OKLAHOMAN OF THE YEAR
Hanson, the trio of young brothers from Tulsa who created a major sensation last year with its five million-selling album Middle of Nowhere has been named Oklahoma Today magazine's 1997 Oklahoman of the Year in recognition of its remarkable success.
"The last year has seen these immensely talented young men become major teen idols, gracing magazine covers around the world and selling millions of their almost ridiculously catchy single, `MMMBop,'" said Louisa McCune, editor-in-chief of Oklahoma Today.
In their first music video -- through the magic of studio trickery -- Zac, Taylor, and Ike planted the Oklahoma state flag on the moon. In reality, they have done much to promote a positive image for Oklahoma, positively representing the state to the world through their talent, musicianship, and contagious melodies.
The 13-page Oklahoma Today story chronicles the rise of 17-year-old Isaac, 14-year-old Taylor, and 12-year-old Zac Hanson from local heartthrobs singing doo-wop songs in the Tulsa music scene to internationally recognized singers and media stars. The article provides a definitive look at the brothers' road to success and describes what it is like to be known around the world before reaching voting age.
"The Hanson brothers are proving to have good heads on their shoulders and have managed to maintain a good footing despite the pressures of success," McCune said. "Oklahoma Today believes Taylor, Zac, and Ike will have continued success, and we're proud to spotlight them at this early stage in their careers."
In addition to the profile of Hanson, the Year in Review names the 1997 Oklahoma Heroes: William S. Key Correctional Center Warden Ray Little, Oklahoma County Juvenile Detention Center volunteer Irene Starbuck, Claremore K-9 police officer Steve Downie, and Principal Nancy Krodel of Coronado Heights Elementary School in Putnam City.
The issue also chronicles the trials of convicted Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh and co-conspirator Terry Nichols; the announcement of a design for a memorial to the victims of the 1995 bombing; wrap-ups of the year in politics, philanthropy, culture; and some of the more bizarre stories that piqued our interest in 1997.
