Oklahoma, the land of rolling plains and boundless skies, has long been a breeding ground for extraordinary talent, particularly in the realm of music. Nestled within the heartland of America, this vibrant state has given birth to some of the most captivating voices that have resonated throughout generations. From country crooners to soulful divas, Oklahoma has produced a remarkable array of famous singers who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. In this article, we explore the top ten legendary singers who call Oklahoma their home and whose melodies continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Prepare to be transported into the world of country music with the legendary Garth Brooks, whose energetic performances and heartfelt lyrics have made him one of the best-selling artists of all time. Witness the soul-stirring vocals of Patti Page, the iconic singer known for her timeless hits like “Tennessee Waltz” and “How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?” Delve into the bluesy soundscapes of J.J. Cale, the influential musician and songwriter behind timeless classics such as “After Midnight” and “Cocaine.” From the sultry jazz stylings of Chet Baker to the mesmerizing folk melodies of Woody Guthrie, Oklahoma has been a wellspring of talent across genres.
Join us on this musical journey as we celebrate the rich tapestry of Oklahoma’s musical heritage and pay tribute to the unforgettable contributions of these ten famous singers who have shaped the soundscape of not only their beloved state but also the world.
1. Lee Hazlewood
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sb-SVPJM4L4
Lee Hazlewood, from Oklahoma, captivated crowds with his unique voice and dazzling stage presence. He was renowned for his contributions to country and pop music. He wrote iconic songs such as "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'" sung by Nancy Sinatra. His songwriting combined folk, country, and rock.
He collaborated with other famous musicians like Duane Eddy and Phil Spector. They made timeless hits still enjoyed today. Lee Hazlewood ventured into acting and filmmaking. He appeared in movies and TV shows. He was adept at transitioning between different art forms.
To appreciate Lee Hazlewood's music, listen to albums like "Requiem for an Almost Lady" or "Cowboy in Sweden". These albums reveal his musical aptitude.
2. Joe Diffie
Joe Logan Diffie was a prominent country music singer born in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is known for hits like "John Deere Green," "Pickup Man," "Home," and "Third Rock From the Sun." His soulful voice won him numerous awards including a Grammy, Academy of Country Music Awards, and Country Music Association Awards.
Diffie's career spanned over three decades and he also wrote songs for other renowned artists such as Holly Dunn and Tim McGraw. Before finding fame through music, Joe worked in the oil industry. However, his incredible passion for music eventually led him down a different path that forever changed country music history.
All information about Joe Diffie is derived from reliable sources, such as official biographies, interviews, and reputable news articles from publications like Rolling Stone and Billboard Magazine.
The Gap Band, hailing from Oklahoma, are here to show that the state is more than just tornadoes with their smooth tunes.
3. The Gap Band
The Gap Band, from Oklahoma, have made a huge impact on the music industry. Charlie, Ronnie, and Robert Wilson, brothers, formed this funk band in the 1970s. It has left an indelible mark on R&B and soul music.
| Band Members: | Charlie Wilson | Ronnie Wilson | Robert Wilson |
| Genre: | Funk | R&B | Soul |
| Active Years: | 1967-2010 (as The Greenwood Archer Pine Street Band) | 1973-1999 (as The Gap Band) |
The Gap Band had lots of hits, like "You Dropped a Bomb on Me," "Outstanding," and "Burn Rubber on Me." They are still relevant and sampled by other artists. Before their fame, they were known as The Greenwood Archer Pine Street Band. In 1973, they changed to The Gap Band and rose to the top.
The Gap Band's music is timeless and they continue to influence music today. With their unique sound and stage presence, they made a lasting impression on fans everywhere.
4. Sandi Patty
Sandi Patty, from Oklahoma, is renowned for her beautiful voice and performances. Her career has spanned over 4 decades and she is one of the most respected vocalists in the music industry.
| Birth Name | Sandi Patty |
| Date of Birth | July 12, 1956 |
| Place of Birth | Anderson, Indiana |
| Genre | Gospel, Contemporary Christian Music |
Sandi has achieved great success, with five Grammy Awards and over thirty Dove Awards. Her strong mezzo-soprano voice and vocal range have allowed her to release many hit songs and albums.
Sandi faced challenges in her earlier years. But, music gave her solace and she pursued her passion with determination. She is now an influential figure in the Christian music scene.
If Oklahoma had a soundtrack, Jean Shepard would be the star! Her powerful voice and country twang could make even a tornado dance to her tunes.
5. Jean Shepard
Jean Shepard, a celebrated Country Music Singer from Oklahoma, deserves recognition for her immense contributions to the music industry. She entranced audiences with her robust and passionate voice, earning her a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Let's investigate the remarkable life and career of this talented artist!
Jean Shepard made history as one of the first female artists to achieve success in country music during the 1950s. She opened doors for future generations with her courageous and independent spirit. Furthermore, she was renowned for her genuine storytelling and capacity to connect with listeners on an intense emotional level.
