Hip-hop music has become a global phenomenon, with different regions contributing to its evolution and growth. Oklahoma is not only known for its country music but has also produced and nurtured some of the most talented hip-hop artists in recent years. This article will explore the history of Oklahoma hip-hop, notable rappers and groups, the local scene, and the future of the genre in the state.
The history of Oklahoma hip-hop
Oklahoma hip-hop has a rich and vibrant history that spans several decades. From its early beginnings in the 1980s to its rise to national prominence in recent years, Oklahoma hip-hop has been influenced by a variety of factors, including national acts, local talent, and cultural trends.
Early beginnings and influences
In the early days of Oklahoma hip-hop, local DJs would mix popular tracks with local records to create new sounds and styles. These DJs were heavily influenced by national acts like Run-DMC and LL Cool J, who were popular at the time. They would often incorporate elements of these popular acts into their own mixes, creating a unique sound that was both familiar and fresh.
At the same time, hip-hop dance was also becoming popular in Oklahoma. Groups like the Oklahoma City Breakers showcased their skills in local events, inspiring others to join in and create their own dance crews. These early dance crews helped to spread the popularity of hip-hop culture throughout the state.
The rise of local talent
The emergence of local talent in the 1990s marked a significant turning point for Oklahoma hip-hop. Groups like the D-Boyz and Rawbology became popular in local clubs and events, and DJs like DJ Fame and DJ Diverse helped create a distinct Oklahoma sound by blending local samples with popular tracks.
During this time, Oklahoma hip-hop began to develop its own unique identity. Artists began to incorporate elements of their own experiences and culture into their music, creating a sound that was both authentic and relatable to local audiences. This helped to further cement Oklahoma’s place in the hip-hop world.
Oklahoma’s impact on the national scene
In recent years, Oklahoma hip-hop has made a significant impact on the national scene. Artists like AddVerse, Jabee, and Johnny Polygon have garnered critical acclaim and attention from music publications and radio stations across the country.
Oklahoma’s unique sound has been described as a hybrid of southern and midwestern styles, with a focus on storytelling and authenticity. This focus on authenticity has helped to set Oklahoma hip-hop apart from other regional scenes, and has made it a favorite among music fans who appreciate the genre’s roots in real-life experiences.
Overall, Oklahoma hip-hop has come a long way since its early beginnings in the 1980s. Today, it stands as a testament to the creativity, talent, and resilience of the state’s hip-hop community, and continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.
Notable Oklahoma rappers
Oklahoma has a vibrant and diverse hip-hop scene, with many talented artists making waves both locally and nationally. Here are some of the most notable rappers from the Sooner State:
Jabee
Jabee is a highly respected and acclaimed artist from Oklahoma City. He has been making music for over a decade and has released several critically acclaimed albums. Jabee’s music deals with themes of struggle, identity, and social justice, and he is known for his insightful lyrics and charismatic live performances.
In addition to his solo work, Jabee has collaborated with a variety of artists from different genres. He has worked with indie rock band The Flaming Lips, rapper Murs, and legendary producer El-P, among others. He has also been praised for his involvement in the community, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for local charities.
Johnny Polygon
Johnny Polygon is another artist from Oklahoma City who has gained recognition for his unique style and creativity. His music often blends elements of hip-hop, indie rock, and electronic music, resulting in a sound that is both eclectic and accessible. He has released several albums and mixtapes, including “Group Hug” and “The Nothing,” and has been praised for his honest and introspective lyrics.
Johnny Polygon has also worked with a variety of artists from different genres. He has collaborated with rapper Nas on the song “The Braveheart Party” and with T.I. on the song “Can’t Be Stopped.” He has been featured in publications like Rolling Stone and Complex, and has toured extensively throughout the United States.
Steph Simon
Steph Simon is a Tulsa-based rapper and producer who has been making waves in the local and national scene. He is part of the collective National Park Radio and has been featured in music festivals like SXSW and A3C. Simon’s music explores themes of community, identity, and political activism, and he is known for his thoughtful and introspective lyrics.
