State Rock Song Finalists Named
Sunday September 7, 2008
Last spring, Oklahomans flooded the Oklahoma Historical Society with nominations for the official state rock song, a process initiated by 2008 Concurrent Resolution 1047. Then, an official panel named by the Governor, the legislature and the Historical Society reviewed the nominations and selected ten finalists. Oklahomans have until November 15th to make their final selection. Here are the choices:
- "Move Along" - The All-American Rejects (2006)
- "Oklahoma" - The Call (1986)
- "Do You Realize?" - The Flaming Lips (2002)
- "After Midnight" - J.J. Cale (1965)
- "Endless Oklahoma Sky" - John Moreland & the Black Gold Band (2008)
- "Home Sweet Oklahoma" - Leon Russell (1971)
- "Heartbreak Hotel" - Elvis Presley, co-written by Oklahoma school teacher Mae Boren Axton (1956)
- "Never Been to Spain" - Three Dog Night, written by Oklahoman Hoyt Axton (1971)
- "Walk, Don't Run" - The Ventures (1960)
- "Let's Have a Party" - Wanda Jackson, backed the Poe Cats with fellow Oklahoman Big Al Downing on piano (1960)
Comments
I’m not an Oklahoma native, so I’m ignorant to a lot of the non-obvious choices on this list, for which I apologize in advance. In particular, I didn’t know Ms. Jackson’s background. Now that I do, thanks to the article on newsok today (see below), I think her song should be the state rock song. Regardless. But especially if she makes the rock hall. I don’t know when the rock hall vote is, but if she is worthy of consideration for the rock and roll hall of fame, then she is worthy of our further consideration as well. Maybe a nod as the state song will help propel her to the hall of fame?
Oklahoma singer Wanda Jackson looks to rock hall of fame