Last week in my column, I wrote about some of the most prominent country singers to come out of the Natural State — legends like Johnny Cash, Conway Twitty, and Glen Campbell. It was a fun trip through music history, but as a sharp-eyed (and sharp-eared) lady at my church kindly pointed out afterward, I left off some important names. She was absolutely right.
So, please consider this week’s column a continuation — and a correction — because Arkansas’s influence on country music runs far deeper than just a handful of household names. From silky-voiced crooners to chart-topping hitmakers, Arkansas has produced a remarkable lineup of artists who deserve their due.
You can’t talk about Arkansas country music without talking about Charlie Rich. Born in Colt (St. Francis County). Nicknamed “The Silver Fox,” Rich had a smooth, sophisticated sound that set him apart in Nashville. Songs like “Behind Closed Doors” and “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” made him a superstar in the 1970s, earning him a Grammy and multiple CMA awards. On a side note, Rich had a fishing cabin on Lake Norrell near Benton (Saline County), which happens to be where my wife and I live. The old cabin was recently renovated, with a side building being refurbished with a mural depicting the country music star.
Another Arkansas native with deep country roots is Tracy Lawrence. Born in Atlanta, Texas, but raised in Foreman (Little River County) became one of the biggest stars of 1990s country music. With hits like “Sticks and Stones,” Time Marches On,” and “Can’t Break It to My Heart,” Lawrence has been a mainstay on country radio for decades. Before the eight number one hits and millions of records sold, there were gigs in small towns in southwest Arkansas and big dreams — and it’s always special to know our state was part of that journey from the very beginning.
Joe Nichols is another name that deserves recognition. Born in Rogers (Benton County), Nichols proudly claims Arkansas as home. With his traditional country sound and rich baritone voice, Nichols has scored several hits like “Brokenheartsville,” “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off,” and “Gimmie That Girl.” In an era when country music was often drifting toward pop, Nichols helped keep one foot firmly planted in classic country tradition, something Arkansas fans have always appreciated.
Then there’s one of my all-time favorite female singer/songwriters-- K.T. Oslin. Kay Toinette Oslin was born in Crossett (Ashley County) but raised in Memphis. Oslin broke barriers in country music, proving that success didn’t have an age limit. She didn’t score her first major hit until her mid-40s, but when she did, she came out hot. Songs like “80’s Ladies” and “Do Ya?” spoke directly to adult women — a demographic that Nashville often overlooked. Oslin’s success paved the way for more mature voices and stories in country music, and her Arkansas roots make her achievements even sweeter.
Collin Raye, from DeQueen (Sevier County), is another Arkansas favorite. With a powerful, emotional singing style, Raye delivered heartfelt hits like “Love, Me,” “In This Life,” and “That’s My Story.” His songs often focused on family, faith, and everyday struggles — themes that resonate strongly with Arkansas audiences. Raye’s career may not always have been flashy, but it was honest, and that authenticity helped him build a lasting connection with fans.
And finally, there’s Martin Delray from Texarkana (Miller County). Born Michael Martin, he was encouraged by his record label, Atlantic Records, to adopt the stage name Martin Delray to avoid confusion with established recording artist Michael Martin Murphey. Delray showed real promise as a songwriter and performer, blending traditional country sounds with thoughtful storytelling. He scored two top-twenty hits in the 1990s: “Get Rhythm” and “Lillie’s White Lies.” “Get Rhythm” was a remake of a Johnny Cash song, and Cash, a labelmate of Delray’s, appeared in the music video. The video was placed in heavy rotation by CMT and TNN. There’s also a personal connection for me — Martin’s uncle, Stan, was my childhood neighbor, and through that relationship, I had the chance to meet Martin several times.
The Natural State has never been short on musical talent. From small towns and church pews to national stages, these artists carried a piece of home with them wherever they went. And as I was reminded last week, sometimes it takes more than 700 words to tell the whole story.
Comments
Post a Comment