Introduction:
The world of country music is full of legendary singers who have captured the hearts of music lovers for decades. One such legend is Kathy Mattea, a sensational voice that has written her name in the history of country music. Born in West Virginia in 1959, Kathy’s journey into the world of music began when she was just a little girl. Her love for music eventually led her to become one of the most beloved country music stars of all time.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the incredible career of Kathy Mattea, from her early beginnings to her rise to fame. We’ll explore her most famous songs, her awards and accomplishments, and much more. So sit back, relax, and let’s dig into the sensational voice and career of country music legend Kathy Mattea.
Early Beginnings:
Kathy Mattea grew up in West Virginia, where her love for music began at an early age. She grew up listening to her parents’ collection of classic country music albums and was inspired by the likes of Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, and Patsy Cline. Kathy started singing in church choirs and school talent shows at a young age, and her talent was quickly noticed by her friends and family.
After graduating from high school, Kathy attended West Virginia University, where she studied music education. She continued to perform at local clubs and festivals, honing her craft and developing her unique sound. In 1978, Kathy moved to Nashville to pursue a career in music, and her journey as a professional country singer began.
Rise to Fame:
Kathy’s big break came in 1983 when she signed with Mercury Records. Her first hit song, “Love at the Five and Dime,” reached number 3 on the Billboard country charts and helped propel her into the national spotlight. Over the next few years, Kathy released a string of hit songs and albums, including “Goin’ Gone,” “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses,” and “Come from the Heart.”
Kathy’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with listeners, and she quickly became one of the most beloved country music stars of the 1980s and 1990s. She won numerous awards for her music, including a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1990 for “Where’ve You Been.”
Notable Songs:
Kathy Mattea’s discography is packed with hit songs that have stood the test of time. Here are some of her most famous songs:
– “Love at the Five and Dime”
– “Goin’ Gone”
– “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses”
– “Come from the Heart”
– “Where’ve You Been”
– “Battle Hymn of Love”
– “455 Rocket”
– “The Cape”
– “Walking Away a Winner”
– “Mary, Did You Know?”
Kathy’s music is known for its authenticity and soulful lyrics. Her songs often touch on themes of love, loss, and family, and her voice has the power to evoke a wide range of emotions in her listeners.
Awards and Accomplishments:
Kathy Mattea has won a variety of awards and recognitions throughout her career. Here are some of her major accomplishments:
– Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance (1990)
– CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (1990, 1991)
– ACM Top New Female Vocalist (1984)
– ACM Female Vocalist of the Year (1987, 1988)
– 17 top 10 singles on the Billboard country charts
– Inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame (2007)
Personal Life:
Kathy Mattea has been married to Jon Vezner, a songwriter and producer, since 1988. The couple has two children together, and Kathy is known for her commitment to her family and the values she holds dear. She is also strongly committed to charitable causes, including environmentalism and social justice.
FAQs:
Q: What is Kathy Mattea’s most famous song?
A: Kathy Mattea’s most famous song is “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses.” The song reached number one on the Billboard country charts in 1988 and won several awards.
Q: How many albums has Kathy Mattea released?
A: Kathy Mattea has released over 20 albums throughout her career, including studio albums, compilation albums, and live albums.
Q: Has Kathy Mattea won any awards?
A: Yes, Kathy Mattea has won numerous awards throughout her career, including a Grammy Award and multiple CMA and ACM awards for her music.
Q: What is Kathy Mattea’s signature sound?
A: Kathy Mattea’s signature sound is characterized by her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Her music often touches on themes of love, loss, and family, and her voice has the power to evoke a wide range of emotions in her listeners.
Q: What is Kathy Mattea’s most recent album?
A: Kathy Mattea’s most recent album, “Pretty Bird,” was released in 2018. The album features a collection of cover songs and new material, and has received critical acclaim.
Q: Does Kathy Mattea support any charitable causes?
A: Yes, Kathy Mattea is strongly committed to charitable causes, including environmentalism and social justice. She has also worked to raise awareness and funds for various organizations throughout her career.
Q: How can I listen to Kathy Mattea’s music?
A: Kathy Mattea’s music is available on a variety of platforms, including iTunes, Spotify, and Amazon Music. You can also find her CDs and albums at music stores and online retailers.
Conclusion:
Kathy Mattea is a true legend of country music, with a career spanning several decades and a powerful voice that continues to captivate audiences. Her soulful lyrics, heartfelt performances, and commitment to her values have made her a beloved icon in the world of music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her music for the first time, Kathy Mattea’s songs are sure to inspire and uplift you. So why not take a listen and discover the sensational voice and career of country music legend Kathy Mattea for yourself?
