Montana may be known for its vast landscapes and natural beauty, but it’s also home to a surprising number of talented musicians. Throughout the state’s history, Montana has produced an impressive lineup of singers, many of whom have achieved national and international fame. From country to rock, pop to blues, these artists have left their mark on the music industry and continue to inspire aspiring musicians in the state and beyond. In this article, we’ll be exploring 10 famous singers from Montana who have made a name for themselves in the world of music.
One of the most notable musicians to come out of Montana is none other than country legend, Jeannie C. Riley. Born in 1945 in Anson, Texas, Riley spent much of her childhood in Bozeman, Montana before pursuing a career in music. She’s best known for her 1968 hit single “Harper Valley P.T.A.”, which topped both the country and pop charts and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. Other famous singers from Montana include the likes of Ryan Stevenson, whose song “Eye of the Storm” topped the Billboard Christian charts, and Martha Scanlan, a folk artist known for her hauntingly beautiful melodies. Join us as we take a closer look at these talented musicians and their contributions to the world of music.
1. Jeff Ament (Pearl Jam)
Jeff Ament is best known as the bassist and co-founder of the American rock band Pearl Jam. Born in Havre, Montana in 1963, Ament began his musical career in Seattle in the late 1980s. Along with guitarist Stone Gossard, Ament formed Pearl Jam in 1990 and quickly gained a devoted following for their grunge-inspired sound. Ament’s distinctive basslines and songwriting contributions have helped make Pearl Jam one of the most successful and influential rock bands of the past few decades, with hits like “Alive,” “Jeremy,” and “Better Man.” In addition to his work with Pearl Jam, Ament has also released several solo albums and collaborated with other artists in various genres.
2. Nicolette Larson
Nicolette Larson was an American singer-songwriter born in Helena, Montana in 1952. She began her music career in the mid-1970s, performing as a backup singer for artists like Neil Young and Emmylou Harris. In 1978, Larson released her debut album “Nicolette,” which included the hit single “Lotta Love” that reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Larson continued to release albums throughout the 1980s and collaborated with many other musicians, including Michael McDonald and the Doobie Brothers. Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics helped to establish her as one of the most beloved singers of her time, and her legacy continues to influence musicians today. Sadly, Larson passed away in 1997 at the age of 45.
3. David Lynch
David Lynch is an American filmmaker, visual artist, musician, and writer born in Missoula, Montana in 1946. He is best known for his surreal and often unsettling films, such as “Blue Velvet,” “Mulholland Drive,” and the television series “Twin Peaks.” Lynch’s work is characterized by its dreamlike quality, enigmatic narratives, and haunting soundscapes, often composed by Lynch himself. In addition to his film career, Lynch has also released several albums, collaborated with musicians such as Angelo Badalamenti and Chrysta Bell, and exhibited his artwork in galleries around the world. His unique vision has earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase, cementing his place as one of the most influential and innovative artists of his generation.
4. Colin Meloy (The Decemberists)
Colin Meloy is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist best known as the frontman of the indie folk band The Decemberists. Born in Helena, Montana in 1974, Meloy began his music career as a solo artist before forming The Decemberists in 2000. The band’s unique sound blends elements of folk, rock, and storytelling, with Meloy’s distinctive vocals and literary lyrics at the forefront. The Decemberists have released nine studio albums to critical acclaim and have established a devoted fanbase for their adventurous songwriting and dynamic live performances. In addition to his work with the band, Meloy has also released several solo albums and collaborated with other musicians, including a project with his wife, illustrator and artist Carson Ellis. His contributions to the indie folk scene have made him one of the most respected and influential artists of his generation.
5. Aimee Allen (The Interrupters)
Aimee Allen is an American singer-songwriter born in San Diego, California who is best known for her work with the punk rock band The Interrupters. She began her music career in the early 2000s and has released several solo albums, collaborating with artists like Cypress Hill and Slightly Stoopid. Allen’s dynamic vocals and politically charged lyrics have made her a popular figure in the punk rock scene, and her work with The Interrupters has helped to revitalize the genre.
