There are some exceptions, but normally speaking most Oklahomans are known for their down-to-earth, genuine, home-spun personalities. That's why it's no surprise to us that Garth Brooks has won hearts worldwide with his Oklahoma charm.
On the day of our interview, Garth was dressed in a sleeveless gray t-shirt, camouflaged pants, tennis shoes and a ball cap. I would say that is typical Oklahoma laid back style. I've been to an energy-charged Garth Brooks concert and seen him many times on television but no appearance did him justice as did an up close and personal view of this gentle man. He always looks adorable. He's a very wise businessman, but he is still very much the boy next door, the guy who helps the little old lady across the street and the man whose heart melts at the sound of a child's voice.
A friend of mine remembers working at Baker's Shoe store in Tulsa when Garth came in to purchase a pair of shoes. He was rather excited and preparing to leave town for his first attempt in Nashville. I bet my friend wishes now he would have bought the shoes for Garth or at least had him sign his name somewhere with indelible ink. Of course how many times have many of us seen or heard young people talking about making their way to the bright lights just to find out their beam was focused in the wrong direction?
Garth made that first trip to Nashville at the age of 24, but soon returned home feeling somewhat like a fish out of water. After observing numerous other wannabe country stars roaming the streets of Music Row in Nashville, he felt somewhat over-whelmed. However he knew what he wanted and knew he had the talent, but the key was how to convince Nashville. Forgetting about his dream really wasn't an option, nor was revisiting Nashville.
A year or so later he returned to Nashville and for 10 months worked at a boot store while struggling to make contacts to get his songs heard. One night while performing at a charity benefit his talents were finally recognized by an executive at Capitol Records, and he was signed to a recording contract.
If you listen to his music it would be impossible to walk away without finding at least a few songs that touch your heart and remind you of some unique situation. The number of record sales he has accrued must be staggering and he has received every honor the recording industry can present to an artist and yet he still remains a humble individual that set out over several years ago to follow his dream.
Space keeps me from revealing in detail everything this man has accomplished. He certainly makes the statement ring true, "good things come to good people." I'm of the belief that good people don't just happen. Their lives are in some way guided by individuals who care a great deal about them and to some extent instill values that are a pathway to success.
Oklahoma is certainly proud of Garth, not only for his many talents as a performer, but as a man with warmth, charm and a sincere love for mankind.
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