Oklahoma may be known for its sweeping plains and Sooner pride, but it’s also the birthplace of some of the most iconic voices in music history. From the heart of the heartland, this great state has produced a powerhouse lineup of singers who’ve conquered country charts, jazz clubs, Broadway stages, and global arenas. Whether it’s the thunderous energy of a Garth Brooks stadium show, the emotional storytelling of Reba McEntire, or the silky jazz tones of Chet Baker, these artists share one thing in common: Oklahoma roots that run deep. This isn’t just a list of stars—it’s a celebration of voices that have shaped genres, inspired generations, and proudly represented the Sooner State on the world stage. These legends and trailblazers didn’t just rise to fame—they carried a piece of Oklahoma with them every step of the way. So whether you’re a die-hard country fan, a jazz aficionado, or just love a good origin story, you’re in for a treat. Get ready to explore the top 10 most popular famous singers from Oklahoma—artists who prove that some of the world’s loudest and most unforgettable voices come from the quietest places. Let the music (and the pride) begin!
1. Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks didn’t just dominate country music—he reshaped it entirely. Born in Tulsa and raised in Yukon, Oklahoma, Brooks fused the heart of classic country with the power and theatrics of arena rock, creating a sound and stage presence that electrified the genre in the 1990s. With more than 150 million albums sold worldwide, he stands among the best-selling musical artists of all time—across any genre. His groundbreaking records like No Fences and Ropin’ the Wind weren’t just hits; they were cultural moments that expanded country music’s reach to new audiences. Garth brought a new level of energy and emotion to country, with anthems like “Friends in Low Places” and “The Dance” connecting with fans across generations. He’s known for his marathon live shows, boundless charisma, and a voice that can roar or whisper depending on the moment. Despite his massive success, Garth never lost sight of where he came from. His Oklahoma upbringing remains a core part of his identity—something he wears like a badge of honor. Whether filling stadiums or pausing his career to focus on family, Brooks embodies authenticity, passion, and heart. He’s not just from Oklahoma—he is Oklahoma: bold, enduring, and undeniably one of a kind.
2. Reba McEntire
Reba McEntire is a force of nature—an icon whose fiery red hair matches her spirit, tenacity, and powerful voice. Raised on a cattle ranch in McAlester, Oklahoma, Reba’s roots run deep in country soil. She started singing at rodeos and local events, eventually catching the attention of Nashville with her crystal-clear tone and heartfelt delivery. Since then, she’s become nothing short of country music royalty. With over four decades of hits like “Fancy,” “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia,” and “Is There Life Out There,” Reba has carved out a place in music history with her storytelling prowess and emotional range. But her talents go far beyond the stage. Reba has shone on TV in her beloved sitcom Reba, taken Broadway by storm in Annie Get Your Gun, and built a business empire that includes fashion and lifestyle brands. Yet through it all, she’s stayed grounded in the values she learned back home—hard work, humility, and heart. Her warmth, wit, and wisdom have made her a role model for generations of women in country and beyond. Reba McEntire isn’t just a star—she’s a trailblazer who carries Oklahoma’s soul into everything she does.
3. Blake Shelton
Blake Shelton is the definition of modern country charisma, blending small-town Oklahoma charm with national star power. Born in Ada, Shelton was writing songs by the time he was a teenager, and his breakout came fast when “Austin” hit No. 1 in 2001. Since then, he’s become one of the most consistent hitmakers in country music, known for songs like “God Gave Me You,” “Boys ’Round Here,” and “Nobody But You.” With his smooth baritone voice, playful humor, and relatable lyrics, Blake brings a fresh energy to the genre. But it’s not just his music that’s made him a household name. As a longtime coach on The Voice, he introduced a wider audience to his down-home personality, nurturing young artists with a mix of tough love and genuine encouragement. Despite his fame, Shelton’s ties to Oklahoma remain strong. He frequently returns home and opened his Ole Red venues as a tribute to his roots. His high-profile relationship with Gwen Stefani may have added Hollywood flair to his life, but Blake’s heart has always been on the dirt roads and open fields of his home state. He’s living proof that Oklahoma pride and country stardom go hand in hand.
4. Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood’s rise from Checotah, Oklahoma, to global superstardom is one of the most inspiring stories in modern music. Winning American Idol in 2005 was just the beginning—her debut album Some Hearts shattered records and introduced the world to a voice that was both angelic and commanding. With powerhouse hits like “Before He Cheats,” “Church Bells,” and “Blown Away,” she quickly became one of country’s most dominant voices. Carrie blends vocal perfection with an emotional intensity that resonates far beyond genre lines, incorporating elements of gospel, pop, and rock into her sound. Her strong Christian faith, passion for fitness, and commitment to philanthropy show there’s more to her than the spotlight—she’s grounded in the values she grew up with. Carrie has never forgotten her roots, often giving back to her hometown and referencing her upbringing with deep gratitude. With multiple Grammy Awards, platinum records, and a powerful presence on stage and screen, she’s more than a country star—she’s a cultural icon. Whether performing at the Grand Ole Opry or hosting the CMAs, Carrie brings grace, grit, and vocal fire. She’s proof that even from the smallest towns, greatness can rise—and carry Oklahoma’s heart with it all the way to the top.
