31 Greatest & Most Famous Songs About Oklahoma (Must Hear)

Oklahoma has long been a source of inspiration for musicians across genres, with its expansive landscapes, resilient people, and rich history offering plenty of material for songwriters.

Whether it’s the raw emotion of Red Dirt music, the twang of country, or the rebellious spirit of rockabilly, songs about Oklahoma reflect the unique culture and character of the state.

From ballads that celebrate the land to anthems of small-town life, these tracks capture the essence of what it means to live in or be connected to Oklahoma. The state’s deep musical roots are evident in every song, resonating with listeners far beyond its borders.

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This list showcases Oklahoma’s rich musical influence across country, Red Dirt, rock, folk, and more, celebrating the state’s deep cultural and geographical connections.

Here’s a list of 31 songs about Oklahoma, featuring tracks that reference the state directly or evoke its culture, geography, and history:

#1 “Okie from Muskogee” by Merle Haggard

“Okie from Muskogee” is one of Merle Haggard’s most iconic songs, celebrating traditional small-town values in Oklahoma. Written during a time of cultural upheaval in America, the song reflects the pride and straightforwardness of rural life in Oklahoma, contrasting it with the counterculture movements of the 1960s. Haggard sings from the perspective of someone proud to live in a place like Muskogee, where people honor country traditions, respect authority, and value simplicity.

The song has become an anthem for those who identify with its portrayal of a hardworking, no-nonsense Oklahoma lifestyle. “Okie from Muskogee” captures the heart of Oklahoma’s cultural identity, where pride in one’s roots runs deep.

#2 “Take Me Back to Tulsa” by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys

Bob Wills’ “Take Me Back to Tulsa” is a lively Western swing number that pays tribute to one of Oklahoma’s most important cities. Tulsa was a key center for Western swing, and this song reflects the excitement and energy of that era. Wills, known as the King of Western Swing, blends fiddle, guitar, and infectious rhythms to capture the spirit of Tulsa’s vibrant music scene.

The song’s upbeat tempo and joyful lyrics create a nostalgic longing for a return to a simpler time in a place rich with musical history. “Take Me Back to Tulsa” is a love letter to Oklahoma’s cultural landscape, cementing Tulsa’s role in shaping American music.

#3 “God’s Country” by Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton’s “God’s Country” is a powerful anthem that evokes the beauty and ruggedness of rural America, particularly reflecting his deep connection to Oklahoma. The song’s imagery of fields, rivers, and storms brings to mind the wild landscapes of Oklahoma, where nature’s raw beauty meets the simplicity of country life. Shelton, a native of Ada, Oklahoma, imbues the song with personal significance, drawing on his own experiences of growing up in the state.

With its driving beat and soulful chorus, “God’s Country” celebrates the connection between land, faith, and tradition. The song captures the spirit of Oklahoma, where Shelton’s roots are firmly planted.

#4 “Crazy Mama” by J.J. Cale

“Crazy Mama” by Tulsa native J.J. Cale is a laid-back, bluesy track that showcases the signature “Tulsa sound,” a unique blend of rock, country, and blues. Cale’s smooth guitar riffs and relaxed vocals make the song feel effortless, yet it carries the distinct musical influence of Oklahoma’s Red Dirt and blues scenes. The song doesn’t explicitly mention Oklahoma, but its sound is steeped in the laid-back, sun-soaked atmosphere of Tulsa’s music culture.

Cale’s understated style made him a legend in his home state, influencing countless musicians. “Crazy Mama” captures the easygoing charm of Oklahoma’s music heritage, blending genres in a way that feels natural and timeless.

#5 “The Thunder Rolls” by Garth Brooks

“The Thunder Rolls” by Garth Brooks is a dramatic country ballad that reflects Oklahoma’s volatile weather, particularly its legendary thunderstorms. Brooks, an Oklahoma native, infuses the song with the emotional intensity of a brewing storm, using the thunder as a metaphor for the turbulence in a crumbling relationship. The song’s haunting melody and powerful lyrics create an atmosphere that mirrors the fierce, unpredictable nature of Oklahoma’s weather.

