OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma native Wanda Jackson will join the likes of Run-DMC, Metallica, Jeff Beck, Bobby Womack and Little Anthony and the Imperials as inductees this year into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Jackson, who was born in Maud and now lives in Oklahoma City, is considered the first female rock 'n' roll singer.
Still touring at 71, Jackson got her start in 1956 at the urging of tour mate and then-sweetheart Elvis Presley.
"It's a thrill to be in there with all my buddies that worked with in the '50s," she said.
"I guess now it's official that Elvis was right that I could sing this music. And I still can and I still do."
Jackson said she will sing at the hall of fame induction ceremony in Cleveland April 4 and plans to perform some of her best-known rock songs, including "Let's Have a Party," which has been selected as a finalist as the Official Oklahoma Rock Song.
Also being inducted are session musician Spooner Oldham and two of Elvis' musicians — drummer D.J. Fontana and bassist Bill Black.
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.
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