Notable Singers and Entertainers from Tyler and East Texas

 

A number of notable singers, songwriters and entertainers are from Tyler or the surrounding East Texas region.

And there are a number of well-known athletes and sports stars from East Texas as well.

We enjoy and appreciate the talents and accomplishments of these famous people and stars!

Singers and Entertainers

Lee Ann Womack

Born in Jacksonville, Texas, Lee Ann has become one of country music's leading singers.

After graduating from Jacksonville High School, her career quickly took off and has included hit songs such as "I Hope You Dance", "A Little Past Little Rock", "I'll Think of a Reason Later", and her recent release "There Is a God".

Lee Ann will be the featured performer at the 23rd annual Tyler Cattle Baron's Gala scheduled for June 12, 2010 in Tyler, Texas. The event will be held at the Park of East Texas, a 240-acre multipurpose development off Texas Highway 31 and benefits the American Cancer Society.

Miranda Lambert

This very popular singer-songwriter was born and raised in Lindale, Texas, just north of Tyler.

Don Henley

Well known for hits such as "The Boys of Summer", Don was born in Gilmer, Texas and lived for a while in Linden, Texas. He later gained widespread fame as member of The Eagles.

Johnny Mathis

Famous crooner from the 1950s and 60s ... born in Gilmer, Texas. Everyone from that era remembers "Chances Are", "It's Not for Me to Say", "The Twelth of Never", and his renditon of "O Holy Night". Mathis has recorded over 130 albums and sold more than 180 million records worldwide.

Neal McCoy

This well known and popular country music singer was born in Jacksonville, Texas. Neal has released ten studio albums on various labels, and has released 34 singles to country radio. He has earned platinum albums and a gold album and has had a number of Top Ten hits.

Johnny Horton

Raised in nearby Rusk, Texas, and the singer of hits such as "North to Alaska", "The Battle of New Orleans", and "Sink the Bismarck".

He attended Lon Morris College in Jacksonville.

Sandy Duncan

A popular actress born in Henderson, Texas, Sandy grew up in Tyler.

She attended Robert E. Lee High School and Tyler Junior College.