Vermont may be best known for its scenic landscapes, maple syrup, and cozy small-town charm, but this New England gem has also produced a surprising number of influential and talented musicians. From genre-defining guitarists to soulful vocalists, the Green Mountain State has nurtured some of the most exciting artists in rock, folk, and alternative music. Whether they’re captivating audiences with electrifying live performances or crafting introspective lyrics that resonate across generations, these singers have made their mark on the national and international stage. In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular and iconic singers from Vermont, each bringing something unique to the world of music. You’ll discover the stories behind artists who’ve headlined major festivals, created award-winning Broadway musicals, and inspired legions of fans with their unforgettable sound. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, get ready to be introduced to the voices that define Vermont’s vibrant and diverse music scene. So sit back, turn up the volume, and let’s celebrate the incredible talent that has emerged from this beautiful corner of the country!
1. Grace Potter
Grace Potter is a dynamic vocalist and performer who blends rock, blues, and pop into a sound that is truly electrifying. As the frontwoman and co-founder of Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, she gained widespread recognition with hits like “Paris (Ooh La La)” and “Stars,” both of which showcase her raw, powerful voice. Known for her commanding stage presence, Potter has often been compared to legendary performers like Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks, captivating audiences at major festivals and during her extensive tours. After parting ways with the Nocturnals, she embarked on a successful solo career, releasing albums like Midnight and Daylight that explore new musical territories while staying true to her rock roots. Potter is not only a formidable vocalist but also a talented songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, which allows her to bring a unique depth and authenticity to her music. Whether she’s belting out a powerful anthem or delivering a soulful ballad, Potter’s ability to connect with her audience is undeniable, making her one of the most exciting artists in modern rock. Over the years, her evolving sound and fearless artistry have solidified her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
2. Joey Santiago (Pixies)
Joey Santiago is the creative genius behind the unmistakable guitar sound of the Pixies, one of the most influential alternative rock bands of all time. Born in the Philippines and raised in Vermont, Santiago’s innovative guitar work—marked by jagged riffs, heavy distortion, and haunting feedback—became a cornerstone of the Pixies’ music. His style helped shape hits like “Where Is My Mind?” and “Debaser,” both of which exemplify his ability to create atmospheric, otherworldly sounds that are as unique as they are impactful. Santiago’s influence on alternative rock is immeasurable, inspiring artists like Kurt Cobain and Radiohead, who have cited the Pixies as a major influence on their own work. Despite the band’s hiatus, Santiago continued to push musical boundaries when the Pixies reunited, contributing to their newer albums while maintaining the edge that made them legendary in the first place. Santiago’s guitar work remains a defining feature of the band’s sound, and his contributions to rock music have left a lasting legacy.
3. Anaïs Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell is a singer-songwriter whose roots in Vermont’s folk scene have blossomed into international recognition, particularly with her creation of the Tony Award-winning musical Hadestown. Known for her intricate storytelling and delicate vocal style, Mitchell’s music is heavily influenced by folk traditions but takes on modern themes such as love, politics, and mythology. Her album Young Man in America garnered widespread acclaim and cemented her status as one of contemporary folk’s most compelling voices. However, it was Hadestown, a retelling of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, that launched her into the global spotlight. The musical, praised for its depth and creativity, brought Mitchell’s narrative-driven songwriting to Broadway audiences, showcasing her remarkable ability to weave stories into her music. Through both her solo work and her theatrical compositions, Mitchell has emerged as one of the most innovative and evocative songwriters of her generation, continuing to push the boundaries of folk music.
4. Trey Anastasio (Phish)
Trey Anastasio, the lead guitarist and charismatic frontman of Phish, has left an indelible mark on the jam band scene. Formed in the 1980s in Burlington, Vermont, Phish quickly gained a massive following due to their improvisational live performances, which often blend elements of rock, jazz, funk, and bluegrass into extended, genre-bending sets. Anastasio’s virtuosic guitar playing and adventurous approach to music have earned him a devoted fan base that follows Phish on tour, akin to the Grateful Dead’s famous following. Beyond his work with Phish, Anastasio has also released a number of solo albums and has composed orchestral pieces, even collaborating with the New York Philharmonic. His ability to craft intricate, complex compositions while maintaining a playful, spontaneous energy on stage sets him apart as a musical innovator. Anastasio’s influence stretches far beyond Vermont, as his contributions to both live performance and recorded music have made him a beloved figure in the world of improvisational rock.
