Gatlin Brothers

The Gatlin Brothers are country singers and songwriters from Odessa, Texas.

Brothers Larry (b. 1948), Steve (b. 1951), and Rudy (b. 1952) have sung together since they were seven, four, and two years old. While studying English at the University of Houston, Larry Gatlin auditioned for Elvis Presley’s legendary group, The Imperials. Although he did not get the part, the audition led to the introduction to opening act Dottie West and through her, Kris Kristofferson. Kristofferson introduced Larry to Fred Foster of Monument Records, who offered Gatlin a contract and recorded his first solo album, The Pilgrim (1973). In 1975, Steve and Rudy left their studies at Texas Tech to record backup vocals with Tammy Wynette, joining Larry in 1976 to create the official Gatlin Brothers. The trio has amassed great success for over 65 years, including a Grammy for Best Country Song for “Broken Lady” (1976), three Academy of Country Music awards, Five nominations for Country Music Association awards, and their own ABC Network special, “Larry Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers.”

The Gatlin Brothers were inducted into the West Texas Walk of Fame in 1990.