South Carolina may be known for its sweet tea, Southern charm, and coastal beauty—but it’s also a powerhouse when it comes to producing world-class musical talent. From the swampy soul of James Brown to the smooth country croon of Darius Rucker, the Palmetto State has birthed voices that have shaped genres, topped charts, and inspired millions. Whether it’s the gritty realism of Southern hip-hop, the heartstring-pulling melodies of country, or the silky smoothness of R&B ballads, South Carolina’s influence runs deep and wide across the music world.
This isn’t just a list—it’s a celebration of the artists who’ve put South Carolina on the global music map. These singers have filled stadiums, won Grammys, broken barriers, and created timeless hits that echo from the Lowcountry to Los Angeles. Some are household names, others are cult favorites, but all of them share one thing: undeniable talent rooted in Southern soul. So turn up the volume and dive into our countdown of the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from South Carolina—you might just discover your next favorite artist or gain a new appreciation for the legends who got their start in the Palmetto State. Let the music speak for itself!
1. James Brown
Born in Barnwell, South Carolina, James Brown didn’t just perform music—he changed it forever. Nicknamed the “Godfather of Soul,” Brown blazed onto the scene in the 1950s with a ferocity and drive that no one had seen before. His live shows were pure electricity: sweat-soaked, soul-shaking spectacles that left audiences breathless. Songs like “I Got You (I Feel Good)” and “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” weren’t just catchy—they were revolutionary, fusing gospel roots with R&B and birthing funk in the process. His grooves were tight, his horn sections punchy, and his timing razor-sharp, setting the blueprint for future generations of musicians, from Michael Jackson to Prince and modern hip-hop icons. But James Brown wasn’t only about music—he was a voice for change during the Civil Rights Movement. “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” became more than a song; it was a declaration of identity and pride. Despite humble beginnings, Brown’s legacy spans continents. He took the raw energy of the South and amplified it for the world, proving that a kid from South Carolina could redefine music—and inspire social progress while doing it.
2. Darius Rucker
Darius Rucker’s musical journey is a testament to reinvention, resilience, and pure talent. Raised in Charleston, South Carolina, he first gained national fame as the soulful voice behind Hootie & the Blowfish, a ’90s band that became a household name with chart-topping hits like “Let Her Cry” and “Only Wanna Be With You.” Their blend of heartfelt lyrics and Southern rock charm struck a chord with millions. But Rucker didn’t stop there. In the mid-2000s, he made the bold leap to country music—a move that surprised some but made perfect sense once you heard him sing. His solo debut, Learn to Live, delivered multiple No. 1 hits and made him the first Black artist since Charley Pride to consistently top the country charts. Songs like “Wagon Wheel” and “Alright” showcase his smooth baritone and knack for storytelling. Rucker’s ability to straddle genres while staying true to his roots has made him one of South Carolina’s most cherished artists. Whether singing about lost love, good times, or his Southern upbringing, he brings sincerity to every note. His voice is unmistakable—and his impact undeniable.
3. Chadwick Boseman
Though the world came to know Chadwick Boseman as an actor of rare intensity and grace, his connection to music—especially through his transformative role as James Brown in Get On Up—deserves recognition. Born in Anderson, South Carolina, Boseman was a trained director and playwright before his screen career took off. But it was his full-bodied portrayal of Brown that showcased not just his acting chops, but his deep understanding of music as performance and power. He learned the moves, the vocal cadence, even performed many of the songs himself, embodying Brown with an authenticity that stunned both critics and audiences. It wasn’t just mimicry—it was a resurrection. While Boseman wasn’t a professional singer, his ability to channel a musical legend proved he could use voice and rhythm as expressively as any recording artist. In doing so, he helped introduce a new generation to Brown’s legacy. Boseman reminded us that music and acting can share the same stage—that both are vehicles for storytelling, soul, and truth. South Carolina gave us a star whose talents defied category, and whose legacy echoes far beyond the silver screen.
4. Young Jeezy (Jeezy)
Jeezy, born in Columbia, South Carolina, but raised in Georgia, became one of the most commanding voices in Southern hip-hop during the 2000s. His rise wasn’t polished—it was gritty, raw, and real. With his 2005 debut album Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101, Jeezy carved out his own lane. He didn’t just rap about the streets—he lived them, and his husky delivery gave his lyrics a weight that couldn’t be faked. Tracks like “Soul Survivor” and “Put On” weren’t just hits; they became anthems of ambition, struggle, and survival. A key architect of trap music, Jeezy helped shape a sound that would dominate hip-hop for years to come, paving the way for artists like Future, 2 Chainz, and Migos. But beyond the music, Jeezy matured into a savvy entrepreneur and speaker, often emphasizing legacy, ownership, and self-empowerment. Though Atlanta has often claimed him, South Carolina remains an essential part of his foundation. He’s proof that greatness can be born from adversity—and that you can rise from humble beginnings to become a voice that moves culture.