In addition to his music, Steph Simon is also involved in a variety of community projects. He has organized events to raise awareness about social justice issues and has worked with local schools to provide music education to underprivileged students. He has also been recognized for his efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the music industry.
Young DV
Young DV is a Tulsa-based artist known for his high-energy performances and unique style. He has been making music for several years and has released several mixtapes and albums, including “The Re-Up” and “The Art of Hustle.” Young DV’s music deals with themes of love, ambition, and perseverance, and he is known for his ability to blend old-school and new-school hip-hop.
Young DV has also been recognized for his entrepreneurial spirit. He has launched his own clothing line, DV Clothing, and has worked with local businesses to promote economic development in his community. He has also been featured on MTV’s RapFix Live, where he discussed his music and his vision for the future.
Up-and-coming artists to watch
While Oklahoma has already produced many talented rappers, there are also several up-and-coming artists who are poised to make a big impact in the industry. Here are five artists to keep an eye on:
- Dezzie Gee: A Tulsa-based rapper known for his clever wordplay and infectious hooks.
- Deezy: A Lawton-based artist who blends elements of trap, R&B, and soul in his music.
- Short Dawg: A Tulsa-based rapper who has been making music for several years and has collaborated with artists like Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz.
- Sensei Le Roof: A Tulsa-based artist who combines elements of jazz, funk, and hip-hop in his music.
- Kurtains: An Oklahoma City-based rapper known for his introspective lyrics and laid-back flow.
These artists represent the next generation of Oklahoma hip-hop, and are sure to continue the state’s tradition of producing unique and talented musicians.
Influential Oklahoma hip-hop groups
Oklahoma may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of hip-hop, but the Sooner State has produced some incredibly talented and influential artists over the years. Here are just a few of the groups that have made their mark on the Oklahoma hip-hop scene.
L.T.Z.
L.T.Z. (Last Tribe Zion) is a collective of artists and producers from Oklahoma City. They have been making music together since 2012 and have released several projects that showcase their unique sound. What sets L.T.Z. apart from other hip-hop groups is their use of live instrumentation in their music. They often incorporate elements of jazz, funk, and soul into their beats, which gives their music a warm and organic feel.
But it’s not just the music that makes L.T.Z. stand out. The group’s lyrics are introspective and raw, dealing with topics like mental health, self-discovery, and the struggles of everyday life. They are unafraid to be vulnerable and honest in their music, which has earned them a dedicated following both in Oklahoma and beyond.
L.T.Z. has been featured in publications like XXL and has collaborated with artists like Isaiah Rashad and Curren$y. They are definitely a group to keep an eye on in the coming years.
Nervous Wreck
If you’re looking for something a little more aggressive, Nervous Wreck might be right up your alley. This group from Norman, Oklahoma, has been making music since 2015 and has become known for their punk-influenced style. Their music is loud, fast, and unapologetic, with lyrics that tackle topics like politics, social justice, and mental health.
Despite their relatively short time in the spotlight, Nervous Wreck has already released several acclaimed projects, including their debut album ‘Simple Tasks’. They have also been featured in local and national music festivals, where their high-energy live shows have won over audiences.
Nervous Wreck is definitely not for the faint of heart, but if you’re looking for some hard-hitting hip-hop with a punk edge, you won’t be disappointed.
The Outsiders
The Outsiders were a pioneering group from Tulsa, active in the 1990s and early 2000s. They are considered one of the most important and influential groups in Oklahoma hip-hop history, paving the way for future generations of artists.
What set The Outsiders apart from other hip-hop groups of their time was their commitment to authenticity. They rapped about their experiences growing up in Tulsa, tackling issues like poverty, racism, and police brutality. Their music was raw and unfiltered, with beats that were often dark and brooding.
The Outsiders’ influence can still be felt in hip-hop today. They have been sampled by artists like Kendrick Lamar and Chance the Rapper, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of Oklahoma hip-hop artists.
The Formula
Like L.T.Z., The Formula is a collective of artists and producers from Oklahoma City. They have been making music together since 2013 and have become known for their cinematic and atmospheric sound. Their beats often incorporate elements of classical music and film scores, which gives their music a grand and epic feel.
