Lawton

The Wild West of Sound: A Groovy History of Lawton Music

Lawton, Oklahoma, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of musical history, but this southwest city has a vibrant, eclectic musical heritage that’s as wild and unpredictable as its namesake, General Lawton.

From the Dust Bowl Blues to Rock ‘n’ Roll:

• The Dust Bowl Blues: The early 20th century saw Lawton, like many other parts of the American southwest, grapple with the harsh realities of the Dust Bowl. This period inspired a unique brand of blues music, often featuring lyrics about hardship, resilience, and the longing for a better life.
• Country and Western: Lawton’s close proximity to the heart of the American country music scene meant that the genre was always a big part of the local soundscape. Think honky-tonk bars with sawdust floors and singers belting out tales of love, heartbreak, and the cowboy lifestyle.
• Rock ‘n’ Roll Revolution: The 1950s saw Lawton embrace the burgeoning rock ‘n’ roll movement, with teenagers flocking to local clubs to hear their favorite bands. This era spawned several local legends who went on to tour and even make their way to the national charts.

Funny Facts & Funky Characters:

• The “Singing Sheriff”: Lawton’s own Sheriff, a notoriously strict but surprisingly talented musician, was known to break out his guitar and sing country ballads at local events. He even released a record, though it was mysteriously pulled from shelves after it was discovered he had used a police cruiser siren as a backing track.
• The “One-Man Band”: A quirky local musician named “Buckshot” became a legend for performing with a DIY contraption of drums, guitar, and a harmonica all strapped to his body. His performances were a chaotic spectacle, but his energy was infectious and his music always drew a crowd.
• The “Talking Dog”: A bizarre local myth claims a dog owned by a prominent Lawton musician actually learned to bark out lyrics to popular songs. While likely apocryphal, the story serves as a testament to the colorful characters that populate Lawton’s musical scene.

Lawton’s Music Today:

Today, Lawton remains a vibrant music hub. Local musicians and bands are active in genres ranging from blues and country to rock, pop, and even metal. Live music venues dot the city, offering a taste of Lawton’s unique musical spirit.

A Tapestry of Sounds:

Lawton’s musical tapestry, woven from the threads of hardship, resilience, and a love for all things groovy, remains a vibrant reflection of the city’s soul. While its story may not be as well-known as other musical meccas, it’s a story that deserves to be heard.