Famous People Who Got Their Start in East Texas

(Mix 93-1) As a child, and even as an adult, Texans have dreams. Huge dreams of becoming the next professional athlete, the one with a hit song everyone hears on the radio, or the starring role in a TV sitcom, drama, or cooking show drive Texans to achieve fame.

East Texans Who Became Stars

Growing up in Texas, we've been exposed to Texas stars, like Kelly Clarkson, Selena Gomez, Beyoncé, Willie Nelson, and there's proof that even East Texans can get a piece of that spotlight. East Texans like Patrick Mahomes and Matthew McConaughey have talent as big as the Lone Star State.

Seeing names like that gives us Texans pride, and we get to say, "Yeah, they're one of ours!"

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The Piney Woods’ Surprising Talent

Besides Matthew and Patrick (wink, wink - we're on a first-name basis), I was wondering how many other stars actually got their start here in East Texas, and we're all running around on their old stomping grounds. So I threw the question out to a social media page asking: Who are the East Texas celebrities that people recognize the most?

The responses were immediate and pretty solid. Honestly, some of the names surprised me; I knew a few, but didn't realize how many came from East Texas. While a few names had a minor connection, I was surprised by just how much quality talent has come out of the Piney Woods and gone on to make a big name for themselves.

READ MORE --> Another East Texas High School Will Receive Custom Jerseys From Patrick Mahomes

Athletes and Musicians Leading the Way

East Texas seems to crank out athletes and singers the most. Those games under the Friday night lights aren't just for show; they're a breeding ground for players who are destined for the NFL. Then there's something about East Texas musicians and singers, they are some of the best songwriters and performers when it comes to music.