50 Facts About Lee Greenwood

Early Life and Beginnings

Lee Greenwood's journey in music began early, shaped by his upbringing and initial experiences.

1. Birth and Early Life: Born Melvin Lee Greenwood on October 27, 1942, in South Gate, California, he grew up in Sacramento after his parents separated, living on his maternal grandparents' farm.

2. Music Beginnings: At seven, Greenwood started singing in church, laying the foundation for his future music career.

3. Universal Draft: Despite the Vietnam War draft, Greenwood did not serve in the military. He received a 3A deferment for family hardship, having children at 17.

4. First Marriage: In 1960, Greenwood eloped to Reno, Nevada, with his first wife, Edna Greenwood.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Greenwood's early career saw him forming bands and working in various roles before his big break.

5. First Band: In 1962, Greenwood founded his first band, The Apollos, later renamed Lee Greenwood Affair. They played pop music, mainly in Las Vegas casinos.

6. Career Milestones: Joining the Chester Smith Band in 1969, Greenwood had his first TV appearance. He also worked with Del Reeves and recorded with the Paramount label.

7. Las Vegas Years: After his band broke up in the 1970s, Greenwood moved back to Las Vegas, working as a blackjack dealer by day and singing at night.

8. Discovery in Reno: In 1979, Larry McFaden, Mel Tillis's bandleader, discovered Greenwood in Reno, leading to demo tapes that got him signed by MCA Nashville in 1981.

Rise to Fame

Greenwood's rise to fame was marked by hit singles and significant career milestones.

9. First Single: "It Turns Me Inside Out," written by Jan Crutchfield, was Greenwood's first single, reaching the top 20 of the country chart in 1981.

10. Breakthrough Song: "Ring on Her Finger, Time on Her Hands" landed Greenwood in the country top 10, heavily marketed in South Florida.

11. Patriotic Anthem: Greenwood wrote and recorded "God Bless the U.S.A." in the early 1980s, which gained renewed popularity during Operation: Desert Storm in 1991 and after the September 11 attacks in 2001.

12. Chart Success: Greenwood has charted 33 singles on the Hot Country Songs, with seven reaching number one, selling over 25 million copies worldwide.

Awards and Recognition

Greenwood's contributions to music have been widely recognized with various awards and honors.

13. Grammy Award: Greenwood won a Grammy for his contributions to country music, celebrated within the industry.

14. Touring Career: Performing across the U.S., Greenwood's shows are known for their emotional impact and patriotic fervor.

15. Renewed Popularity: "God Bless the U.S.A." re-entered the top 20 of the country charts in late 2001, following the September 11 attacks.

16. Public Performances: Greenwood has performed at numerous public events, including the Make America Great Welcome Celebration before Donald Trump's inauguration.

17. Awards and Recognition: On May 19, 2018, Greenwood was awarded the MMP Music Award for his lifelong contribution to the music industry and inducted into the MMP Hall of Fame.

Personal Ventures and Community Engagement

Greenwood has also been involved in various personal ventures and community activities.

18. Theater Venture: In 1995, Greenwood built a theater in Sevierville, Tennessee, which operated for five seasons before closing to allow him to continue touring.

19. Community Engagement: Greenwood has participated in various community events, including a concert in Hampton Roads following the attack on the USS Cole in 2000.

20. Emotional Performances: His performances often carry emotional weight, especially during significant national tragedies like the USS Cole attack and the September 11 attacks.

Patriotic Sentiment and Legacy

Greenwood's music, especially "God Bless the U.S.A.," has become a symbol of patriotism and unity.

21. Patriotic Sentiment: "God Bless the U.S.A." reflects Greenwood's love for America and the sacrifices made by those who defend it.

22. Cross-Cultural Appeal: While quintessentially American, the song has been appreciated internationally for its message of patriotism and unity.

23. Historical Significance: Used during Operation: Desert Storm and after the September 11 attacks, the song underscores its significance as a national anthem.

24. Campaign Song: "God Bless the U.S.A." was used by Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential election and subsequent campaigns.

25. Surprise Appearance: On July 15, 2024, Greenwood made a surprise appearance at the RNC Convention, performing "God Bless the U.S.A." as Donald Trump entered the arena.

Personal Connections and Community Impact

Greenwood's personal connections and community involvement have added depth to his performances.

26. Family Influence: Greenwood's father, a Navy World War II veteran, influenced his patriotic views and music.

27. Backstage Interactions: Greenwood often welcomes family members of sailors backstage, particularly during emotional events like the USS Cole attack.

28. Emotional Impact on Audience: Performances like the USS Cole vigil evoke strong emotions, with audiences reacting with tears and hugs.

29. Community Unity: Events like the Town Point Park concert following the USS Cole attack bring communities together, showcasing music's power to unite.

30. Personal Reflections: Greenwood believes in remembering significant historical events like the USS Cole attack, viewing them as reminders of America's resilience.

Touring and Performances

Greenwood's extensive touring career has taken him to various locations, including military bases.

31. Touring with Restless Heart: In 2006, Greenwood's Patriotic World Tour included Restless Heart, comedian Dick Hardwick, and New England Patriots cheerleaders.

32. Visit to Wounded Troops: During the tour, Greenwood visited wounded troops at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, spending time with patients and staff.

33. Patriotic World Tour Stops: The tour's final stop was Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, on April 17, 2006, with a C-17 Globemaster III and a KC-10 Extender flying the tour.

34. Concerts and Performances: Greenwood has performed at thousands of shows, each unique in its ability to connect with diverse audiences.

Inspirational Songs and Tributes

Greenwood's music includes other inspirational songs and tributes to significant events and people.

35. Inspirational Songs: Besides "God Bless the U.S.A.," Greenwood recorded "Wind Beneath My Wings" before it was made famous by Bette Midler.

36. Tribute to the Fallen: During the USS Cole vigil, Greenwood sang "Wind Beneath My Wings" as a tribute to those lost and those who saved others.

37. Emotional Crowd Reaction: The crowd's reaction during the USS Cole vigil was tremendously emotional, with tears flowing as Greenwood sang "God Bless the U.S.A."

38. Historical Context: The USS Cole attack in 2000, followed closely by the September 11 attacks, remains a vivid memory for Greenwood and his audience.

39. Community Healing: The concert following the USS Cole attack helped the community heal, providing an emotional outlet and bringing people together.

40. Personal Connection: Greenwood's connection to the Navy through his father added deeper meaning to his performance at the USS Cole vigil.

Rallying Cry and Positive Attitude

Greenwood's performances often serve as rallying cries, encouraging positive attitudes and resilience.

41. Rallying Cry: During the USS Cole vigil, Greenwood's performance served as a rallying cry for the community, encouraging resilience.

42. Positive Attitude: Greenwood aimed to uplift the audience, providing emotional support through his performance.

43. Long-Term Impact: The USS Cole vigil and subsequent performances have had a lasting impact on the community, remaining vivid memories for many.

Enduring Legacy

Greenwood's legacy extends beyond his music, symbolizing patriotism and unity.

44. Patriotic Anthem Legacy: "God Bless the U.S.A." has become a legacy in American music, symbolizing patriotism and unity.

45. Cross-Generational Appeal: The song resonates with both young and old, continuing to inspire new audiences.

46. Musical Evolution: Greenwood has evolved as a musician, experimenting with different genres while maintaining his core message of patriotism.

47. Industry Recognition: Greenwood's contributions to country music have been recognized by the industry, including his induction into the MMP Hall of Fame.

48. Theater Legacy: The Lee Greenwood Theater in Sevierville, Tennessee, operated for five seasons, reflecting Greenwood's entrepreneurial spirit.

49. Community Involvement: Greenwood's involvement in community events extends beyond music, participating in charitable activities and supporting local causes.

50. Enduring Legacy: Greenwood's legacy as an icon of patriotism continues to inspire generations, showcasing the power of music to unite and uplift.

Lee Greenwood's Enduring Legacy

Lee Greenwood's career, spanning over six decades, showcases his immense talent and dedication to country music. From his early days singing in church to becoming a national icon, Greenwood's journey is nothing short of remarkable. His patriotic anthem, "God Bless the U.S.A.", has united Americans during pivotal moments, making it a timeless classic. Greenwood's commitment to his craft and community shines through his performances and charitable activities. His influence extends beyond music, touching the hearts of many with his heartfelt lyrics and emotional performances. Whether performing at public events or supporting local causes, Greenwood's impact is undeniable. His legacy as a symbol of patriotism and unity will continue to inspire future generations. Lee Greenwood's story is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and celebrate the spirit of America.