Why Oklahoma's Live Music Venues Are Scaling Back Shows

One thing Oklahoma has always been known for is the wealth of talented people who come from this state. There's just something about how Oklahomans usually support young, talented people - it has helped shape a strong foundation for many artists' careers.

However, some live music venues are seeing less support from the crowds for local talent. The owner of one of the most iconic venues in Oklahoma admitted that, because of the lack of support, they would not be able to host as many up-and-coming artists.

If this trend continues, we could start seeing fewer concerts, higher concert ticket prices, and fewer artists starting their careers in the Sooner state.

Owner of the "Blue Door" Announces They Will Have Fewer Up & Coming Artists

Opened in 1993, the Blue Door in Oklahoma City has been one of the most influential venues for live music artists in Oklahoma.

The owner, Greg Johnson, has been adamant about bringing a thriving, quality music experience for Oklahomans since the doors opened. He has also been an advocate for promoting local, lesser-known artists who are still gaining experience.

However, in recent years, fewer people have attended concerts, which has caused a major rift in the music lineup at the Blue Door. In a Facebook post he shared earlier this month, Johnson wrote:

"Only one in ten shows here have been well attended, but it's important to have songrwriters a place to play. Having said that, in 2026, I am cutting way back on shows," he said. "I just can't do it anymore, unless you are the near best of your generation and your following is growing."

He stated that the Blue Door's regular returning artists will have a spot on next year's calendar, but "there will be fewer shows with new unknown artists."

Earlier this week, he expressed on another Facebook post that it's harder than ever to "feel like you're reaching listeners." He is just one of several venue owners who are torn between keeping the live music scene alive and the lights on in the building.

Other venues are also struggling with supporting live music.

As a live music performer myself, I see firsthand just how difficult it is for some of these venues. Earlier this year, two venues in Oklahoma City and Yukon, Oklahoma told me that they would have cut down on the amount of artists they were hiring, or stop hiring them completely.

Lawton, which once had several bars and venues that hired live music, really only has two spots that have continued: SOB Brewing and Fubar Saloon.

If live music lovers want to continue to see our very own talented people blossom into rockstars like the All American Rejects, Gannon Freemin & CCREV or Wyatt Flores, then we need to take advantage of local shows now before we stop seeing them completely.