Tanya Tucker is an acclaimed American country music singer and songwriter renowned for her enduring career, which began with her breakout hit "Delta Dawn" at the age of 13. Maintaining her audience into adulthood, Tucker has released numerous successful albums, earned multiple Country Music Association award nominations, and charted numerous top-10 and top-40 hits, including classics like "What's Your Mama's Name?", "Blood Red and Goin' Down", and "Two Sparrows in a Hurricane". Her talent has garnered her Grammy Awards, notably for her 2019 album "While I'm Livin'" and the song "Bring My Flowers Now".
1927: Birth of Parents
Tanya Tucker's parents, Alma Juanita (née Cunningham) and Jesse Melvin "Beau" Tucker, were both born in 1927.
October 10, 1958: Birth of Tanya Tucker
Tanya Denise Tucker was born on October 10, 1958.
1969: Move to Henderson, Nevada, and Demo Recording
The Tucker family relocated to Henderson, Nevada, in 1969. That same year, Tanya recorded a demo tape that would later catch the attention of industry professionals.
May 1972: Release of "Delta Dawn"
Tanya Tucker's debut single, "Delta Dawn," was released in May 1972 and became a hit.
1972: "Delta Dawn" Success
At the age of 13, Tanya Tucker released her debut single, "Delta Dawn," which reached number six on the country charts in 1972.
1972: Film Debut in *Jeremiah Johnson*
Tanya Tucker made her feature film debut with a small role in *Jeremiah Johnson* in 1972.
1972: Success of "Love's the Answer"
Tanya Tucker's second single, "Love's the Answer," also achieved top-10 status in 1972.
1973: Breakthrough with "What's Your Mama's Name?"
Tanya Tucker achieved her first number-one hit in 1973 with the song "What's Your Mama's Name?"
1973: Number One Hits and Rising Stardom
Tanya Tucker followed up her initial success with two more number-one hits in 1973, "Blood Red and Goin' Down" and "Would You Lay with Me (In a Field of Stone)", establishing herself as a major country star.
1975: Signing with MCA Records and "Lizzie and the Rainman"
In 1975, Tanya Tucker signed with MCA Records and released "Lizzie and the Rainman," her only top-40 pop hit.
1975: Signing with MCA Records
Tanya Tucker made a significant career move in 1975 by signing with MCA Records.
1975: Chart Success with "Lizzie and the Rainman"
Tanya Tucker's "Lizzie and the Rainman" in 1975 achieved both country and pop chart success, reaching number one on the country charts and the top 40 on the pop charts.
1977: Duet with Hoyt Axton
Tanya Tucker collaborated with Hoyt Axton on the duet "You Taught Me How to Cry" for his album *Snowblind Friend* in 1977.
1978: Image Change and *TNT* Album Release
In a bold move, Tanya Tucker underwent a significant image change and ventured into rock music with her album *TNT* in 1978.
1978: Move to Los Angeles and Exploration of Nightlife
Tanya Tucker relocated to Los Angeles in 1978 in an attempt to expand her musical appeal to pop audiences and became immersed in the city's nightlife.
1978: Outlaw Country Influence and "Texas (When I Die)" Success
As Tanya Tucker's career progressed, her music, particularly her 1978 hit "Texas (When I Die)", became increasingly associated with the Outlaw country movement. This movement, popular in the late 1970s, embraced a rebellious spirit and blended country with rock influences, aligning with Tucker's evolving sound and independent nature.
1978: String of Top-10 Country Hits
Between 1975 and 1978, Tanya Tucker released several top-10 country hits under MCA Records, including "San Antonio Stroll," "Here's Some Love," and "It's a Cowboy Lovin' Night."
1979: Appearance as Celebrity Judge on "Dance Fever"
Expanding her presence beyond the world of music, Tanya Tucker appeared as a celebrity judge on the popular television show "Dance Fever" in 1979.
1979: Role in *The Rebels* Miniseries
Tanya Tucker appeared in the television miniseries *The Rebels* in 1979.
1980: Declining Sales and Collaboration with Glen Campbell
Tanya Tucker experienced a decline in sales in 1980 but had a hit with "Can I See You Tonight?" She also collaborated with Glen Campbell on several singles during this time.
1982: Breakup with Glen Campbell
Tanya Tucker's relationship with Glen Campbell ended in 1982.
March 1983: Release of "Feel Right" and Struggle for Radio Play
Tanya Tucker released "Feel Right" in March 1983, a top-10 hit from her sole album with Arista Records, *Changes*. Despite this success, she faced challenges getting her music on the radio.
1986: Signing with Capitol Records and "One Love at a Time" Success
Tanya Tucker signed with Capitol Records in 1986 and returned to the charts with the successful single "One Love at a Time."
