Garth Brooks would become one of the best-selling solo artists of all time after making Oklahoma his home shortly after birth, serving as its cornerstone both physically and emotionally. Oklahoma became his place to learn music, his dreams of becoming an entertainer took shape there, his first failed attempts in Nashville were foiled there, but he eventually made an impactful comeback before finally making an impressionful mark in music world. This two-night event recounts this remarkable story; from early days playing college bars in Oklahoma through record-breaking tours around the globe that forever altered country music itself.
This special begins by revisiting Brooks’ moment of self-realization: at an opening night show in Tulsa where country legend Johnny Cash performed and they witnessed him perform, Brooks recognized he wanted to be part of music history himself and saw himself becoming one.
After moving to Nashville in 1987, Brooks worked as manager of a cowboy boot store while receiving payments from other songwriters to sing on their demo tapes. Subsequently he visited publishers and recording labels in Nashville but was often turned down – however in 1988 one executive who had rejected him heard Brooks play at Bluebird Cafe before offering him a contract of modest proportions.
He soon recorded his debut album in the studio and released it in April 1989, featuring such hits as “If Tomorrow Never Comes,” “The Dance,” and “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old).” It sold more than one million copies; both the Country Music Association (CMA) and ACM named him Entertainer of the Year for this achievement–an accolade only previously bestowed upon established stars.
No Fences was an instant hit upon its release in 1998 and went on to win both ACM and CMA Album of the Year honors. His success continued to expand during this period when fans would sing along at his shows – including joining in for his 1990 hit song, Friends in Low Places!
In 2000, Brooks announced his retirement from music to spend more time with his daughters Taylor Mayne Pearl, August Anna, and Allie Colleen. Scarecrow, his final album released during this time period was also launched during this timeframe as was Teammates for Kids (an organization recruiting professional athletes to donate to charities). Trisha Yearwood became his wife. Re-entering the spotlight again through intimate concerts held at Las Vegas venues between 2009-2010 was met with rave reviews; these shows continue to sell-out audiences today.