When it comes to the world of music, the spotlight often falls on bustling cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Nashville. However, hidden within the picturesque landscapes and serene mountains of the American Northwest lies a surprising secret: Idaho, a state that has cultivated a remarkable array of talented singers who have made their mark on the global stage. Despite its relatively modest population and lesser-known musical reputation, Idaho has produced a remarkable collection of artists who have captivated audiences with their melodic prowess and mesmerizing vocals.
From the iconic peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains to the sprawling plains of the Snake River, Idaho has birthed a diverse array of musical talents, ranging from country crooners and soulful rockers to pop sensations and jazz virtuosos. These artists, whose roots trace back to the heartland of America, have defied expectations and captured the hearts of millions through their distinctive sounds and unforgettable performances.
In this article, we embark on a melodic journey to uncover the top 10 famous singers from the Gem State. From household names to hidden gems, we will explore their remarkable contributions to the music industry and the lasting impact they have made on both national and international stages. Join us as we celebrate the harmonious talents that have emerged from the unassuming landscapes of Idaho, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.
1. Jake Sinclair
This talented Idahoan singer made a name for himself in the music industry through his impressive production skills and songwriting ability. Jake Sinclair has worked with some of the biggest names in the business, including Panic! at the Disco, Weezer, and Taylor Swift. His unique style and sound have earned him multiple Grammy nominations and critical acclaim. With a passion for music that runs deep, Jake Sinclair continues to inspire new artists and fans alike with his incredible talent.
Sinclair's journey to success began in Boise, where he learned to play numerous instruments and honed his craft as a songwriter. His talent didn't go unnoticed, and he soon found himself making waves in the music scene. Over time, he worked on more albums and gained an even greater following among fans of all ages. Today, Jake Sinclair is one of Idaho's most celebrated singers, known for his impressive work both behind the scenes and in front of audiences nationwide.
Despite his success, Sinclair remains humble about his achievements. He stays connected to his roots in Idaho and often gives back to the community that gave him so much support along the way. Few musicians can match the talent and drive that this iconic singer brings to every performance, making him one of Idaho's most gifted exports ever.
Ryan Stevenson may be from Idaho, but his angelic voice makes him sound like he's straight from heaven.
2. Ryan Stevenson
Ryan Stevenson, an Idaho native, is a renowned singer-songwriter who has made a mark in the Christian music industry. He burst onto the scene with his hit single "Eye of the Storm," which earned him multiple awards and nominations. His distinctive voice, complemented by his songwriting abilities, has been appreciated by fans worldwide. With his thought-provoking lyrics and soulful tunes, Stevenson continues to inspire and move audiences.
Stevenson's musical journey started in his early twenties when he pursued a career as a drummer. However, he soon realized that singing was his true calling and embraced it wholeheartedly. Over the years, he has released multiple albums, each showcasing his versatility and growth as an artist. Apart from creating music, Stevenson is also involved in charity work and is passionate about serving his community.
An interesting fact about Stevenson is that he co-wrote TobyMac's hit song "Speak Life." This collaboration led to further opportunities for him in the music industry. Today, he is among the most well-known Christian artists and has performed at various events across the globe.
If you're a fan of Ryan Stevenson's music or are curious to explore his work further, we suggest checking out some of his other popular songs like "No Matter What," "In The Eye Of The Storm (Live)", or "The Gospel". You can also catch him live at one of his upcoming concerts where you can witness firsthand how he uses music to create a powerful impact on people's lives.
Even though Norma Zimmer hailed from Idaho, I bet Lawrence Welk never made her yodel.
3. Norma Zimmer
Norma Zimmer, an American singer, was born in 1923 in Larson, Idaho. She became famous for her fantastic soprano voice and performed for almost thirty years with the legendary Lawrence Welk Orchestra. During her career, she recorded many albums and was involved in various musical concerts as a soloist. Her lovely singing style won audiences' hearts and made her one of the most memorable singers of the Lawrence Welk Show.
Zimmer's roots are deeply connected with Idaho's music culture, where she spent her early life surrounded by country music inflow from radio. Her family also had an interest in music as they frequently sang together. However, it was Zimmer's vibrant talent that helped her reach a wider audience beyond her region. She received many honours for her contributions to the music industry (e.g., Welk's Platinum Sound Award) and earned a place in history as one of America's top sopranos.
It is noteworthy that Zimmer remained as dedicated to charity work as she was to singing during her life ahead. Thus, while obtaining great success in music, she also worked on charitable organizations around America and showed remarkable generosity towards those who needed help most.
Move over potatoes, Curtis Stigers is the biggest thing to come out of Idaho.
4. Curtis Stigers
One of Idaho's famous singers is known for his bluesy and soulful voice – Curtis Stigers. He was born in Boise, Idaho and started playing the clarinet at a young age, eventually transitioning to singing. Stigers got discovered by legendary music producer Clive Davis, leading to signing with Arista Records. His biggest hits include "I Wonder Why" and "You're All That Matters to Me". He has collaborated with renowned artists such as Prince and Elton John. In addition to his successful music career, Stigers also dabbles in acting and composing music for films.
Gary Peacock, the bassist from Idaho who could make a guitar jealous with his fretwork skills.
5. Gary Peacock
Gary Peacock, a celebrated jazz bassist hailing from Idaho, has left his mark on the international music scene with his unique blend of avant-garde and traditional influences. His extensive collaborations with legends like Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett, and Paul Bley have cemented his place as one of the most innovative musicians of our time. An iconic figure in the world of improvised music, Peacock has won numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the genre.
Peacock's early career saw him play with notable names like Barney Kessel and Bud Shank in Los Angeles before moving to New York City in the 1960s. He quickly established himself as a sought-after bassist, playing with some of the biggest names in jazz. Throughout his long career, he has constantly pushed musical boundaries and experimented with new forms of expression.