But despite the grandeur of their sound, The Formula’s music is still grounded in hip-hop. Their lyrics are introspective and thoughtful, dealing with themes like identity, spirituality, and the human experience. They are unafraid to tackle big ideas in their music, which has earned them a dedicated following both in Oklahoma and beyond.
The Formula has been featured in publications like Pigeons & Planes and has collaborated with artists like Mickey Factz and Statik Selektah. Their music is definitely worth a listen if you’re a fan of cinematic, thought-provoking hip-hop.
The Oklahoma hip-hop scene
The Oklahoma hip-hop scene has been steadily growing over the years, with a vibrant community of artists and fans alike. From popular venues for live performances to local radio stations and podcasts supporting the scene, there are many ways for artists to showcase their talent and connect with their audience.
Popular venues for live performances
The Tower Theatre, located in Oklahoma City, is one of the most popular venues for live hip-hop performances in the state. With its state-of-the-art sound system and spacious stage, the Tower Theatre has hosted many successful shows, featuring both local and national artists. The venue has become a go-to spot for hip-hop fans, with its intimate atmosphere and prime location in the heart of the city.
The Vanguard, located in Tulsa, is another popular venue for live hip-hop performances. The venue has a reputation for hosting some of the best shows in the state, with a diverse lineup of artists and a dedicated fanbase. The Vanguard has a unique atmosphere, with its industrial-style decor and spacious dance floor, making it a favorite spot for both artists and fans alike.
The OKC Farmers Market is another popular venue for hip-hop events in Oklahoma. The venue offers a unique outdoor experience, with its open-air setting and ample space for crowds. The OKC Farmers Market has hosted many successful hip-hop shows, featuring both established and up-and-coming artists.
Local radio stations and podcasts supporting the scene
KOSU, a local radio station based in Stillwater, has been a strong supporter of the Oklahoma hip-hop scene for many years. The station has a dedicated hip-hop show, featuring local and national artists, and has helped to promote many successful shows and events in the state.
The Think Twice Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Tulsa, has also been instrumental in supporting the Oklahoma hip-hop scene. The foundation provides resources and support for artists, including recording studio time, marketing assistance, and networking opportunities.
Podcasts like Nothin’ But the Truth and The Thread have also provided a platform for local artists to showcase their music and share their stories. These podcasts have a dedicated following and have helped to raise the profile of the Oklahoma hip-hop scene.
Annual events and festivals
Oklahoma has several annual hip-hop events and festivals, which provide opportunities for artists to perform, network, and connect with fans. Tower Fest, held annually at the Tower Theatre, is one of the most popular events in the state, featuring a diverse lineup of artists and a lively atmosphere.
Dream Fest, held in Tulsa, is another popular event, featuring some of the best hip-hop artists from Oklahoma and beyond. The festival has a reputation for showcasing up-and-coming talent, and has helped to launch the careers of many successful artists.
Hip-Hop 918, held in Tulsa, is a grassroots festival that celebrates the local hip-hop scene. The festival features a variety of events, including performances, workshops, and panel discussions, and has become a must-attend event for hip-hop fans in the state.
Overall, the Oklahoma hip-hop scene is a thriving community of artists and fans, with many opportunities for artists to showcase their talent and connect with their audience. With its diverse range of venues, supportive radio stations and podcasts, and annual events and festivals, the Oklahoma hip-hop scene is sure to continue to grow and thrive in the years to come.
The future of Oklahoma hip-hop
New trends and styles emerging
Oklahoma hip-hop is constantly evolving, with new trends and styles emerging. Artists are experimenting with new sounds, styles, and visuals, and incorporating elements from other genres like rock and EDM into their music. Some artists are even incorporating live instrumentation into their performances, giving their shows a unique and dynamic feel.
One emerging trend in Oklahoma hip-hop is the fusion of traditional Native American music with hip-hop beats and rhythms. Artists like Quese IMC and Tall Paul are leading this movement, blending their indigenous heritage with modern hip-hop production to create a sound that is both innovative and culturally significant.
The role of social media and streaming platforms
Social media and streaming platforms like SoundCloud and Spotify have become essential tools for artists to promote their music and connect with fans. Oklahoma artists have been able to build a following on these platforms and use them as a means of distribution for their music.