5. Josh Turner
Josh Turner’s voice sounds like it was carved straight from the Carolina pine—rich, grounded, and unmistakably Southern. Born in the small town of Hannah, South Carolina, Turner burst onto the country scene in 2003 with “Long Black Train,” a gospel-tinged track that felt both timeless and timely. From the start, he was a throwback in the best way: deeply rooted in faith, tradition, and honest storytelling. With hits like “Your Man” and “Would You Go with Me,” Turner proved that classic country could still connect with modern audiences. His deep baritone sets him apart, but it’s his sincerity and clarity of purpose that truly resonate. In an industry that often chases trends, Turner has remained steadfast in his identity, blending country, gospel, and bluegrass influences without ever losing touch with his roots. His music speaks to faith, family, and the simple but profound moments of life. Whether on the Grand Ole Opry stage or singing hymns with his children, Turner embodies the heart of South Carolina—steady, soulful, and unshakably true.
6. Peabo Bryson
Greenville native Peabo Bryson has long been considered one of R&B’s most distinguished voices—a smooth, effortless tenor that feels like velvet draped over a string section. Rising to prominence in the 1980s, Bryson became the go-to crooner for romantic ballads that blended rich musical arrangements with heartfelt emotion. While many recognize him for his iconic Disney duets—“Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle—those Grammy-winning performances are just the tip of the iceberg. His solo hits, including “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” and “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” solidified his status as a master of love songs. Bryson’s voice evokes elegance and intimacy, capturing the feeling of a candlelit evening with every note. Beyond the hits, he’s remained a revered figure in soul and adult contemporary music for over four decades. South Carolina gave us a true romantic in Bryson—a vocalist whose artistry transcends time, style, and even generation. His music remains a warm reminder that some voices don’t just sing—they soothe.
7. Kristian Bush
Though born in Knoxville, Tennessee, Kristian Bush spent his formative years in Sevierville and later in South Carolina, where his love of storytelling and music began to take root. Best known as one-half of the chart-topping country duo Sugarland, Bush played a crucial role in shaping the modern country sound of the 2000s and beyond. With hits like “Stuck Like Glue,” “All I Want to Do,” and “Stay,” Sugarland combined emotional depth with radio-ready melodies, and Bush’s contributions as a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and harmony vocalist were pivotal. But his creativity didn’t stop there—his solo work ventures into Americana and folk, showing off his versatility and willingness to experiment. Bush is also a respected producer and mentor, helping nurture the next generation of Southern songwriters. South Carolina’s influence is clear in his acoustic-driven, rootsy approach to music. Whether he’s on stage or behind the scenes, Kristian Bush remains a thoughtful, innovative force in the world of country and beyond.
8. Chanté Moore
Chanté Moore may have been born in San Francisco, but her musical roots stretch into the heart of South Carolina through family heritage and gospel lineage. Her voice—ethereal and sultry—became a defining presence in ’90s R&B, effortlessly blending jazz nuances with soulful expression. Her breakout album Precious introduced the world to a singer who could shift from whispered vulnerability to stunning vocal power in a single phrase. Songs like “Love’s Taken Over” and “Chanté’s Got a Man” revealed her emotional range and control, making her a standout in a decade full of powerhouse divas. But beyond commercial hits, Moore’s artistry has always leaned into the personal and spiritual. Her gospel upbringing is evident in the sincerity of her performances, and she’s never been afraid to dig deep emotionally. Chanté Moore isn’t just a singer—she’s a storyteller, a soul-bearer, and a quietly influential force in contemporary R&B whose Southern roots continue to inform her voice and style.
9. Toro y Moi (Chaz Bear)
Chaz Bear, better known by his stage name Toro y Moi, is one of the most inventive and genre-defying musicians to come out of South Carolina. Raised in Columbia, Bear helped usher in the chillwave movement of the late 2000s with his breakout album Causers of This, which fused lo-fi synth textures with mellow vocals and experimental grooves. But Toro y Moi never stayed confined to one sound—his catalog is a genre-hopping journey through funk, indie pop, psychedelia, and electronica. Albums like Anything in Return, Boo Boo, and Outer Peace showcase an artist constantly evolving, always in conversation with both underground and mainstream sounds. Beyond music, Bear is a talented visual artist and designer, blending audio and visual aesthetics into a cohesive creative vision. He embodies the DIY ethos, proving that South Carolina can produce not only traditional roots artists but also boundary-pushers who redefine what modern music can be. Toro y Moi is proof that innovation can have Southern roots and still reach global heights.
10. Candice Glover
Candice Glover’s rise to fame was nothing short of electrifying. Born and raised in Beaufort, South Carolina, she captivated millions as the winner of American Idol Season 12, delivering soul-stirring performances that revived the show’s musical credibility. With a voice that blends gospel passion, R&B smoothness, and Broadway-style precision, Glover doesn’t just sing—she commands. Her renditions of classics like “I (Who Have Nothing)” and “Lovesong” were more than performances; they were emotional experiences that left judges and audiences breathless. Her debut album Music Speaks revealed a young woman with emotional depth, strong songwriting instincts, and a vocal range capable of both quiet tenderness and thunderous power. While her career has unfolded more slowly than expected, her talent remains undeniable. Glover is a modern soul singer rooted deeply in tradition, drawing from church choirs and Southern storytelling to bring authenticity to everything she sings. She’s not just a voice from South Carolina—she’s a symbol of what raw talent, heart, and perseverance can achieve on the national stage.
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.
