Singers from Oklahoma embody the diverse musical heritage and rich cultural tapestry of the state, drawing inspiration from its storied history and varied landscapes. From the rolling plains of the Panhandle to the vibrant urban centers of Tulsa and Oklahoma City, the music of Oklahoma reflects the resilience, creativity, and spirit of its people.
Rooted in the traditions of folk, blues, country, and Native American music, singers from Oklahoma have made significant contributions to a wide range of musical genres. Whether crooning heartfelt ballads, belting out soulful blues, or twanging on a steel guitar, Oklahoma singers infuse their music with authenticity and passion, capturing the essence of life on the plains.
Moreover, Oklahoma’s singers often serve as ambassadors for the state, bringing its unique culture and heritage to audiences around the world. Through their music, they celebrate the beauty of Oklahoma’s landscapes, the strength of its communities, and the diversity of its people.
From icons like Woody Guthrie and Patti Page to contemporary stars like Carrie Underwood and Blake Shelton, singers from Oklahoma continue to leave an indelible mark on the world of music, proudly representing the Sooner State and its rich musical legacy.
1. Blake Shelton
Blake Shelton, born on June 18, 1976, in Ada, Oklahoma, is a multi-talented country music singer, songwriter, and television personality who has become one of the genre’s most recognizable and successful artists. Raised in a small town in Oklahoma, Shelton developed a passion for music at a young age, inspired by the sounds of country music legends like George Jones and Conway Twitty.
Shelton’s rise to fame began in the early 2000s with the release of his debut single “Austin,” which topped the country charts and established him as a rising star in Nashville. He followed up with a string of hit albums and singles, including “Ol’ Red,” “Some Beach,” and “The Baby,” earning him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy nominations.
In addition to his success as a recording artist, Shelton is also known for his role as a coach on the hit television show “The Voice.” Since joining the show in 2011, he has become a fan favorite, mentoring aspiring singers and showcasing his wit, charm, and musical expertise to audiences around the world.
As a native of Oklahoma, Blake Shelton’s music reflects the spirit of the American heartland, with its themes of love, heartache, and small-town life. With his distinctive voice, catchy melodies, and down-to-earth persona, Shelton continues to captivate audiences with his music, leaving an indelible mark on the world of country music and pop culture.
2. Toby Keith
Toby Keith, born on July 8, 1961, in Clinton, Oklahoma, is a powerhouse country music singer, songwriter, and entertainer known for his gritty voice, catchy hooks, and patriotic anthems. Growing up in a small town in Oklahoma, Keith was immersed in country music from an early age, and he began playing guitar and writing songs as a teenager.
Keith’s career took off in the early 1990s with the release of his self-titled debut album, which produced the hit single “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.” He followed up with a string of successful albums and chart-topping singles, including “How Do You Like Me Now?!” “Courtesy of the Red, White, & Blue (The Angry American),” and “Beer for My Horses,” earning him a reputation as one of country music’s biggest stars.
In addition to his success as a recording artist, Keith is also known for his electrifying live performances and his larger-than-life persona. He has sold out arenas and stadiums around the world, thrilling audiences with his energetic stage presence and his ability to connect with fans on a personal level.
As a native of Oklahoma, Toby Keith’s music often reflects the values of hard work, perseverance, and pride that are synonymous with life in the American heartland. With his anthemic songs and patriotic themes, Keith has become a voice for blue-collar Americans, earning him a devoted following and cementing his status as one of country music’s most beloved and influential artists.
3. Chet Baker
Chet Baker, born Chesney Henry Baker Jr. on December 23, 1929, was an American jazz trumpeter, vocalist, and composer. He is considered one of the most iconic and influential figures in the history of jazz music.
Born in Yale, Oklahoma, Baker began playing the trumpet at a young age and quickly showed prodigious talent. He gained early recognition for his smooth, lyrical playing style and his ability to convey deep emotion through his trumpet solos.
In the 1950s, Baker rose to fame as part of the West Coast jazz scene, where he became known for his collaborations with other jazz luminaries such as Gerry Mulligan, Art Pepper, and Stan Getz. His albums from this period, including “Chet Baker Sings” (1954) and “Chet Baker & Strings” (1954), showcased his distinctive trumpet playing and his soft, intimate vocal style.
Baker’s music was characterized by its cool, understated approach and its ability to evoke a sense of melancholy and introspection. He was known for his ability to convey complex emotions through his music, often drawing on his own personal struggles and experiences.
