Delaware may be the second-smallest state in the United States, but it has produced some incredible musical talent. From jazz to rock to pop, Delaware has contributed significantly to the music industry.
In this article, we will be taking a closer look at 10 famous singers from Delaware who have made a name for themselves in the music world. Each of these artists has a unique style and voice, and their music has inspired and influenced countless people around the world. From George Thorogood’s blues rock sound to Betty Roché’s soulful jazz vocals, this list showcases the diverse and captivating sounds that have come out of Delaware.
Whether you are a music enthusiast or simply curious about the talented singers hailing from Delaware, this list is sure to pique your interest and highlight the rich musical history of this state. So, sit back and enjoy a journey through the remarkable musical contributions of Delaware’s most famous singers.
1. George Thorogood
George Thorogood is an American singer and guitarist known for his high-energy performances and blues rock sound. Born in Delaware in 1950, Thorogood began playing guitar at a young age and formed his band, The Destroyers, in the 1970s.
The band quickly gained popularity with hits such as “Bad to the Bone” and “Move It On Over,” showcasing Thorogood’s gritty vocals and impressive guitar skills. Throughout his career, he has released numerous albums and collaborated with many other artists, including Elvin Bishop and Bo Diddley.
In addition to his music career, Thorogood is also an actor, appearing in films such as “Born to Be Wild” and “Maverick.” With his dynamic stage presence and iconic music, George Thorogood has become a legendary figure in the blues rock scene.
2. Stephen Marley
Stephen Marley is a Jamaican-American singer, songwriter, and musician known for his reggae and roots music sound. Born in Jamaica in 1972, Marley is the son of reggae legend Bob Marley and began his music career at a young age, performing with his siblings in the band The Melody Makers.
He gained widespread recognition as a solo artist with his debut album, “Mind Control,” in 2007, which featured hits such as “The Traffic Jam” and “Hey Baby.” Marley’s music combines elements of reggae, R&B, and hip-hop, and his powerful lyrics often address social and political issues.
Throughout his career, he has collaborated with many other artists, including Snoop Dogg and Pitbull. With his talent and dedication to his music and roots, Stephen Marley has become a respected and influential figure in the reggae and roots music scene.
3. Cisco Houston
Cisco Houston was an American singer, songwriter, and folk musician known for his soulful voice and contributions to the American folk music revival of the 1950s and 60s. Born in Colorado in 1918, Houston began his music career in the 1930s and performed with folk music legends such as Woody Guthrie and Lead Belly.
His music often addressed social and political issues, and his performances were known for their authenticity and emotion. Houston released several albums throughout his career, including “Cowboy Ballads,” featuring hits such as “Streets of Laredo” and “The Dying Cowboy.”
In addition to his music career, Houston was also an activist, advocating for workers’ rights and civil rights. With his passion for folk music and his dedication to social justice, Cisco Houston has become a revered figure in the folk music scene.
4. Jimmie Allen
Jimmie Allen is an American country singer and songwriter known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Born in Delaware in 1986, Allen began his music career in the mid-2010s and gained recognition with his debut single, “Best Shot,” in 2017.
The song topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart, making Allen the first black artist to do so with a debut single. His music combines elements of country, pop, and R&B, and his performances showcase his dynamic stage presence and authentic style. Allen has released several albums throughout his career, including “Mercury Lane” and “Bettie James,” featuring collaborations with many other artists, including Keith Urban and Charley Pride.
In addition to his music career, Allen is also an actor, appearing in films such as “American Hearts” and “Bluebird.” With his talent and dedication, Jimmie Allen has become a rising star in the country music scene.
5. Cab Calloway
Cab Calloway was an American jazz singer, bandleader, and actor known for his energetic performances and charismatic personality. Born in 1907 in New York, Calloway began his music career in the 1920s and gained recognition with his band, Cab Calloway and His Orchestra, in the 1930s.
Hits such as “Minnie the Moocher” and “St. James Infirmary Blues” showcased Calloway’s powerful vocals and unique scat singing style. He was also known for his flamboyant fashion sense and dance moves, which helped popularize the swing era of jazz.
In addition to his music career, Calloway also appeared in films, including “The Blues Brothers” and “Stormy Weather.” With his talent and showmanship, Cab Calloway has become a legendary figure in jazz music and a symbol of the golden age of swing.
6. Starrah
Starrah, also known as Brittany Hazzard, is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for her distinctive sound and unique style. Born in New Jersey, Starrah began her music career in the mid-2010s, collaborating with many other artists, including Drake, Travis Scott, and Rihanna.
Hits such as “Fake Love” and “Pick Up the Phone” showcased her talent for crafting catchy hooks and lyrics, and her music has become a staple of the hip-hop and pop music scene.
In addition to her music career, Starrah is also an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken out about her own struggles with anxiety and depression. With her talent and passion, Starrah has become a rising star in the music industry, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
7. Cori Yarckin
Cori Yarckin is an American singer, songwriter, and musician known for her dynamic vocals and captivating performances. Born in Connecticut in 1982, Yarckin began her music career in the early 2000s, releasing her debut album, “Everything You Said,” in 2003. Hits such as “Everything You Said” and “Don’t” showcased her pop rock sound and powerful vocals.
Throughout her career, Yarckin has released several albums, including “The Color of Sunshine” and “Hearts on Walls,” and has toured extensively, performing alongside many other artists, including Natasha Bedingfield and Gavin DeGraw.
In addition to her music career, Yarckin is also an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken out about her own struggles with anxiety and depression. With her talent and passion, Cori Yarckin has become a respected and beloved figure in the music industry.
8. Allen Stone
Allen Stone is an American singer, songwriter, and musician known for his soulful voice and genre-bending sound. Born in Washington in 1987, Stone began his music career in the mid-2000s, releasing his debut album, “Last to Speak,” in 2010.
Hits such as “Sleep” and “Unaware” showcased his soulful vocals and fusion of R&B, rock, and gospel music. Throughout his career, Stone has released several albums, including “Radius” and “Building Balance,” and has collaborated with many other artists, including Demi Lovato and Jamie Lidell.
In addition to his music career, Stone is also an advocate for environmental causes and social justice, using his platform to raise awareness about important issues. With his talent and dedication, Allen Stone has become a respected and influential figure in the music industry, inspiring listeners around the world with his powerful music and message.
9. Victoria De Mare
Victoria De Mare is an American singer, actress, and dancer known for her captivating performances and versatile talent. Born in Chicago, Illinois in 1969, De Mare began her entertainment career as a dancer and choreographer, working with popular artists such as Prince and Paula Abdul.
She then transitioned to acting, appearing in numerous films and TV shows, including “Killjoy,” “Silent Night, Zombie Night,” and “The Adventures of Superseven.”
In addition to her acting career, De Mare is also a talented singer, known for her soulful voice and dynamic range. Her music showcases her unique sound and songwriting style, featuring elements of pop, rock, and electronic music. With her talent and dedication to her craft, Victoria De Mare has become a respected and versatile figure in the entertainment industry.
10. Betty Roché
Betty Roché was an American jazz singer known for her smooth and soulful voice. Born in Wilmington, Delaware in 1920, Roché began her music career in the 1940s, performing with jazz legends such as Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton.
Her hit recordings, such as “Take the A Train” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” showcased her talent for interpreting jazz standards with a unique and personal touch. Roché’s music often featured playful scatting and an effortless swing, and her performances were known for their energy and emotion.
Although she passed away in 1999, her legacy lives on as a pioneering woman in jazz, paving the way for future generations of female jazz singers. With her talent and contributions to the genre, Betty Roché has become a revered figure in the jazz music scene.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
