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Wayne Coyne, lead singer of The Flaming Lips, at the Enmore Theatre in Sydney, Australia in January 2004. (Wikipedia.com)

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Oklahoma Has an Official Rock Song

Updated: Wednesday, 29 Apr 2009, 12:48 PM EDT
Published : Wednesday, 29 Apr 2009, 8:47 AM EDT

By FRANK CARNEVALE

(MYFOX NATIONAL) - "Do You Realize??" by The Flaming Lips is the "Official Rock Song of Oklahoma" as declared by an executive order signed yesterday by the state's Governor Brad Henry.

"Not only are The Flaming Lips among the most original bands in rock music, they are great ambassadors for Oklahoma. They are fiercely loyal and proud Oklahomans," said Henry in a statement. "And their fellow Oklahomans are evidently just as loyal and proud about this Oklahoma born-and-bred group."

The state held a Internet vote for people to choose their favorite rock song. Other entrants in the contest included All-American Rejects ("Move Along"), JJ Cale ("After Midnight"), Leon Russell ("Home Sweet Oklahoma") and Elvis Presley ("Heartbreak Hotel"). You can hear the all the songs at the official Oklahoma Rock Song site . According to the Tulsa World , more than 21,000 people voted online.

The naming of an official rock song was not without some resistance though as House representatives actually voted down the resolution. One representative frowned on the Flaming Lips lead singer's use of the F-word and another was upset about a hammer and sickle T-shirt worn by a band member. The governor was able to bypass the representative by signing an executive order.

The Oklahoman newspaper was at the signing and posted photos of the band with the governor .

According to Wikipedia , most states have an official song, but some also have honorary songs, folk songs, and state hymns. Interestingly New Jersey, home of Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi, does not have an official song.

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