Despite his immense talent and early success, Baker’s life was marked by personal and professional challenges, including struggles with drug addiction and legal troubles. However, he continued to perform and record music throughout his career, leaving behind a vast and enduring legacy.
Chet Baker’s influence on jazz music is profound and far-reaching. His lyrical trumpet playing and emotive vocals have inspired countless musicians across genres, and his recordings remain cherished by jazz enthusiasts around the world. Despite his untimely death in 1988 at the age of 58, Baker’s music continues to resonate with audiences and is celebrated as a testament to his enduring talent and artistic vision.
4. Reba McEntire
Reba McEntire, born on March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma, is an iconic country music singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman known for her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and enduring career spanning over five decades. Raised on a ranch in southeastern Oklahoma, McEntire grew up surrounded by music, performing with her siblings in a family band and honing her craft as a vocalist and performer.
McEntire’s breakthrough came in the 1980s with a string of hit albums and singles that showcased her distinctive voice and charismatic personality. Songs like “Whoever’s in New England,” “Fancy,” and “Is There Life Out There” topped the charts and solidified her status as one of country music’s biggest stars.
In addition to her success as a recording artist, McEntire has also found success as an actress, starring in the popular television sitcom “Reba” and appearing in films such as “Tremors” and “The Little Rascals.” Her natural talent and charm have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, making her one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment industry.
As a native of Oklahoma, Reba McEntire’s music often reflects the values of family, faith, and perseverance that are synonymous with life in the South. With her powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics, she continues to inspire audiences around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the world of country music and entertainment.
5. Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks, born Troyal Garth Brooks on February 7, 1962, is an American country music singer-songwriter and one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He is known for his energetic live performances, charismatic stage presence, and his fusion of traditional country music with rock and pop influences.
Brooks was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and grew up in Yukon, Oklahoma. He began playing guitar and singing at a young age, performing in local venues and honing his craft as a musician. After graduating from Oklahoma State University, Brooks moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue a career in country music.
In 1989, Brooks released his self-titled debut album, which featured the hit singles “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old)” and “If Tomorrow Never Comes.” The album was a commercial success and established Brooks as a rising star in the country music scene.
Throughout the 1990s, Brooks achieved unprecedented success with a string of multi-platinum albums, including “No Fences” (1990), “Ropin’ the Wind” (1991), and “The Chase” (1992). His albums featured chart-topping hits such as “Friends in Low Places,” “The Dance,” and “The Thunder Rolls,” solidifying his status as one of the biggest names in country music.
In addition to his solo career, Brooks is known for his high-energy live performances and his innovative approach to touring. He pioneered the use of arena-sized concerts and multi-night stadium shows, breaking attendance records and revolutionizing the concert industry.
Throughout his career, Garth Brooks has won numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards, and Academy of Country Music Awards. He has sold over 170 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Despite briefly retiring from touring and recording in the early 2000s, Brooks returned to the music scene in 2009 and has continued to perform and record music. He remains a beloved figure in country music, admired for his talent, humility, and dedication to his fans.
6. Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood, born on March 10, 1983, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, is a Grammy-winning country music superstar known for her powerhouse vocals, captivating stage presence, and chart-topping hits. Raised on a farm in rural Oklahoma, Underwood discovered her passion for singing at a young age and began performing in local talent shows and church events.
Underwood’s rise to fame came in 2005 when she won the fourth season of the hit television competition “American Idol.” Her stunning performances and undeniable talent captured the hearts of viewers across the country, propelling her to superstardom and earning her a record deal with Arista Nashville.
Since then, Underwood has become one of the most successful and celebrated artists in country music history. With hits like “Before He Cheats,” “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” and “Blown Away,” she has topped the charts, won numerous awards, and sold out arenas around the world.
In addition to her success as a recording artist, Underwood is also known for her philanthropy and activism, using her platform to support causes like animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Her down-to-earth personality and relatable lyrics have earned her a devoted fanbase and made her a role model for aspiring artists everywhere.
As a native of Oklahoma, Carrie Underwood’s music often reflects the values of faith, family, and hard work that are characteristic of life in the heartland. With her powerful voice and inspirational songs, she continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the world of country music and beyond.
7. Vince Gill
Vince Gill, born Vincent Grant Gill on April 12, 1957, is an American country music singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. He is known for his smooth tenor voice, exceptional guitar playing, and prolific songwriting.
Gill was born in Norman, Oklahoma, and grew up in a musical family. He began playing guitar at a young age and developed a love for country and bluegrass music. In the late 1970s, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue a career in music.
