For many OU students, the word Texas can spur unpleasant phrases such as Texas football and Texas sucks. But a more endearing phrase that comes to mind when using the word Texas is Texas Country.

This type of soothing, music cannot be found in many places and can only be perfectly executed by certain artists, and the epitome of Texas Country, is one of
Texas best, Pat Green.

Green, who will play Saturday night at Riverwind Casino, became a known in the Texas music scene through self-generated albums.

We signed our fist major label deal out of New York so we could maintain an independent status, Green said in a press release. We found out that it gave us
more artistic leeway, but it also gave us less access to industry insiders.

Pat Green became a household name in Texas and Oklahoma long before he began touring the country with artists like Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban and Dave
Matthews Band. Even in the midst of his rising fame and transition into mainstream country, Green proves to have a loyal fan base.

Clare Dye, international business junior and Texas native, is one of those fans.

I was a fan way back before he got big, Dye said. Back when he was playing for unknown radio stations in Texas.

Megan Bebb, nutritional sciences sophomore, has listened to Green since she was in the seventh grade and has seen him perform before.

Pat has a commanding stage presence, Bebb said. He easily identifies and connects with his audience. Hes very charismatic and a storyteller. Seeing him live is
an incredible experience.

Green has built his career differently than other artists in this business. His personality and live shows reflect how he has balanced himself between independent and
mainstream country music.

Through that and his distinctive voice and unique lyrics it is apparent that Green holds true to his Texas roots.

Pats roots are in Texas and I think other Texas country singer/songwriters like him have a lot of pride for the great state which is relayed in their music, Bebb
said. Beyond that, its the energy, attitude, style of writing and the tone of music. Texas country music is more rock and souful compared to other country music.

Greens latest album, Cannonball, was released in August and contains a different sound from his older music. Dye said Greens latest CD is very different from his
classic songs that reflected his Texan roots.

Being a Texan, I have to explain what Texas country is, Dye said. Its so different from normal country music from Nashville. Its a completely different sound
more acoustic guitars and clever lyrics usually dealing with Texas or beer or some combination of the two.

Bebb said there simply is no comparison between Green and other country artists. She has also seen Green in concert numerous times and said she knows she is in
for an amazing show any time she goes to see him perform.

The atmosphere is perfect because everyone is having a great time [at his show], Bebb said. Hes a very real, down-to-earth guy and a talented musician and
entertainer. No matter how many times Ive seen him, he always plays the crowd favorites while mixing it up by covering classics, playing some of his favorites and
array of songs from his past CDs.

Dye said it requires more talent to play Texas country than Nashville country.

Although she said, she enjoys all types of country music, she prefers the classic sound of Greens Texas country.

He really knows how to play for an audience, especialy to college students, Dye said. You cana tell lhe really enjoys perfoorming. His energy is amazing and he
also has a very genuine voice.

Green will perform at 8 p.m. at Riverwind Casino on Saturday. For more information, go to www.riverwindcasino.com.





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