Oklahoma, a state known for its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant musical heritage, has been a fertile ground for nurturing exceptional talent across various genres. In the realm of music, Oklahoma boasts a remarkable legacy of producing some of the most influential and celebrated voices in the industry. This article takes a melodious journey through the Sooner State’s history, unveiling the top 10 famous singers who have not only left an indelible mark on the world of music but have also proudly represented the spirit of Oklahoma. From country crooners to soulful divas, this compilation spans decades of musical evolution, showcasing the diversity and depth of talent that has emerged from the heartland of America. Each artist encapsulates the essence of Oklahoma’s musical prowess, resonating with audiences worldwide and contributing significantly to the state’s cultural mosaic. Join us as we delve into the captivating narratives and extraordinary voices that define the top 10 famous singers from Oklahoma, celebrating their enduring impact on the global stage.
1. Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood stands as a powerhouse in the country music scene, celebrated for her extraordinary vocal prowess and compelling stage presence. Born on March 10, 1983, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Underwood rose to fame as the winner of the fourth season of American Idol in 2005. Her debut album, “Some Hearts,” released later that year, catapulted her into stardom with hits like “Before He Cheats” and “Jesus, Take the Wheel.” Known for her emotive delivery and versatile range, Underwood seamlessly blends traditional country roots with a contemporary edge, making her a crossover sensation.
Beyond her musical achievements, Underwood has also garnered numerous accolades for her contributions to the industry, including multiple Grammy Awards. As a philanthropist, she actively supports various charitable causes, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact beyond the stage. With a career marked by chart-topping albums, sold-out tours, and a magnetic presence, Carrie Underwood continues to captivate audiences with her authentic storytelling and dynamic performances, solidifying her status as one of the most influential and beloved figures in country music.
2. Wanda Jackson
Wanda Jackson, born on October 20, 1937, in Maud, Oklahoma, is a trailblazing figure in the realm of rockabilly and country music. Often hailed as the “Queen of Rockabilly,” Jackson’s career spans over six decades, showcasing her remarkable talents as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist. She first gained prominence in the mid-1950s with her energetic and pioneering blend of country and rock ‘n’ roll. Notably, her 1960 hit “Let’s Have a Party” exemplifies her dynamic vocal style and was a pivotal contribution to the emerging rockabilly genre.
Jackson’s influence extends beyond her musical achievements; she broke gender barriers in the male-dominated world of rock and became a trailblazer for female artists. With her distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence, she has left an indelible mark on the music landscape. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009, Wanda Jackson’s legacy endures as a symbol of resilience and innovation in the ever-evolving tapestry of American music. Her impact on subsequent generations of musicians, particularly female artists, solidifies her as a true icon in the history of rock and country.
3. Cross Canadian Ragweed
Cross Canadian Ragweed emerged from the Red Dirt music scene in the late 1990s and became synonymous with the alt-country and Southern rock genres. Formed in 1994 in Stillwater, Oklahoma, the band consisted of Cody Canada (lead vocals, guitar), Grady Cross (guitar, vocals), Randy Ragsdale (drums), and Jeremy Plato (bass). They quickly gained a loyal fan base with their energetic live performances and a sound that seamlessly blended rock, country, and roots influences.
The band’s breakthrough came with their 2002 album “Cross Canadian Ragweed,” featuring hits like “17” and “Alabama.” Known for their gritty lyrics and raw, unapologetic sound, they continued to build on their success with subsequent albums like “Soul Gravy” and “Mission California.” Cross Canadian Ragweed’s music often explored themes of love, heartache, and life in the American South, resonating with audiences who appreciated their authentic storytelling.
Despite disbanding in 2010, Cross Canadian Ragweed’s impact on the Red Dirt and Southern rock scenes remains significant. Cody Canada, in particular, has continued his musical journey with The Departed, ensuring that the legacy of Cross Canadian Ragweed endures through their influence on the evolving landscape of alternative country and Southern rock.
4. Tyson Ritter
Tyson Ritter is a multifaceted artist best known as the charismatic lead vocalist and bassist of the American rock band The All-American Rejects. Born on April 24, 1984, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Ritter co-founded the band in 1999, and they quickly rose to prominence with their infectious pop-rock sound. Ritter’s distinctive voice and energetic stage presence played a pivotal role in the band’s success, especially with hits like “Swing, Swing,” “Move Along,” and “Gives You Hell.”
Beyond his accomplishments with The All-American Rejects, Tyson Ritter has showcased his versatility by venturing into acting. He has taken on roles in film and television, demonstrating his creative range. Ritter’s ability to connect with audiences both through music and on-screen highlights his artistic depth.
As a frontman and actor, Tyson Ritter continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic performances and creative endeavors. His contributions to the alternative rock scene and his willingness to explore different facets of the entertainment industry underscore his status as a multifaceted artist whose influence extends beyond the realm of music.
5. Jimmy Rushing
Jimmy Rushing, born on August 26, 1901, in Oklahoma City, was an influential American blues and jazz singer whose deep, resonant voice made him a prominent figure in the Big Band era. Affectionately known as “Mister Five by Five” for his stout frame, Rushing gained widespread recognition as the featured vocalist for Count Basie’s Orchestra during the 1930s and 1940s. His collaborations with Basie produced timeless classics such as “Good Morning Blues” and “Sent for You Yesterday.”
Rushing’s vocal style seamlessly blended the blues with jazz, and his ability to convey emotion through his singing made him a beloved figure in the swing music scene. He possessed a remarkable vocal range and an innate sense of phrasing that set him apart as a true jazz vocalist. Beyond his work with Basie, Rushing had a successful solo career, recording numerous albums and leaving an indelible mark on the blues and jazz genres.