Brooks captures the essence of Oklahoma, where storms are a natural part of life, and emotions often mirror the wild forces of nature. “The Thunder Rolls” is both a story of heartbreak and a tribute to the state’s awe-inspiring power.

#6 “Oklahoma!” by Rodgers & Hammerstein

The title song from Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical Oklahoma! is a joyful celebration of the state’s pioneering spirit. Set during the time of Oklahoma’s push toward statehood, the musical captures the optimism and determination of the people who shaped the region. The song “Oklahoma!” features a rousing melody and uplifting lyrics, celebrating the vast, open landscapes and the strong sense of community that defines the state.

The song has become synonymous with Oklahoma’s identity, embodying the pride and resilience of its people. As the state song of Oklahoma, it remains a powerful reminder of the state’s rich history and its place in American culture.

#7 “Comal County Blue” by Jason Boland & The Stragglers

“Comal County Blue” by Jason Boland & The Stragglers may focus on Texas, but Boland’s Oklahoma roots shine through in the song’s Red Dirt influences. The song captures the reflective nature of small-town life, a theme familiar to the open landscapes of Oklahoma. Boland, an Oklahoma native, brings a raw authenticity to the song’s exploration of love, heartache, and wide, dusty roads that are emblematic of the region’s spirit.

The Red Dirt music scene, born in Oklahoma, is infused in Boland’s storytelling, blending traditional country sounds with a modern edge. Though “Comal County Blue” mentions Texas, its soul lies in Oklahoma’s earthy roots and culture of rugged individualism.

#8 “Do You Realize??” by The Flaming Lips

“Do You Realize??” by The Flaming Lips, Oklahoma City’s beloved psychedelic rock band, transcends its dreamy soundscape to become one of the state’s most iconic songs. Lead singer Wayne Coyne’s reflective lyrics on life, love, and mortality have resonated deeply with fans around the world, but the song holds special significance in Oklahoma. The song was even declared the official state rock song of Oklahoma in 2009, showing how deeply embedded it is in the state’s identity.

Its emotional depth and ethereal composition reflect the expansive landscapes and limitless skies of Oklahoma. “Do You Realize??” taps into the existential beauty of life, making it a timeless anthem with roots in the heartland.

#9 “Fancy” by Reba McEntire

Though “Fancy” is not explicitly about Oklahoma, Reba McEntire’s upbringing in the state informs her storytelling and emotional delivery. The song tells the story of a woman overcoming her harsh upbringing to become something greater, a theme that resonates with Oklahoma’s history of resilience and perseverance. Reba’s powerful voice and storytelling ability bring to life the struggle of rural poverty, a challenge faced by many in the state.

“Fancy” reflects McEntire’s own journey from small-town Oklahoma to international stardom, making it not just a personal triumph but a nod to the Oklahoma values of hard work and determination. Her roots in the state give the song its authenticity and grit.

#10 “Oklahoma Borderline” by Vince Gill

“Oklahoma Borderline” by Vince Gill is a song about escape and return, centered around the idea of crossing state lines to find freedom or solace. Gill, an Oklahoma native, blends classic country storytelling with heartfelt emotion, capturing the tension between wanting to leave and the pull of home. The song’s lively tempo and honky-tonk flair reflect the energy and pride associated with Oklahoma’s musical tradition.

Gill’s smooth voice and connection to his home state make the song a tribute to the Oklahoma experience, where the borderlines are more than just physical—they’re emotional and symbolic of personal growth. “Oklahoma Borderline” is a celebration of where you come from, even when you wander far from it.

