American singer and composer Wanda LaVonne Jackson was born on October 20, 1937. Since the 1950s, she has written, produced, and released music in the rock, country, and gospel genres.
One of the pioneers of female rock and roll, she became known as “The Queen of Rockabilly” thanks to the singles she recorded in the 1950s. In the history of country music, she is regarded as one of the first female stars.
Jackson began performing when she was young and later had her own radio show in Oklahoma City. She was later discovered by country music legend Hank Thompson, and with his help, she was able to obtain a recording contract with Decca Records in 1954.
Where did Wanda Jackson grow up?
Wanda Jackson grew up in Maud, Oklahoma. Jackson was the only child that Tom and Nellie Jackson of Maud, Oklahoma had. Her father worked as a delivery truck driver, a gas station attendant, and other occupations.
He began playing music with his brother in a small group. As a result of the lack of opportunities in Maud, the family moved to Los Angeles, California, in 1941. Jackson and her father frequently sang together at home.
When Nellie Jackson was away making sure her daughter was safe, Jackson was frequently ordered to sing. In Los Angeles, Jackson first encountered western swing music. Rose Maddox and Bob Wills were two well-known western musicians she liked to listen to.
