These 3 guys are of the Midwest; they were born in Nebraska, Minnesota and Illinois. They all are VERY good as what they do. Buffet is one of the best investors ever. Ebert wrote many good movies reviews that helped many of readers understand what is a good movie and what is a bad movies, as well as pushing for movies to be taken more seriously as an Art Form. Prince wrote and performed many songs and a had a huge fan base. These 3 were from the Midwest, they were outstanding at what they did and somewhat importantly they chose to stay in their region. Staying put and isolating themselves from the coastal US helped them maintain their voices and independence.