There are a lot of different bars in Oklahoma City. Some are themed after your favorite characters or the personalities of iconic films. Others tap into different fashion eras, bringing the past to life through clothes and cocktails. But nothing quite compares to this cozy little gem on the rise — The Sound Bar.
Walking into The Sound Bar is like stepping into a time capsule of music history. Nestled just outside the noise of the mainstream scene, this place hits differently. With over 12,000 records in their library, you can practically feel the music wrapping around you the moment you walk in. It’s not just a bar — it’s an experience.
The lighting is low and warm, dark in the most comforting way. Colorful tapestries line the walls — not just for aesthetic, but to dampen echoes and preserve the audio quality. Every detail is curated to enhance the listening experience. It’s a place where sound matters, where the vibe is real, and where everything just feels... right.
Here, you can post up with a cold pint or sip on a glamorous cocktail with friends, coworkers, or someone special. Dive into those deep conversations that untangle your brain, or keep it light and laugh until your stomach hurts. You can melt into one of their cozy chairs by the window, drink in hand, watching the Oklahoma City skyline as the sun sets and the city lights slowly take over. And all the while, your favorite music plays — maybe it’s a track that hits just right, or a record that takes you back to a moment in time where, for a few minutes, all the problems faded away.
But The Sound Bar isn’t just for music lovers — it’s for people. People who want to chill. People who want to connect. People who want to feel something.
And someone you’re bound to meet when you walk in is Jay Shanker, the man behind the magic. He’s not just the owner — he’s the soul of the place. A full-time entertainment lawyer for the past 44 years, Jay has represented some of the most talented creatives in the industry. But The Sound Bar? That’s his passion project. It’s the space he dreamed up to explore and share his love of music — not just with his close circle, but with the entire city.
He’s behind the bar every evening, Wednesday through Saturday, always with a warm smile, a firm handshake, and a cool story up his sleeve. Jay doesn’t just run The Sound Bar — he lives it. And if you're lucky, you'll catch him spinning vinyl from local musicians he represents or knows — giving the space not just a pulse, but a community. It’s his way of spotlighting the talent growing right here in Oklahoma City and giving them a platform through sound.
Jay gave us a personal walkthrough of the space and all the little treasures it has to offer. There’s a speakeasy tucked away in the back — the perfect spot to host a private party or just vibe out with your crew. You can connect directly to the speakers in that room and spin your own records or pick from the library. It’s like having your own personal lounge with some of the best audio gear around. And we’re not just talking thrift store turntables — we’re talking high-end, audiophile-level setups with vintage and modern record players and speakers that make every note come alive.
Whether you’re hosting your grandparents’ 90th birthday or kicking off your startup with a private business party, The Sound Bar can flex to fit the moment. You can dress it up or dress it down. It’s that kind of place.
But no matter what brings you in — a date night, a solo escape, or a hangout with friends — The Sound Bar always delivers. The music is cherished. The drinks are crafted with care. The vibe is pure swagger.
It’s more than a bar. It’s a place where time slows down, where connections spark, and where music does what it’s always meant to do — bring people together.
To see what record is spinning today or catch a glimpse of the vibe, check out The Sound Bar on Instagram and all major social platforms. Want to reserve a space or book an event? Head over to thesoundbarokc.com for all the info.