#11 “Good Lord Lorrie” by Turnpike Troubadours

“Good Lord Lorrie” by Oklahoma’s Turnpike Troubadours is a quintessential Red Dirt song that captures the emotional intensity of love and heartache in small-town America. The song is rich in Oklahoma imagery, with lyrics that speak to the lifestyle and culture of the state’s rural communities. Lead singer Evan Felker’s storytelling draws listeners into a love story steeped in longing and regret, with the open roads and big skies of Oklahoma serving as a backdrop.

The Turnpike Troubadours, one of Oklahoma’s most beloved bands, embody the state’s independent spirit, and “Good Lord Lorrie” is a testament to the emotional depth of the Red Dirt genre. The song blends traditional country with the grit of Oklahoma life.

#12 “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” by Toby Keith

Toby Keith’s “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” reflects the cowboy spirit that is synonymous with Oklahoma’s cultural identity. Keith, born in Moore, Oklahoma, taps into the nostalgia for the Wild West, weaving a narrative about what it means to live freely and bravely, as many Oklahoma settlers did. The song’s lively, upbeat tempo and country swagger make it a tribute to the cowboy archetype that still holds a special place in Oklahoma’s heart.

“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” celebrates the rugged, adventurous lifestyle that Oklahoma’s history is built on, where open prairies and wide horizons invite people to dream big and live boldly. Keith’s Oklahoma roots give the song its authenticity and charm.

#13 “Oklahoma Breakdown” by Stoney LaRue

“Oklahoma Breakdown” by Stoney LaRue is a staple of the Red Dirt music scene, with a laid-back, bluesy sound that perfectly captures the essence of Oklahoma life. The song tells the story of love, loss, and finding solace in the familiar surroundings of Oklahoma. LaRue’s gravelly voice and the song’s mellow rhythm evoke the feeling of sitting on a porch during a warm Oklahoma evening, reflecting on life’s ups and downs.

As a key figure in the Red Dirt genre, LaRue brings Oklahoma’s unique musical style to the forefront with “Oklahoma Breakdown,” a song that has become an anthem for fans of the state’s independent music culture. It’s a song that feels like home to anyone with ties to Oklahoma.

#14 “Boys from Oklahoma” by Cross Canadian Ragweed

“Boys from Oklahoma” by Cross Canadian Ragweed is a raucous, fun song that celebrates the carefree spirit of Oklahoma’s Red Dirt culture. The song is filled with humorous, tongue-in-cheek lyrics about a group of Oklahoma boys who live life on their own terms, embracing the rebellious, independent ethos that defines the state’s musical scene. With its infectious energy and down-home feel, “Boys from Oklahoma” captures the camaraderie and pride that come with being from the Sooner State.

Cross Canadian Ragweed, one of the pioneers of the Red Dirt genre, uses this song to highlight the laid-back, no-nonsense attitude that is so deeply ingrained in Oklahoma’s culture. It’s a lighthearted anthem for anyone who calls Oklahoma home.

#15 “Hang Me in the Tulsa County Stars” by John Moreland

“Hang Me in the Tulsa County Stars” by John Moreland is a tender, introspective ballad that captures the bittersweet beauty of Oklahoma. Moreland’s gravelly voice and poignant lyrics paint a picture of quiet reflection, evoking the loneliness and vastness of the Oklahoma landscape. The song is filled with imagery of Tulsa’s wide-open skies, making it a love letter to the city and its surroundings.

Moreland taps into the sense of belonging and longing that many Oklahomans feel, as the song becomes both a tribute to the land and a meditation on life’s emotional complexities. “Hang Me in the Tulsa County Stars” is a powerful example of how Oklahoma’s landscapes inspire deeply personal and poetic storytelling.

#16 “Oklahoma-Texas Line” by Rascal Flatts

“Oklahoma-Texas Line” by Rascal Flatts is an upbeat country tune celebrating the shared culture and camaraderie between Oklahoma and Texas. The song captures the spirit of adventure, as the narrator races across the border to be with someone they love. With its catchy melody and energetic rhythm, the song taps into the sense of freedom that comes with life on the open road, where state lines blur and the journey is as important as the destination.

