The culture of music in Texas is truly unlike any place in the world.

Artists of multiple genres have had a global impact with their music and “Local Texas Music” is not a term that should be taken lightly. This playlist should shed some light on just what I mean when I say that.

So, in no specific order, let’s dig into my playlist “Your Guide to Texas Music” by yours truly, Brandon Alan.

1. Lyle Lovett, “Don’t Touch My Hat”

A classic Texas musician that combines elements of both country, folk and swing. “Don’t Touch My Hat” is a classic song written by the cowboy hat wearin’ Lovett.

2. Stevie Ray Vaughan, “Texas Flood”

It’s hard to imagine anyone who did the blues better than SRV. There was a certain snarl and bite to his records that was unmistakable the second they popped on the radio. “Texas Flood” will always be one of my favorite songs while “Life by the Drop” is another amazing and rare acoustic of his. A barn burner of a guitarist, SRV is easily one of the most influential players of all time.

3. Bruce Robison, “Wrapped”

Sometimes as an artist, selling songs to other artists can be a huge career risk. In this case though, we could look at two of these great songs cut by George Strait (“Wrapped”) and also the Dixie Chicks (“Traveling Soldier”) which helped bring major spotlight to Bruce Robison.

4. Los Lonely Boys, “How Far is Heaven”

Originally written as a prayer, “How Far is Heaven” became a major hit for this self-described “Texican Rock n’ Roll” band.

5. Spoon, “Don’t You Evah”

Didn’t know you could find top drawer punk rock in Texas? “Don’t You Evah” think that… (After all, it’s the “Way We Get By.”)

6. ZZ Top, “Sharp Dressed Man”

One of the biggest bands in all of the classic rock era and easily could boast the longest beards. “Sharp Dressed Man” along with “La Grange” are two great starting points to see why they reached global fame!

7. Asleep at the Wheel, “Get Your Kicks on Route 66”

Counting the number of band members in and out of this band would require five different people’s fingers and toes, but that doesn’t negate the fact they are one of the ultimate examples of historical Texas Music. If you ever liked Bob Wills, known as an originator of the Western swing genre, then Asleep at the Wheel will not disappoint you! Try it out while you’re driving with “Route 66” or dig a little deeper into history with “Bob Wills is Still the King.”

8. George Strait, “Run”

How many No. 1s does George Strait have?! Ok, well, I guess if I had to choose one today it would be “Run” because it’s relaxing to listen to.  I get a certain peace of mind when I hear it. Musically and lyrically wonderful.  

9. Waylon Jennings, “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean”

All of this quarantine is definitely making me “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean!” Jennings was a west Texan with some attitude who also played a major role in sculpting the genre of country music for years to come

10. Willie Nelson, “On the Road Again”

Once this all ends, I’m looking forward to getting “On the Road Again!”

11. Johnny Winter, “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo”

One of the baddest of bad boys in the blues-rock genre. If Stevie Ray Vaughan excited you, Johnny Winter certainly will too. “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” along with “Still Alive and Well” are great starting points.

12. Don Henley, “One of These Nights”

Don Henley of the Eagles still resides in the Dallas area. This is one of my very favorite Eagles’ songs!

13. Janis Joplin, “Piece of My Heart”

My wife would be mad at me if Janis didn’t make this list! Rightfully so, she’s on here! “Piece of My Heart” and—-of course—-“Bobby McGee.”

14. Eric Johnson, “Cliffs of Dover”

Know for his instrumental guitar work, Johnson’s considered one of the very best guitarists in the world. “Cliffs of Dover” will give you a pretty darn good idea why!

Cover photo PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay