(born 1962), U.S. country music singer, born in Tulsa, Okla.; known for smooth, popular country music and showy performances; trademark beaver-felt Stetson hat; helped country music cross over into mainstream; majored in advertising and marketing at Oklahoma State University; won 1992 Academy of Country Music's entertainer of the year and top male vocalist awards; million-selling albums include Garth Brooks, No Fences, Ropin' the Wind, Beyond the Season, and The Chase.