New York City has long been known as a hub for artistic expression and creativity. It’s no surprise that some of the most famous singers of all time have hailed from the Big Apple. From hip-hop to Broadway, jazz to punk rock, New York has produced an incredible array of musical talent over the years.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 10 famous singers from New York who have made an indelible mark on the music industry. Some of these artists are known for their powerful vocals, while others are celebrated for their songwriting abilities or unique musical styles. Regardless of their individual talents, each of these artists has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world.
We’ll start with some of the city’s most iconic voices, like Barbra Streisand and Billy Joel. These artists have been entertaining audiences for decades with their powerhouse vocals and unforgettable performances. Then we’ll explore the genre-defying work of artists like Lou Reed and Patti Smith, who helped shape the punk rock movement in the 1970s. We’ll also examine the impact of hip-hop legends like Jay-Z and the Notorious B.I.G., who revolutionized the rap game and put New York City on the map as a hip-hop powerhouse.
No matter what type of music you love, there’s something to appreciate in the work of these 10 famous singers from New York. So grab your headphones and get ready to explore the rich musical heritage of the city that never sleeps.
1. Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra was an American singer and actor who remains one of the most influential and beloved voices in music history. He rose to fame in the 1940s and 50s with his smooth vocals, impeccable phrasing, and unparalleled stage presence. Known as the “Chairman of the Board,” Sinatra recorded hundreds of songs, including classics like “My Way,” “New York, New York,” and “Strangers in the Night.” His legacy has inspired generations of musicians, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Sinatra won numerous awards throughout his career, including 11 Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
2. Jay-Z
Jay-Z is an American rapper, songwriter, producer, and entrepreneur who has become one of the most successful and influential figures in hip-hop. Born Shawn Corey Carter in Brooklyn, New York, Jay-Z first gained attention in the 1990s with his debut album “Reasonable Doubt.” He has since released over a dozen studio albums, including classic hip-hop hits like “Hard Knock Life,” “Empire State of Mind,” and “99 Problems.” Jay-Z’s introspective lyrics and innovative production have made him a cultural force in the music industry, and he has been recognized with numerous awards, including 23 Grammy Awards. In addition to his music career, Jay-Z is also a successful businessman, with interests in fashion, sports, and technology.
3. Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand is an American singer, actress, and filmmaker who has become an icon in the entertainment industry. With her powerful voice and distinctive style, Streisand has recorded numerous hits over the course of her career, including “The Way We Were,” “People,” and “Evergreen.” She has also won numerous awards, including two Academy Awards, ten Grammy Awards, and a Tony Award. Streisand is also known for her work as a director and producer, with several acclaimed films to her credit.
4. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is an American singer-songwriter and pianist who has become one of the most successful musicians of all time. With hits like “Piano Man,” “New York State of Mind,” and “Uptown Girl,” Joel has sold over 150 million records worldwide. He has also won numerous awards, including six Grammy Awards. In addition to his music career, Joel has also worked as a composer and producer, and has written music for several films and television shows. His signature sound, which blends elements of rock, pop, and classical music, has made him a beloved figure in the music industry.
5. Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez, also known as J.Lo, is an American singer, actress, and dancer who has become a cultural icon in the entertainment industry. With her distinctive voice and powerful stage presence, Lopez has recorded numerous hits over the course of her career, including “Jenny from the Block,” “On the Floor,” and “Waiting for Tonight.” She has also starred in several successful films and television shows, and has been recognized with numerous awards, including a Golden Globe nomination for her performance in the film “Selena.”
6. Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys is an American singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer who has become one of the most successful musicians of her generation. With hits like “Fallin’,” “No One,” and “Girl on Fire,” Keys has sold over 65 million records worldwide. She has also won numerous awards, including 15 Grammy Awards. Keys is known for her soulful voice and innovative approach to songwriting, which blends elements of R&B, hip-hop, and jazz. In addition to her music career, Keys is also a philanthropist and activist, and has been recognized for her work in education and social justice.
7. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who has become one of the most successful and influential voices in music history. With her five-octave vocal range and signature whistle register, Carey has recorded numerous hits over the course of her career, including “Vision of Love,” “Hero,” and “We Belong Together.” She has also won numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards and 19 World Music Awards. Carey is known for her powerful voice, her ability to blend pop, R&B, and hip-hop, and her vocal acrobatics that have made her a beloved figure in the music industry.
8. Paul Simon
Paul Simon is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist who has become one of the most respected and influential figures in popular music. With hits like “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Mrs. Robinson,” and “Graceland,” Simon has sold over 100 million records worldwide. He has also won numerous awards, including 16 Grammy Awards. Simon is known for his distinctive voice, his intricate guitar work, and his innovative approach to songwriting, which blends elements of folk, rock, and world music. In addition to his music career, Simon is also an author and a philanthropist, and has been recognized for his work in education and environmental conservation.
9. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who has become one of the most dynamic and innovative figures in pop music. With hits like “Poker Face,” “Bad Romance,” and “Born This Way,” Gaga has sold over 150 million records worldwide. She is known for her powerful vocals, her theatrical performances, and her ability to push boundaries with her music and fashion. Gaga has also won numerous awards, including 12 Grammy Awards and three Brit Awards. In addition to her music career, she has also worked as an actress and philanthropist, and has been recognized for her advocacy work in the areas of mental health and LGBT rights.
10. Tony Bennett
Tony Bennett is an American singer of traditional pop standards who has become one of the most respected and beloved figures in music history. With hits like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “The Good Life,” and “The Shadow of Your Smile,” Bennett has sold over 50 million records worldwide. He has also won numerous awards, including 19 Grammy Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy. Bennett is known for his distinctive voice, his impeccable phrasing, and his ability to interpret classic songs with timeless elegance. In addition to his music career, Bennett is also a visual artist and a philanthropist, and has been recognized for his work in education and the arts.
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.
