Singers from South Dakota, although they may not be as numerous as those from more populous states, contribute to the cultural fabric of the region with their unique voices and stories. Hailing from the heartland of America, South Dakota singers often draw inspiration from the vast landscapes, rugged beauty, and rich history of their home state.
Many South Dakota singers find themselves steeped in the traditions of country, folk, and Americana music, reflecting the rural roots and down-to-earth sensibilities of the region. Their songs often speak to the experiences of small-town life, the joys and struggles of rural existence, and the enduring spirit of the Midwest.
Despite the challenges of breaking into the music industry from a state with a smaller population and less infrastructure for artists, South Dakota singers persevere, honing their craft through local performances, community events, and grassroots efforts. Some may eventually find national recognition, while others remain beloved figures within their local communities, enriching the cultural landscape with their talent and passion.
Through their music, South Dakota singers capture the essence of life on the Great Plains, celebrating the unique heritage and spirit of their home state while sharing their stories with audiences near and far.
1. Shawn Colvin
Shawn Colvin, originally from Vermillion, South Dakota, is a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter renowned for her poignant lyrics, soulful voice, and masterful guitar playing.
Colvin rose to prominence in the late 1980s with her debut album “Steady On,” which earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following. Her intimate, introspective songwriting style and emotionally resonant performances captivated listeners, establishing her as a rising star in the folk music scene.
In 1997, Colvin achieved mainstream success with her album “A Few Small Repairs,” which featured the hit single “Sunny Came Home.” The song earned her two Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year, and catapulted her to international fame. Colvin’s ability to blend folk, rock, and pop influences with her distinctive voice and evocative storytelling set her apart as a truly unique and compelling artist.
Throughout her career, Colvin has continued to release albums that showcase her talent and versatility as a musician, exploring a wide range of themes and musical styles. From introspective ballads to upbeat folk-rock anthems, her music reflects her personal experiences and observations, offering listeners a window into her world.
Beyond her musical achievements, Colvin is also an accomplished author, penning a memoir titled “Diamond in the Rough” that delves into her life and career in the music industry.
Shawn Colvin’s enduring legacy as a singer-songwriter lies in her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level through her heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Her contributions to folk and contemporary music have earned her admiration and respect from fans and fellow musicians alike, ensuring that her music will continue to resonate for years to come.
2. Rita Coolidge
Rita Coolidge, originally from Lafayette, Tennessee, spent a significant part of her childhood in Nashville before eventually moving to South Dakota, where she attended Florida State University. Coolidge is a renowned singer-songwriter whose career has spanned several decades and genres, making her a beloved figure in the music industry.
Coolidge first gained attention in the late 1960s as a backup vocalist for artists such as Joe Cocker, Eric Clapton, and Leon Russell. Her soulful voice and dynamic stage presence quickly caught the attention of audiences and fellow musicians alike.
In the early 1970s, Coolidge embarked on a successful solo career, releasing a string of hit albums and singles. Her smooth, melodic voice and emotionally resonant performances earned her widespread acclaim and a loyal fan base. Hits like “We’re All Alone” and “Higher and Higher” showcased her vocal prowess and established her as a leading figure in the folk and pop music scenes.
Throughout her career, Coolidge has collaborated with some of the most iconic artists in the industry, including her former husband Kris Kristofferson. Her versatility as a vocalist has allowed her to explore a wide range of musical styles, from folk and country to rock and pop.
In addition to her musical achievements, Coolidge is also an accomplished songwriter and author, having penned several books and songs that reflect her personal experiences and artistic vision.
Rita Coolidge’s enduring legacy as a singer-songwriter lies in her ability to connect with audiences through her heartfelt lyrics and soulful performances. Her contributions to the music industry have left an indelible mark, earning her admiration and respect from fans and fellow musicians alike.
3. Chad Kroeger
Chad Kroeger, born in Hanna, Alberta, Canada, is a prominent figure in the rock music scene, best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist for the multi-platinum-selling band Nickelback.
Kroeger’s distinctive raspy voice and knack for crafting catchy melodies propelled Nickelback to international stardom in the early 2000s. With hit singles like “How You Remind Me,” “Photograph,” and “Rockstar,” the band achieved widespread success and became one of the best-selling rock acts of the decade.
Beyond his work with Nickelback, Kroeger has collaborated with various artists and contributed to the production of albums for other bands. His songwriting abilities have earned him acclaim, with Nickelback’s songs often exploring themes of love, relationships, and personal struggles.
In addition to his music career, Kroeger has been involved in philanthropic efforts, supporting causes such as cancer research and disaster relief. He remains active in the music industry, continuing to tour and record with Nickelback while also pursuing other creative endeavors.
