There’s something undeniably heartfelt about “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma.” From the very first chords, it sweeps you off your feet, transporting you straight to the sweeping plains and starlit skies of Oklahoma. Released as part of the soundtrack for the movie “Any Which Way You Can” in 1981, this duet by David Frizzell and Shelly West became more than just a song; it became a symbol of heartfelt connections and rugged individualism.
Imagine driving down a long country road, the windows down, and this song playing on the radio. There’s a raw purity in its lyrics that speaks of love overcoming distance, a theme that resonates with anyone who’s ever longed for someone. “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma” captures that intense emotion of being apart from loved ones and the joy of reunion. It’s this authenticity that helped the song climb the charts, touching the hearts of many and securing its place in country music history.
What makes this song truly special, though, isn’t just its melody or its lyrics; it’s the story it tells. It’s about real, down-to-earth feelings—about finding a home not just in a place, but in another person. This narrative is so powerfully universal yet intimately personal. It resonates because, at some point, everyone has felt that aching pull of the heartstrings that comes with distance and the sweet relief of coming home.
Moreover, “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma” has left a lasting impact on listeners by portraying the simple, yet profound, aspects of everyday emotions. It’s not just a song; it’s a companion to those moments of longing and celebration. This connection is what songs aim for but only a few truly achieve. It’s why, decades later, the song still holds a special place in the playlists of country music lovers and continues to welcome new fans who discover its magic for the first time.
In a world where music often fades into the background, “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma” remains a powerful reminder of music’s ability to capture the essence of our human experiences. Its legacy is a testament to the timelessness of true emotional expression. So next time you hear it, let yourself feel that connection—to the music, to Oklahoma, and to the ones you love. After all, isn’t that the reason songs like this are made?
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Lyrics
(Verse 1: David Frizzell)
There’s a full moon over Tulsa
I hope that it’s shining on you
The nights are getting cold
In Cherokee County
There’s a Blue Norther passing through
I remember green eyes and a rancher’s daughter
But remember is all that I do
Losing you left a pretty good cowboy
With nothing to hold on to
Sundown came and I drove to town
And drank a drink or two
(Chorus)
You’re the reason God made Oklahoma
You’re the reason God made Oklahoma
And I’m sure missing you
I’m sure missing you
(Verse 2: Shelly West)
Here the city lights outshine the moon
I was just now thinking of you
Sometimes when the wind blows you can
See the mountains
And all the way to Malibu
Everyone’s a star here in L.A. County
You ought to see the things that they do
All the cowboys down on the Sunset Strip
Wish that they could be like you
The Santa Monica Freeway
Sometimes makes a country girl blue
(Chorus)
You’re the reason God made Oklahoma
You’re the reason God made Oklahoma
And I’m sure missing you
(Verse 3: Both)
I work 10 hours on a John Deere tractor
Just thinking of you all day
I’ve got a calico cat and a two-room flat
On a street in West L.A
(Chorus)
You’re the reason God made Oklahoma
You’re the reason God made Oklahoma
And I’m sure missing you
I’m sure missing you