2. Jimi Hendrix
Before becoming a guitar legend, Jimi Hendrix enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1961 as part of a deal to avoid jail time for a car theft charge. He trained as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division. Hendrix’s military career was short-lived; he was discharged a year later due to an injury. However, during his service, he met bassist Billy Cox, with whom he later formed the Band of Gypsys, a pivotal step in his musical journey.
3. Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash, the Man in Black, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1954. Stationed in Landsberg, Germany, Cash worked as a Morse Code operator, intercepting Soviet transmissions. It was during his military service that he acquired his first guitar and formed his first band, The Landsberg Barbarians. Cash’s time in the military deeply influenced his music, as seen in songs like “Folsom Prison Blues” and “Man in Black.”
4. Willie Nelson
Country music icon Willie Nelson enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950. However, his time in the military was cut short due to back problems, leading to a medical discharge after just nine months of service. Despite this brief stint, Nelson’s experiences and the discipline instilled during his service influenced his prolific songwriting and performing career.
5. John Coltrane
Jazz saxophonist John Coltrane was drafted into the U.S. Navy in 1945. During his service, Coltrane played in the Navy band, the Melody Masters, stationed in Hawaii. His time in the military provided him with the opportunity to hone his skills and deepen his understanding of music, setting the stage for his groundbreaking contributions to jazz.
6. Tony Bennett
Tony Bennett, known for his smooth voice and timeless performances, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Drafted in 1944, he fought on the front lines in the European Theater. After the war, Bennett used the GI Bill to study music, eventually launching a successful career with hits like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.”
7. B.B. King
B.B. King, the legendary blues guitarist, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. His service was short-lived as he was discharged due to his proficiency in tractor driving, which was deemed more critical for the war effort. King’s brief military experience did not deter his passion for music, and he went on to influence countless musicians with his unique sound.
8. Shaggy
Orville Richard Burrell, better known as Shaggy, served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Persian Gulf War. His time as a Field Artillery Cannon Crewman provided him with the discipline and drive that would later propel his music career. After his service, Shaggy pursued music full-time, achieving global success with hits like “Boombastic” and “It Wasn’t Me.”
9. Jerry Garcia
Jerry Garcia, the iconic frontman of the Grateful Dead, briefly served in the U.S. Army in 1960. Enlisting as a means of finding direction in his life, Garcia was discharged after a few months due to repeated absences. Though his military career was short, the experience contributed to his rebellious spirit and unique approach to music.
10. Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson, known for his songwriting prowess and acting, served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army. Commissioned as a second lieutenant, he completed Ranger School and was stationed in Germany. Despite a promising military career, Kristofferson left the service to pursue music, penning classics such as “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Help Me Make It Through the Night.”
11. Ice-T
Tracy Lauren Marrow, known as Ice-T, served four years in the U.S. Army’s 25th Infantry Division. His military experience provided him with the discipline and organizational skills that later helped him navigate the music industry. Ice-T’s groundbreaking work in hip-hop, particularly with songs like “Cop Killer,” reflects his complex view of authority and society.
12. John Fogerty
John Fogerty, the lead singer and guitarist of Creedence Clearwater Revival, was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966. Serving in the Army Reserve, Fogerty was able to continue pursuing music while fulfilling his military obligations. His experiences influenced many of his songs, including the anti-war anthem “Fortunate Son.”
13. Maynard James Keenan
Maynard James Keenan, the enigmatic frontman of Tool, served in the U.S. Army in the early 1980s. He enlisted to pursue a career in interior design through the G.I. Bill but ultimately found his calling in music. Keenan’s military service instilled a sense of discipline and work ethic that has been a hallmark of his success in the music industry.
14. MC Hammer
Stanley Kirk Burrell, better known as MC Hammer, served as a petty officer third class in the U.S. Navy. His time in the military was marked by his passion for music and performance, which he pursued after his service. MC Hammer achieved fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with hits like “U Can’t Touch This,” becoming a cultural icon.
15. George Strait
George Strait, the King of Country, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1971. Stationed in Hawaii, Strait began performing with an Army-sponsored band, Rambling Country. His experiences in the military laid the groundwork for his illustrious career in country music, where he became known for his traditional style and string of chart-topping hits.
16. James Blunt
Before achieving fame with his hit single “You’re Beautiful,” James Blunt served as a reconnaissance officer in the British Army, including a deployment to Kosovo. Although not serving in the U.S. military, his experiences in the armed forces greatly influenced his music, providing him with a unique perspective that resonates in his songwriting.
Conclusion
The stories of these 16 musicians highlight the diverse paths that can lead to success in the music industry. Their military service provided them with unique experiences and skills that enriched their artistic journeys. Whether through discipline, inspiration, or resilience, their time in the armed forces played a crucial role in shaping their contributions to music. As we celebrate their achievements, we also honor their service and sacrifices, acknowledging the profound impact of their dual legacies.