 Do you realize that the Flaming Lips are from Oklahoma? Very proud of that fact are the Flaming Lips, as are Oklahomans. Which is why it makes sense that Do You Realize??, the recent Lips classic from their 2002 album Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, is up for the official Oklahoma State Rock Song (the fact that the chorus' grim, realist lyrics read "Do you realize that everyone you know someday will die" is, well, neither here nor there). Of course, the Lips aren't the only Sooner state legends in the running. Other artists up for the honor? The list is, for the most part, an impressive one:
Wanda Jackson, the Queen of Rockabilly, whose prime recording years were in the 50s and 60s...
Elvis Presley, whose "Heartbreak Hotel" was co-written by Oklahoman Mae Boren Axton...
Three Dog Night, whose 1971 track "Never Been to Spain" was written by Oklahoman HOYT Axton - Mae's Boren's son!
JJ Cale, writer and recorder of the original version of "After Midnight," a bluesy shuffle made famous by Eric Clapton (and Michelob!)...
The Call, an 80s indie band when indie music was called college rock; their nominated song is called "Oklahoma"...
Also on the list are John Moreland and the Black Gold Band, the Ventures and Leon Russell, whose entry, "Sweet Home Oklahoma," should win on title alone. Also, the best piano player in the bunch, dammit.
Oh and also on the list? The All-American Rejects, whose presence on the ballot is a bit odd. Yes, they are from Oklahoma, but really, so are lots of bands. Like Hanson. In fact, though Hanson are not always "rock," it's a good bet they'll be remembered long after the Rejects. Anyway, the Rejects are on for "Move Along," their 2005 track. Fans of "Swing Swing" and "Dirty Little Secret" are sure to be disappointed.
Anyway, go Flaming Lips. From manager at Long John Silver's to singer of the Oklahoma State Rock Song... not bad for OKC's Wayne Coyne.
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