New Jersey, a state located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, has produced an impressive number of talented musicians over the years. From rock and roll legends to pop superstars, New Jersey natives have made their mark on the music industry and left a lasting impact on popular culture.
One of the most well-known singers from New Jersey is Bruce Springsteen, whose soulful and poetic music has earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following. Another notable musician is Whitney Houston, whose powerful vocals and chart-topping hits made her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. In the world of hip-hop, artists like Queen Latifah and Lauryn Hill have made significant contributions to the genre and paved the way for future generations of female rappers.
Other famous singers from New Jersey include the punk rock icon Patti Smith, the pop superstar Jon Bon Jovi, and the jazz singer Sarah Vaughan. From doo-wop to heavy metal to folk, New Jersey has produced a diverse range of talented musicians who have left their mark on the music world.
In this article, we will take a closer look at ten of the most famous singers from New Jersey and explore their contributions to the world of music. From their early beginnings in the Garden State to their rise to fame and beyond, these musicians have left an indelible mark on the music world and continue to inspire new generations of artists.
1. Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston was an American singer and actress known for her powerful and soulful vocals. Born in Newark, New Jersey in 1963, Houston began her music career in the 1980s, releasing several chart-topping albums and earning numerous awards and accolades. Her music spanned several genres, including pop, R&B, and gospel, and featured hits like “I Will Always Love You” and “How Will I Know”. Houston’s voice was considered one of the greatest of all time, and her influence on popular music and culture was significant. She also starred in several films, including “The Bodyguard” and “Waiting to Exhale”. Houston passed away in 2012 at the age of 48, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest singers of her generation.
2. Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his poetic and socially conscious lyrics, powerful vocals, and energetic live performances. Born in Long Branch, New Jersey in 1949, Springsteen began his music career in the 1970s, releasing his debut album “Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J.” in 1973. He went on to release several critically acclaimed albums, including “Born to Run” and “The River”, and earned a reputation as one of the greatest rock musicians of all time. Springsteen’s music often deals with themes of working-class life, American identity, and the struggles of ordinary people. He has won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career and continues to be a respected figure in the music world.
3. Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra was an American singer and actor, known for his smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence. Born in Hoboken, New Jersey in 1915, Sinatra began his music career in the 1930s, performing with several big bands and earning a devoted following. He went on to release numerous albums of popular standards, including hits like “My Way” and “New York, New York”. Sinatra was also a successful film actor, appearing in movies like “From Here to Eternity” and “The Man with the Golden Arm”. He passed away in 1998 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time.
4. Bon Jovi (Band)
Bon Jovi is an American rock band formed in Sayreville, New Jersey in 1983. The band is led by frontman Jon Bon Jovi, who has become one of the most recognizable and successful rock stars of the past several decades. Bon Jovi’s music is characterized by its anthemic choruses, catchy hooks, and memorable guitar riffs. They have sold over 130 million records worldwide and have become one of the most successful rock bands of all time. Hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “You Give Love a Bad Name” have become staples of classic rock radio, and the band continues to tour and record new music to this day.
5. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah is an American rapper, singer, actress, and producer, known for her powerful and socially conscious music. Born Dana Elaine Owens in Newark, New Jersey in 1970, Latifah began her music career in the late 1980s, releasing her debut album “All Hail the Queen” in 1989. She went on to release several more successful albums, earning critical acclaim for her mix of hip-hop, jazz, and R&B. Latifah has also acted in numerous films and television shows, and has become a respected producer and entrepreneur. She continues to be a role model and advocate for women and the African-American community.
6. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill is an American singer, rapper, and actress known for her powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics. Born in South Orange, New Jersey in 1975, Hill rose to fame as a member of the hip-hop group The Fugees in the 1990s. She later released a critically acclaimed solo album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill”, which earned her numerous awards and accolades. Hill’s music is a mix of hip-hop, R&B, and soul, and often deals with themes of social justice, love, and personal growth. She has also acted in several films and continues to be a respected figure in the music industry.
7. Jon Bon Jovi
Jon Bon Jovi is an American singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band Bon Jovi. Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey in 1962, Bon Jovi began his music career in the 1980s, achieving massive success with hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “Wanted Dead or Alive”. He has also released several successful solo albums and has acted in numerous films and television shows. Bon Jovi is known for his powerful vocals, energetic stage presence, and his philanthropic work, including his efforts to combat homelessness and poverty.
8. Kelly Ripa
Kelly Ripa is an American actress, television host, and producer, best known as the co-host of the daytime talk show “Live with Kelly and Ryan”. Born in Stratford, New Jersey in 1970, Ripa began her career as an actress, appearing in several popular television shows and films. She later transitioned to hosting, first on the game show “Live with Regis and Kelly” and later on “Live with Kelly and Ryan”. Ripa is known for her quick wit, bubbly personality, and her ability to connect with audiences. She has won numerous awards and accolades throughout her career and continues to be a beloved figure in television.
9. Deborah Harry
Deborah Harry is an American singer, songwriter, and actress, best known as the lead vocalist of the new wave band Blondie. Born in Miami, Florida in 1945, Harry began her music career in the 1970s, achieving success with hits like “Heart of Glass” and “Call Me”. She also acted in several films and television shows, including “Hairspray” and “Difficult People”. Harry’s music is a mix of punk rock, new wave, and pop, and her distinctive voice and style have made her a respected figure in the music world.
10. Southside Johnny
Southside Johnny is an American singer-songwriter and musician, best known as the frontman of the band Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. Born in Neptune, New Jersey in 1948, Johnny began his music career in the 1970s, releasing his debut album “I Don’t Want to Go Home” in 1976. He is known for his soulful vocals and his mix of rock, R&B, and blues music. Johnny has collaborated with numerous musicians throughout his career, including Bruce Springsteen and Little Steven Van Zandt. He continues to tour and record new music, and remains a respected figure in the New Jersey music scene.
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.