1988: Career Revitalization and "Strong Enough to Bend"
Tanya Tucker experienced a career resurgence in 1988 with the success of her hit song "Strong Enough to Bend."
1988: Number One Hits and *Girls Like Me* Album
Tanya Tucker's career was revitalized in 1988 with three number-one country singles: "I Won't Take Less Than Your Love," "If It Don't Come Easy," and "Strong Enough to Bend." Her 1986 album *Girls Like Me* had also produced four top-10 country singles.
1988: Time at Betty Ford Center
Following an intervention by her family, Tanya Tucker entered the Betty Ford Center in 1988.
1988: Chart Success and Popularity
Tanya Tucker enjoyed a period of significant chart success and popularity between 1988 and 1989, achieving eight consecutive top-10 country hits.
1988: Interview with Nine-O-One Network Magazine
In a 1988 interview with Nine-O-One Network Magazine, Tanya Tucker expressed gratitude for the success of her song "Delta Dawn."
1988: Country Music Association Nomination
In 1988, Tanya Tucker received a nomination for "Female Vocalist of the Year" from the Country Music Association. This marked a period of significant recognition for her contributions to country music.
July 5, 1989: Birth of Presley Tanita
On July 5, 1989, Tanya Tucker welcomed her daughter, Presley Tanita, with actor Ben Reed.
1989: *Greatest Hits* Album and "My Arms Stay Open All Night"
Tanya Tucker released a *Greatest Hits* album in 1989, which included the new single "My Arms Stay Open All Night," which reached number two on the charts.
1990: CMT "Female Video Artist of the Year"
Tanya Tucker's influence in country music extended to her music videos, as she was recognized as "Female Video Artist of the Year" by CMT in 1990.
October 2, 1991: Birth of Beau "Grayson"
Tanya Tucker's son, Beau "Grayson," was born on October 2, 1991. Beau is her second child with actor Ben Reed.
1991: Country Music Association Award Winner
Tanya Tucker's talent was celebrated when she won the Country Music Association's "Female Vocalist of the Year" award in 1991, a testament to her impact on the genre. Notably, she missed the event due to the birth of her second child.
1992: Release of "Two Sparrows in a Hurricane"
Tanya Tucker released the successful single "Two Sparrows in a Hurricane" in 1992.
1993: "Greatest Hits 1990-1992" Album Release
Tanya Tucker released her "Greatest Hits 1990-1992" album in 1993, a compilation that highlighted her continued success in the country music scene, reaching number 15 on the charts and further solidifying her influence.
1994: Super Bowl XXVIII Halftime Performance
In 1994, Tanya Tucker took the stage at Super Bowl XXVIII, delivering a memorable halftime performance that showcased her widespread appeal and solidified her status as a major figure in country music.
1997: Publication of Nickel Dreams: My Life
In 1997, Tanya Tucker released her autobiography, titled "Nickel Dreams: My Life."
1997: First Engagement to Jerry Laseter
Tanya Tucker and Nashville musician Jerry Laseter got engaged in 1997.
1997: Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Induction and "Little Things" Success
The year 1997 marked a significant one for Tanya Tucker's career. Not only did she experience a return to the top 10 on the country charts with her hit "Little Things," but she was also honored with induction into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy in the genre.
June 25, 1999: Birth of Layla LaCosta
Layla LaCosta, Tanya Tucker's daughter with Jerry Laseter, was born on June 25, 1999.
2002: Tuckertime Records Founded and "Tanya" Album Released
In a move that showcased her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to artistic control, Tanya Tucker founded her own record label, Tuckertime Records, in 2002. This coincided with the release of her album "Tanya," marking a new chapter in her career.
2002: CMT's 40 Greatest Women of Country Music Recognition
Tanya Tucker's lasting impact on country music was recognized in 2002 when CMT honored her with the 20th spot on their list of the "40 Greatest Women of Country Music." This accolade underscored her influence and importance within the genre.
2002: Release of "Tanya"
Tanya Tucker released her album "Tanya" in 2002, with Jerry Laseter as co-producer.
2004: Gretchen Wilson's "Redneck Woman" Recognition
Tanya Tucker's Outlaw country status was acknowledged in Gretchen Wilson's 2004 hit song, "Redneck Woman." The song's lyrics paid homage to Tucker, further solidifying her place within this influential subgenre of country music.
2005: Release of "Live at Billy Bob's Texas"
In 2005, Tanya Tucker released the live album "Live at Billy Bob's Texas," with Jerry Laseter contributing as co-producer.
