Nebraska, the heartland of America, has produced some of the most iconic and talented musicians in the history of popular music. From rock and roll legends to country music icons, the state has given birth to a diverse range of artists who have left an indelible mark on the industry. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 famous singers from Nebraska, exploring their unique styles and contributions to the world of music.
One of the most recognizable figures on our list is JoJo Siwa, the pop sensation who has taken the world by storm with her infectious energy and positive message. Originally from Omaha, Siwa first rose to fame as a contestant on the reality TV series “Dance Moms,” before going on to become a multi-platinum recording artist and beloved role model to millions of fans around the globe. Alongside Siwa, we will also explore the careers of other iconic Nebraska-born singers like Randy Meisner, Patricia Barber, and Tompall Glaser, each of whom has left an enduring legacy in the world of music. Join us as we celebrate the rich musical heritage of Nebraska and honor the incredible artists who have contributed to its vibrant culture.
1. Lucas Hoge
Lucas Hoge is a talented singer and songwriter hailing from Nebraska. With a passion for country music, he has made a name for himself in the industry with his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Hoge’s music is deeply rooted in his rural upbringing, and his songs often reflect his love for the outdoors and his respect for hard work and family values. He has released several albums over the years, including “Dirty South” and “Christmas Is Here,” both of which showcase his versatility as an artist. Hoge has also appeared on various TV shows, including “Today” and “The Today Show,” and he has performed at some of the most prestigious venues across the country. With his signature blend of traditional country and modern pop influences, Lucas Hoge is a rising star in the music industry and an artist to watch in the coming years.
2. Max Carl
Max Carl is a rock singer and musician originally from Platte Center, Nebraska. He first gained fame as the lead singer for the popular rock band 38 Special, and later went on to work with a variety of other artists and groups, including Grand Funk Railroad and Jack Mack and the Heart Attack. With his powerful vocals and energetic stage presence, Carl has become known for his ability to bring a crowd to their feet with his music. He has also released several solo albums over the years, including “The Circle” and “One for the Road,” both of which showcase his unique style and range as an artist. Whether he’s performing live or recording in the studio, Max Carl is a true legend in the world of rock music and a proud representative of his Nebraska roots.
3. Tompall Glaser
Tompall Glaser was a country singer and songwriter born in Spalding, Nebraska. Along with his brothers, Chuck and Jim, he formed the iconic country music group, The Glaser Brothers, in the 1950s. The group went on to achieve great success in the industry, with hits like “Gone, on the Other Hand” and “Lovin’ Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again).” Glaser also had a successful solo career, releasing several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He was known for his distinctive voice, which combined elements of traditional country music with more contemporary sounds. In addition to his musical accomplishments, Glaser was also a respected songwriter and producer, and he had a profound impact on the country music industry as a whole. Though he passed away in 2013, Tompall Glaser remains a beloved figure in the world of country music, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians today.
4. JoJo Siwa
JoJo Siwa is a pop singer, dancer, and actress originally from Omaha, Nebraska. She first rose to fame as a contestant on the reality TV series “Dance Moms,” and has since become one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in the entertainment industry. Siwa is known for her signature style, which often includes bright colors, oversized bows, and glittery accessories. She has released several hit songs over the years, including “Boomerang” and “D.R.E.A.M.,” and has performed on numerous tours and live shows around the world. In addition to her music career, Siwa has also appeared in movies and TV shows like “The J Team” and “The Masked Singer.” With her infectious energy and positive message, JoJo Siwa has become a role model and inspiration to millions of fans around the globe, and she shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
5. Ruth Etting
Ruth Etting was a popular singer and actress born in David City, Nebraska, in 1897. She rose to fame in the 1920s and 1930s, thanks to her beautiful voice and captivating stage presence. Etting’s music was characterized by its smooth, sophisticated style, which was influenced by jazz and other popular genres of the time. She recorded numerous hit songs throughout her career, including “Ten Cents a Dance” and “Love Me or Leave Me,” and performed in some of the most prestigious venues across the country. In addition to her music career, Etting also appeared in several Hollywood films, including “Roman Scandals” and “A Modern Cinderella.” Though she passed away in 1978, Ruth Etting remains a beloved icon of the early 20th century, and her music continues to inspire new generations of performers and fans alike.
