Explore Dallas’s Premier Country Artists
Dallas thrives on a musical mosaic, hosting rock, rap, classical, electronic, and metal venues that cater to every taste. Yet, it’s the country sound that most defines the city’s cultural identity, echoing its rich heritage and vibrant present.
While newcomers may assume Dallas is a one‑genre town, the city’s country scene is anything but. From trailblazers like Bob Wills and Ray Wylie Hubbard to contemporary stars such as Jack Ingram and the Dixie Chicks, Dallas has long nurtured exceptional country talent.
Today’s honky‑tonks are teeming with fresh voices that carry forward that legacy. Below are our top picks for the current Dallas country scene.
Eleven Hundred Springs
For over two decades, Matt Hillyer’s honky‑tonk outfit has consistently delivered quality country records. With a Bakersfield‑style sound that harks back to Merle Haggard and Buck Owens, Eleven Hundred Springs has cultivated a devoted fan base that extends well beyond North Texas. Hillyer’s solo work—released in recent years—continues to showcase his passion for the genre, and he often performs those songs live by himself, adding a personal touch to every show.
The Vandoliers
Praised for pushing country’s stylistic boundaries, the Vandoliers blend roots, Tejano, and punk influences into a cohesive, innovative sound. Lead vocalist Joshua Fleming’s raspy voice cuts through the dynamic mix, while the band’s latest album, Forever, exemplifies their ability to craft music that feels both fresh and authentic.
Joshua Ray Walker
Known for his high, lonesome tenor, Joshua Ray Walker—also a guitarist with the Dallas country band Ottoman Turks—has attracted a national fanbase since his 2019 debut, Wish You Were Here. His lyrical storytelling pays homage to his late grandfather and paints vivid portraits of everyday heroes. Critical acclaim has earned him coveted spots on tours with American Aquarium and Colter Wall.
The Texas Gentlemen
Inspired by legendary studio ensembles like the Wrecking Crew and the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, The Texas Gentlemen operate as a cross‑genre collective that blends country, rock, and soul. Under the leadership of Beau Bedford at Modern Electric Recording Studios, they not only perform and record under their own name but also elevate other country artists with their exceptional musicianship. The group boasts honorary collaborations with luminaries such as Leon Bridges, Paul Cauthen, and Jonathan Tyler, creating memorable live experiences.
Kelly Dearmore is a veteran Dallas‑based music writer whose work appears in the Dallas Observer and other publications.
