Hall of Famers salute Wanda Jackson

More than 30 various Oklahoma hall of fame members came together to salute Rock & Roll hall of famer Wanda Jackson. The occasion was to raise money for a portrait of Jackson that ultimately will be placed into the Oklahoma State Capitol.

In 2018 the Rockabilly Queen was given the extremely rare honor of being named by the Oklahoma Arts Council and Governor Fallin as a Cultural Treasure. It is the highest honor an artist can receive from the State of Oklahoma. Jackson was only the 13th person to be given the distinction and the first pop mainstream singer. By

virtue of being a Cultural Treasure she is allowed to have her likeness be displayed in athe Capitol while still living. All others have to be deceased for at least a decade before even being considered.

Legends from the Sports, Women, Music, and Oklahoma Halls of Fame were eager to stand beside the music legend. Jackson is considered to be the first female to ever have a hit single on the Rock & Roll charts, but also generally considered to be only the fifth lady singer to chart a country hit as well.

Among those attending were Sports Hall of Famers Steve Zable and Sherri Coale; Music Hall of Famers Dave Innis of Restless Heart, Jody Miller, and Pretty Miss Norma Jean.

Terry Neese and General Rita Aragon came from the Women’s Hall of Fame and former Governors George Nigh and Frank Keating joined Oscar winner Gray Fredrickson from the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Many others came as well.

“I have never felt so loved in my whole life,” said Jackson as she spoke to the audience. “To be honored by my fellow Oklahomans means more than any other tribute possibly could. Oklahoma has been so good to me and I am so proud to be from here.”

America’s Got Talent winner Darci Lynne also attended

and was ecstatic to meet so many Oklahoma stars. Nearly 50 legislators came as well cementing the historical significance of the evening. The evening was hosted by Allied Arts in conjunction with the Oklahoma Arts Council. House Majority Leader Jon Echols and County Commissioner Brian Maughan presented the program.

“Wanda Jackson is so iconic and that was demonstrated by the number of legends who wanted to be part of this special event,” said Maughan who heads up the Wanda Jackson Fan Club. “It was fun watching all of these stars who are normally the ones being asked for pictures and autographs each standing in line to get a selfie with Wanda. It was a great evening.”

Those wishing to donate towards the Wanda Jackson portrait may make a check payable to Allied Arts, 4804 S Western Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73109. Write “Wanda portrait” on the memo line. n