6. Isaac Brock (Modest Mouse)
Isaac Brock is an American singer, songwriter, and musician best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the indie rock band Modest Mouse. Born in Helena, Montana in 1975, Brock formed Modest Mouse in the early 1990s and has since released numerous critically acclaimed albums. The band’s distinctive sound blends elements of punk, indie, and experimental rock, with Brock’s frenzied vocals and poetic lyrics at the forefront. In addition to his work with Modest Mouse, Brock has collaborated with other musicians and released solo material. His contributions to the indie rock scene have helped to shape the genre and inspire a new generation of musicians.
7. Martha Raye
Martha Raye was an American actress, comedian, and singer born in Butte, Montana in 1916. She began her career in entertainment in the 1930s and quickly gained a reputation for her comedic timing and energetic performances. Raye’s success on stage led to a prolific career in film and television, appearing in movies like “The Big Broadcast of 1938” and “Hellzapoppin'” and earning an Emmy Award for her work on “The Martha Raye Show.” In addition to her acting career, Raye was also a talented singer, with a powerful voice and a repertoire that spanned many genres. Her legacy as an entertainment icon continues to influence performers today.
8. Stephanie Quayle
Stephanie Quayle is a country music singer and songwriter born in Bozeman, Montana. She began her music career in the mid-2000s and has since released several critically acclaimed albums. Quayle’s music blends traditional country sounds with contemporary influences, showcasing her powerful vocals and relatable lyrics. She has collaborated with artists like John Rich and performed at major country music festivals across the United States. Quayle is also known for her advocacy work on behalf of farmers and ranchers, partnering with organizations like the American Farm Bureau Federation and National FFA Organization to raise awareness about the challenges facing rural communities.
9. Autumn Hurlbert
Autumn Hurlbert is an American actress, singer, and dancer born in Big Timber, Montana. She rose to prominence as a contestant on the reality television series “Legally Blonde: The Musical – The Search for Elle Woods” and went on to perform in the Broadway production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical.” Hurlbert’s other stage credits include “Something Rotten!” and “Little Women,” and she has also appeared in television shows like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” In addition to her acting work, Hurlbert is also a talented singer, with a soulful voice and a repertoire that includes pop, rock, and Broadway tunes.
10. Jonny Fritz
Jonny Fritz is an American singer-songwriter and musician born in Esmont, Virginia but raised in Montana. He began his music career in the mid-2000s, performing under the name Jonny Corndawg before changing it to Jonny Fritz in 2012. Fritz’s music blends traditional country sounds with elements of indie rock and folk, with lyrics that are both humorous and heartfelt. He has released several critically acclaimed albums and collaborated with other artists like Dawes and Taylor Goldsmith. Fritz’s dynamic stage presence and unique musical style have made him a standout in the indie country scene.
11. Rob Quist
Rob Quist was an American singer-songwriter, musician, and politician born in Cut Bank, Montana in 1948. He began his music career in the 1970s, performing as a solo artist and as a member of the bluegrass band Montana Slim and the Big Sky Mudflaps. Quist’s music blends traditional country sounds with elements of folk and rock, with lyrics that often reflect his political and environmental activism. In addition to his music career, Quist was also involved in politics, running unsuccessfully for the United States House of Representatives in 2017. He passed away in 2020 at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy as a talented musician and advocate for progressive causes.
12. David Gates
David Gates is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and producer born in Tulsa, Oklahoma but raised in Montana. He is best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the soft rock band Bread. Gates’ smooth vocals and melodic songwriting helped to define the sound of the 1970s, with hits like “Make It with You,” “If,” and “Baby I’m-a Want You.” In addition to his work with Bread, Gates has also released several solo albums and produced records for other artists. His contributions to the soft rock genre have made him a beloved figure in the music industry, with his songs continuing to be popular decades after their release.
13. Shane Clouse
Shane Clouse is an American country music singer-songwriter born in Great Falls, Montana. He began his music career in the early 2000s, performing at local venues and releasing several albums. Clouse’s music blends traditional country sounds with contemporary influences, with lyrics that reflect his personal experiences and observations of life in Montana. He has been recognized for his songwriting skills, winning awards from the Montana Association of Broadcasters and the Western Heritage Awards. Clouse’s music has earned him a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim, and he continues to tour and perform throughout the United States.
