On November 16, 1907, Oklahoma became the 46th state in the Union. Interestingly, Oklahoma has more than its fair share of songs about the state, and one of the great songs about Oklahoma is “You’re the Reason God Made Oklahoma.”
You’re the Reason God Made Oklahoma
Larry Collins and Sandy Pinkard wrote the song. David Frizzell (brother of Lefty) and Shelly West (daughter of Dottie) recorded the song in 1981. Notably, David Frizzell and Shelly West were one of the most successful country duos of the 1980s. And at this Silver Eagle-recorded show, they enjoyed the height of their success.
West remembers that David knew of its massive hit potential. The thought made West nervous because that would mean they would be playing to big audiences, and Shelly had some stage fright at first. Frizzell’s prediction did come true. Garrett revived his long-dormant Viva Records and released the soundtrack album in late 1980, even before the film’s December 12th premiere. Moreover, four singles were released ahead of “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma” but, beginning with KGEN in Tulare, California, radio stations all over the country started playing it off the soundtrack.
Surprisingly, after the song’s recording, every major label declined the song. But fortunately, Clint Eastwood heard “You’re the Reason God Made Oklahoma” and recognized it for the new classic it was. He added the song to his movie, Any Which Way You Can, and the song became a hit.
The core duo would go on to collaborate together through 1986. And although his greatest career successes were in the 1980s, David Frizzell continues to record to the present day.
Exploring Oklahoma
Western charm goes metropolitan in Oklahoma’s capital city. Oklahoma City offers plenty of interesting things to do and boasts big-league attractions, including the OKC Thunder NBA team and a revitalized downtown area starring the Bricktown Entertainment District, Chesapeake Energy Arena and top-notch museums, including the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art.
Further, rope up some fun at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and other Adventure District destinations. Learn Oklahoma’s story at the Oklahoma State Capitol and nearby History Center. Go kid-friendly at the OKC Zoo, Science Museum Oklahoma, Frontier City and White Water Bay. Also, have an escape to the outdoors at the Oklahoma River, Myriad Botanical Gardens and Lake Hefner.
Moreover, Oklahoma City offers a thriving nightlife scene with concentrations of popular spots for music, dancing, and drinks. You can also experience these in the Bricktown Entertainment District, the Paseo Arts District, and Western Avenue area. The arts abound and culture flourishes with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Orchestra and the Oklahoma City Ballet. The diverse music scene that produces national stars in multiple genres and arts festivals that draw million visitors each year.
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