Oklahoma’s Rich Musical Heritage: The Top 10 Most Popular Singers
1. Garth Brooks
Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Garth Brooks is a country music icon who revolutionized the genre in the ’90s by blending honky-tonk with rock and pop elements. His energetic live performances, complete with pyrotechnics and stage dives, redefined what it meant to be a country star. With hits like "Friends in Low Places" and "The Dance," Brooks became a household name, selling over 170 million albums worldwide.
2. Reba McEntire
Known as the "Queen of Country," Reba McEntire has been a dominant force in country music since the 1980s. Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, Reba’s rich voice and emotional storytelling set her apart. Her career exploded with hits like "Fancy" and "Is There Life Out There," showcasing her ability to tackle complex themes of empowerment, love, and hardship.
3. Carrie Underwood
After winning American Idol in 2005, Carrie Underwood’s rise to superstardom was meteoric. Hailing from the small town of Checotah, Oklahoma, this vocal powerhouse quickly became one of country music’s leading ladies. Her debut single, "Jesus, Take the Wheel," set the tone for a career defined by powerful ballads and emotionally charged storytelling.
4. Blake Shelton
Blake Shelton’s deep, gravelly voice and charming Oklahoma drawl have made him one of country music’s biggest stars. Born in Ada, Oklahoma, Shelton rose to fame in the early 2000s with his debut single "Austin," a heartfelt ballad that topped the charts. Since then, he’s racked up hit after hit, including "God’s Country" and "Honey Bee."
5. Woody Guthrie
Few musicians have had as profound an impact on American music and culture as Woody Guthrie. Born in Okemah, Oklahoma, Guthrie became the voice of working-class America during the Great Depression. His most famous song, "This Land Is Your Land," is an enduring anthem of social justice and unity.
6. Toby Keith
Toby Keith, born in Clinton, Oklahoma, epitomizes the modern country music superstar. Known for his larger-than-life personality and patriotic anthems, Keith’s breakout hit "Should’ve Been a Cowboy" launched a career marked by chart-topping singles and sold-out stadium tours.
7. Vince Gill
Vince Gill is one of the most respected and versatile musicians in country music. Born in Norman, Oklahoma, Gill is known for his smooth tenor voice and exceptional guitar skills. With hits like "Go Rest High on That Mountain" and "Whenever You Come Around," Gill has consistently delivered heartfelt ballads and poignant lyrics throughout his career.
8. Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth is a Broadway sensation and a vocal powerhouse, known for her incredible range and effervescent personality. Born in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Chenoweth became a star on Broadway, particularly for her Tony Award-winning role in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and her iconic portrayal of Glinda in Wicked.
9. J.J. Cale
J.J. Cale may not have been a household name during his lifetime, but his laid-back style and signature "Tulsa Sound" left an indelible mark on rock music. Born in Oklahoma City, Cale’s influence can be heard in the music of legends like Eric Clapton, who covered Cale’s songs "Cocaine" and "After Midnight."
10. Ronnie Dunn
Ronnie Dunn, half of the iconic country duo Brooks & Dunn, is another Oklahoma-born star who has left an indelible mark on the genre. Raised in Tulsa, Dunn’s powerful voice helped propel the duo to massive success in the 1990s with hits like "Boot Scootin’ Boogie" and "My Maria."
Conclusion
Oklahoma has produced some of the most iconic voices in the music industry, showcasing the state’s rich musical heritage. From country to rock to Broadway, these Oklahoma-born artists have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique sounds and unforgettable performances.
FAQs
Q: What is Oklahoma’s most famous musical contribution?
A: Oklahoma’s most famous musical contribution is probably Woody Guthrie, who became the voice of working-class America during the Great Depression.
Q: Who is the most successful country artist from Oklahoma?
A: Garth Brooks is arguably the most successful country artist from Oklahoma, with over 170 million albums sold worldwide.
Q: Which Oklahoma-born artist has won the most awards?
A: Vince Gill has won over 20 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most awarded artists in country music history.
Q: Who is the lead singer of the country duo Brooks & Dunn?
A: Ronnie Dunn is the lead singer of the country duo Brooks & Dunn.
