Joe Don Rooney to join Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame at Miami’s Heritage Fest

The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame has announced that Joe Don Rooney, a founding member of Rascal Flatts, will be officially inducted on Saturday, July 26, 2025, during the Heritage Days Route 66 Fest in Miami, Oklahoma.

Rooney’s induction honors his outstanding contributions to music, as well as his deep Oklahoma roots and legacy as one of country music’s most influential artists.

From Picher to the Pinnacle of Country Music

Born and raised in Picher, Oklahoma, Rooney’s musical roots were planted in his hometown church, performing with his family. At age 11, his father gave him a Fender Telecaster, igniting a passion that led to regular performances with The Grand Lake Opry by the time he was 16.

After studying at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, Rooney moved to Nashville. There, a chance connection with keyboardist Jay DeMarcus—and later lead vocalist Gary LeVox—led to the formation of Rascal Flatts.

Chart-Topping Success with Rascal Flatts

Since their 2000 debut, Rascal Flatts has become one of the most successful groups in country music history. The trio has earned:

1. 17 No. 1 hits
2. Over 23 million albums sold
3. 35 million digital downloads
4. 12 billion career streams
5. More than 11 million concert tickets sold
6. 40+ major awards, including GRAMMYs, ACMs, CMAs and American Music Awards

Tony Corbell, executive director of the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, praised Rooney’s contributions: “The incredible talent of Joe Don Rooney is unmistakable. He is truly one of the finest guitarists and singers working in country music today.”

A Career Beyond the Band

Rooney’s talents go beyond his work with Rascal Flatts. He has written songs for artists like Reba McEntire, Kenny Chesney and Lee Brice, and made appearances in film and television, including “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” “Hannah Montana: The Movie,” and “Christmas in the Heartland.”

He also remains committed to charitable work, partnering with organizations such as Make-A-Wish, The Jason Foundation, and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Celebrating Legacy and Looking Ahead

Marking 25 years since the debut of Rascal Flatts, Rooney is now celebrating with the release of “Life Is A Highway: Refueled Duets,” signaling a powerful return and reaffirming his place in the industry.

Honoring Oklahoma’s Music Heritage

The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, founded in 1999, has inducted more than 144 musicians. Past honorees include Steve and Cassie Gaines of Lynyrd Skynyrd and pianist David Osborne, both honored in Miami at the Coleman Theatre.

This year’s Heritage Days Route 66 Fest runs July 25–26 in downtown Miami. The event is free and open to the public. Rooney’s induction will highlight the July 26 festivities.

For more on the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and this year’s Heritage Fest, visit OKMusicHall.com