Oklahoma has been a source of musical inspiration for many artists, ranging from folk music to country-western.
This article will explore 14 of the best songs about Oklahoma that have been released in the last few decades.
These songs are all representative of different musical genres, and they demonstrate the range of emotions and experiences associated with the state.
Each song captures something unique about Oklahoma and provides an interesting insight into the culture of the state.
All of these songs provide a unique insight into the culture and emotions associated with Oklahoma.
1. “Blown Away” by Carrie Underwood
“Blown Away” by Carrie Underwood is an emotive country song that paints an evocative atmosphere of life in rural Oklahoma.
The lyrics evoke imagery of a tornado passing through the area while also exploring the narrator’s struggle with the loss of a loved one.
Underwood’s vocals are powerful and her delivery is passionate, conveying a sense of sadness and longing.
Musically, the song is a traditional country arrangement that includes steel guitar, fiddle, and banjo, providing a backdrop that is both stirring and captivating.
Overall, “Blown Away” is an emotive ballad that provides an honest reflection of the struggles faced by those living in rural Oklahoma.
2. “My Oklahoma Home” by Bruce Springsteen & The Seeger Sessions Band
Drawing from the folk-rock of Bruce Springsteen & The Seeger Sessions Band, “My Oklahoma Home” captures the spirit and beauty of life in the Sooner State.
From its twangy guitar licks to its sentimental lyrics, the song paints an impressionistic image of the region’s prairies, wheat fields, and open sky.
It is an ode to the area’s strong sense of community and resilience in the face of challenges.
The song’s upbeat tone conveys a sense of hope and optimism for the future.
3. “You’re the Reason God Made Oklahoma” by David Frizzell and Shelly West
David Frizzell and Shelly West’s “You’re the Reason God Made Oklahoma” is an upbeat country duet that celebrates the beauty and spirit of the Sooner State.
The song’s lyrics are filled with images of nature, from the wind blowing through the plains to the red dirt roads that seem to stretch on forever.
The lyrics also emphasize the sense of community and connection that Oklahomans share with each other and the land they live on.
The song’s joyful melody and harmony capture the state’s unique spirit and provide a fitting tribute to the prairies and people of Oklahoma.
4. “Tell Me Something Bad About Tulsa” by George Strait
George Strait‘s “Tell Me Something Bad About Tulsa” is a song that provides a unique perspective on the city of Tulsa, Oklahoma, through its lyrics and arrangement.
The song’s narrator, who is a native of Tulsa, expresses frustration and disappointment in his hometown, while also acknowledging its potential for growth and development.
The song’s instrumentation of acoustic guitar, pedal steel guitar, and fiddle drive the melancholy of the lyrics and capture the nostalgia of the narrator’s hometown.
The narrator’s affinity for Tulsa is palpable in the lyrics and the song serves as an ode to the city he loves.
5. “Fly Over States” by Jason Aldean
Jason Aldean’s “Fly Over States” is a song that emphasizes the importance of connecting with people who live in rural communities and the struggles they face.
The song’s lyrics focus on the idea of how these communities are often overlooked by the rest of the country and how they are often forgotten.
Aldean’s use of vivid imagery and poignant storytelling highlights the importance of recognizing the struggles of those living in rural Oklahoma.
The song is a reminder of the importance of recognizing the importance of people who live in rural areas and the value of their contributions to society.
6. “Oklahoma-Texas Line” by Rascal Flatts
Building on the previous subtopic, “Fly Over States” by Jason Aldean, “Oklahoma-Texas Line” by Rascal Flatts is another song that captures the spirit of Oklahoma.
It is a country song that celebrates the state as a place of freedom and belonging.
The song speaks to the line that separates the two states and how both Oklahomans and Texans have a strong sense of home and pride.
The song is well-crafted and speaks to the unique spirit of the region.
7. “Oklahoma Swing” by Vince Gill
Vince Gill’s “Oklahoma Swing” is a country song that celebrates the state of Oklahoma and its unique culture, depicting it as a place of fun and freedom.
The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for the past, while its upbeat melody creates a sense of joy and hope for the future.
The theme of the song is that Oklahoma has always been a place of opportunity and good times, and it is this that makes it a special place for those who call it home.
The song reflects the state’s rural roots and its strong sense of community, while also conveying a message of optimism for the future.