Gill’s breakthrough came in the 1980s when he joined the country rock band Pure Prairie League as their lead vocalist and guitarist. He gained recognition for his soulful vocals and guitar skills, contributing to the band’s hit songs such as “Let Me Love You Tonight.”
In 1984, Gill launched his solo career with the release of his debut album, “Turn Me Loose.” He quickly established himself as a rising star in the country music scene, releasing a string of successful albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
Some of Gill’s most famous songs include “When I Call Your Name,” “Look at Us,” “I Still Believe in You,” and “Go Rest High on That Mountain.” His music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and faith, resonating with audiences around the world.
In addition to his solo career, Vince Gill is known for his collaborations with other artists and his contributions to the country music community. He has won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including over 20 Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Gill continues to perform and record music, maintaining his status as one of the most respected and influential figures in country music. He is admired for his talent, versatility, and dedication to preserving the traditions of country music while also pushing the genre forward with his innovative approach to songwriting and performance.
8. Kings of Leon
Kings of Leon is a Grammy-winning rock band formed in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1999, composed of brothers Caleb, Nathan, and Jared Followill, along with their cousin Matthew Followill. Although not from Oklahoma themselves, the band has deep roots in the state as their father, Ivan Leon Followill, was born in Oklahoma.
The band’s music is characterized by their unique blend of Southern rock, alternative, and garage rock influences, creating a sound that is both gritty and melodic. Their breakthrough came with their third album, “Because of the Times,” which featured hits like “On Call” and “Fans,” earning them critical acclaim and a growing fanbase.
However, it was their fourth album, “Only by the Night,” released in 2008, that catapulted them to international stardom. The album spawned several chart-topping singles, including “Sex on Fire” and “Use Somebody,” which won three Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year.
Since then, Kings of Leon have continued to evolve their sound and experiment with different musical styles, releasing a series of successful albums and embarking on sold-out tours around the world. With their raw energy, infectious melodies, and heartfelt lyrics, they have earned a devoted following and cemented their status as one of the most influential rock bands of their generation.
9. Hanson
Hanson is an American pop-rock band formed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1992, consisting of brothers Isaac, Taylor, and Zac Hanson. Raised in a musical family, the brothers began performing together at a young age, honing their harmonies and songwriting skills.
The band gained widespread fame with their debut album, “Middle of Nowhere,” released in 1997. The album’s lead single, “MMMBop,” became an international sensation, topping the charts in over a dozen countries and earning the band three Grammy nominations. The success of “MMMBop” propelled Hanson to global stardom, making them teen idols and household names overnight.
Since then, Hanson has released a string of successful albums, showcasing their growth as musicians and songwriters. Their music, characterized by catchy melodies, tight harmonies, and infectious energy, has earned them a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim.
In addition to their music career, Hanson is also known for their philanthropy and activism, using their platform to support causes like poverty alleviation, AIDS research, and music education. They are also involved in their hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, where they host an annual music and arts festival called “The Hop Jam.”
With their longevity, versatility, and unwavering commitment to their craft, Hanson continues to inspire audiences around the world, proving that they are more than just a one-hit wonder and solidifying their status as one of the most enduring and beloved bands in pop-rock music.
10. Lee Hazlewood
Lee Hazlewood, born Barton Lee Hazlewood on July 9, 1929, was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is best known for his work in the country and pop music genres, as well as for his collaborations with artists such as Nancy Sinatra.
Hazlewood was born in Mannford, Oklahoma, and grew up in the southwestern United States. He began his music career in the 1950s as a songwriter and producer, working with artists like Duane Eddy and Sanford Clark.
In the early 1960s, Hazlewood began collaborating with Nancy Sinatra, producing and writing songs for her. Their partnership produced several hit singles, including “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” and “Some Velvet Morning,” which showcased Hazlewood’s distinctive baritone voice and his knack for creating atmospheric, cinematic music.
As a solo artist, Hazlewood released a series of albums that blended country, pop, and folk influences, often featuring his deep, resonant vocals and his wry, storytelling lyrics. Some of his most notable solo albums include “Trouble Is a Lonesome Town” (1963) and “Requiem for an Almost Lady” (1971).
Hazlewood’s music is characterized by its dark, brooding atmosphere and its exploration of themes such as love, loss, and longing. He was known for his idiosyncratic songwriting style and his ability to create evocative, emotionally resonant music.
Throughout his career, Hazlewood remained a cult figure in the music industry, admired by fans and fellow musicians alike for his unique voice and his contributions to popular music. He passed away on August 4, 2007, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music and his influence on generations of artists.
Edward Tomlin 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.
