"The Rogues Five" drummer Jamie Oldaker dies at 68

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Jamie Oldaker performs with The Rogues Five at the 2017 Riverfest in Sand Springs.

Jamie Oldaker, a famous drummer with ties to Sand Springs, died Thursday at 68 years old. While Oldaker claimed Tulsa as his hometown, part of his rise to fame came from playing with Sand Springs band The Rogues Five in the 1960s.

Oldaker and his band of teenagers formed The Rogues Five in the 1960s and soon developed a large following in the Tulsa area. The band included I.J. Ganem, Randy Ess, Philip Wilson, and Bard Coats. They opened for Jim Morrison and The Doors and other famous bands at the Tulsa Convention Center and performed regularly on the KOTV show “Dance Party.” The band has held reunion shows over the years, including at the 2017 Riverfest in Sand Springs.

After departing Tulsa to pursue a solo career, Oldaker performed on The Ed Sullivan Show. He started the band Tulsa County, then joined the Bob Seger Band for their album “Back in ‘72.” As a session musician with Shelter Records, he recorded with Leon Russell, The Gap Band, and Georgie Fame, and later toured with Russell.

In 1974 Oldaker recorded the album “461 Ocean Blvd” with Eric Clapton, which included the hit song “I Shot The Sheriff,” and went on to record several other albums with Clapton. He continued to divide his time touring with both Clapton and Seger. He then joined up with Peter Frampton for a tour, and recorded the album “Where I Should Be.”

In 1986 he helped launch the career of country artist Ronnie Dunn, managing and performing alongside the future Brooks N Dunn artist. Beginning in 1988 he teamed up with KISS member Ace Frehley for several tours and music videos, while continuing his work with Frampton and Clapton.

In 1988 he helped found The Tractors. The country band’s self-titled debut album was certified 2X Platinum and they received two Grammy nominations.

In 2005 Oldaker released the album “Jamie Oldaker’s Mad Dogs & Okies,” which featured guest appearances from Clapton, Frampton, Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, and other musicians he has worked with over the years.

In 2010 Oldaker was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame alongside Sand Springs singer Sam Harris.

Oldaker battled lung cancer for years, going through chemo and radiation therapy. He died at his home in Tulsa, surrounded by family. Several of his fellow musicians posted messages on social media Thursday, in honor of their friend.

“We are overwhelmingly saddened to report that our dear friend and brother Jamie Oldaker has passed away,” posted The Rogues Five. “He will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife Mary and family. Rest in Peace Jam-O.”

“Jamie Oldaker has been my dear friend and brother for over 40 years,” posted Frampton. “He was a very warm, caring, true friend with a gentle heart. HE cared about us all almost more than he did himself. Most will know him as the drummer on Eric Clapton’s albums. His playing was unique, a laid back style of drumming with an incredible feel. We traveled the world, played many wonderful shows and great recordings together. He was much loved and I will miss him for the rest of my time here. Love you Jamie.”