About Lennie Baker

Lennie Baker, known to Oklahoma as the “Godfather of the Bartlesville music scene,” began performing professionally at the age of 18, having developed his skills in church and school choirs. He performed for nearly 50years throughout the Southwest. He also performed in Hawaii, Cancun, Eureka Springs, Branson, and many other resort areas. He passed away on November 6, 2017 at the age of 75.

Lennie recorded his first record in 1964. The single “I Still Love You” was the main song, however the flip side, “Leaving You” was just as popular. It took several months to write and perfect “I Still Love You.” Having no experience in recording, Lennie did not even think of a flip side until a few miles from the studio. While recording the first song, Lennie wrote the song “Leaving You.”

For 16 years, Lennie performed throughout the five-state area with the band “Ronnie and The Miracles.” a soul band with a tremendous following. With the emergence of disco and DJ’s, the band dissolved.

Beginning in 1984, Lennie worked as a solo act and front man for local fan favorite “The Gigsters” His repertoire included a wide selection of blues, rock and roll, country and ballads. He was extremely versatile in the interpretation of different styles of music. He had a unique gift of appealing to music lovers of all ages. His favorite music was the 60s, 70s, and 80s. However, his repertoire went back to such songs as “St.Louis Blues,” “Sunny Side of the Street, ” and other oldies. He could bring a crowd to their feed when belting tues such as “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag,” “Every Time I Roll the Dice,” or “Hold On, I’m Coming.” He could easily shift the mood with a romantic rendition of “When a Man Loves a Woman.” His love for entertaining was quite obvious by the way he poured his heart, energy, and soul into every song.

Remembering Lennie – Words from his friends.

Award Details 

The Lennie Baker Scholarship involves an application process for music students in the local area schools.

To be eligible, applicants must be nominated by a music teacher and be enrolled in a music program. If the student attends a school that does not offer a music program, the applicant can be nominated by a counselor and be enrolled in a private music program.

This $500 scholarship will be awarded based on music students that display great leadership and community involvement.

Apply Here:

This application is now closed.