Top Musicians From Muskogee, Oklahoma

Muskogee, Oklahoma, a city rich in music history, continues to be a cultural hub for musicians across various genres. From country to rock and blues, Muskogee has been home to a range of artists contributing to both the local and national music scenes. While legendary names like Merle Haggard immortalized the city with the iconic song "Okie from Muskogee," the modern-day musicians from Muskogee are carrying forward this tradition by creating fresh and innovative sounds. Below are some of the top modern-day musicians from Muskogee, Oklahoma, who are leaving their mark on today’s music scene.

1. Jason Boland

Jason Boland is a well-known figure in the Red Dirt and Texas Country music scene, and although he’s from Harrah, Oklahoma, Boland has strong ties to Muskogee. He fronts the band Jason Boland & The Stragglers, which has been a significant player in the Red Dirt music movement. Boland’s music blends traditional country with rock and Americana, creating a raw and authentic sound that resonates with fans of the genre.

Albums like Pearl Snaps (1999) and Rancho Alto (2011) have cemented Boland’s place in the country music world, with hits such as "Comal County Blue" and "Tulsa Time" showcasing his storytelling abilities and musical depth. Boland and his band continue to tour extensively, bringing their blend of Red Dirt country to audiences across the U.S. and keeping Muskogee’s connection to the genre alive.

2. Thomas Martinez (of The Tequila Songbirds)

Thomas Martinez is a guitarist and singer-songwriter who is originally from Muskogee, Oklahoma. He is a key member of the band The Tequila Songbirds, known for their mix of blues, rock, and country. Martinez’s guitar skills and soulful voice have made him a standout musician in the Oklahoma music scene. His influences range from classic rock to blues, and his ability to blend these genres makes him one of the most versatile musicians to come out of Muskogee in recent years.

The Tequila Songbirds have garnered a local following through their high-energy performances and tight musicianship. Martinez, with his strong Muskogee roots, continues to be an important figure in the modern music landscape of Oklahoma.

3. Casey Donahew (Ties to Muskogee)

While not originally from Muskogee, Casey Donahew has strong connections to Oklahoma’s music scene and frequently performs in the area. He’s a leading figure in the Texas Country and Red Dirt movement, with his sound appealing to fans across Oklahoma and beyond. Donahew’s music often touches on themes of small-town life, love, and the struggles of working-class America, topics that resonate with audiences in places like Muskogee.

With albums like All Night Party (2016) and One Light Town (2019), Donahew has become one of the most consistent acts in the Red Dirt scene. His deep connection to Oklahoma through his performances and collaborations with local musicians make him a vital part of Muskogee’s modern-day musical influence.

4. Tyler Lee

Tyler Lee is a modern country artist with strong ties to Muskogee. Known for his smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics, Lee has been making waves in the Oklahoma music scene. His style blends traditional country with modern influences, appealing to fans of both classic and contemporary country music. Lee’s relatable songwriting often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and the complexities of everyday life.

Lee regularly performs at venues throughout Oklahoma, including in Muskogee, where his performances have helped him build a loyal local following. His growing presence in the state’s country music scene makes him one of Muskogee’s rising stars in modern-day country music.

5. J.D. McPherson

Originally from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, J.D. McPherson has strong connections to the broader Oklahoma music scene, including Muskogee. McPherson is known for his revivalist approach to rock and roll, blending vintage sounds from the 1950s with modern energy. His debut album, Signs & Signifiers (2010), brought him national attention, with hits like “North Side Gal” and “Fire Bug.”

McPherson’s mix of rock, rhythm and blues, and rockabilly has earned him a unique place in the contemporary music scene, and his live performances are celebrated for their raw energy and musicianship. McPherson’s retro style, while influenced by the past, feels fresh and exciting in today’s music landscape, and his Oklahoma roots remain an integral part of his identity.

6. Corey Kent

Corey Kent is a modern-day country artist with roots in Oklahoma, and though he was born in Bixby, his frequent performances and deep ties to the Muskogee area have made him a local favorite. Kent’s blend of country, rock, and pop has helped him stand out in the competitive country music scene. His voice is powerful, and his music appeals to both traditional country fans and listeners who enjoy more modern, genre-blending sounds.

Kent has gained recognition with singles like “Gold” and “Ain’t My Day,” which showcase his smooth vocals and strong songwriting skills. His rise in the country music world has been fueled by relentless touring and a dedication to his craft, making him one of the top modern country musicians connected to Muskogee.

7. Mike Pritchard

Mike Pritchard is a blues and rock guitarist with deep ties to Muskogee. He’s known for his soulful playing and his ability to fuse traditional blues with modern rock elements. Pritchard has been a staple in the Oklahoma music scene for years, performing at local venues and festivals throughout the state. His guitar work has earned him a reputation as one of the best modern blues musicians in the region.

Pritchard continues to perform regularly in Muskogee, where his powerful live shows and dedication to the blues keep the city’s music scene vibrant. His contributions to blues and rock music make him an important figure in Muskogee’s modern-day music landscape.

8. DocFell & Co.

DocFell & Co. is an Americana and folk band that hails from nearby Tahlequah, Oklahoma, but their strong presence in Muskogee has made them a local favorite. Led by John Fell (a.k.a. DocFell), the band blends traditional country, folk, and bluegrass with a modern twist. Their music often features rich storytelling, with songs that explore themes of love, life, and loss.

The band’s albums, such as Dust Bowl Heart (2014) and Heaven, Hell or Oklahoma (2019), have helped them build a dedicated fan base in Oklahoma and beyond. DocFell & Co.’s frequent performances in Muskogee and their commitment to preserving the traditional sounds of Americana make them a significant part of the city’s modern music scene.

9. Colton Jesse

Colton Jesse is a young country artist from the Muskogee area who has been gaining attention for his authentic country sound and charismatic performances. With a style that draws from both traditional country and modern influences, Jesse’s music resonates with fans of all ages. His storytelling ability and smooth vocals have earned him a growing fan base in Oklahoma.

Jesse regularly performs at local venues and has been building a reputation as one of the most promising new talents in the Oklahoma country music scene. His connection to Muskogee and his dedication to his craft make him one of the city’s rising stars in modern country music.

10. Johnny Manchild & The Poor Bastards

Johnny Manchild & The Poor Bastards, though based in Oklahoma City, frequently perform in Muskogee and have developed a following in the area. Known for their eclectic blend of rock, jazz, and indie influences, the band is fronted by Johnny Manchild, a classically trained pianist and vocalist. Their dynamic sound and high-energy performances have earned them a dedicated fan base.

Their music, which ranges from introspective ballads to high-energy rock songs, reflects their diverse influences and experimental approach to songwriting. Johnny Manchild & The Poor Bastards' frequent presence in Muskogee and their genre-defying sound make them an exciting part of the city’s modern music landscape.

Conclusion

Muskogee, Oklahoma, has a vibrant and evolving music scene that continues to produce talented modern-day musicians across a variety of genres. From the country stylings of Jason Boland and Corey Kent to the rock and blues of Thomas Martinez and Mike Pritchard, Muskogee’s artists are making waves both locally and nationally. With a rich history of music and a bright future, Muskogee remains a key player in the Oklahoma music scene, thanks to these talented modern-day musicians.