Jimmy Rushing’s enduring influence on the evolution of jazz and blues, coupled with his charismatic stage presence, cements his legacy as one of the preeminent vocalists of the Big Band era. His contributions continue to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike, showcasing the timeless nature of his music.
6. Jean Shepard
Jean Shepard, born Ollie Imogene Shepard on November 21, 1933, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, was a pioneering figure in country music, celebrated for her distinctive voice and trailblazing career. Shepard made history as the first solo female artist to join the Grand Ole Opry in 1955, breaking barriers for women in the genre. Her traditional country sound, marked by twangy vocals and heartfelt storytelling, resonated with audiences, earning her a place among country music’s elite.
Shepard’s breakthrough came with her 1953 debut single “A Dear John Letter,” a duet with Ferlin Husky, which topped the country charts. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, she consistently produced hits like “Twice the Lovin’ (In Half the Time)” and “A Satisfied Mind.” Shepard’s ability to convey genuine emotion in her music set her apart, and her songs often touched on themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience.
As a testament to her enduring impact, Jean Shepard was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2011. Her legacy extends beyond her chart successes, representing a pioneering spirit that paved the way for generations of female artists in country music. Jean Shepard’s contribution to the genre remains an integral part of its rich history.
7. Sandi Patty
Sandi Patty, born on July 12, 1956, in Oklahoma City, is a highly acclaimed American Christian music singer and songwriter. Renowned as “The Voice,” Patty has left an indelible mark on the contemporary Christian music scene with her powerful vocals and emotive performances. With a career spanning several decades, she has become one of the best-selling gospel artists of all time.
Patty’s breakthrough came in the early 1980s, and her album “More Than Wonderful” solidified her status as a prominent figure in Christian music. Known for her versatility, she has tackled various musical styles, from inspirational ballads to contemporary pop-infused tracks. Her signature song, “We Shall Behold Him,” remains a timeless classic in the Christian music canon.
Beyond her musical achievements, Sandi Patty is recognized for her contributions to the Christian community and her philanthropic work. Her accolades include multiple Grammy Awards and Dove Awards, underscoring her impact on the genre. Sandi Patty’s unwavering commitment to her faith, coupled with her extraordinary vocal talent, has made her a beloved and influential figure in the realm of Christian music, inspiring listeners with her messages of hope and devotion.
8. The Gap Band
The Gap Band, a funk and R&B powerhouse, emerged from Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the 1970s and became synonymous with infectious grooves and chart-topping hits. Comprising brothers Charlie, Ronnie, and Robert Wilson, the group’s energetic and danceable sound defined the funk era. The Wilson brothers, along with their band, crafted a distinctive blend of soulful vocals, tight instrumentation, and electrifying stage presence.
The Gap Band’s breakthrough came in the late 1970s with hits like “Shake” and “Open Up Your Mind (Wide).” However, it was in the 1980s that they achieved mainstream success with a string of platinum albums and chart-topping singles. “You Dropped a Bomb on Me” and “Outstanding” are among their most iconic tracks, showcasing their ability to seamlessly fuse funk, R&B, and dance elements.
The Wilson brothers’ contributions to the funk genre earned The Gap Band a lasting legacy. Their music continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal, influencing subsequent generations of artists and leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of funk and R&B. The Gap Band’s ability to create infectious, feel-good music ensures their enduring popularity among fans of soulful and danceable tunes.
9. Joe Diffie
Joe Diffie, born on December 28, 1958, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was a celebrated American country music singer known for his distinctive voice, honky-tonk style, and a string of chart-topping hits. Rising to prominence in the 1990s, Diffie became a prominent figure in the country music scene with his traditional yet modern approach to the genre.
Diffie’s breakthrough came with his debut album “A Thousand Winding Roads” in 1990, featuring the hit single “Home.” He followed up with a series of chart successes, including “If the Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets),” “Third Rock from the Sun,” and the poignant “John Deere Green.” Diffie’s warm baritone voice and relatable lyrics endeared him to country music fans, making him a mainstay on the charts during the ’90s.
Throughout his career, Joe Diffie received numerous awards, including a Grammy for his collaboration on “Same Old Train.” His impact on country music endures, and his legacy is remembered not only for his chart-topping achievements but also for his role in shaping the contemporary country sound. Diffie’s untimely passing in 2020 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a catalog of beloved songs that continue to resonate with country music enthusiasts.
10. Lee Hazlewood
Lee Hazlewood, born on July 9, 1929, in Mannford, Oklahoma, was a maverick singer, songwriter, and producer whose work left an indelible mark on the world of music. Best known for his collaborations with Nancy Sinatra, Hazlewood’s deep, baritone voice and unique songwriting style set him apart in the realm of country, pop, and rock.
Hazlewood’s distinctive contributions to music include producing and writing for Nancy Sinatra, creating iconic duets such as “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” and “Some Velvet Morning.” His solo career also produced notable hits like “Summer Wine” and “Houston,” showcasing his eclectic approach that blended country with elements of pop and folk.
Renowned for his enigmatic persona and experimental soundscapes, Hazlewood’s influence extended beyond his own recordings. His production work with artists like Duane Eddy and Gram Parsons contributed to the evolution of country and rock music. Lee Hazlewood’s legacy is one of artistic innovation, and his impact on diverse musical genres continues to be acknowledged by musicians and fans alike, solidifying his place as a visionary figure in the history of popular music.