Oklahoma, a state known for its vast plains and vibrant culture, has produced a remarkable array of musical talent throughout history. From the heartland of America emerges a cadre of singers whose voices have left an indelible mark on the world stage. In this exploration, we delve into the lives and careers of the top 10 famous singers from Oklahoma, celebrating their contributions to the music industry and their enduring legacies. From country crooners to rock icons, these artists have captivated audiences with their unique styles and powerful performances, solidifying their place in the annals of music history.
1. The Gap Band
Originating from Tulsa, Oklahoma, The Gap Band is renowned for pioneering a fusion of funk, R&B, and soul music that dominated the airwaves in the 1970s and 1980s. Comprising brothers Charlie, Ronnie, and Robert Wilson, The Gap Band left an indelible mark on the music industry with their infectious grooves and electrifying performances.
Their breakthrough came in the late 1970s with hits like “Shake,” “I Don’t Believe You Want to Get Up and Dance (Oops, Up Side Your Head),” and “Burn Rubber on Me (Why You Wanna Hurt Me).” These songs not only topped the charts but also became timeless classics, ensuring the band’s enduring popularity.
The Gap Band’s distinctive sound, characterized by catchy bass lines, tight rhythms, and spirited vocals, earned them legions of fans worldwide. Their influence extends beyond their own discography, with their music sampled by numerous hip-hop and R&B artists.
Throughout their illustrious career, The Gap Band amassed numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations and induction into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. Even today, their music continues to resonate with audiences, cementing their status as one of the topmost popular and influential musical acts to emerge from Oklahoma.
2. Sandi Patty
Hailing from Oklahoma City, Sandi Patty stands as one of the most iconic and beloved figures in the realm of contemporary Christian music. With a voice that soars effortlessly across octaves and a heartfelt delivery that resonates with audiences, Patty has left an indelible mark on the genre.
Her journey to fame began in the early 1980s when she gained widespread recognition for her powerful vocals and emotionally charged performances. Patty’s ability to convey the depth of spiritual emotion through her music captivated listeners, earning her the title of “The Voice” in Christian music circles.
Throughout her illustrious career, Sandi Patty has released over 30 albums, featuring an array of inspirational and uplifting songs that have touched the hearts of millions. Hits like “We Shall Behold Him,” “In the Name of the Lord,” and “How Majestic Is Your Name” have become timeless classics, solidifying Patty’s place as a cornerstone of Christian music.
Her contributions have not gone unnoticed, as Patty has been honored with numerous accolades, including five Grammy Awards and over 40 Dove Awards. Additionally, she has been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, further cementing her legacy as one of the topmost popular and influential singers to emerge from Oklahoma.
3. Jean Shepard
Jean Shepard, born Ollie Imogene Shepard, hailed from Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, leaving an indelible mark on the country music scene. With a career spanning over five decades, Shepard emerged as one of the pioneering women in country music, breaking barriers and setting precedents for generations to come.
Her journey began in the 1950s when she signed with Capitol Records, quickly rising to prominence with hits like “A Dear John Letter” and “A Satisfied Mind,” the former being one of the first country songs to address the topic of the Korean War. Shepard’s distinctive voice, marked by its clarity and emotional depth, resonated with audiences, earning her widespread acclaim.
Throughout her career, Jean Shepard remained a steadfast advocate for traditional country music, staying true to her roots even as the genre evolved. Her contributions were not only musical but also cultural, as she became a trailblazer for women in the male-dominated country music industry.
Shepard’s achievements include multiple chart-topping singles, induction into the Grand Ole Opry in 1955, and a Grammy nomination for her album “Heart, We Did All That We Could.” Her legacy lives on as she continues to inspire aspiring artists and garner appreciation for her timeless contributions to country music, solidifying her status as one of the most popular and influential singers from Oklahoma.
4. Jimmy Rushing
Jimmy Rushing, born in Oklahoma City, was a towering figure in the world of jazz and blues, renowned for his deep, resonant voice and unparalleled stage presence. Often referred to as “Mr. Five by Five” due to his robust physique, Rushing’s talent extended far beyond his imposing physical stature.
