Navigating the holiday season often brings stress with gift-giving and family events. However, Oklahoma's remarkable music scene offers a unique solution. This year, you can support important causes while enjoying live shows and digital albums. Let's explore how these musical endeavors are making a difference.

Oklahoma's Music - A Holiday Gift of Giving and Joy

Tribute to Jesse Ed Davis: benefitting The Music Moves Mountains Foundation

You might not be familiar with Jesse Ed Davis, but his impact on Oklahoma's music history is significant. As one of the most sought-after session men and touring guitarists in the 1970s, he backed up giants like Jackson Browne, Taj Mahal, and Bob Dylan. Davis was born in Norman and graduated from OU. His tragic death in 1988 made him an icon of Native contributions to American music. On December 1st, his hometown will celebrate his life with a tribute at The Standard. Artists like The Redman Blues Band and Terry Tsotigh will be there, along with a silent auction raising funds for a Native American music scholarship. It's a local show that educates about music history and benefits a vital community cause.

This event not only honors Davis but also showcases the talent and diversity of Oklahoma's music scene. It's a chance to come together and support a meaningful foundation.

'The Hell of Helene: Songs for Appalachian Relief'

If you love folk and Americana, this nation-spanning collection is for you. Oklahoma's Brad Fielder curated a 27-track monster featuring Oklahomans like Ryan Lawson and JV's Fillin Station. Even artists from other states and countries like the Netherlands' Moonshine Brigade contributed. Hurricane Helene caused historic destruction in September, and the proceeds from Bandcamp sales raised over $1600 for relief efforts. Now, the compilation is available for free download, allowing people to continue donating. It's a powerful way to give back while enjoying great music.

This collection shows the unity and generosity of the music community in the face of disaster. It's a reminder that music can have a profound impact on those in need.

Gift Raps - Hip-Hop for the Holidays 10th Anniversary: benefitting LiveFree OKC and OK City Center

For the 10th year, OKC's Jabee presents Gift Raps, a night of live hip-hop to raise funds and awareness for the homeless population. Oklahoma City's homelessness numbers are rising, and it's crucial for the community to come together. Jabee, along with Willis Writer, Chloe Hart, and Dezzy, will perform. Tickets are only $5, and a donation of a non-perishable food item or unopened toy makes it free. This event is not only a great show but also a way to make a real difference in the lives of those in need.

Gift Raps has become a tradition, and this 10th anniversary is set to be the biggest yet. It shows the power of hip-hop to bring people together and make a positive impact.

You can find out about local music and performance happenings in the OKC metro weekly in this music column by Brett Fieldcamp. | Brought to you by True Sky Credit Union.