Rascal Flatts brings a sense of excitement to the song, highlighting the close cultural ties between Oklahoma and its southern neighbor. It’s a fun, spirited tribute to the border that connects two of the most iconic states in country music.

#17 “Oklahoma Hills” by Woody Guthrie

“Oklahoma Hills” by Woody Guthrie is a folk classic that celebrates the natural beauty of the Oklahoma landscape. Guthrie, one of Oklahoma’s most iconic sons, sings of the rolling hills and the deep connection he feels to the land where he was born. The song is a nostalgic ode to the simplicity and ruggedness of Oklahoma life, capturing the sense of pride and belonging that comes from growing up in the state.

With its upbeat melody and Guthrie’s signature storytelling style, “Oklahoma Hills” reflects the pioneering spirit that has long defined the state. Guthrie’s deep love for his home state is evident in every note, making this song a timeless tribute to Oklahoma’s natural wonders.

#18 “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” by Jimmy Webb

Written by Oklahoma native Jimmy Webb, “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” tells the story of a man leaving behind a relationship, and the journey he takes across the country. Though the song is set in multiple locations, Webb’s Oklahoma roots are woven into the song’s narrative of distance and longing. The song’s melancholic tone reflects the emotional weight of saying goodbye and moving on, themes that resonate deeply with the sense of space and isolation often associated with Oklahoma’s wide-open landscapes.

Webb’s poetic lyrics and the song’s gentle melody create a haunting atmosphere, where the vastness of the American landscape serves as a backdrop for personal reflection and emotional escape.

#19 “Never Been to Spain” by Hoyt Axton

Hoyt Axton’s “Never Been to Spain” is a playful song that blends wanderlust with pride in the places he has been, including Oklahoma. Though the song’s narrator reflects on places he’s never visited, he proudly states that he’s “been to Oklahoma,” implying that it’s as meaningful as any other destination. Axton, an Oklahoma native, uses humor and charm to make a statement about the value of home and the simplicity of life in the heartland.

The song’s bluesy, rock-infused sound captures the laid-back attitude often associated with Oklahoma’s musical tradition. Axton’s storytelling makes “Never Been to Spain” both a travel song and an ode to the state that helped shape his identity.

#20 “North Side Gal” by J.D. McPherson

J.D. McPherson’s “North Side Gal” brings a retro rockabilly sound to Oklahoma’s rich musical landscape. McPherson, an Oklahoma native, infuses the song with a vintage vibe, blending the influences of rock ‘n’ roll and blues with a modern twist. Though the song is a love letter to a particular girl, it carries the spirit of Oklahoma’s musical heritage, which is known for blending genres and creating something new out of the old.

With its infectious rhythm and McPherson’s distinctive voice, “North Side Gal” showcases the fun, rebellious side of Oklahoma’s musical tradition. The song is a testament to the state’s ability to produce artists who honor the past while carving out a unique path forward.

#21 “What Did You Learn in School Today?” by Tom Paxton

Tom Paxton’s “What Did You Learn in School Today?” is a satirical folk song that critiques the education system and the values being taught to children. Paxton, born in Bristow, Oklahoma, brings a sharp wit and socially conscious perspective to the song, reflecting the influence of his Oklahoma upbringing. The song’s simple, sing-song melody contrasts with its biting commentary, making it both accessible and thought-provoking.

Though not specifically about Oklahoma, Paxton’s connection to his home state is evident in the song’s folksy delivery and its focus on questioning authority and societal norms. “What Did You Learn in School Today?” highlights Paxton’s role as a voice for change, grounded in the values he developed growing up in Oklahoma.

#22 “80’s Ladies” by K.T. Oslin

“80’s Ladies” by Oklahoma-born K.T. Oslin is a nostalgic anthem that reflects on the journey of growing up and the enduring bond between friends. Though the song’s lyrics paint a picture of life and growth across different decades, Oslin’s Oklahoma roots are woven into her storytelling. The song celebrates resilience, independence, and the simplicity of a small-town upbringing, values that resonate deeply with the Oklahoma spirit.

