Wisconsin may be known for its cheese, lakes, and Green Bay Packers, but the state also boasts an impressive roster of musical talent that has made waves on the national and global stage. From the heart of the Midwest, these musicians have risen to fame with their unique sounds, powerful voices, and unforgettable performances. Whether it’s rock legends who’ve defined an era, soulful jazz vocalists who’ve won Grammys, or indie folk pioneers who’ve reshaped the genre, Wisconsin has been the birthplace of some of the most influential and popular singers in history. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the lives and careers of the top 10 most famous singers to come out of the Badger State. You’ll discover how these artists, each with their own distinctive style, have not only captured the hearts of millions but also left an indelible mark on the world of music. Get ready to dive into the stories of these Wisconsin-born icons who continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the globe with their incredible talent and passion!
1. Liberace
Few entertainers have left as enduring a mark on the world of music and showmanship as Liberace. Born in West Allis, Wisconsin, in 1919, Liberace became one of the most famous pianists in history, blending classical music with pop culture in ways that captivated audiences for decades. Known for his extravagant costumes, glittering jewelry, and elaborate stage productions, he earned the nickname “Mr. Showmanship.” Despite his flamboyant persona, his technical prowess on the piano was undeniable. Liberace’s ability to make classical music accessible and entertaining to the masses, along with his boundless charisma, made him a beloved figure across the globe. His iconic performances in Las Vegas and on television made Liberace a household name, and his influence on entertainment can still be felt today.
2. Steve Miller
Steve Miller, born in Milwaukee in 1943, is the mastermind behind The Steve Miller Band, one of the most iconic rock groups of the 1970s. With hits like “The Joker,” “Fly Like an Eagle,” and “Take the Money and Run,” Miller fused blues, psychedelic rock, and pop, creating anthems that defined a generation. His guitar work and songwriting have earned him a place among rock’s elite, and his smooth vocals became a signature of the band’s sound. Growing up in a musical family, Miller was exposed to legends like Les Paul, who was a family friend. That early immersion in music helped shape his innovative approach to rock. To this day, Steve Miller’s music continues to inspire and entertain, with his songs remaining staples on classic rock radio.
3. Les Paul
Les Paul wasn’t just a musician—he was an inventor, a pioneer, and a visionary whose contributions to music changed the world. Born Lester William Polsfuss in Waukesha, Wisconsin, in 1915, he would become a trailblazer in the development of the solid-body electric guitar, a key ingredient in the birth of rock and roll. His partnership with Gibson led to the creation of the iconic Les Paul guitar, which has been played by countless legends, including Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton. But Paul didn’t stop there—he also pioneered multitrack recording, revolutionizing how music could be produced and recorded. As a musician, he dazzled with his virtuosic guitar skills, blending jazz, country, and pop in innovative ways. Les Paul’s legacy is felt every time an electric guitar is played, solidifying him as one of the most important figures in music history.
4. Al Jarreau
Milwaukee native Al Jarreau was a once-in-a-lifetime talent whose voice spanned genres and emotions with effortless grace. Born in 1940, Jarreau was a seven-time Grammy Award winner, known for his unique ability to blend jazz, R&B, and pop into a seamless and soulful sound. His vocal technique was nothing short of extraordinary, often described as an instrument unto itself. Songs like “We’re in This Love Together” and his rendition of “Moonlighting” showcased his incredible range and versatility. Jarreau’s scat singing, improvisation, and rhythmic precision were unrivaled, and his live performances were mesmerizing. Over a career that spanned more than four decades, Jarreau became one of the most celebrated vocalists in jazz and popular music, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and inspiration.
