Wanda Jackson American singer, songwriter, pianist and guitarist Date of Birth: 20.10.1937 Country: USA

1. Wanda Jackson: The Queen of Rockabilly
2. Early Life and Influences
3. Capitol Records and Rockabilly Success
4. Elvis Presley and Rock and Roll Lessons
5. Country Music Success
6. Gospel and International Success
7. Later Career and Legacy

Wanda Jackson: The Queen of Rockabilly

American singer-songwriter, pianist, and guitarist Wanda Lavonne Jackson enjoyed immense success in the mid-1950s and 1960s, establishing herself as one of the first popular rockabilly performers and a pioneer of rock and roll. Known as "The First Lady of Rockabilly" and "The Queen of Rockabilly," Jackson led a remarkable career that extended far beyond her association with Elvis Presley.

Early Life and Influences

Born in Maud, Oklahoma, Jackson and her family moved to Oklahoma City where her father, a musician, instilled in her a love of music. In 1948, at the age of 11, she returned to Oklahoma and began performing on the radio. Her exceptional talent caught the attention of Hank Thompson, who invited her to join his band, the Brazos Valley Boys.

Capitol Records and Rockabilly Success

In 1954, Jackson signed with Capitol Records, despite producer Ken Nelson's initial resistance. Her breakthrough came with the single "You Can't Have My Love," a duet with Billy Gray, which reached number eight on the national charts. Jackson quickly became a touring sensation, often crossing paths with Elvis Presley, who encouraged her rockabilly style.

Elvis Presley and Rock and Roll Lessons

Jackson's friendship and brief romance with Elvis Presley had a profound impact on her musical journey. Presley imparted valuable lessons about rock and roll, and in 1960, Jackson released her iconic single, "Let's Have a Party." With her band, the Party Timers, she toured extensively, gaining recognition with future country music stars like Big Al Downing and Roy Clark.

Country Music Success

Jackson's country music career flourished with hits like "Right or Wrong" and "In the Middle of a Heartache." Capitol Records re-issued her early rockabilly recordings, resulting in an album titled "Two Sides of Wanda," which earned her a Grammy nomination in 1963.

Gospel and International Success

As rockabilly's popularity waned, Jackson transitioned to traditional country music, maintaining her chart dominance for the next decade. She explored different genres, releasing hits in German, Dutch, and Japanese, and embracing gospel music. Inspired by her children, she became more religious, but faced limited interest from gospel labels.

Later Career and Legacy

In the 1980s, Jackson toured Europe, performing rock and roll and rockabilly classics. She remained a revered figure in the industry, continuing to record and perform internationally. Despite her advanced age, Jackson's legacy as a pioneering musician and the "Queen of Rockabilly" continues to inspire countless fans.