5. Toby Keith
Toby Keith was a true American original—bold, outspoken, and unapologetically proud of where he came from. Raised in Moore, Oklahoma, after being born in Clinton, Keith embodied the spirit of the working man and brought that blue-collar ethos to country music with unmatched confidence. He burst onto the scene in the early ’90s with “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” which quickly became one of the most-played country songs of the decade. Over the years, Toby delivered hit after hit—“I Love This Bar,” “As Good as I Once Was,” and the fiercely patriotic “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.” His songs were often gritty, funny, and heartfelt, packed with plainspoken truths and sharp-tongued humor. But beyond the music, Keith was a tireless supporter of U.S. troops, performing on countless USO tours and earning the respect of soldiers and fans alike. He also proved to be a savvy businessman, building an empire that included restaurants, a record label, and a loyal fan base. Even in the face of personal battles, including cancer, Toby never stopped representing Oklahoma with pride. Until his passing in 2024, he stood as a voice for the underdog, a country legend, and one of the state’s proudest sons.
6. Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth is a radiant star who proves that big voices can come from small towns. Born and raised in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, she grew up singing gospel music in church before earning a master’s degree in opera performance. That classical training gave her voice its unmistakable clarity and control, but it was Broadway where Kristin truly found her spotlight. Her breakout role as Glinda in Wicked made her a theater icon, with her comedic timing and vocal agility dazzling audiences night after night. She won a Tony Award for You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and has charmed fans in TV roles on Glee, Pushing Daisies, and holiday specials that show off her boundless energy and charm. Kristin’s appeal lies in her versatility—she floats effortlessly between musical theater, pop concerts, TV comedy, and heartfelt ballads. Yet despite her fame, she remains deeply connected to Oklahoma, frequently returning home to mentor young performers and support local arts programs. She’s never shied away from her faith, her roots, or her small-town values, all of which shine through in her work. With heart, humor, and a soprano that can soar into the stratosphere, Kristin Chenoweth continues to make Oklahoma proud—one note at a time.
7. Wayman Tisdale
Wayman Tisdale lived not one but two extraordinary lives—first as a basketball phenom, then as a beloved jazz musician. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Tisdale was a dominant force on the court at the University of Oklahoma, where he became a three-time All-American. He went on to have a solid NBA career, but his true passion was always music. After retiring from basketball, Tisdale picked up the bass guitar and found his second calling in smooth jazz. His debut album, Power Forward, was more than just a clever nod to his hoops career—it marked the beginning of a soulful, groove-driven musical journey. Albums like Face to Face and Way Up! showcased his warm, melodic style and infectious positivity. Even after battling cancer and losing part of his leg, Tisdale continued to perform with joy and resilience, inspiring fans with his unwavering spirit. He passed away in 2009, but his music—and the energy he brought to everything he did—lives on. Wayman Tisdale wasn’t just a gifted athlete or a talented musician; he was a beacon of optimism, a Tulsa treasure, and a testament to how far passion can take you when talent meets heart.
8. J.J. Cale
J.J. Cale was the quiet architect of a sound that would ripple through rock, blues, and country for decades. Born in Oklahoma City and raised in Tulsa, Cale pioneered what became known as the “Tulsa Sound”—a cool, understated blend of laid-back grooves, bluesy guitar licks, and country storytelling. He never chased the limelight, preferring a low-key lifestyle and sparse production style that let the music speak for itself. Though his own name wasn’t always in bright lights, Cale’s songwriting had an outsized influence. Hits like “After Midnight” and “Cocaine,” made famous by Eric Clapton, introduced millions to his unique voice and minimalist touch. Albums like Naturally and Okie embodied a vibe that was raw, real, and unmistakably his. Cale’s music wasn’t flashy, but it had a hypnotic groove and a soulful honesty that drew deep respect from fellow musicians, including Neil Young and Mark Knopfler. He remained rooted in Oklahoma’s musical soil, helping put Tulsa on the map as a creative hub. J.J. Cale was a master of restraint—a musician’s musician whose whisper carried the emotional weight of a shout. His legacy is timeless, subtle, and eternally cool.
9. Vince Gill
Vince Gill is the gold standard of country musicianship—a soulful singer, gifted guitarist, and masterful songwriter whose talent runs as deep as his Oklahoma roots. Born in Norman, he grew up playing bluegrass before making the leap into mainstream country in the late 1980s. His breakthrough album When I Call Your Name introduced the world to his warm tenor voice and sensitive, heartfelt lyrics. Since then, Gill has become one of country’s most decorated artists, with over 20 Grammy Awards—more than any other male country performer. Songs like “Go Rest High on That Mountain” and “Whenever You Come Around” showcase not just his vocal beauty, but also his emotional intelligence and spiritual depth. He’s collaborated with legends across genres, from Dolly Parton to the Eagles, who invited him to join the band after Glenn Frey’s passing—a testament to his respect in the industry. Despite his accolades, Gill remains remarkably humble and often credits his Oklahoma upbringing for his grounded nature. Whether playing a sold-out arena or a charity fundraiser, Vince Gill brings grace, musicianship, and authenticity to every note. He’s not just a star—he’s a craftsman and one of the most beloved figures in American music.
10. Chet Baker
Chet Baker was the embodiment of jazz cool—a musician whose sound felt like a late-night confession, full of longing and fragile beauty. Born in the small town of Yale, Oklahoma, Baker began playing trumpet at an early age and quickly showed a talent that would catapult him into jazz stardom. In the 1950s, he became a key figure in the West Coast jazz scene, his smooth, lyrical playing and soft, introspective vocals setting him apart. His version of “My Funny Valentine” remains one of the most haunting recordings in jazz history. With his matinee-idol looks and emotionally raw style, Baker seemed to float between genius and tragedy. His life was marked by turbulence—addiction, jail time, and personal struggles—but his music always retained an aching honesty. He continued recording and performing up until his death in 1988, leaving behind a body of work that still inspires musicians and listeners alike. While much of his career was spent in California and Europe, the emotional clarity and sensitivity in his playing always echoed the wide-open loneliness of his Oklahoma roots. Chet Baker wasn’t just a great trumpeter—he was a poet of sound, and one of the most enduring voices in jazz.
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.
