Oklahoma has made its mark on nearly every genre of American popular music. The Tulsa Sound—a fusion of rock, blues and country—resonates through some of the most memorable songs of the last century. In this episode, Routes traces the roots of that sound, and the influence that legends like Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, and Leon Russell still have in the city’s vibrant music scene.
Woody Guthrie Center
Woody Guthrie, raised in Okemah and later driven west by the Dust Bowl, became a pioneering folk musician whose art and activism had a profound impact on American history and culture. The Woody Guthrie Center, situated in the Tulsa Arts District, honors his legacy by showcasing the social, political, and cultural values reflected in his work.
Bob Dylan Center
Bob Dylan transcended music, shaping social and cultural conversations for decades. The Bob Dylan Center, located in Tulsa's Arts District next to the museum of his close friend and mentor Woody Guthrie, offers an immersive experience celebrating the Nobel Prize-winning artist's fearless creativity.
Church Studio
Once a historic church, The Church Studio was transformed into a renowned recording studio by Leon Russell. It became a haven for legendary musicians such as Tom Petty, Eric Clapton, Willie Nelson, The GAP Band, and more. After being revitalized in 2022, The Church Studio now functions as a recording studio, audio engineering school, museum, and event space.
