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Muna Tengi
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Top Musicians From Ardmore, Oklahoma
Ardmore, Oklahoma, a small city located in southern Oklahoma, has contributed its share of notable musical talents, many of whom have made significant impacts in various genres. While it may not be as widely recognized as major music hubs, Ardmore boasts a few artists who have carved out successful careers in both country music and other genres. Below is a list of some of the most notable modern-day musicians with ties to Ardmore, Oklahoma.
1. Carter Sampson
Carter Sampson is an acclaimed Americana and folk singer-songwriter with deep ties to Oklahoma. While she has spent much of her life performing across the state, she holds a special connection to Ardmore through her Oklahoma roots. Her music is a blend of folk, country, and indie influences, and she has built a reputation for heartfelt lyrics and soulful performances. Sampson's work is celebrated both in the U.S. and internationally, especially with her album Wilder Side, which earned her critical acclaim.
Known as the "Queen of Oklahoma," Sampson’s sound carries the influence of Oklahoma’s rich musical heritage, and her contributions help cement the state’s presence on the national Americana scene.
2. Joe Don Rooney
Joe Don Rooney, the lead guitarist for the chart-topping country band Rascal Flatts, has roots in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Rooney, alongside bandmates Gary LeVox and Jay DeMarcus, formed Rascal Flatts in the late 1990s, and the group quickly became one of the most successful country acts in modern music. With hits like "Bless the Broken Road," "What Hurts the Most," and "Life is a Highway," Rascal Flatts has sold millions of albums and won numerous awards, including several ACM and CMA Awards.
Rooney’s skill as a guitarist and harmony vocalist has helped shape the band’s distinctive sound, blending country with elements of pop and rock. Though Rascal Flatts disbanded in 2020, Joe Don Rooney remains a key figure in country music.
3. Kaitlin Butts
Kaitlin Butts is an emerging country and Americana singer-songwriter with ties to Ardmore. Her distinct voice and songwriting abilities have earned her recognition in the Red Dirt and Texas Country music scenes. She has performed on major stages across Oklahoma and Texas, building a reputation as one of the rising stars of modern country music.
Butts’ debut album Same Hell, Different Devil features a mix of traditional country and modern Americana influences, showcasing her talent as both a lyricist and performer. As she continues to grow in popularity, her connection to Oklahoma, particularly Ardmore, remains central to her identity as an artist.
4. The Turnpike Troubadours
The Turnpike Troubadours, though not exclusively from Ardmore, have performed extensively in Oklahoma, including in Ardmore. The Red Dirt and Americana band has gained a massive following across the U.S., particularly in the Southern and Midwestern states. Known for their storytelling, authentic sound, and energetic live shows, the Turnpike Troubadours have become one of the most popular modern country bands in the region.
Songs like "Long Hot Summer Day" and "7 & 7" have become anthems for fans of the Red Dirt genre, and the band’s strong ties to Oklahoma make them a staple of the state’s music scene.
5. Kristy Lee Cook
Kristy Lee Cook, a country singer with roots in Ardmore, first gained national attention as a contestant on American Idol in 2008, where she finished in seventh place. Her exposure on the show helped launch her music career, leading to the release of her debut album Why Wait. Though Cook has not achieved widespread commercial success, her perseverance in the country music industry has earned her a loyal fan base.
In addition to her music career, Cook has also worked as a television host and outdoor enthusiast, further expanding her influence and reach in the entertainment world.
6. Uncle Lucius
Uncle Lucius is a Southern rock and Americana band with ties to the Oklahoma music scene, particularly through performances in cities like Ardmore. Though the band hails from Austin, Texas, their connection to Oklahoma’s Red Dirt scene has helped them grow a strong following in the state. Known for their blend of rock, soul, and country influences, Uncle Lucius has a sound that resonates with fans of multiple genres.
Songs like "Keep the Wolves Away" have made Uncle Lucius a staple of modern Southern rock, and their live performances in Oklahoma, including Ardmore, continue to draw large crowds.
7. Cody Jinks
While Cody Jinks is more commonly associated with Texas, he has a significant fan base in Oklahoma, especially in cities like Ardmore, where he has performed frequently. Jinks’ blend of outlaw country and traditional honky-tonk has earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for albums like Adobe Sessions and I’m Not the Devil.
Jinks’ connection to Oklahoma’s country music scene, coupled with his popularity in Southern Oklahoma, makes him an honorary mention on this list.
8. Billy Joe Shaver
Though primarily associated with Texas, Billy Joe Shaver’s influence extends deeply into Oklahoma, particularly in cities like Ardmore. Shaver is an iconic figure in outlaw country music, known for his rugged voice and poignant songwriting. His work has influenced generations of country musicians, including artists in Oklahoma.
While Shaver passed away in 2020, his music and legacy continue to inspire artists across the country, particularly in the Red Dirt and outlaw country genres.
9. Mike McClure
Mike McClure is a Red Dirt music legend who has performed extensively across Oklahoma, including in Ardmore. A founding member of The Great Divide, McClure helped pioneer the Red Dirt sound that has become synonymous with Oklahoma’s country music scene. After leaving the band, McClure pursued a successful solo career and became a sought-after producer in the Red Dirt and Texas Country genres.
McClure’s impact on Oklahoma’s music scene is profound, and his continued contributions to the genre make him one of the most important modern musicians with ties to the state.
10. The Damn Quails
The Damn Quails are a Red Dirt/Americana band that has performed extensively across Oklahoma, including in Ardmore. Known for their blend of folk, country, and rock, the band has developed a strong following in the region. Their album Down the Hatch is considered a classic in the Red Dirt genre, and their live shows are renowned for their energy and musicianship.
The Damn Quails continue to tour and release new music, cementing their place as one of Oklahoma’s most beloved modern bands.
Conclusion
Ardmore, Oklahoma, may be a small town, but it has played a significant role in nurturing talent in the Red Dirt, country, and Americana music scenes. From rising stars like Kaitlin Butts to established legends like Joe Don Rooney of Rascal Flatts, Ardmore’s contributions to modern music are noteworthy. These artists, along with others who have performed extensively in Ardmore, continue to represent the town’s unique blend of influences, making it a crucial part of Oklahoma’s musical legacy.