2005: Album Releases and "100 Ways to Beat the Blues" Book
Tanya Tucker had a prolific year in 2005, releasing both her album "Live at Billy Bob's Texas" and contributing to a tribute album for Bob Wills. Additionally, she shared her wisdom and experiences in her book, "100 Ways to Beat the Blues," offering readers advice from herself and fellow icons like Willie Nelson and Brenda Lee.
2005: Tuckerville Reality Show Premiere
Tanya Tucker's reality show, "Tuckerville," premiered on TLC in 2005, offering viewers an intimate look into her life and family.
2006: Death of Father
Tanya Tucker's father, Jesse Melvin "Beau" Tucker, passed away in 2006.
September 2007: Collaboration with Billy Joe Shaver
Tanya Tucker joined forces with fellow country artist Billy Joe Shaver in September 2007, lending her vocals to his song "Played the Game Too Long." The duet appeared on Shaver's album "Everybody's Brother," showcasing her versatility and willingness to collaborate.
June 2009: "My Turn" Cover Album Release
In a departure from her previous work, Tanya Tucker released her first-ever cover album, "My Turn," in June 2009. The album, which featured renditions of classic country hits, reached number 27 on the Billboard country charts, demonstrating her enduring appeal and ability to reinterpret beloved songs.
2009: Release of "My Turn"
Tanya Tucker's album "My Turn" was released in 2009, featuring Jerry Laseter's involvement as co-producer.
2012: Collaboration with Terri Clark on "Delta Dawn" Remake
Tanya Tucker joined forces with fellow country artist Terri Clark in 2012 for a special duet of her iconic debut single, "Delta Dawn." The remake was featured on Clark's album "Classic," offering a fresh take on a beloved classic and showcasing Tucker's willingness to revisit her musical roots.
2012: Death of Mother
Tanya Tucker's mother, Alma Juanita, passed away in 2012.
June 2017: Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Country Artists Recognition
Tanya Tucker's legacy in country music was solidified in June 2017 when Rolling Stone magazine included her in their prestigious list of the "100 Greatest Country Artists of All Time." This accolade underscored her enduring impact and influence on the genre.
August 8, 2017: Glen Campbell's Passing
The country music world mourned the loss of legend Glen Campbell on August 8, 2017. Campbell and Tucker shared a past romantic relationship.
2019: Launch of Cosa Salvaje Tequila
In 2019, Tanya Tucker ventured into the spirits industry with the launch of her own tequila brand, Cosa Salvaje.
2019: "While I'm Livin'" Album Release
Marking a significant return to original music, Tanya Tucker released "While I'm Livin'" in 2019. This critically acclaimed album, produced in collaboration with Shooter Jennings and Brandi Carlile, showcased her enduring artistry and resonated deeply with audiences.
2019: Grammy Awards for "Bring My Flowers Now" and *While I'm Livin'*
Tanya Tucker won two Grammy Awards in 2019: Best Country Album for *While I'm Livin'* and Best Country Song for "Bring My Flowers Now."
January 26, 2020: Grammy Award Wins
Tanya Tucker celebrated a historic night at the Grammy Awards on January 26, 2020, taking home two awards for her work on "Bring My Flowers Now" and "While I'm Livin'." These wins marked a pinnacle in her career, recognizing her enduring talent and the power of her music.
October 16, 2020: "Live from the Troubadour" Album Release
Tanya Tucker treated fans to a live album, "Live from the Troubadour," released on October 16, 2020. This recording captured the energy and intimacy of her live performances, allowing listeners to experience her music in a new way.
October 21, 2022: "The Return of Tanya Tucker: Featuring Brandi Carlile" Release
The documentary "The Return of Tanya Tucker: Featuring Brandi Carlile" premiered in select cities on October 21, 2022. This film offered an intimate look at Tucker's career resurgence and her collaboration with Brandi Carlile.
2022: New Album Completion Announcement
During her performance at the Stagecoach Festival in 2022, Tanya Tucker delighted fans with the news that she had completed work on a new album. This announcement created considerable anticipation for the next chapter in her musical journey.
2022: Sale of Brentwood Home
Tanya Tucker sold her Brentwood, Tennessee home for $2,275,000 in 2022.
April 5, 2023: "Sweet Western Sound" Album and "Kindness" Song Announcement
Generating excitement among fans, Tanya Tucker announced her studio album "Sweet Western Sound" on April 5, 2023. To offer a taste of what was to come, she also released the song "Kindness" from the album.
June 2, 2023: "Sweet Western Sound" Album Release
Continuing her musical journey, Tanya Tucker released her album "Sweet Western Sound" on June 2, 2023. Produced in collaboration with Brandi Carlile and Shooter Jennings, the album marked another milestone in her career.
October 22, 2023: Induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame
Tanya Tucker was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame on October 22, 2023.