Oslin’s distinctive voice and rich storytelling bring to life the idea of overcoming life’s hardships with grace and humor, characteristics often associated with the Oklahoma way of life. “80’s Ladies” is both a tribute to lifelong friendships and a reflection on the values learned growing up in places like Oklahoma.

#23 “Home” by Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton’s rendition of “Home” is a heartfelt ballad about longing for the comfort of familiar places, with his Oklahoma roots giving the song extra emotional depth. The song speaks to the universal feeling of missing home, and for Shelton, Oklahoma represents that place of solace and simplicity. His warm, soulful vocals convey the emotional pull of returning to one’s roots, and his connection to Oklahoma is palpable throughout the track.

Shelton’s personal ties to his home state infuse the song with authenticity, making it not just about physical location but about the deeper meaning of belonging. “Home” resonates with anyone who feels a strong connection to where they grew up, especially in the heartland of Oklahoma.

#24 “Blown Away” by Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood’s “Blown Away” is a powerful country ballad that reflects the intensity of Oklahoma’s tornadoes, both literally and metaphorically. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Underwood taps into the state’s familiarity with natural disasters, using a storm as a metaphor for emotional turmoil. The song’s haunting melody and Underwood’s powerful vocals create a dramatic atmosphere, capturing the fierce, destructive forces of both weather and emotions.

“Blown Away” is a vivid depiction of the unpredictability of Oklahoma’s weather, where tornadoes often mirror the emotional storms people face. Underwood’s connection to her home state gives the song a deeper sense of urgency and authenticity, making it a powerful anthem of survival.

#25 “Starin’ Down the Sun” by Red Dirt Rangers

“Starin’ Down the Sun” by the Red Dirt Rangers is a quintessential Red Dirt song that evokes the spirit of Oklahoma’s wide-open landscapes and endless horizons. The song’s laid-back, rootsy sound captures the essence of Oklahoma life, where the land itself plays a central role in shaping the culture. The Red Dirt Rangers, pioneers of the Oklahoma Red Dirt music scene, deliver a song that speaks to the simplicity and beauty of living in harmony with nature.

With its earthy tones and vivid imagery, “Starin’ Down the Sun” is a celebration of the rugged yet serene Oklahoma landscape. The song feels like a road trip through the state, where every sunset reminds you of home.

#26 “Miles and Miles of Texas” by Asleep at the Wheel

While “Miles and Miles of Texas” primarily celebrates the Lone Star State, its mention of Oklahoma and the band’s Western swing roots tie it to Oklahoma’s rich musical history. Asleep at the Wheel is known for their Western swing sound, which was heavily influenced by Oklahoma musicians like Bob Wills. The song’s fun, upbeat energy reflects the open-road spirit shared by both Oklahoma and Texas.

Though focused on Texas, the song captures the vast, sprawling landscapes that define both states, offering a nod to Oklahoma’s wide-open spaces. “Miles and Miles of Texas” is a fun, rollicking tribute to life in the American Southwest, with Oklahoma playing a subtle but significant role.

#27 “99 Shades of Crazy” by JJ Grey & Mofro

“99 Shades of Crazy” by JJ Grey & Mofro brings a gritty, Southern rock sound that aligns with the Red Dirt and blues influences of Oklahoma’s music scene. Though JJ Grey hails from Florida, the song resonates with the rebellious, independent spirit that characterizes much of Oklahoma’s musical output. Its raw, edgy sound mirrors the attitude of Oklahoma’s Red Dirt scene, where storytelling and authenticity take center stage.

The song’s energy and swampy blues-rock vibe reflect the kind of genre-blending that Oklahoma’s music scene is known for. “99 Shades of Crazy” feels like a cross-state anthem, capturing the essence of life lived on one’s own terms, much like the Oklahoma artists who paved the way.

