Musicians and Bands Who Put Texas on the Music Map

Discover the rhythmic heartbeat of Texas through the stories of its musical pioneers and modern trailblazers. Who are the voices behind the soul-stirring melodies and electrifying rhythms that have resonated from this city? Swipe to find 15 iconic musicians and bands who have shaped the musical landscape of Texas.

Demi Lovato

Born in New Mexico and raised in Dallas, Texas, Demi Lovato started her entertainment career on the local children’s show Barney & Friends. Her big break came in 2008 with Disney’s Camp Rock. Since then, she has become a successful pop star, releasing seven full-length albums.

Vanilla Ice

In the ’90s, rapper Robert Van Winkle, known as Vanilla Ice, was born in Dallas but grew up moving between Carrollton and Miami. He began his rap journey at a nightclub in Dallas, hitting open mics before blowing up with his mega-hit “Ice Ice Baby” in 1990.

Yella Beezy

Yella Beezy, born Deandre Conway in Texas, is a prominent rapper known for his breakout hit “That’s On Me” in 2017. Mixing gritty street stories with melodic hooks, he’s collaborated with artists like Lil Baby and Gucci Mane, staying true to his Texas roots while making waves in southern rap.

The Chicks

Formerly known as the Dixie Chicks, this country music band originated in Dallas, Texas. Formed in 1989, the group consisted of sisters Martie Erwin Maguire and Emily Erwin Robison, along with lead vocalist Laura Lynch. They gained early success in the 1990s with their blend of bluegrass, country, and pop influences.

Maren Morris

Formerly known as the Dixie Chicks, this country music band originated in Dallas, Texas. Formed in 1989, the group consisted of sisters Martie Erwin Maguire and Emily Erwin Robison, along with lead vocalist Laura Lynch. They gained early success in the 1990s with their blend of bluegrass, country, and pop influences.

Toadies

Emerging from Fort Worth, the Toadies made their mark in the 1990s with gritty alternative rock and grunge vibes. Their breakout hit “Possum Kingdom” exemplifies their raw energy and honest lyrics, solidifying their place in the alternative rock scene. Known for their devoted fan base and dynamic stage presence, the Toadies continue to influence with their Texan-infused rock sound.

Norah Jones

Singer and songwriter Norah Jones is known for her smooth, soulful voice and her blend of jazz, pop, and blues influences. She grew up in Texas after her parents’ separation in 1986 and finally moved to NYC in 1999. You might recognize her from hits like “Don’t Know Why” and “Come Away with Me,” which won her multiple Grammy Awards. Her music is perfect for chilling out or setting a relaxed vibe.

Selena Gomez

Born in Grand Prairie, Texas, Selena started out in Barney and Friends and soon transitioned into music with her band Selena Gomez & the Scene. Hits like “Come & Get It” and “Good for You” solidified her place in the pop world. Gomez is also known for her advocacy on mental health issues, making her a role model for many.

Post Malone

Though Post Malone (Austin Richard Post) was born Austin Richard Post in NYC, he grew up in North Texas and rose to fame by blending hip-hop, rock, and pop influences into his unique style. Known for hits like “Congratulations,” “Rockstar,” and “Sunflower,” he’s become a chart-topping sensation. His music explores themes of fame, relationships, and self-reflection, making him a standout in today’s music scene.

Power Trip

Hailing from Dallas, Power Trip delivers intense thrash metal and is known for its aggressive sound and electrifying live performances. Albums like “Nightmare Logic” showcase their classic thrash influences mixed with modern ferocity, addressing social and political issues with their music.

Kelly Clarkson

Born on April 24, 1982, in Texas, Clarkson gained recognition as the winner of the first season of American Idol in 2002. After winning American Idol, Clarkson dropped her debut single, “A Moment Like This,” which quickly climbed the Billboard Hot 100 chart and set a record for the highest jump to number one in the chart’s history at that time. Her debut album, “Thankful,” followed in 2003 and was a commercial success.

Kirk Franklin

Born in 1970 in Fort Worth, Texas, Franklin revolutionized gospel music by incorporating contemporary sounds and hip-hop elements into his compositions. His albums, such as “The Nu Nation Project” and “Hero,” have topped gospel and mainstream charts alike.

Edie Brickell

Edie gained fame as the lead singer of Edie Brickell & New Bohemians with their hit album “Shooting Rubberbands at the Stars” in 1988. Born in Oak Cliff, Texas, she is known for her soulful voice and introspective lyrics and has also pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums like “Picture Perfect Morning” and “Volcano.” Beyond music, she’s noted for her marriage to Paul Simon and continues to be revered for her contributions to alternative rock and folk music.

Tevin Campbell

Tevin (born in Texas) rose to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a formidable R&B artist. His smooth vocals and soulful style captivated audiences worldwide, earning him acclaim and numerous accolades. Campbell’s impact on the music industry extended beyond his chart-topping hits; he became a symbol of innovation in contemporary R&B, blending traditional elements with modern sounds.

Robert Johnson

It is undeniable that Robert Johnson, the legendary blues guitarist and singer, has had a profound impact on Texas’s music scene despite not being born here. Johnson’s rise from an unknown Delta blues musician to a recording icon began in late 1936 in San Antonio. By 1937, Johnson was in Dallas, where he recorded his final tracks, including “Me and the Devil Blues” and “Love in Vain.” Today, the First Presbyterian Church of D