Chad Kroeger’s impact on the rock music scene is undeniable, with his powerful vocals and memorable songs resonating with fans around the world. Despite facing criticism from some quarters, his contributions to the genre have left an enduring legacy, solidifying his place as one of the most recognizable voices in modern rock.
4. David Soul
David Soul, born David Richard Solberg on August 28, 1943, is an American-British actor and singer, best known for his role as Detective Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson in the television series “Starsky & Hutch” and for his successful music career.
Soul began his career as a stage actor before transitioning to television and film. He gained widespread fame in the 1970s with his role as Hutch in the iconic television series “Starsky & Hutch,” which aired from 1975 to 1979. The show was a hit, and Soul’s portrayal of the streetwise detective made him a household name.
In addition to his acting career, David Soul is also known for his music. He released several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, achieving success as a singer-songwriter. His most famous song is “Don’t Give Up on Us,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1977. Soul also had other chart-topping hits, including “Silver Lady” and “Going in with My Eyes Open.”
David Soul’s success in both acting and music made him a prominent figure in popular culture during the 1970s. He continued to act in television shows, films, and stage productions throughout his career, earning critical acclaim for his performances.
While he is best known for his work in “Starsky & Hutch” and his music career, David Soul has also appeared in numerous other television shows, films, and theater productions over the years, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Today, David Soul remains active in the entertainment industry, continuing to act in films and television shows and occasionally performing in concert. He is remembered as a talented and versatile performer, with a career that has spanned decades and left a lasting impact on popular culture.
5. Tyler Farr
Tyler Farr is an American country music singer and songwriter. Born on February 5, 1984, in Garden City, Missouri, Farr began his music career in the early 2000s, initially working as a songwriter in Nashville, Tennessee.
Farr gained recognition as a recording artist with the release of his debut single, “Hot Mess,” in 2012. The song achieved moderate success on the country music charts, setting the stage for Farr’s subsequent rise to prominence in the genre.
In 2013, Tyler Farr released his debut album, “Redneck Crazy,” which featured the title track as its lead single. “Redneck Crazy” became a major hit, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning Farr widespread acclaim for his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics.
Farr followed up his debut album with the release of his sophomore effort, “Suffer in Peace,” in 2015. The album spawned several hit singles, including “A Guy Walks Into a Bar” and “Withdrawals,” further solidifying Farr’s reputation as a rising star in country music.
Throughout his career, Tyler Farr has continued to release music and tour extensively, captivating audiences with his powerful voice and authentic storytelling. He has earned multiple award nominations for his work, including nods from the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association.
With his distinctive blend of traditional country sounds and contemporary influences, Tyler Farr has carved out a niche for himself in the country music landscape. He continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike for his talent, passion, and dedication to his craft.
6. Brian Vander Ark
Brian Vander Ark, born in Holland, Michigan, is a talented singer-songwriter best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist for the alternative rock band The Verve Pipe.
Vander Ark’s distinctive voice and introspective songwriting have been central to The Verve Pipe’s success since their formation in the early 1990s. The band gained widespread recognition with their hit single “The Freshmen” from their platinum-selling album “Villains,” which earned critical acclaim and became an anthem for a generation.
In addition to his work with The Verve Pipe, Vander Ark has pursued a successful solo career, releasing several albums that showcase his versatility as a musician and songwriter. His solo work often explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth, drawing listeners in with its heartfelt lyrics and melodic hooks.
Beyond his musical endeavors, Vander Ark is also a talented actor and playwright, having appeared in various stage productions and penned several plays. His creative pursuits reflect his passion for storytelling and his desire to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Throughout his career, Brian Vander Ark has remained dedicated to his craft, continually evolving as an artist while staying true to his roots. His contributions to the alternative rock genre and his commitment to creating meaningful, heartfelt music have earned him a devoted following and solidified his status as a respected figure in the music industry.
7. T. Michael Coleman
T. Michael Coleman is an American musician, best known for his work as a bassist and music producer, particularly in the realm of blues and rock music. Coleman has a prolific career spanning several decades, during which he has collaborated with numerous notable artists and bands.
Coleman’s early musical endeavors involved playing bass in various bands and ensembles, honing his skills as a versatile and accomplished musician. In the 1970s, he gained recognition for his work as a session musician, contributing bass lines to recordings by artists across a range of genres.
One of Coleman’s most significant collaborations was with blues rock legend John Mayall. He served as the bassist in Mayall’s band during the 1980s, contributing to several albums and touring extensively with the group.