One example of an Oklahoma artist who has successfully utilized social media to build a following is Jabee. With over 20,000 followers on Twitter and over 40,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, Jabee has been able to reach a wide audience and gain recognition both locally and nationally.
Collaborations and partnerships with other music genres
Collaborations and partnerships with artists from other genres have become more common in recent years, with Oklahoma artists working with musicians from diverse backgrounds like jazz, indie rock, and electronic music. These collaborations have helped expand the reach and influence of Oklahoma hip-hop and bring new sounds and styles to the genre.
One notable collaboration in Oklahoma hip-hop is the partnership between rapper and producer L.T.Z. and jazz saxophonist and composer Sean Al-Jibouri. The two artists have worked together on multiple projects, blending L.T.Z.’s socially conscious lyrics with Sean’s intricate jazz arrangements to create a unique and powerful sound.
Supporting the Oklahoma hip-hop community
Oklahoma may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of hip-hop, but the state has a thriving and passionate hip-hop community. From Tulsa to Oklahoma City, there are talented artists, dedicated fans, and supportive organizations working to grow and promote the local hip-hop scene.
Local organizations and initiatives
The Oklahoma Hip-Hop Association and the Tulsa Hip-Hop Society are two of the most prominent organizations supporting the Oklahoma hip-hop community. The Oklahoma Hip-Hop Association was founded in 2016 with the goal of promoting and advancing the hip-hop culture in the state. The organization provides resources and opportunities for artists to develop their skills, connect with fans, and promote their music. The Tulsa Hip-Hop Society, founded in 2017, is a grassroots organization that aims to connect local artists and fans, and to create a supportive and inclusive hip-hop community in Tulsa.
In addition to these organizations, there are many other groups and initiatives working to support the Oklahoma hip-hop scene. The Oklahoma City Hip-Hop Festival, for example, is an annual event that showcases local and national hip-hop artists, and provides opportunities for networking and community building. The Tulsa Cypher, a monthly event hosted by the Tulsa Hip-Hop Society, brings together local artists for freestyle rap battles and cyphers.
How fans can get involved and support local artists
There are many ways for fans to support the Oklahoma hip-hop community. Attending local events and shows is one of the best ways to show your support and connect with other fans and artists. The Oklahoma City Hip-Hop Festival and the Tulsa Cypher are just two of the many events happening throughout the year.
Streaming and sharing music from local artists is another great way to support the community. Many local artists have their music available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. By streaming their music and sharing it with your friends and followers on social media, you can help spread the word and introduce more people to the local hip-hop scene.
Purchasing merchandise like t-shirts and albums is another way to support local artists. Many artists sell their own merchandise at shows and online. Buying a t-shirt or an album not only supports the artist financially, but also helps to promote their music and raise awareness of the local hip-hop scene.
Following local artists on social media and helping to spread the word about their music is also important. By sharing their posts and music videos, you can help to increase their visibility and reach a wider audience.
The importance of community engagement in the growth of Oklahoma hip-hop
Community engagement is essential for the growth and development of Oklahoma hip-hop. By supporting local artists, attending shows and events, and sharing their music with others, fans can help create a supportive and thriving hip-hop community in the state.
But community engagement is not just important for fans. It is also important for artists themselves. By collaborating with other artists, attending events, and building relationships with fans and other members of the community, artists can grow their fan base and develop their skills.
Ultimately, the success of the Oklahoma hip-hop community depends on the involvement and support of everyone who cares about the culture. By working together and supporting each other, we can help to create a vibrant and thriving hip-hop scene in the state.
Conclusion
Oklahoma has a rich and vibrant hip-hop scene that has been steadily growing in recent years. From its early beginnings in the 1980s to the emergence of local talent in the 1990s and its impact on the national scene today, Oklahoma hip-hop has a unique history and sound. With notable artists like Jabee, Johnny Polygon, and Steph Simon, and influential groups like L.T.Z. and The Outsiders, the future looks bright for Oklahoma hip-hop. By supporting local artists, attending shows and events, and engaging with the community, fans can play a vital role in the growth and development of the genre in the state.
