Narvel Blackstock is a renowned American music manager and television producer, best known for his work with country music stars like Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, and Kelly Clarkson.
Narvel Blackstock’s children, Shawna, Chassidy, Brandon, and Shelby, have successful careers in music and entertainment, continuing his legacy.
This article delves into Narvel Blackstock’s life, focusing on his family, career, and the legacy he has built in the music industry.
Early Life And Career Of Narvel Blackstock:
Birth And Upbringing In Tarrant County, Texas:
On August 31, 1956, Narvel Blackstock was born in Tarrant County, Texas.. Growing up in this vibrant region, Narvel was immersed in a culturally rich environment that fostered his love for music. His early years were marked by a strong sense of community and a deep appreciation for musical traditions.
Musical Family Background:
Narvel was fortunate to be born into a musical family, which significantly shaped his career. His father was a gospel singer, and his mother was a musician, both of whom instilled in him a love for music from a young age. The Blackstock household was often filled with melodies and harmonies, nurturing Narvel’s budding musical interests.
Initial Career As A Steel Guitar Player:
Narvel’s journey into the music industry began with his talent as a steel guitar player. He honed his skills by performing with various country music artists, building a reputation as a talented and reliable musician. His proficiency with the steel guitar made him a sought-after musician in the country music scene.
Transition To Tour Manager For Reba Mcentire:
In the 1980s, Narvel’s career significantly turned when he became the tour manager for the rising country music star Reba McEntire. This role began a long and fruitful professional relationship between Narvel and Reba. His organizational skills and deep understanding of the music industry contributed to Reba’s successful tours and growing popularity.
Narvel Blackstock’s Marriages And Children:
First Marriage To Elisa Gayle Ritter:
Narvel Blackstock married Elisa Gayle Ritter in 1973. Their marriage lasted until 1988, spanning 15 years. During this period, they had three children who later followed diverse career paths in the music and entertainment industry.
- Shawna Blackstock: Shawna Blackstock pursued a career as a singer and songwriter. Her musical talents and creativity have made her a notable figure in the music industry, continuing the family legacy.
- Chassidy Blackstock: Chassidy Blackstock chose a career behind the scenes as a music producer. Her work involves crafting and shaping music, contributing significantly to the success of various artists.
- Brandon Blackstock: Brandon Blackstock carved out a successful career as a talent manager. He has worked with prominent artists such as Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson, managing their careers and helping them succeed in the music industry.
Second Marriage To Reba Mcentire:
Timeline of marriage (1989-2015): In 1989, Narvel Blackstock married country music star Reba McEntire. Their marriage began a significant professional and personal partnership that lasted until 2015. They worked closely together, with Narvel managing Reba’s career and contributing to her success.
Professional and personal partnership: Narvel and Reba’s relationship was both personal and professional. As her manager, Narvel played a crucial role in shaping Reba’s career, helping her become one of the biggest stars in country music. Their partnership extended beyond their professional lives, as they shared a deep personal bond throughout their marriage.
Children From This Marriage:
Shelby Blackstock: Shelby Blackstock is the only child from Narvel’s marriage to Reba. He pursued a career as a race car driver, making a name for himself in the racing world. Shelby has competed in various championships and has built a successful career in motorsports.
Career as a race car driver: Shelby Blackstock chose a path in professional racing, competing in series such as the US F2000 National Championship, Pro Mazda Championship, and Indy Lights. His dedication and skill have earned him recognition and success in the racing community.
Personal life and marriage: In February 2022, Shelby married Marissa Branch at Walt Disney World. The wedding was a joyous family event that Reba, Narvel, and other close family members attended. Shelby and Marissa’s relationship began in 2014, and after being friends for two years, they started dating.
Relationship With Stepchildren:
Reba Mcentire’s Children From Her First Marriage:
Narvel Blackstock became a stepfather to Reba McEntire’s children from her first marriage to Charlie Battles. Reba had formed a close bond with these children, and Narvel’s relationship with them further strengthened the family ties.