Notably, Peacock took part in an innovative experiment where he completely refrained from playing any notes during live performances while continuing to move around on stage – a concept known as 'non-idiomatic improvisation'. This unconventional approach to music-making speaks volumes about his artistic vision.
Although he passed away recently at the age of 85, Gary Peacock remains an enduring symbol of innovation and creativity in jazz music. Aspiring musicians can learn a great deal from his ethos that emphasizes risk-taking and personal expression.
"I guess Idaho really knows how to 'build' a band because Built to Spill is proof that great music can come from anywhere."
6. Built to Spill
This Idahoan musical group, Built to Spill, is a highly respected indie rock band that first hit the scene in 1992. With their signature sound and notable guitar-driven melodies, they have become a staple of alternative music culture. Led by frontman Doug Martsch, they made waves with their early releases and continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their unique style. They have released eight studio albums to date, with fan favorites including "Keep It Like a Secret" and "Perfect from Now On".
Influenced by punk rock and bands like Dinosaur Jr., Built to Spill's sound is deeply rooted in the Pacific Northwest's music scene. Martsch's introspective lyrics paired with heavy riffs stand out amongst contemporary indie acts. Their live performances are also something to admire, often featuring lengthy jam sessions that showcase their musicianship.
Fun fact: Alongside his work with Built to Spill, Martsch has collaborated with other indie icons such as Modest Mouse and The Halo Benders.
Pro tip: To fully appreciate Built to Spill's music, try listening to one of their albums all the way through without interruptions – you won't be disappointed.
Move over, Boston Tea Party – Paul Revere and The Raiders are the new rebels leading the charge in Idaho.
7. Paul Revere and The Raiders
This Idahoan band brought a unique spin to rock music with their mix of garage rock and pop sensibilities. Paul Revere and The Raiders gained fame in the 1960s with hits such as "Kicks" and "Indian Reservation". They were known for their colorful stage appearance, wearing Revolutionary War attire to match the band's name.
Interestingly, in addition to his success as a musician, lead singer Paul Revere was also an accomplished businessman, owning several successful restaurants in Idaho.
It's no surprise that this dynamic group of musicians has left a lasting impact on the music industry, inspiring and influencing artists for generations to come. Josh Ritter may be from Idaho, but he sings like he's from the heart of Nashville.
8. Josh Ritter
A notable musician hailing from the state of Idaho is Josh Ritter, who has gained acclaim for his folk-rock music compositions. His songs are a fusion of literary themes and personal experiences that have garnered him a devoted following worldwide.
Born in Moscow, Idaho, Ritter pursued a degree in neuroscience before discovering his true passion for music. He has released multiple successful albums and collaborated with fellow musicians to create thought-provoking pieces that captivate listeners.
With his unique sound and storytelling abilities, Josh Ritter has earned critical praise for his soulful performances and deep lyrics. His songs often explore themes related to identity, love, and societal issues that connect with audiences on an emotional level. Some of his most popular tracks include “Getting Ready to Get Down”, “The Temptation of Adam”, and “Girl in the War”. In addition to composing music, Ritter is also an accomplished author and has published two books.
One interesting aspect about Josh Ritter's music is its diverse appeal across different age groups and demographics. He has performed at festivals like Bonnaroo and Newport Folk Festival, drawing large crowds of fans from all walks of life. Furthermore, he actively promotes social causes through his music such as supporting farmers’ rights through Farm Aid concert series.
Pro Tip: Listen to Josh Ritter's music for its poetic lyrics and meaningful messages wrapped up in a unique blend of folk-rock melodies.
Even though he hails from Idaho, Doug Martsch still manages to make guitar solos sound cool.
9. Doug Martsch
This talented rock singer and guitarist hails from the state of potatoes, Idaho. With his mesmerizing vocals and guitar skills, he has paved the way for many aspiring musicians in the industry. As a founding member of indie rock band Built to Spill, Doug Martsch has successfully contributed to eleven full-length albums and gained critical acclaim for his work.
His distinct style of music is characterized by intricate guitar riffs and heartfelt lyrics, making him stand out amongst other artists. In addition to his work with Built to Spill, Martsch has also explored his creativity in solo projects and collaborations with other musicians.
One unique aspect of Martsch's music is his ability to blend various genres such as punk, grunge, and folk into his sound. This experimentation has helped him acquire a diverse fan base across different age groups.
Rumor has it that Martsch was inspired to pursue music after watching a performance by legendary punk rock band The Ramones. His passion drove him to learn playing the guitar at an early age, which led him down a path towards success. Despite facing initial struggles in establishing himself as a musician, Martsch never gave up on his dream and is now considered one of the most prominent musicians from Idaho.
At least Idaho has one thing to brag about besides potatoes – the talented Eilen Jewell.
10. Eilen Jewell
With her melancholic melodies and soothing voice, Eilen Jewell has etched her name as one of the most iconic singers from Idaho. Her unique blend of country music with elements of blues and folk has captivated audiences worldwide. Eilen's music is a reflection of her life experiences, often touching on themes of love, loss, and nostalgia.
Throughout her career spanning over two decades, Eilen has released numerous albums and collaborated with many notable artists. She's received critical acclaim for her artistry and has won accolades like the Boston Music Award for Outstanding Folk Artist.
In addition to her musical prowess, Eilen is also an advocate for social justice causes. She uses her platform to raise awareness about issues like homelessness and inequality.
With a humble beginning in Boise, Idaho, Eilen Jewell has come a long way from playing small gigs to performing at large music festivals. Her tale is one of perseverance and passion, as she continues to inspire millions through her soulful music.
Samuel Moore 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.