#28 “Let’s Have a Party” by Wanda Jackson

“Let’s Have a Party” by Oklahoma’s Queen of Rockabilly, Wanda Jackson, is a fun, energetic track that showcases the state’s rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Jackson, who grew up in Maud, Oklahoma, was one of the first women to break into the male-dominated rock scene, and her bold, dynamic sound became legendary. “Let’s Have a Party” embodies the carefree, rebellious energy that has defined much of Oklahoma’s musical history.

With its infectious rhythm and Jackson’s powerhouse vocals, the song captures the playful yet fierce attitude that made her a trailblazer. “Let’s Have a Party” is a celebration of freedom and fun, with Jackson’s Oklahoma roots giving it a down-to-earth, authentic vibe.

#29 “T for Texas” by Johnny Cash

While “T for Texas” primarily pays tribute to the Lone Star State, Johnny Cash’s performance of this song often resonates deeply with Oklahomans due to his frequent shows and connection to the state. Cash’s rebellious spirit and outlaw country style were well-loved by Oklahoma audiences, making his performances of this song a regional favorite. The song’s driving rhythm and classic country sound reflect the kind of wide-open landscapes shared by Oklahoma and Texas.

Cash’s presence in Oklahoma’s music scene was significant, and his performances of songs like “T for Texas” often carried the grit and determination that mirrored the values of Oklahoma’s working-class communities. His bond with the state made him an honorary Oklahoman in many fans’ eyes.

#30 “Choctaw Bingo” by Ray Wylie Hubbard

Ray Wylie Hubbard’s “Choctaw Bingo” is a rollicking, storytelling masterpiece that brings Oklahoma’s Choctaw tribe into the mix, reflecting the state’s rich cultural heritage. The song tells the story of a family reunion centered around the Choctaw Casino in Oklahoma, blending humor, history, and an outlaw spirit. Hubbard’s vivid lyrics and fast-paced delivery create a sense of excitement and chaos, capturing the unpredictable nature of life in rural Oklahoma.

The song highlights Oklahoma’s unique cultural intersections, where Native American history meets Southern charm and a bit of Western wildness. “Choctaw Bingo” is a fun, energetic tribute to the colorful, often chaotic world of Oklahoma life.

#31 “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks

“Friends in Low Places” by Oklahoma native Garth Brooks is one of the most iconic country anthems, embodying the good-natured, down-to-earth spirit of Oklahoma life. The song’s tongue-in-cheek lyrics and Brooks’ charismatic delivery capture the essence of not taking life too seriously, a hallmark of Oklahoma culture. It’s a celebration of loyalty, friendship, and the freedom to live outside societal expectations, all values that resonate strongly in the state.

Brooks, one of Oklahoma’s most famous musical exports, delivers a song that feels like a celebration of life’s simpler pleasures. “Friends in Low Places” has become a beloved anthem for anyone who takes pride in their roots, no matter how humble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there so many country and Red Dirt songs about Oklahoma?

Oklahoma has deep roots in country and Red Dirt music, with a rich tradition of storytelling and folk influences. Many artists from the state draw on its rural landscapes and frontier history to craft songs that resonate with the culture of the region.

What themes are common in songs about Oklahoma?

Songs about Oklahoma often feature themes of open landscapes, weather (especially tornadoes), resilience, and a sense of home. They reflect both the hardships and beauty of life in the state, often blending personal and historical narratives.

Who are some famous Oklahoma-born musicians mentioned in these songs?

Artists like Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Woody Guthrie, and Blake Shelton have Oklahoma roots and frequently incorporate the state’s culture into their music. These musicians have become iconic voices for the state and its musical heritage.

How does Oklahoma’s geography influence its music?

Oklahoma’s wide-open plains, rolling hills, and dramatic weather patterns often serve as inspiration for the reflective and rugged tone in its music. The state’s unique landscapes create a sense of vastness and connection to nature, which artists use to shape their sound and lyrics.