6. Randy Meisner
Randy Meisner is a rock singer and musician from Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He first gained fame as a founding member of the legendary rock band The Eagles, with whom he recorded several hit songs, including “Take it to the Limit” and “One of These Nights.” Meisner’s distinctive voice and dynamic bass guitar playing were a key part of the Eagles’ sound, and he remained an important member of the group until his departure in 1977. After leaving the Eagles, Meisner went on to pursue a successful solo career, releasing several albums over the years, including “One More Song” and “Live in Dallas.” Though he has faced his share of personal struggles throughout his life, Randy Meisner remains an iconic figure in the world of rock music, and his contributions to the Eagles’ legacy will always be remembered by fans around the globe.
7. Patricia Barber
Patricia Barber is a jazz singer, pianist, and composer from Lincoln, Nebraska. With her distinctive voice and innovative musical style, she has become one of the most respected and celebrated figures in the world of jazz music. Barber’s music is characterized by its complex harmonies and poetic lyrics, which often explore themes of love, loss, and human connection. She has released numerous albums over the years, including “Modern Cool” and “Verse,” both of which showcase her unique blend of traditional jazz and more experimental sounds. Barber is also an accomplished pianist, and her skills on the keyboard have earned her critical acclaim from fans and fellow musicians alike. With her unparalleled talent and unwavering dedication to her craft, Patricia Barber is a true icon of the jazz world, and her music will continue to inspire and delight fans for generations to come.
8. Emily Kinney
Emily Kinney is a singer and actress originally from Wayne, Nebraska. She first gained fame for her role as Beth Greene on the hit TV series “The Walking Dead,” but has since become known for her impressive musical talents as well. Kinney’s music is characterized by its catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, which often explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth. She has released several albums over the years, including “This is War” and “Oh, Jonathan,” both of which showcase her unique voice and songwriting style. Kinney is also an accomplished performer, and has toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe. With her infectious energy and undeniable talent, Emily Kinney is a rising star in the music industry, and an artist to watch in the coming years.
9. Fred Astaire
Fred Astaire was a legendary singer, dancer, and actor born in Omaha, Nebraska in 1899. He first rose to fame in the 1920s and 1930s as one half of the famous dance duo, Astaire and Rogers, alongside Ginger Rogers. Astaire’s contributions to the world of entertainment were vast and varied, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest performers of all time. He appeared in numerous Hollywood films throughout his career, including classics like “Top Hat” and “Swing Time,” and his unique blend of grace, style, and humor earned him countless fans around the world. In addition to his acting and dancing talents, Astaire was also an accomplished singer, and his voice can be heard on many of his most iconic songs, including “Cheek to Cheek” and “The Way You Look Tonight.” Though he passed away in 1987, Fred Astaire remains a beloved icon of American entertainment, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of performers and fans alike.
10. Amy Noonan
Amy Noonan, also known by her stage name Qveen Herby, is a singer, rapper, and songwriter from Omaha, Nebraska. With her unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop influences, she has become known for her dynamic vocals and catchy beats. Noonan first gained fame as one half of the music duo Karmin, with whom she recorded several hit songs, including “Brokenhearted” and “Acapella.” After going solo in 2017, she adopted the stage name Qveen Herby and began exploring new musical styles and themes in her work. Her music is characterized by its bold lyrics and feminist message, and she has become a role model and inspiration to fans around the globe. With her unapologetic style and undeniable talent, Amy Noonan is a rising star in the world of hip-hop and a proud representative of her Nebraska roots.
Darren Jamison 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.
