Oklahoma, a state in the southern United States, has been home to a number of famous singers over the years. From country music legends to rock and roll icons, Oklahoma has produced some of the most influential and talented musicians of the 20th and 21st centuries.
One of the most famous singers from Oklahoma is Garth Brooks, a country music superstar who has sold over 170 million records worldwide. Brooks was born in Tulsa and got his start performing in local bars and clubs.
Another notable singer from Oklahoma is Woody Guthrie, a folk singer and songwriter who wrote hundreds of songs about the struggles of working-class Americans. Guthrie was born in Okemah and became one of the most important voices in American folk music.
Other famous singers from Oklahoma include Reba McEntire, a country music icon who has won numerous awards and sold millions of records worldwide, and Blake Shelton, a country music singer and television personality who has become one of the most successful artists of his generation.
From Tulsa to Norman, Oklahoma has produced a diverse range of talented singers who have made their mark on the music industry. Their contributions have helped put Oklahoma on the map as a hub of musical talent and continue to inspire a new generation of musicians.
1. Blake Shelton
One of the most influential musical artists from Oklahoma is a multi-talented country singer-songwriter, Blake Shelton. With his chart-topping songs and captivating performances, Shelton has become a household name in the music industry. He has won numerous awards, including multiple Country Music Association Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards. Born in Ada, Oklahoma in 1976, Shelton started singing at an early age and released his first album at only 17 years old. With his signature deep voice and relatable lyrics, he quickly gained a devoted fan base that continues to grow to this day.
Along with his thriving music career, Shelton has also become a beloved television personality as a coach on the hit show "The Voice". Fans have seen him mentor aspiring singers and showcase his charming personality since 2011. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, he is also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes such as disaster relief and cancer research.
A unique fact about Shelton is that he was named People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive in 2017, adding another accomplishment to his long list of achievements.
Pro Tip: For aspiring singers from Oklahoma looking to make it big in the music industry like Blake Shelton did, continue honing your craft and surrounding yourself with supportive people who will help elevate your career.
Despite his love for America, Toby Keith still can't explain why he named his band 'Easy Money'.
2. Toby Keith
Toby Keith is a well-known singer, songwriter and actor hailing from the state of Oklahoma. With a successful career spanning several decades, he has recorded countless hits and even won numerous awards, including Billboard's Country Artist of the Decade. He has also ventured into acting, appearing in several films, including Broken Bridges and Beer for My Horses. Toby Keith's music is beloved by audiences of all ages and his influence on country music can still be heard today.
One interesting fact about Toby Keith is that he was a semi-professional football player before turning to music full-time. He played for the Oklahoma City Drillers and even earned a tryout with the Dallas Cowboys.
This talented musician has certainly left his mark on the world of country music and continues to inspire new generations of artists.
Chet Baker may be from Oklahoma, but his trumpet playing is out of this world – and I'm not just saying that because he was known for his drug use.
3. Chet Baker
Chet Baker, a renowned jazz musician and singer, hailing from Oklahoma. With his soulful voice and trumpet skills, he produced some of the most iconic jazz music of the mid-20th century. His contributions to the genre are unparalleled and can still be heard today in many forms of contemporary music. Chet's career lasted for several decades and saw him work with various prominent musicians across the world. Chet Baker will forever remain a legend in the world of jazz.
One of his most notable achievements is his timeless album "Chet Baker Sings." This album showcased his soothing voice and lyrical knowledge with songs like "That Old Feeling" and "My Funny Valentine." However, despite being an immensely successful artist, Chet struggled with addiction throughout his life, which ultimately led to his untimely demise at the age of 58 in Amsterdam.
It's worth noting that while Chet was born in Oklahoma, he spent much of his childhood moving around due to his family's circumstances until settling down in California. Despite this, Oklahoma takes pride in one of its finest musical exports and recognizes him as one of their own.
One story that resonates with Chet's artistic personality is when he was tasked with performing for prisoners in Italy. Despite being warned that it may not be safe for him, he took on the challenge and delivered a stunning performance to a captive audience. The incident shows how committed he was towards music and how powerful it can be even in adverse situations.
Reba McEntire may be from Oklahoma, but her voice could reach all the way to Texas!
4. Reba McEntire
With a career spanning over four decades, Reba McEntire is a legendary country music artist and actress from Oklahoma. The talented singer has released 33 studio albums and sold over 85 million records worldwide. She has won three Grammy Awards, the Country Music Association's Female Vocalist of the Year Award seven times, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2011.
McEntire began her career singing in honky-tonks with her siblings before being discovered by Red Steagall. Her breakthrough came with the release of her fourth studio album, "My Kind of Country," in 1984. Since then, she has earned immense fame for not only her great music but also her acting roles such as playing a single mother on the popular TV show "Reba."
It's worth noting that aside from music and acting, McEntire is also a successful entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a lifestyle brand and a line of cosmetics named after her.
In terms of career advice inspired by Reba McEntire's success story, it is essential to have a versatile skill set to succeed long-term. Additionally, investing in brand building can help develop multiple revenue sources beyond just music or acting careers.
If Garth Brooks was a vegetable, he'd be a corn-fed cowboy.
5. Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks, a renowned musician hailing from Oklahoma, is an icon in the country music industry. A singer, songwriter, and producer, he has sold millions of records worldwide and earned numerous awards for his contributions to the genre. Brooks' hits include "Friends in Low Places," "The Dance," and "If Tomorrow Never Comes."
Brooks' passion for music began at a young age when he learned to play the guitar and started performing at local venues. He went on to attend Oklahoma State University but dropped out to pursue his dream of becoming an artist in Nashville. After struggling initially, he found success with his debut album that went platinum several times over.
