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Muna Tengi
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Top Musicians From Stillwater, Oklahoma
Stillwater, Oklahoma, may be a small town, but it has produced some of the biggest names in music, particularly in the Red Dirt genre. Red Dirt music, named after the distinctive color of the Oklahoma soil, is a blend of country, rock, and Americana. The music scene in Stillwater thrives on authenticity, storytelling, and a raw sound that resonates deeply with fans. Over the years, this city has birthed numerous modern-day musicians who have made significant contributions to various genres. Below are some of the top musicians from Stillwater, Oklahoma, in recent times.
1. Garth Brooks
It is impossible to talk about musicians from Stillwater without mentioning the legendary Garth Brooks. While Brooks was born in Tulsa, his music career took off when he attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. His blend of country music with pop and rock elements redefined the genre and made him a global superstar. Brooks' influence is not limited to Oklahoma; he has sold over 170 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time.
Garth Brooks' achievements go beyond sales. His energetic performances, heartfelt songwriting, and ability to connect with fans have solidified his legacy in country music. He helped pave the way for future generations of musicians from Oklahoma, setting a high standard for success and artistry.
2. Cross Canadian Ragweed
Formed in 1994 in Stillwater, Cross Canadian Ragweed is one of the most iconic Red Dirt bands in modern times. The band, consisting of Cody Canada, Randy Ragsdale, Jeremy Plato, and Grady Cross, was a driving force behind the growth of the Red Dirt music scene. Their raw sound, characterized by a mix of Southern rock, country, and Americana, earned them a massive following, especially in Texas and Oklahoma.
Their self-titled debut album in 2002 marked the beginning of their rise to prominence. Songs like “17” and “Constantly” became fan favorites, and the band’s relentless touring schedule helped solidify their reputation as one of the best live acts in the Red Dirt scene. Although they disbanded in 2010, their influence on the genre remains, and lead singer Cody Canada continues to make music with his new band, The Departed.
3. The Turnpike Troubadours
The Turnpike Troubadours are another Stillwater-based band that has achieved significant success in recent years. Formed in 2005, the band quickly became a staple in the Red Dirt and Texas Country music scenes. Known for their heartfelt lyrics, storytelling, and energetic performances, the Turnpike Troubadours have garnered a loyal following across the U.S.
Albums like Diamonds & Gasoline and Goodbye Normal Street propelled the band into the national spotlight. Their unique blend of country, folk, and rock resonates with fans who appreciate authenticity and a raw, unpolished sound. Lead singer Evan Felker's emotionally charged lyrics have become a hallmark of the band's music, making them one of the most respected groups in the Red Dirt genre.
4. Jason Boland & The Stragglers
Jason Boland is another prominent figure in the Red Dirt music scene, and his band The Stragglers have been major contributors to the genre's growth. Formed in Stillwater in the late 1990s, Jason Boland & The Stragglers have released numerous albums, with songs that highlight themes of heartbreak, small-town life, and personal struggle.
Their album Somewhere in the Middle is often regarded as a classic in Red Dirt music, and Boland’s deep, emotive voice pairs perfectly with the band’s rootsy, traditional sound. Over the years, the band has built a dedicated fan base by sticking to the core principles of the genre: storytelling and authenticity. Their music has inspired countless other artists in the Oklahoma and Texas music scenes.
5. Stoney LaRue
Stoney LaRue is one of the most recognizable names in Red Dirt music, and his connection to Stillwater has been pivotal in shaping his career. Born in Texas but raised in Oklahoma, LaRue got his start in the Stillwater music scene, performing in local bars and venues that nurtured his talent. His blend of country, rock, and blues has earned him a significant following, especially among fans of Red Dirt and Texas Country music.
His album The Red Dirt Album solidified his place as one of the genre's top performers, and his live performances are legendary for their energy and emotional depth. LaRue continues to be a major figure in modern Red Dirt music, influencing both veteran musicians and newcomers alike.
6. Mike McClure
Mike McClure is a key figure in the Stillwater music scene, both as a solo artist and as a producer. He started his career with the band The Great Divide, which was one of the early pioneers of Red Dirt music in Oklahoma. As a solo artist, McClure has released several critically acclaimed albums that blend country, rock, and folk influences.
Beyond his solo career, McClure has played a significant role as a producer for other Red Dirt musicians, including the Turnpike Troubadours and Jason Boland & The Stragglers. His work behind the scenes has helped shape the sound of modern Red Dirt music, making him one of the most influential figures in the genre.
7. No Justice
No Justice is another Red Dirt band that originated in Stillwater. Formed in the early 2000s, the band quickly became known for their energetic live shows and catchy, hook-driven songs. Their blend of country, rock, and pop elements set them apart from other bands in the genre, and they built a strong following in Oklahoma and Texas.
Albums like Far From Everything and 2nd Avenue helped establish No Justice as one of the top bands in the Red Dirt scene. Although the band went on hiatus in 2013, their influence on the genre is still felt today, and they remain a favorite among Red Dirt fans.
8. Cody Jinks
Although Cody Jinks is often associated with the Texas music scene, he has strong ties to Stillwater and the Red Dirt genre. His gritty, outlaw-country sound has earned him a massive following in recent years, and his albums have topped the Billboard country charts.
Jinks’ music is characterized by its raw honesty and traditional country influences. Songs like “Loud and Heavy” and “Hippies and Cowboys” have become anthems for fans of outlaw country and Red Dirt music. His connection to Stillwater’s music scene has helped him gain respect among fans and musicians alike, and he continues to be a major player in modern country music.
9. Reckless Kelly
Although based in Austin, Texas, Reckless Kelly has strong roots in Stillwater’s Red Dirt music scene. The band, formed by brothers Willy and Cody Braun, has been a staple in the genre for years, known for their blend of country, rock, and folk influences. Their live shows are legendary, and they have built a dedicated fan base through relentless touring and high-energy performances.
Albums like Bulletproof and Good Luck & True Love have cemented Reckless Kelly’s place as one of the top bands in the Red Dirt and Americana genres. Their connection to Stillwater’s music scene is strong, and they continue to be a major influence on modern country and Red Dirt music.
10. Kyle Nix
Kyle Nix, best known as the fiddle player for the Turnpike Troubadours, has also made a name for himself as a solo artist. His debut solo album, Lightning on the Mountain & Other Short Stories, was released in 2020 and received widespread acclaim for its storytelling and musicianship. Nix’s deep connection to the Stillwater music scene has helped him develop a unique sound that blends Red Dirt, country, and folk influences.
As both a solo artist and a member of the Turnpike Troubadours, Nix has become one of the top musicians to come out of Stillwater in modern times. His ability to craft compelling stories through his music has earned him a loyal following, and he continues to be a major figure in the Red Dirt genre.
Conclusion
Stillwater, Oklahoma, has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern Red Dirt music scene, producing some of the most talented and influential musicians in recent years. From Garth Brooks’ legendary career to the rise of bands like Cross Canadian Ragweed and the Turnpike Troubadours, the city has left an indelible mark on country, rock, and Americana music. These artists continue to push the boundaries of their respective genres, all while staying true to the authentic, roots-driven sound that Stillwater is known for.
