DigitaleSiciliana

What Makes an Outlaw-Country Night Worth the Drive

Outlaw country grew out of the 1970s, when artists such as Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings pushed back against the polished Nashville sound and recorded music their own way. The style kept the twang and storytelling of traditional country but added a rougher edge, borrowing from honky-tonk, rock and folk. That independent streak is still what draws people to a saloon night built around this music: songs about hard work, heartbreak and long roads, played loud enough to feel in the floorboards.

Tulsa has its own place in this story. The city is closely tied to the Red Dirt scene and to the Tulsa Sound, a laid-back blend of blues, rockabilly and country associated with musicians like J.J. Cale and Leon Russell. A local band covering outlaw standards often slips a few of those influences into the set, so expect a mix of familiar anthems and original material you won't hear on the radio.

Getting the most out of the night

• Arrive early. The best spots near the stage and the dance floor go first, and you'll catch the opening act, which is often where newer local talent gets a chance to shine.
• Learn a step or two. A basic two-step is easy to pick up, and nobody expects perfection. Watch the regulars for a song or two and then join in.
• Pace yourself. Alternate drinks with water, eat something from the bar menu, and arrange a ride home before the evening starts.
• Support the players. Tipping the band, buying a CD or picking up a shirt helps working musicians keep touring.

Line-ups change from week to week, so check the live music and events pages for the latest listings before you head out. If you're planning a birthday, reunion or work gathering around a show, it pays to ask well ahead, because the busiest weekends fill quickly.