds-barred style.
Taylor’s Amarillo upbringing has heavily influenced his music, and his songs often reflect the hard-living, working-class culture of West Texas. The band continues to tour extensively, bringing their brand of Texas outlaw country to fans across the nation.
10. Susan Gibson
Amarillo-born singer-songwriter Susan Gibson gained fame for writing the Dixie Chicks' hit song “Wide Open Spaces,” which became a major success in the late 1990s. As a solo artist, Gibson has released several albums, including Chin Up and The Hard Stuff, which showcase her introspective songwriting and distinctive voice.
Gibson’s music is deeply rooted in the Texas singer-songwriter tradition, blending elements of folk, country, and Americana. Her ability to craft heartfelt, emotionally resonant songs has earned her critical acclaim, and she remains an influential figure in the Texas music scene.
Conclusion
Amarillo, Texas, has produced a rich variety of musical talent over the years, from country legends like Buck Owens and Terry Stafford to contemporary stars like Kevin Fowler and Cooder Graw. The city’s unique blend of West Texas culture, wide-open spaces, and deep musical roots has shaped the sound and style of its musicians, making Amarillo a significant hub for country, rock, and Americana music. These artists continue to carry the torch for Amarillo's rich musical legacy, bringing the sounds of the Texas Panhandle to audiences around the world.