8. “Okie From Muskogee” by Merle Haggard & The Strangers
Merle Haggard & The Strangers’ “Okie From Muskogee” is an iconic country song that celebrates the traditional values of small-town life in Oklahoma.
It is a song that symbolizes the pride and strength of Oklahomans and their dedication to family, religion, and patriotism.
The upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a timeless classic that speaks to the love and loyalty of the Oklahoma people.
The lyrics are a celebration of the traditional values that still exist in Oklahoma today.
It is a song that has become a proud anthem for the state.
9. “Tulsa Time” by Don Williams
“Tulsa Time” by Don Williams is a classic country song that captures the spirit of Oklahoma living in the late 1970s.
It is an upbeat, catchy tune that expresses the joys of life in a small town.
The song portrays Oklahoma as a place where people can find happiness and contentment, and where the joys of life can be found in the simple things.
It is a timeless reminder of the happiness that can be found in Oklahoma, no matter the era.
10. “If You’re Ever in Oklahoma” by J.J. Cale
Following the classic country-style sound of Don Williams’ “Tulsa Time”, J.J. Cale’s “If You’re Ever in Oklahoma” provides a unique perspective on the Sooner State.
Taking a melodic approach, Cale’s song paints a picture of Oklahoma’s wide open spaces and serene landscapes.
With its catchy lyrics and memorable chorus, “If You’re Ever in Oklahoma” is sure to become a staple in any Oklahoma-themed playlist.
11. “No U in Oklahoma” by Reba McEntire
Reba McEntire’s “No U in Oklahoma” is a joyous celebration of the state’s enduring spirit and resilience.
An acoustic arrangement of power chords and a driving beat drives the lyrical message home.
The song evokes imagery of the state’s rugged beauty, such as the plains and red dirt, and the strength of the people living there.
The lyrics are bold and unapologetic, urging the listener to stand up to adversity and not give in.
Through its uplifting message and catchy melody, “No U in Oklahoma” reminds us that Oklahoma is a special place that will never be forgotten.
12. “Tulsa Sounds Like Trouble to Me” by Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
The song “No U in Oklahoma” by Reba McEntire speaks to the sense of pride that Oklahomans have in their state.
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s “Tulsa Sounds Like Trouble to Me” is another popular example of the state’s musical pride.
The song is an upbeat, humorous take on the city of Tulsa.
It references the city’s wild nightlife and its location in the middle of Tornado Alley.
The catchy chorus and lively instrumentals evoke an atmosphere of adventure that is sure to draw listeners in.
13. “Tulsa Jesus Freak” by Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s “Tulsa Jesus Freak” is an evocative exploration of faith and redemption in the American Midwest.v
The song paints a vivid picture of a person’s journey from despair to hope, as they make a pilgrimage to Tulsa in search of something greater.
The lyrics are filled with religious imagery and references, exploring the power of faith and the potential of redemption.
Musically, the song is haunting, with a melancholic melody and a sparse arrangement that helps to create a powerful atmosphere of emotion and reflection.
It is a powerful and thoughtful exploration of faith, redemption, and the journey of life.
14. “Twenty Four Hours From Tulsa” by Gene Pitney
Transitioning from Lana Del Rey’s “Tulsa Jesus Freak”, the classic song “Twenty Four Hours From Tulsa” by Gene Pitney similarly speaks about the feelings of nostalgia and regret for leaving Tulsa behind.
The song’s lyrics are simple yet profound, as they capture the sense of longing to return to the city after being away.
The song’s instrumentation is classic 1960s pop, with a driving, upbeat tempo and prominent string section.
The song’s overall structure emphasizes the feeling of yearning for the past, creating a powerful emotional impact.
Best Songs About Oklahoma – Final Thoughts
Oklahoma is home to many musical artists who have written and performed songs about the state.
From Carrie Underwood’s “Blown Away” to Bruce Springsteen and The Seeger Sessions Band’s “My Oklahoma Home”, to Jason Aldean’s “Fly Over States”, to Lana Del Rey’s “Tulsa Jesus Freak”, there are a variety of songs about Oklahoma to choose from.
These songs capture the unique spirit of the state and provide listeners with an opportunity to reflect on their own experiences in Oklahoma.
Through these songs, Oklahoma’s history, culture, and landscape come to life.
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