The Tulsa Drillers will rebrand as the ‘TulsaSound’ for four games this season to pay homage to the iconic musical style that originated in Tulsa during the second half of the twentieth century.
As part of their annual 918 Weekend, staffers with MiLB.com report the Drillers’ rebranding will take place June 22-25. “For over two years, the Drillers worked with world renowned graphic artists Brandiose to create the fresh TulsaSound identity,” MiLB.com adds.
The unique Tulsa Sound reportedly featured a mix of blues, blues rock, country, rock & roll and swamp pop. “The early pioneers of the Tulsa Sound included legends like Leon Russell, J.J. Cale, Roger Tillison and Elvin Bishop,” MiLB.com explains.
Later featured by country musicians Gus Hardin and Jeff Carson as well as rock & blues guitarist and singer/songwriter Eric Clapton, “much of the Tulsa Sound was recorded in Tulsa at the infamous Church Studio that Russell founded,” MiLB.com adds.
Drillers General Manager Mike Melega told local media, “There is nothing we love to do more than celebrate the great game of baseball and the beautiful city of Tulsa.”
Having partnered with The Church Studio & OKPOP Museum, Melega said the Drillers are “thrilled to honor Tulsa’s rich music history by playing as the TulsaSound this June during 918 Weekend!”
Teresa Knox, CEO of The Church Studio, echoed Melega’s sentiments: “Tulsa boasts a serious musical heritage and what better way for us to solidify our rightful place alongside other music cities than to celebrate a ‘Tulsa Sound’ theme with our beloved Drillers!”
Knox added, “Between Roy Clark’s strategic move bringing the team to Tulsa in 1977 and Leon Russell’s return to Tulsa in 1972; the logo and messaging of this year’s 918 Weekend is dear to us at The Church Studio.
“We are thankful for these legendary musical trailblazers and can’t wait to enjoy the performance of another pioneer; Queen of the Tulsa Sound, Ann Bell on Saturday of 918 Weekend!”
>> Read more here, see pics of the special uniforms the Drillers plan to wear during 918 Weekend