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Muna Tengi
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Top 10 Musicians From Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City has become a hotbed for diverse musical talent in recent years, producing contemporary artists who have made waves in various genres, from indie rock to country, pop, and hip-hop. Below is a look at some of the top modern-day musicians from Oklahoma City who are currently making their mark on the music scene.
1. Jabee
Jabee is a Grammy-winning hip-hop artist from Oklahoma City who has gained both local and national attention for his socially conscious lyrics and passionate performances. He’s known for addressing issues such as race, inequality, and social justice in his music, and his lyrical depth sets him apart in the hip-hop scene.
Jabee’s album Black Future (2016) garnered critical acclaim, with the title track serving as a reflection on the struggles and resilience of Black communities. He’s also been involved in numerous activism efforts and has used his platform to advocate for change, especially in his hometown. Jabee’s ability to combine artistry with advocacy has made him a significant figure in modern music.
2. Parker Millsap
Parker Millsap is a singer-songwriter from Purcell, Oklahoma, but he’s closely associated with Oklahoma City’s music scene. Known for his fusion of Americana, blues, and folk, Millsap’s powerful voice and introspective songwriting have earned him a devoted following. His breakout album, The Very Last Day (2016), was nominated for an Americana Music Award and showcased his unique blend of gritty blues and heartfelt ballads.
Millsap’s music has been praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, with songs like "Heaven Sent" and "Hades Pleads" displaying his storytelling prowess. His live performances are equally compelling, and he remains a prominent figure in modern Americana music, representing Oklahoma on the national stage.
3. Zach Bryan
Zach Bryan is a rising star in the world of country and folk music, hailing from Oologah, Oklahoma, but with deep ties to Oklahoma City’s modern music scene. A former U.S. Navy member, Bryan gained widespread attention after releasing his self-produced album DeAnn (2019), dedicated to his late mother. His raw, heartfelt lyrics and acoustic-driven sound have resonated with fans of modern folk and country music.
Bryan’s follow-up projects, including Elisabeth (2020) and American Heartbreak (2022), have further solidified his reputation as a talented songwriter with a deep connection to his roots. His storytelling style, reminiscent of Americana greats, has struck a chord with a new generation of country fans, making him one of the most exciting contemporary artists from Oklahoma.
4. John Moreland
John Moreland is an Oklahoma City-based singer-songwriter whose blend of folk, country, and Americana has earned him critical acclaim. Known for his deeply emotional and introspective lyrics, Moreland’s music explores themes of heartbreak, love, and personal reflection. His gravelly voice and soulful songwriting have drawn comparisons to Bruce Springsteen and Steve Earle.
Moreland’s albums, such as High on Tulsa Heat (2015) and Big Bad Luv (2017), have been praised for their emotional depth and authenticity. Tracks like "Break My Heart Sweetly" and "Sallisaw Blue" showcase his talent for writing songs that connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. John Moreland’s raw honesty in his music continues to resonate with fans of modern Americana and folk.
5. Broncho
Broncho is an indie rock band from Norman, Oklahoma, just outside of Oklahoma City, that has made a significant impact on the modern indie scene. Known for their catchy, garage rock-influenced sound, Broncho blends upbeat, infectious rhythms with quirky, offbeat lyrics. The band’s music is a mix of post-punk, glam rock, and new wave, giving them a distinctive style that has attracted a wide audience.
Their album Just Enough Hip to Be Woman (2014) featured the breakout single "Class Historian," which became a hit thanks to its infectious melody and energetic vibe. Broncho has continued to release critically acclaimed music, including the albums Double Vanity (2016) and Bad Behavior (2018). Their live shows are high-energy experiences, making them a popular act in the indie rock scene.
6. Chelsey Cope
Chelsey Cope is an indie pop and folk singer-songwriter from Oklahoma City who has been steadily rising in prominence. Her ethereal voice and reflective songwriting have garnered her a loyal local following. Cope’s music blends soft folk elements with modern pop sensibilities, resulting in a sound that is both soothing and emotionally resonant.
Her EP Higher Self (2018) showcased her ability to create hauntingly beautiful melodies with introspective lyrics. Tracks like "Too Far Gone" and "Late Night Lover" highlight her vocal range and storytelling skills. Cope’s unique style and approach to modern folk-pop make her one of the standout musicians in Oklahoma City’s indie music scene.
7. Horse Thief
Horse Thief is an indie rock band originally from Denton, Texas, but they are deeply connected to Oklahoma City’s music community. Their unique sound blends psychedelic rock, folk, and indie pop, creating an atmospheric and moody sonic experience. The band’s debut album, Fear in Bliss (2014), was met with critical acclaim and established them as one of the most exciting bands to come out of Oklahoma in recent years.
Horse Thief’s lush instrumentation and introspective lyrics, as heard in songs like "Little Dust" and "Devil," have made them a favorite among indie music fans. Their ability to craft emotive, sweeping soundscapes has earned them comparisons to bands like Fleet Foxes and Band of Horses.
8. The All-American Rejects
Though technically formed in Stillwater, Oklahoma, The All-American Rejects have strong ties to Oklahoma City and have made a significant impact on the modern rock scene. Known for their infectious pop-punk sound, the band achieved mainstream success in the early 2000s with hits like "Swing, Swing" and "Move Along."
Their 2005 album Move Along became a commercial success, with songs like "Dirty Little Secret" and "It Ends Tonight" becoming anthems of the emo and pop-punk era. The All-American Rejects continue to tour and release music, maintaining their status as one of the most successful modern rock bands from Oklahoma.
9. Ty England
A country musician with a modern flair, Ty England is another artist who hails from Oklahoma City. England, a former guitarist for Garth Brooks, launched his solo career in the mid-1990s and continues to be a strong presence in the country music world. His smooth vocals and traditional country sound have earned him a loyal fan base.
Songs like "Should’ve Asked Her Faster" and "Redneck Sonata" have become staples in country music, reflecting his ability to blend traditional country with modern influences. Though his career began in the 90s, England has continued to adapt to modern trends, remaining a respected figure in the genre.
10. Kyle Dillingham
Kyle Dillingham is a modern violin virtuoso from Oklahoma City who has earned international recognition for his genre-defying approach to music. Blending classical training with country, rock, and jazz influences, Dillingham’s performances are captivating and showcase his technical skill and versatility.
He has performed with symphonies around the world and has even been recognized by the U.S. State Department for his cultural diplomacy efforts. Dillingham’s innovative approach to the violin and his dynamic performances have made him a standout figure in modern classical and crossover music.
Conclusion
Oklahoma City’s music scene continues to thrive in the modern era, producing talented musicians across a wide range of genres. From the socially conscious hip-hop of Jabee to the raw, emotional folk of John Moreland, the city’s artists reflect the diversity and richness of Oklahoma’s cultural heritage. Whether it’s indie rock, Americana, or country, these musicians are carrying the torch for Oklahoma City on the national and international stage, solidifying the city’s place in modern music.