One unique aspect of Brooks' career is his alter ego, Chris Gaines. In 1999, he released a rock album under this pseudonym that garnered mixed reviews but showcased his versatility as an artist.
In one instance, Brooks was asked to perform the national anthem before a basketball game but was unable to hit the high note at the end due to illness. Instead of backing down or lip-syncing, he opted to start over and sing it again later in the game when he felt better.
Overall, Garth Brooks is a true legend in not only Oklahoma but also across the world for his undeniable talent and contributions to music.
Carrie Underwood may have started as an Oklahoma farm girl, but now she's a country music superstar and the reason we believe in love at fifth harmony.
6. Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood – A Stellar Voice from Oklahoma's Musical Industry
An American country singer, Carrie Underwood is a renowned name in the music industry. Her talents were first recognized when she won the fourth season of American Idol. She was born and raised in Muskogee, a city in Oklahoma that is well-known for producing several notable musicians.
Underwood's musical career boasts of soaring success as she has won numerous awards including seven Grammy Awards and Billboard Music Awards. She has also sold millions of records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling female artists in the music industry.
Although her success story is widely known, few people know that Underwood was declared the ACM Entertainer of the Year twice, making her the first female artist to achieve this feat since Barbara Mandrell 40 years ago.
Carrie Underwood continues to inspire many as one of the best country singers from Oklahoma with an established place in music history.
Vince Gill may be from Oklahoma, but with those angelic vocals, he's clearly heaven-sent.
7. Vince Gill
Vince Gill, a renowned singer, guitarist, and songwriter from Oklahoma, became famous for his exceptional talent in country music. With over 20 Grammys to his name, he has sold more than 26 million albums worldwide, making him one of the most successful country artists ever. Moreover, he has collaborated with many popular faces in music such as Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton and Sheryl Crow.
Gill has released numerous chart-topping albums throughout his career and enjoyed considerable success with songs like "Go Rest High on That Mountain," "Don't Let Our Love Start Slippin' Away" and "Liza Jane." In addition to his country music career, Gill had a brief appearance as a supporting vocalist for Pure Prairie League and worked alongside Dire Straits’ frontman Mark Knopfler on various projects.
Did you know that before making it big in the music industry, Gill used to sing backup vocals for Ricky Skaggs? His talent was quickly recognized by the likes of Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell who invited him to join their touring band. From there on out, Vince Gill's rise to becoming one of the greatest country artists this world has ever known was inevitable.
Looks like Oklahoma's got more than just tornadoes, they've also got the Followill brothers causing a storm on stage with Kings of Leon.
8. Nathan and Matthew Followill (Kings of Leon)
Nathan and Matthew Followill, siblings and members of the Grammy Award-winning band Kings of Leon, hail from Oklahoma. Their father, Ivan Followill, was a travelling Pentecostal preacher, which led to the brothers being raised all over the American South. They formed their band in Nashville, Tennessee, after meeting fellow musician Caleb Followill. The band's unique blend of Southern rock and garage rock has gained them a global following.
The Followill brothers are known for their high-energy live performances and distinctive style that includes leather jackets, tight jeans and impossibly cool haircuts. A fun fact about Matthew is that he is the band's lead guitarist and head of visuals – he creates much of the artwork you see on Kings of Leon merchandise. Nathan is the drummer for the band, and his solid beats anchor its music.
It's interesting to note that two other members of Kings of Leon are also related to Nathan and Matthew: cousin Cameron Followill plays percussion in many of their recordings while Jared Followill serves as the bassist. This family connection adds to the unique tightness and collaborative effort seen within this group.
Pro tip: Whether you're a fan or just discovering Kings of Leon for the first time, be sure to check out some of their lesser-known songs like "Arizona" or "Fans". You may be surprised at what gems you find!
Who knew that the prairies of Oklahoma could produce both tornadoes and catchy pop songs? Taylor and Isaac Hanson certainly did.
9. Taylor and Isaac Hanson
Sibling musicians, hailing from Tulsa, have achieved global success in the music industry. Hanson brothers Taylor and Isaac possess impressive vocal abilities and can be categorized as some of Oklahoma's most prominent singers. Their career spanned over three decades, releasing multiple chart-topping hits such as "MMMBop" and "Where's the Love". Their harmonious melodies are interspersed with rock, pop and folk influences which set them apart from others. In addition to their exceptional talents, they have established a reputation as philanthropists through their charity work with 'Take The Walk' foundation which generates awareness about world poverty.
Iowa may have its corn, but Oklahoma had Lee Hazelwood, the ultimate crooner and cornball all in one.
10. Lee Hazelwood
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sb-SVPJM4L4&pp=ygUOIExlZSBIYXplbHdvb2Q%3D
Lee Hazelwood was a renowned singer and songwriter born in Oklahoma. He was a prolific producer for a variety of artists in the 1950s and 60s. Hazelwood had his breakthrough success with Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'". His signature baritone voice and ability to write music that blended country, rock, pop, and folk genres made him one of the most talented musicians in America.
Apart from his musical talent, Hazelwood also had an impressive career as an actor. He appeared on TV and film sets between the 60s-90s, including shows such as The Love Boat and The Simpsons. However, his passion remained in music production, where he collaborated with several notable artists like Frank Sinatra Jr., Ann-Margret, and the Everly Brothers.
Hazelwood is also known for his eccentric personality–he often smoked cigarettes while singing in the studio or riding horses while producing music! His unique perspective became apparent when he created a concept album titled "Cowboy In Sweden," featuring dreamlike songs that captured his experiences visiting Scandinavian countries.
Lee Hazelwood's contribution to American music remains unparalleled even after his passing away in 2007. His legacy inspires many aspiring singers today who aspire to make their mark on the industry like he did decades ago.