5. Neko Case
Neko Case, though not originally from Vermont, has been deeply influenced by her time spent in the Green Mountain State. Known for her commanding and emotionally rich voice, Case has made a name for herself both as a solo artist and as a member of the indie rock group The New Pornographers. Her music, which blends indie rock with country and folk elements, is often haunting and deeply personal, exploring themes of nature, loss, and human vulnerability. Albums like Fox Confessor Brings the Flood and Hell-On showcase her unique ability to convey powerful emotions through both her lyrics and her vocals. During her years in Vermont, Case developed a profound connection to the natural world, and this connection can often be felt in her music’s atmospheric and richly textured soundscapes. Today, she remains one of the most respected and distinctive voices in indie rock, with a career that continues to evolve and captivate audiences.
6. Chad Urmston (Dispatch)
Chad Urmston is best known as the co-founder and lead vocalist of Dispatch, an indie band that defies genre by blending rock, reggae, and folk influences. Hailing from Vermont, Urmston’s music is deeply rooted in the region’s independent, DIY ethos, which helped the band build a massive grassroots following in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Despite limited mainstream radio play, Dispatch became known for their socially conscious lyrics and energetic live performances. Songs like “The General” and “Bang Bang” became anthems for a generation of indie music fans. Beyond his work with Dispatch, Urmston is also an activist, founding the non-profit organization Calling All Crows, which advocates for human rights and social change. His earnest songwriting and commitment to using music as a platform for activism have made him a beloved figure in both Vermont and the wider music community, with a legacy that continues to grow.
7. Kat Wright
Kat Wright’s voice is a force to be reckoned with—rich, soulful, and undeniably captivating. As the lead vocalist of Kat Wright & The Indomitable Soul Band, she brings a modern yet nostalgic blend of soul, R&B, and jazz to her performances. Based in Burlington, Vermont, Wright has become a prominent figure in the local music scene, known for her charismatic stage presence and ability to connect with audiences through her velvety vocals. Her 2016 album By My Side put her on the map as a rising star in the soul genre, drawing comparisons to legends like Amy Winehouse and Norah Jones. Wright’s music carries a timeless quality, blending classic soul sounds with a contemporary twist, making her one of the most exciting voices to emerge from Vermont in recent years.
8. Peter Yarrow (Peter, Paul and Mary)
Peter Yarrow, best known as a member of the legendary folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, has long called Vermont home. With timeless hits like “Puff, the Magic Dragon” and “If I Had a Hammer,” Yarrow and his bandmates became voices for the civil rights and anti-war movements of the 1960s. His gentle voice and compassionate spirit have inspired generations of musicians and activists alike. In Vermont, Yarrow continues to write, perform, and advocate for social causes, embodying the ethos of the folk movement. His activism, combined with his contributions to folk music, has left an indelible mark not only on American culture but also on Vermont’s musical landscape.
9. Zach DuPont (The DuPont Brothers)
Zach DuPont, one half of the Vermont-based folk duo The DuPont Brothers, has built a reputation for crafting deeply emotional and introspective songs alongside his brother, Sam. The duo’s music, characterized by tight harmonies and intricate acoustic arrangements, explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of the human experience. Their modern take on traditional folk has resonated with both local audiences and indie-folk fans across the country. Zach’s songwriting shines with poetic sensitivity, allowing him to connect with listeners on a personal level. Together, the brothers have created a unique sound that blends the folk traditions of the Northeast with contemporary influences, making them standout artists in Vermont’s vibrant folk scene.
10. Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan is one of Vermont’s most exciting new musical exports, with a folk-pop sound that has captured hearts far beyond his small-town roots. Kahan’s breakout single, “Hurt Somebody,” introduced his deeply personal songwriting style, while his 2022 album Stick Season cemented his reputation as a rising star. His music often reflects his rural upbringing, exploring themes of isolation, mental health, and finding one’s place in the world. Kahan’s tender yet powerful voice, paired with his relatable lyrics, creates songs that resonate on a deeply emotional level with listeners. With a growing fanbase and critical acclaim, Kahan is quickly becoming one of Vermont’s most beloved and successful musical talents.