Humble Beginnings
Gene Watson was born in Palestine, Texas in 1943. He began his music career in the 1960’s performing at local clubs at night while working his day job in an auto body shop. In 1974, he signed with Capitol Records. That’s when the label picked up his “Love in the Hot Afternoon” and released it nationally.
Decades of Success
In his almost 50 years in the business, Gene Watson has been a successful pinnacle of country music. He is most famous for his hits “Love in the Hot Afternoon,” as well as his signature song “Farewell Party.” In his career, he has garnered five number ones, 23 top tens, and over 76 charted singles.
Watson’s mighty vocal prowess is a true gem in country music. His artistic sense is an inspiration in country music’s grand tradition, and he has the ability to draw all emotions from his selected material with ease. Watson has been true to his roots, and he is a standard bearer for what it means to be traditional in country music.
His Legacy
He has won major awards and nominations throughout his career. Watson was inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in 2002 and was also inducted into the inaugural class of the Houston Music Hall of Fame in August 2013. He also received the “Entertainer of the Year” award in 2018 – an honor he shared with Jeannie Seely. He still actively tours and performs around the US.
One of Watson’s signature songs would always be “Farewell Party.” It’s a very poignant song, one that is very straightforward. It deals with the idea of the singer’s death and his loved one’s reactions. “Farewell Party” also has some bittersweet parting words to a lover being left in this life. It is enveloped by Watson’s calm voice and traditional country backtracks that would surely leave you pensive yet at ease.
Listen to his signature song “Farewell Party” below!
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birthday, Country, Country Classics, farewell party, Gene Watson