In addition to his work with John Mayall, T. Michael Coleman has worked with other renowned musicians and bands, including Eric Clapton, Albert Collins, and The Traveling Wilburys. His distinctive bass playing style and musical versatility have made him a sought-after collaborator in the industry.
Beyond his work as a bassist, T. Michael Coleman has also ventured into music production, working behind the scenes to shape the sound of various recordings. His expertise and attention to detail as a producer have contributed to the success of numerous albums and projects.
Throughout his career, T. Michael Coleman has remained an active and influential figure in the music industry, earning respect and admiration from peers and fans alike. His contributions to blues and rock music continue to be celebrated, and his legacy as a talented musician and producer endures.
8. Brynn Cartelli
Brynn Cartelli, originally from Longmeadow, Massachusetts, rose to prominence as the winner of the fourteenth season of the reality singing competition “The Voice” in 2018. At just 15 years old, Cartelli made history as the youngest winner in the show’s history, showcasing her remarkable talent and maturity beyond her years.
Cartelli’s powerful voice and captivating performances endeared her to both audiences and coaches alike throughout her journey on “The Voice.” Her ability to infuse emotion into every song she sings, along with her natural stage presence, set her apart as a standout contestant from the start.
Following her victory on “The Voice,” Cartelli wasted no time in pursuing her music career, releasing her debut single “Walk My Way” shortly after the show’s conclusion. Her soulful vocals and catchy melodies garnered praise from fans and critics alike, laying the foundation for what promises to be a successful career in the music industry.
Since then, Cartelli has continued to release music, showcasing her growth as an artist and further solidifying her status as a rising star. With her undeniable talent, determination, and unwavering passion for music, Brynn Cartelli is poised to leave a lasting impact on the industry and inspire audiences with her music for years to come.
9. Troye Sivan
Troye Sivan, born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and raised in Perth, Australia, is a multi-talented singer-songwriter, actor, and YouTuber whose rise to fame has been characterized by his captivating music, heartfelt storytelling, and unwavering authenticity.
Sivan first gained prominence as a YouTuber, where he showcased his musical talents through covers and original songs. His engaging personality and relatable content quickly garnered a massive following, propelling him to international stardom.
In 2015, Sivan released his debut studio album, “Blue Neighbourhood,” which received critical acclaim and introduced him to a wider audience. The album’s lead single, “Youth,” became a chart-topping hit, earning Sivan recognition for his introspective lyrics and ethereal vocals.
Since then, Sivan has continued to push artistic boundaries with his music, releasing albums like “Bloom” and “In a Dream,” which further showcase his evolution as an artist and songwriter. His music explores themes of love, identity, and self-discovery, resonating with fans around the world who are drawn to his honest and vulnerable storytelling.
In addition to his music career, Sivan has also made a name for himself as an actor, appearing in films like “Boy Erased” and “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.” His commitment to using his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness has earned him praise and admiration from fans and activists alike.
Troye Sivan’s impact on the music industry and popular culture extends far beyond his captivating melodies and soul-stirring lyrics. His courage, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to his art have made him a beacon of inspiration for millions of fans worldwide, solidifying his status as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
10. The Spill Canvas
The Spill Canvas is an American alternative rock band formed in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in 2002. The band’s lineup has undergone several changes over the years, with lead vocalist and guitarist Nick Thomas being the primary consistent member. The band’s name is derived from an incident where lead vocalist Nick Thomas accidentally spilled paint on a canvas, inspiring the name “The Spill Canvas.”
The Spill Canvas gained attention in the mid-2000s with their emotionally charged lyrics, melodic hooks, and dynamic sound. Their music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and personal struggles, resonating with audiences who appreciate heartfelt and introspective songwriting.
The band released their debut album, “Sunsets and Car Crashes,” in 2005, which included the popular singles “All Over You” and “The Tide.” The album received positive reviews from critics and helped establish The Spill Canvas as a promising new act in the alternative rock scene.
Subsequent albums, including “One Fell Swoop” (2005), “No Really, I’m Fine” (2007), and “Formalities” (2010), further solidified the band’s reputation for crafting emotionally resonant and sonically engaging music. They continued to tour extensively and build a dedicated fanbase through their energetic live performances.
While The Spill Canvas has experienced lineup changes and periods of hiatus over the years, Nick Thomas has remained committed to the band’s music and legacy. In recent years, The Spill Canvas has released new music and embarked on tours, delighting fans with their continued creativity and passion for their craft.
Overall, The Spill Canvas has left an indelible mark on the alternative rock genre, with their heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies earning them a devoted following and securing their place in the music industry.
Edward Tomlin 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.