Coty Battles:
Career and personal life: Coty Battles, one of Reba’s stepsons from her marriage to Charlie Battles, followed in his father’s footsteps as a steer-wrestler before settling down as a rancher. He lives in Waco, Texas, and has been dating his girlfriend, Amy Huffman, since 2016. Coty’s career and personal life reflect his connection to his family’s ranching and rodeo traditions.
Lance Battles:
Personal life and relationship with Reba: Lance Battles, the second of Reba’s stepsons from her marriage to Charlie Battles, has maintained a lower profile than his brother Coty. Despite lacking extensive public information about his career, Lance has remained a part of the extended family. Reba has maintained a relationship with Lance and Coty, demonstrating her commitment to her stepchildren even after her marriage to their father ended. This bond highlights the strong family values and enduring relationships within the McEntire-Blackstock family.
The Blackstock Family Legacy:
Narvel’s Influence On His Children’s Careers:
Narvel Blackstock has profoundly impacted his children’s careers, guiding them with his industry experience. His eldest son, Brandon, became a successful talent manager, working with top artists like Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson. Narvel’s daughters, Shawna and Chassidy, also pursued careers in the music industry, benefiting from his mentorship.
Family Involvement In The Music Industry:
The Blackstock family is deeply involved in the music industry. Narvel’s successful music manager and producer career inspired his children to follow similar paths. This legacy of musical talent and industry knowledge continues to thrive within the family.
Continued Family Ties And Professional Collaborations:
The Blackstocks maintain strong family ties and professional collaborations. Narvel and his children often work together on various music projects, leveraging their combined expertise. These collaborations strengthen their family bond and contribute to their ongoing success in the music industry.
Personal Life And Interests:
Relationship With Grandchildren:
Narvel Blackstock cherishes his role as a grandfather. He has five grandchildren, including those from his son Brandon’s marriage to Kelly Clarkson. Narvel maintains close relationships with them, often spending quality time together.
Hobbies And Personal Interests:
Outside of his professional life, Narvel has a range of hobbies and personal interests. These activities provide him with relaxation and enjoyment, contributing to his well-rounded lifestyle.
Golfing:
Narvel is an avid golfer. He enjoys spending his free time on the golf course, honing his skills and embracing the sport’s challenges.
Celebrity Golf Tournaments:
Narvel often participates in celebrity golf tournaments. These events allow him to combine his love for golf with his industry connections, providing opportunities for both leisure and networking.
Exciting Facts About Narvel Blackstock:
Founding Of Starstruck Entertainment:
The creator of the talent management firm Starstruck Entertainment is Narvel Blackstock. This company has represented some of the biggest names in country music, showcasing Narvel’s business acumen and industry influence.
Awards And Recognitions In The Music Industry:
Narvel has received multiple awards and recognitions throughout his career. Notably, he has won the Academy of Country Music’s Tour Manager of the Year award, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the music industry.
Mentorship Role To Brandon Blackstock:
Narvel has played a significant mentorship role to his son, Brandon Blackstock. His guidance and industry expertise have helped Brandon become a successful talent manager, continuing the family’s legacy in the music business.
Conclusion:
Narvel Blackstock’s life and career are a testament to his talent, dedication, and influence in the music industry. From his early days as a steel guitar player to founding Starstruck Entertainment and managing top artists, Narvel has left an indelible mark.
His personal life, marked by two marriages and four children, showcases his commitment to family. Narvel’s legacy continues through his children’s careers and his active role as a mentor and grandfather. His story is one of success, family ties, and lasting impact in music.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs):
1. Who Is Narvel Blackstock Married To Now?
As of now, Narvel Blackstock is not publicly known to be married.
2. How Many Grandchildren Does Narvel Blackstock Have?
Narvel Blackstock has five grandchildren.
3. What Is Starstruck Entertainment?
Starstruck Entertainment is a talent management company founded by Narvel Blackstock that represents significant country music artists.
4. How Did Narvel Blackstock Meet Reba Mcentire?
Narvel Blackstock met Reba McEntire while working as her tour manager in the 1980s.
5. Is Narvel Blackstock Still Active In The Music Industry?
Narvel Blackstock remains active in the music industry through his management company and various professional collaborations.