Rushing’s career took flight in the 1920s when he joined Walter Page’s Blue Devils, a seminal jazz band based in Kansas City. However, it was his tenure as the lead vocalist for Count Basie’s Orchestra in the 1930s and 1940s that propelled him to international fame. Rushing’s performances with Basie’s band, characterized by his soulful renditions of blues and jazz standards, captivated audiences and earned him widespread acclaim.
Throughout his career, Rushing recorded numerous solo albums, showcasing his rich baritone voice and impeccable phrasing. Hits like “Sent for You Yesterday” and “Good Morning Blues” became emblematic of his style, solidifying his reputation as one of the preeminent vocalists in jazz history.
Rushing’s influence extended beyond his own recordings, as he collaborated with a myriad of jazz luminaries, including Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. His contributions earned him accolades such as induction into the Blues Hall of Fame and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Hall of Fame.
Even decades after his passing, Jimmy Rushing’s legacy endures, his recordings serving as a testament to his unparalleled talent and enduring impact on jazz and blues music.
5. Tyson Ritter
Tyson Ritter, born in Stillwater, Oklahoma, emerged as a prominent figure in the music scene as the lead vocalist and bassist for the popular rock band, The All-American Rejects. With his charismatic stage presence, distinctive voice, and songwriting prowess, Ritter played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and identity of the band.
Formed in 1999, The All-American Rejects rose to fame with their self-titled debut album in 2002, featuring hit singles like “Swing, Swing” and “The Last Song.” Ritter’s raw energy and emotive delivery brought a refreshing authenticity to the band’s music, resonating with audiences worldwide.
As The All-American Rejects continued to release successful albums such as “Move Along” and “When the World Comes Down,” Ritter’s talent as a frontman and lyricist became increasingly evident. Songs like “Gives You Hell” and “Dirty Little Secret” became anthems for a generation, earning the band widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Beyond his work with The All-American Rejects, Tyson Ritter has ventured into acting, appearing in films and television shows, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
With his contributions to music and entertainment, Tyson Ritter has solidified his place as one of the most notable figures to emerge from Oklahoma, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances and leaving an enduring impact on the music industry.
6. Cross Canadian Ragweed
Cross Canadian Ragweed, originally from Yukon, Oklahoma, gained widespread acclaim for their unique blend of country, rock, and Americana music. Formed in 1994, the band comprised Cody Canada, Grady Cross, Randy Ragsdale, and Jeremy Plato, with Canada serving as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter.
Their music resonated with audiences drawn to their honest lyrics, gritty sound, and high-energy performances. Cross Canadian Ragweed quickly gained a loyal following in the Texas and Oklahoma music scenes before expanding their reach nationally.
The band’s breakthrough came with albums like “Carney” and “Soul Gravy,” featuring hits such as “17,” “Alabama,” and “Boys from Oklahoma.” Their raw and authentic approach to songwriting, coupled with their infectious melodies, propelled them to the forefront of the Red Dirt music movement.
Despite their success, Cross Canadian Ragweed remained true to their roots, maintaining a fiercely independent spirit and a commitment to their loyal fan base. Their live shows became legendary, drawing crowds of devoted fans eager to experience their electrifying performances.
While the band disbanded in 2010, their legacy lives on through their music, which continues to inspire artists and fans alike. Cross Canadian Ragweed’s influence on the Red Dirt and Americana music scenes remains profound, cementing their status as one of the most influential bands to emerge from Oklahoma.
7. Wanda Jackson
Wanda Jackson, born in Maud, Oklahoma, emerged as a pioneering force in the realms of rockabilly and country music. With her distinctive voice, fiery stage presence, and trailblazing spirit, she carved out a unique niche in the male-dominated music industry of the 1950s and 1960s.
Nicknamed the “Queen of Rockabilly,” Jackson burst onto the scene in the mid-1950s with a string of hits that showcased her versatility as an artist. Songs like “Let’s Have a Party” and “Fujiyama Mama” became anthems of the era, blending elements of rock and roll with country twang in a style uniquely her own.
Her fearless attitude and pioneering role as a female rockabilly artist earned her widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Jackson’s influence extended beyond music, as she challenged gender norms and paved the way for future generations of female musicians.
