Larry Gatlin
- Inducted into Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019
- Advocate for substance abuse awareness
Larry Gatlin Speaker Biography
Grammy-winning country singer Larry Gatlin was born in Seminole, Texas, the son of a driller in the oil field. The oldest of the three Gatlin brothers, by age six, he was already accompanying younger brothers Steve and Rudy in singing at family and church events.
After high school, Larry went to the University of Houston on a football scholarship and majored in English. While there, he developed “a love affair with the English Language” that later served him well in his songwriting.
On the strength of his songwriting talents, Larry Gatlin became known throughout the Nashville music industry. While Steve and Rudy were finishing college, Larry was already touring the small club and listening room circuit as a solo act, looking forward to the time when he could afford to expand his live show to include his brothers.
From 1976 to 1992, the brothers toured extensively throughout the United States, Canada and overseas. They racked up hit after hit and banked some of the most prestigious awards in the industry. Larry penned every Gatlin Brothers hit recorded. He is honored to have his songs recorded by Elvis Presley, Glen Campbell, Barbra Streisand, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Barry Gibb, Ray Price, Tom Jones, Roy Orbison, Johnny Mathis, Dottie West and many more. December of 1992 marked a farewell to concert touring for the Gatlin Brothers as they completed their ADIOS TOUR with a CD of the same name. Then came a major turning point in his career. Larry took the lead role on Broadway in the Tony Award-winning musical “The Will Rogers Follies.” The musical then toured throughout the nation to rave reviews.
Throughout the next decade Larry would go on to write an autobiography, All The Gold In California, record a solo album, In My Life, and occasionally tour solo.
In the early 2000’s the brothers reunited for selective road dates and in 2008, recorded their first album in nearly two decades, Pilgrimage. In 2015, the brothers celebrated 60 years of making music together and released a new album, The Gospel According to Gatlin.
During 2017, Larry brought his 30-year labor of love musical to life in Dallas. He wrote and starred in “Quanah,” the story of Quanah Parker, the last Comanche Indian chief.
In October 2019, he was inducted into the prestigious Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Larry resides in the Nashville area with the love of his life, Janis, to whom he’s been married for more than 40 years. They are the proud parents of two children, Josh and Kristin. He is also a devoted grandfather, lovingly known as “Papa.”
To book addiction speaker and music legend Larry Gatlin call Executive Speakers Bureau at 901-754-9404.
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Backstage with Larry Gatlin: An Experience
Have you ever imagined sitting with your favorite entertainer, backstage, being regaled with personal stories from their life that others have never heard? Enjoy an intimate evening with Grammy-winning, Nashville Songwriters’ Hall of Fame inductee, Larry Gatlin.
Larry is one of the most prolific writers in country music, a master storyteller and maker of music history. He is honored to have his songs recorded by Elvis Presley, Glen Campbell, Barbra Streisand, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Barry Gibb, Ray Price, Tom Jones, Roy Orbison, Johnny Mathis, Dottie West and many more. Larry will tell stories, sing some of his favorite songs and give the audience the opportunity to ask questions. Each evening is unique and fun.
Larry Motivates and Inspires:
Larry Gatlin talks about his meteoric rise in the music industry. The colorful storyteller entertains his audiences with humorous anecdotes about his encounters with countless celebrity friends and shares the insight he gained from his personal triumph over addiction. The laughter, coupled with a few songs along the way, leave the audience with a true picture of the legendary Larry Gatlin. He will definitely be the bright spot of any general session or meeting.
Customized Presentation:
Larry Gatlin’s spontaneous abilities to spin a tale in the moment – planned or unplanned – make this an unforgettable experience! He will develop a story around the client’s product or service and deliver it in the charismatic “Larry Gatlin” style…..with a little strumming and singing – and he’s a huge hit!
Overcoming Adversity (for recovery audiences):
Larry talks of his journey overcoming addictions. Appropriate for groups focusing on recovery.
Reviews
Larry is a true gentleman, an accomplished musician and entertainer. Our members commented it was a special treat to have Larry present/perform at our conference. His support team is also amazing to work with. An all around great experience.
Larry was great!