Pro Tip: When examining the musical scenery of Oklahoma, don't forget to explore Jean Shepard's noteworthy contributions. Her immortal music will continue to motivate generations to come.
Jimmy Rushing from Oklahoma may have been known for his deep and soulful voice, but it appears he wasn't rushing to the gym anytime soon!
6. Jimmy Rushing
Jimmy Rushing, born in Oklahoma, was an acclaimed American blues shouter and jazz singer. He was made famous as the lead vocalist of Count Basie's Orchestra in the 1930s. Here's a table with some key facts about this legendary singer:
| Birth Name | James Andrew Rushing |
| Date of Birth | August 26, 1902 |
| Place of Birth | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S. |
| Main Genre(s) | Jazz, Blues |
Jimmy Rushing had an amazing voice. His performances mesmerized people with his excellent control of tone and huge dynamic range. His special style of singing influenced generations of singers.
Though he left Count Basie's Orchestra, Jimmy Rushing kept performing and collaborating with other artists. One of the most well-known collaborations was with singer B.B. King for the album "Kansas City". This showed Rushing's skill in adapting to different musical styles.
Jimmy Rushing was posthumously inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1983 for his valuable contributions to music.
Tyson Ritter from Oklahoma is proof that you don't have to be a cowboy to be successful. All you need is the ability to rock out like a pro!
7. Tyson Ritter
Tyson Ritter, hailing from Oklahoma, has mesmerized audiences with his awe-inspiring voice and magnetic stage presence. His distinct style and zeal for music have made him a popular figure in the industry.
Birthdate? April 24th, 1984. Hometown? Stillwater, Oklahoma. Famous Band? The All-American Rejects. Genre? Alternative rock and pop rock. Accomplishments? Tons of chart-topping hits and numerous awards.
Tyson Ritter is also renowned for his philanthropic efforts. He regularly backs various charities and uses his platform to create consciousness about critical social matters. His commitment to making a positive difference makes him stand out from other singers.
Don't let FOMO take over – make sure you don't miss out on Tyson Ritter's electrifying performances! Experience this true musical sensation yourself and witness the incredible magic.
Cross Canadian Ragweed may sound like an unpleasant allergy season, but these Oklahoma singers will make you sneeze with jubilation for their unique twangy tunes.
8. Cross Canadian Ragweed
Cross Canadian Ragweed, a renowned band from Oklahoma, has left a lasting impression in the music world with their special mixture of country and rock sounds. The astonishing four-member band includes Cody Canada, Grady Cross, Randy Ragsdale, and Jeremy Plato.
Let's have a look at the success of Cross Canadian Ragweed:
| Band Members | Cody Canada | Grady Cross | Randy Ragsdale | Jeremy Plato |
| Genre | Country Rock | |||
| Years Active | 1994 – 2010 (hiatus) | |||
| Hometown | Oklahoma |
Say goodbye to rock 'n' roll! Wanda Jackson from Oklahoma is ready to take over with her incredible shaking, rattling, and ruling of the music industry!
9. Wanda Jackson
Wanda Jackson, a renowned singer from Oklahoma, has left a long-lasting impression on the music industry. Let us discover some interesting facts about this talented artist!
| Birth Name | Wanda Lavonne Jackson |
| Birth Date | October 20, 1937 |
| Genre | Rockabilly, country, gospel |
| Awards & Recognition | Hall of Fame inductions & Grammy nominations |
Not only is Wanda Jackson renowned for her achievements, but she also challenged the male-dominated music industry. Her powerful voice and captivating stage presence enthralled audiences all over the world.
Moreover, Wanda Jackson was not confined to one genre; she effortlessly switched between rockabilly, country, and gospel throughout her career. This showed off her immense talent and made her even more of a legendary singer.
Widely known as the "Queen of Rockabilly," Wanda Jackson's influence still encourages upcoming musicians today. With several honors including Hall of Fame inductions and multiple Grammy nominations, she has unquestionably left an enduring legacy in the music industry.
10. Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood, an Oklahoma-born singer, has left a major mark in the music industry due to her remarkable talent. Here are some interesting facts about her:
- Birth Name: Carrie Marie Underwood
- Born: March 10, 1983
- Hometown: Muskogee, Oklahoma
- Genre: Country, pop
- Debut Album: "Some Hearts" (2005)
- Achievements: Winner of multiple Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and American Music Awards
Carrie Underwood's career skyrocketed when she won the fourth season of American Idol in 2005. Since then, she has made a name for herself with her chart-topping hits and loyal fan base, all thanks to her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics.
In addition, Underwood is dedicated to philanthropy. She has established her own foundation called "Checotah Animal, Town & School Foundation" to make a difference in the lives of animals and children in need.
An amazing feat of Underwood's is that she holds the record for being the first female country artist to have four consecutive albums debut at number one on the Billboard 200 chart (Source: Billboard).
Undoubtedly, Carrie Underwood is an inspiration to many aspiring musicians through her talent, charitable work, and success.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
