16. GEORGE STRAIT

Few bits of culture capture the rodeo cowboy experience like “Amarillo By Morning,” a mournful affirmation of love and obsession. With that song alone, Strait might be on this list. That the Poteet native has become, perhaps, the most successful country singer of his generation is another. But as an ambassador for Texas, few match his ability to paint the Lone Star State with a romance and inviting perspective that defies stereotypes. The smooth singer with a starched wardrobe will never be Willie, but he’s all right as George.

Most Texas musical moment: “I Can’t See Texas From Here” is a lament about losing site of the state, dripping with our trademark western swing style.