In addition to her contributions to rockabilly, Wanda Jackson enjoyed success in the country music genre, with hits like “Right or Wrong” and “In the Middle of a Heartache.” Her ability to seamlessly transition between musical styles further solidified her status as a versatile and dynamic performer.
Decades after her debut, Wanda Jackson’s impact on music endures, with her pioneering spirit and enduring talent continuing to inspire artists and fans alike. Her legacy as one of the most influential figures in rockabilly and country music from Oklahoma remains firmly entrenched in music history.
8. Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood, hailing from Checotah, Oklahoma, stands as one of the most iconic and successful artists in country music history. Rising to fame as the winner of the fourth season of “American Idol” in 2005, Underwood’s powerful vocals and undeniable charisma quickly captivated audiences around the world.
Since her “American Idol” victory, Carrie Underwood has achieved unparalleled success in the music industry. Her debut album, “Some Hearts,” released in 2005, became the best-selling solo female debut album in country music history. It featured chart-topping hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats,” earning Underwood multiple Grammy Awards and widespread critical acclaim.
With subsequent albums like “Carnival Ride,” “Play On,” and “Blown Away,” Underwood continued to dominate the charts, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Her powerful vocals, coupled with her poignant songwriting, have solidified her status as one of the preeminent voices in country music.
Beyond her music career, Carrie Underwood has also found success as an actress, author, and philanthropist, using her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart.
With countless awards, multi-platinum albums, and sold-out tours to her name, Carrie Underwood’s impact on the country music genre is immeasurable. Her talent, work ethic, and unwavering dedication to her craft have earned her a permanent place in the pantheon of music legends from Oklahoma.
9. Lee Hazlewood
Lee Hazlewood, born in Mannford, Oklahoma, was a maverick singer-songwriter, producer, and influential figure in the realms of country, pop, and rock music. With his distinctive baritone voice and unique songwriting style, Hazlewood left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Hazlewood’s career began in the 1950s, initially as a songwriter and producer for artists like Duane Eddy. However, it was his collaboration with Nancy Sinatra in the 1960s that catapulted him to fame. Their iconic duets, including “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” and “Some Velvet Morning,” showcased Hazlewood’s talent for crafting enigmatic and atmospheric songs.
As a solo artist, Lee Hazlewood released a series of albums that showcased his singular blend of country, pop, and psychedelia. Hits like “Houston,” “The Girls in Paris,” and “Some Velvet Morning” cemented his reputation as a visionary artist with a knack for pushing musical boundaries.
Hazlewood’s influence extended beyond his own recordings, as he continued to produce and collaborate with a diverse array of artists, including Gram Parsons, Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin. His production work on albums like Nancy Sinatra’s “Boots” and Sanford Clark’s “The Fool” further solidified his reputation as a pioneering producer.
Despite his passing in 2007, Lee Hazlewood’s legacy endures, with his music continuing to inspire artists across genres. His innovative approach to songwriting and production, coupled with his unmistakable voice, ensure his place as one of the most influential musicians to emerge from Oklahoma.
10. Joe Diffie
Joe Diffie, born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was a beloved figure in the country music scene, renowned for his distinctive voice, catchy melodies, and down-to-earth lyrics. With a career spanning over three decades, Diffie left an indelible mark on the genre, earning numerous awards and accolades along the way.
Diffie rose to prominence in the early 1990s with a string of chart-topping hits that showcased his unique blend of traditional country and contemporary sounds. Songs like “Pickup Man,” “John Deere Green,” and “Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die)” became anthems for a generation, earning Diffie widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
His smooth baritone voice and relatable songwriting resonated with audiences, earning him multiple Grammy nominations and awards throughout his career. Diffie’s ability to infuse humor and honesty into his music endeared him to fans, solidifying his status as one of the most beloved artists in country music.
Beyond his solo career, Joe Diffie was a sought-after collaborator, lending his talents to duets with artists like Mary Chapin Carpenter and George Jones. His contributions to the genre were recognized with inductions into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry.
Despite his passing in 2020, Joe Diffie’s music continues to be cherished by fans old and new, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the most iconic voices to emerge from Oklahoma.