There is no doubt that Mississippi has greatly influenced the nation and the world as a collective. From athletes to talk show hosts, Mississippi has left its footprint in nearly every sector of the world. One of the ways the Magnolia State has been most influential is in the realm of music. From country, to rock and roll, to classical and every genre in between, Mississippians have solidified themselves as masters of music.
Elvis Presley
The Tupelo, Mississippi born singer is known worldwide as the “King of Rock and Roll”, Elvis has a catalog of songs that have transcended the test of time. His music is the epitome of “timeless and classic.” Some of his most famous songs include:
- Can’t Help Falling in Love
- A Little Less Conversation
- If I Can Dream
Faith Hill
Mississippi’s darling, country singer, and wife to the world famous country singer, Tim McGraw, has written and sang songs as a solo artist and alongside her husband. Faith Hill was born in Ridgeland, Mississippi, and after graduating from Hinds Community College and moving to Nashville soon after, she was overheard singing at her job. From there, her career as a singer began. Some Faith Hill songs to add to your playlist are:
- It Matters to Me
- This Kiss
- Cowboy Lullaby
Leontyne Price
One of the world’s greatest spinto sopranos, Leontyne Price sings music that moves you deeply. Singing opera is no easy feat, yet Price has done so flawlessly. Born in Laurel, Mississippi, Price gained fame by leaving an impactful musical footprint at the Metropolitan Opera. From there, she gained worldwide acclaim. Some of her most memorable works are:
- A City Called Heaven
- Tu vois le feu du soir No. 1(which she sang with David Garvey)
- Vissi d’arte
Bruce Levingston
Bruce Levingston was born and raised in the Mississippi Delta. He is a contemporary and classical concert pianist. Mr. Levingston has received many accolades in his career as a musician and even received praise from former Mississippi governor, Phil Bryant, who declared April 9, 2018 as “Bruce Levingston Day.” Here are a few of his pieces to add to your playlist:
- Songs Without Words: No. 5, Elegy
- Prelude, Fugue and Allegro in E-Flat major, BWV
- Crucifixion
Leann Rimes
Leann Rimes is a singer and songwriter from Jackson, Mississippi. Rimes is a “Jane of all trades” who has musical success in an array of genres including contemporary Christian, pop, and country. Some of her most famous pieces are:
- I Fall to Pieces
- How Do I Live
- I Need You
The Beauty of Music
Music is a fun way to get your day started, give you the push you need throughout your day, and to finish your day. It is an element that is not only entertaining, but many would say they couldn’t possibly function without. Listening to music helps us learn more about others and gives us insight on how to relate to a person. Mississippi artists have undoubtedly helped the world, one musical note— one impeccably sung lyric at a time. What is your favorite song by a Mississippian? Let us know in the comment section of Our Mississippi Home’s Facebook page.
