Dwight Yoakam, born in 1956 in Kentucky, emerged in the mid-1980s with a style that fused honky-tonk, rockabilly, and Bakersfield country. After facing resistance from Nashville for his throwback sound, he found early success in Los Angeles, where his retro flair and sharp songwriting drew a loyal following. Yoakam became known for his tight jeans, twangy guitar lines, and distinct nasal vocal style. His 1986 debut Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc. helped revitalize interest in traditional country during an era of pop crossover. Over the decades, he has released a string of influential records, acted in major films, and remained a singular figure in American country music.