5. Bon Iver (Justin Vernon)
From the quiet woods of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Justin Vernon—better known as Bon Iver—created a sound that resonated deeply with listeners around the world. His debut album, For Emma, Forever Ago, was born out of isolation after a breakup, but its hauntingly beautiful harmonies struck a chord far beyond the confines of his remote cabin. Released in 2007, it became an instant classic in the indie folk genre, with its raw emotion and stark, atmospheric production. Vernon’s falsetto-laden vocals and use of auto-tuning in later albums like 22, A Million pushed the boundaries of folk, blending electronic elements with soulful songwriting. Bon Iver has since earned multiple Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist in 2012, and continues to be one of the most innovative and beloved modern musicians.
6. Garbage
Garbage is a band that burst onto the alternative rock scene in the mid-1990s with a sound that was as edgy as it was accessible. Formed in Madison, Wisconsin, by producers Butch Vig, Duke Erikson, and Steve Marker, along with Scottish lead singer Shirley Manson, Garbage combined electronica, grunge, and pop to create hits like “Stupid Girl” and “Only Happy When It Rains.” Butch Vig, already famous for producing Nirvana’s Nevermind, helped craft the band’s unique blend of gritty guitars, electronic beats, and Manson’s alluring yet defiant vocals. Garbage became one of the defining bands of the ’90s, with their self-titled debut album going multi-platinum. Their music touched on themes of alienation, love, and self-destruction, making them a voice for a generation of disaffected youth.
7. BoDeans
The BoDeans have been a cornerstone of heartland rock since they first emerged from Waukesha, Wisconsin, in the early 1980s. Founded by Kurt Neumann and Sam Llanas, the band is best known for their mix of roots rock, Americana, and heartfelt songwriting. Their breakout album Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams (1986) introduced their signature harmonies and raw instrumentation to the world. But it was their 1993 hit “Closer to Free,” which became the theme song for the popular TV show Party of Five, that cemented their place in rock history. The BoDeans’ music captures the spirit of the Midwest—honest, unpretentious, and brimming with optimism. They’ve continued to tour and release albums, maintaining a loyal fanbase that spans generations.
8. Cory Chisel
Cory Chisel, born in Appleton, Wisconsin, grew up surrounded by gospel music, which deeply influenced his soul-stirring approach to songwriting. As the frontman of Cory Chisel and the Wandering Sons, Chisel blends folk, blues, and Americana into stories that feel both timeless and personal. His husky, emotive voice is perfectly suited for the introspective and earthy sound that defines his music. With albums like Death Won’t Send a Letter, Chisel has garnered critical acclaim for his lyricism and authenticity, drawing comparisons to legendary troubadours like Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. Chisel’s music has an undeniable warmth, rooted in the traditions of American songwriting, making him a standout figure in the folk and Americana scenes.
9. Skylar Grey
Skylar Grey, born Holly Brook Hafermann in Mazomanie, Wisconsin, is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Known for her hauntingly beautiful voice and songwriting prowess, Skylar Grey has penned and performed on some of the biggest hits of the 2010s. She co-wrote Eminem and Rihanna’s smash hit “Love the Way You Lie” and has collaborated with artists like Diddy, Zedd, and Nicki Minaj. Her solo work, including songs like “Coming Home” and “Invisible,” showcases her moody, introspective style, blending elements of pop, hip-hop, and alternative rock. Grey’s ability to convey raw emotion through her lyrics and vocals has made her one of the most sought-after songwriters and vocalists in the business.
10. Chris Vos (The Record Company)
Chris Vos, the lead singer and guitarist of The Record Company, hails from Burlington, Wisconsin, and his music echoes the grit and soul of American rock and blues. The Record Company burst onto the scene with their debut album Give It Back to You in 2016, earning a Grammy nomination and widespread acclaim with their raw, stripped-down sound. Vos’s growling vocals and slide guitar work are the heart of the band’s style, which draws inspiration from blues legends like Muddy Waters and rock trailblazers like The Rolling Stones. Their hit single “Off the Ground” introduced a new generation to the power and simplicity of roots-driven rock, and The Record Company continues to gain fans with their electrifying live performances and authentic sound.
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.
