don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys

Let's say you are taking a road trip and everything is gay. You are listening to Mandy Moore in the speakers, but there is a problem. There is this huge state in the way and you can't get around it. It's called Texas. You are a bit scared. You see a sign that says, Don't Mess with Texas. You remember the news about all the famous serial killers like George W. Bush coming from there and you wonder if you'll make it out. Are people allowed to listen to Mandy Moore in Texas? What should I listen to?
Are they going to hurt me? Wahhh...

Never fear. I have the remedy.

Don't mess with Texas sounds like a honky tonk, gun slinging showdown, but it is actually a litter campaign that began 20 years ago. It was made famous by the commercial with a Native American Indian standing on the side of the road with a tear running down his cheek after someone littered. How poetic and racist.

And poetry and racism describe Texas. Many eclectic, crazy, and original musicians and actors have hailed from the big state, where everything has to be a bit bigger than it's neighbor. Is Texas trying to make up for something missing...down there? You wish. So if you are driving through Texas and want some southern hospitality, just make Texas feel nice and cozy that you know some of its roots.

Listen to these people:

1. ZZ Top
These guys with the beards have been roaming around Texas for over 30 years. If you like rock n roll, then these guys give you Texas rock n roll.


2. Janis Joplin
Passion and soul, this flower child is another old school love.

3. Willie Nelson
Come on! This guy smoked a doobie on the roof of the White House! He's a million years old! You have to love him like you do Chuck Norris. Here is a video with Bob Dylan and Willie. Holler!



4. Buddy Holly
He died in a plane crash, but to our generation, may be best know for the Weezer song. But who doesn't love Peggy Sue?

Hip-Hop
5. Erykah Badu
For those who despise country music and enjoy the urban vibe, Erykah can give you your dosage. She's still chill though. Power to the people! I love her.

6. Lil Keke and other Houston favorites
I grew up listening to the speakers boom as cars passed as a child. Gotta love it - South side! south side!


Latin
7. Selena
For that latin flair, Selena knew how to shake it without being a total hoe bag.


Punk Rock
8. At the Drive-In, Really Red, and The Degenerates
At the Drive-In



Alternative Rock
9. Polyphonic Spree
These people are so weird. However, if you listen to it around Austin, no one will look at you strange.


10. Elvis Costello
He started that emo-black rimmed glasses thing. He has it down.