14. Martha Scanlan
Martha Scanlan is an American folk musician born in Butte, Montana. She began her music career in the early 2000s as a member of the band Reeltime Travelers before embarking on a solo career. Scanlan’s music is characterized by its hauntingly beautiful melodies and introspective lyrics, drawing inspiration from her experiences growing up in Montana and her travels throughout the United States. She has released several critically acclaimed albums and collaborated with other artists like Anais Mitchell and Aoife O’Donovan. Scanlan’s unique musical style and poetic storytelling have made her a respected figure in the folk music community, with her music continuing to inspire listeners around the world.
15. Becca Mancari
Becca Mancari is an American singer-songwriter born in Staten Island, New York, but raised in Franklin, Tennessee. She began her music career in the early 2010s, releasing her debut album “Molly Parden & Becca Mancari” in 2011. Mancari’s music blends elements of indie rock, folk, and Americana, with lyrics that explore themes of identity, love, and spirituality. She has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Good Woman” in 2020, and has toured with artists like Brittany Howard and Julien Baker. Mancari’s dynamic stage presence and unique musical style have made her a rising star in the indie music scene.
16. Robyn Cage
Robyn Cage is an American singer-songwriter born in Salt Lake City, Utah, but raised in Bozeman, Montana. She began her music career in the early 2010s, releasing her debut album “Born in the Desert” in 2014. Cage’s music is characterized by its ethereal vocals and atmospheric soundscapes, blending elements of pop, rock, and electronic music. She has released several critically acclaimed albums and singles, including “The Arsonist & The Thief” in 2019, and has collaborated with other artists like Kaskade and Vicetone. Cage’s unique musical style and emotive lyrics have earned her a devoted following and critical acclaim, with her music continuing to inspire listeners around the world.
17. David Wilkie
David Wilkie is an American singer-songwriter and musician born in Havre, Montana. He began his music career in the 1970s, performing as a member of the folk rock band, The Stoneground. Wilkie’s music blends elements of country, folk, and rock, with lyrics that often explore themes of love, loss, and the human experience. He has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Mammoth Bones” in 2018 and has collaborated with other musicians like David Crosby and Graham Nash. Wilkie’s unique musical style and heartfelt lyrics have made him a respected figure in the folk music scene.
18. Mark Baker
Mark Baker is an American singer-songwriter and musician born in Billings, Montana. He began his music career in the early 1990s, releasing his debut album “Songbird” in 1992. Baker’s music blends elements of rock, blues, and country, with lyrics that often explore themes of heartache and redemption. He has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “The Days of Walking” in 2019, and has collaborated with other artists like Patty Smyth and John Waite. Baker’s dynamic vocals and soulful guitar playing have earned him a devoted following and critical acclaim, with his music continuing to inspire listeners around the world.
19. Kostas
Kostas Lazarides, known professionally as Kostas, is a Greek-American country music songwriter and musician born in Helena, Montana. He began his music career in the 1980s and has since written songs for some of the biggest names in country music, including Dwight Yoakam, Patty Loveless, and Travis Tritt. Kostas’ songwriting style blends traditional country sounds with contemporary influences, with lyrics that often explore themes of love, heartache, and the American experience. He has won multiple awards for his songwriting, including several ASCAP Awards and a Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 1992 for his work on Tritt’s hit “The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’.” Kostas’ contributions to the country music genre have made him a respected figure in the industry, with his songs continuing to be covered by artists today.
20. Kate Wolf
Kate Wolf was an American folk singer-songwriter born in San Francisco, California, but raised in Montana. She began her music career in the 1970s and quickly gained a reputation for her emotive vocals and poetic lyrics. Wolf’s music is characterized by its gentle melodies and introspective lyrics, drawing inspiration from her experiences living in rural communities in the western United States. She released several critically acclaimed albums before her untimely death in 1986 at the age of 44. Wolf’s legacy as a gifted songwriter and performer continues to inspire musicians today, with her music serving as a testament to the power of the human spirit and the beauty of the natural world.
Macey West 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.
