Throughout the history of rock and pop music, the piano has played a significant role in shaping the sound of many iconic songs and albums. Many talented pianists have made their mark on the genre, influencing the style and direction of music for years to come.
Famous rock pop piano players have been known for their virtuosity, style, and unique contributions to the music industry. Their skillful performances have been showcased on recordings, in live performances, and in collaborations with other musicians.
These pianists have not only been talented musicians, but have also been important songwriters and producers, working alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. Their contributions to popular music have helped to shape the sound of entire generations, and their influence can still be felt in modern music.
From the early days of rock and roll to the present, famous rock pop piano players have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Whether they were playing boogie-woogie or jazz-influenced piano riffs, or providing soaring and emotional accompaniment to power ballads, these pianists have helped to create some of the most memorable and iconic songs in the history of popular music.
1. Elton John
Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight, is a British singer, songwriter, composer, and pianist, who has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over five decades. He is known for his flamboyant stage presence, signature glasses, and extravagant outfits, as well as his impressive vocal range and piano playing skills.
Elton John’s music career started in the late 1960s, with his debut album “Empty Sky” released in 1969. Throughout the 1970s, he became one of the biggest music stars in the world, releasing hit after hit, including “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Crocodile Rock,” and “Bennie and the Jets.” His music, often co-written with Bernie Taupin, is known for its catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and unique blend of rock, pop, and classical influences.
Aside from his successful music career, Elton John is also known for his philanthropy and activism. He established the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992, which has since raised millions of dollars to support HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and research. In addition, he has been an advocate for LGBT+ rights, speaking openly about his own sexuality and supporting various organizations promoting equality and acceptance.
In 2019, Elton John released his autobiography “Me,” in which he candidly talks about his personal life, struggles with addiction, and experiences in the music industry. Despite his numerous accolades and achievements, Elton John remains humble and dedicated to his craft, continuously pushing boundaries and creating music that resonates with audiences of all generations.
2. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is an American musician, singer-songwriter, and pianist, widely regarded as one of the greatest and most successful musicians of all time. Born in The Bronx, New York in 1949, Joel began his music career as a teenager, playing piano in local bands before signing his first record deal in 1971.
Joel’s music has been described as a blend of rock, pop, and soul, with influences from classical and jazz music. His lyrics often focus on personal struggles, relationships, and the human condition, which resonates with audiences across generations. Joel’s music has been praised for its catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and his distinctive piano playing style.
Joel has released numerous hit albums throughout his career, including “Piano Man”, “The Stranger”, “52nd Street”, “Glass Houses”, and “An Innocent Man”. He is best known for classic songs like “Uptown Girl”, “We Didn’t Start the Fire”, “New York State of Mind”, “She’s Always a Woman”, and “Just the Way You Are”. Joel has sold over 150 million records worldwide and is one of the best-selling artists of all time.
Joel has won numerous awards throughout his career, including six Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He has also been recognized for his philanthropic work, including his support for music education and various charitable causes. Today, Joel remains a highly respected and beloved musician, whose timeless music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
3. Freddie Mercury
Freddie Mercury, born Farrokh Bulsara, was a British musician, singer-songwriter, and the lead vocalist of the rock band Queen. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers in the history of rock music, known for his flamboyant stage presence, powerful vocals, and impressive range. Mercury’s songwriting skills were also highly praised, as he wrote many of Queen’s most iconic hits, including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Are the Champions,” and “Somebody to Love.”
Mercury’s musical influence can be felt across generations and genres, and his legacy has continued to inspire countless artists since his death in 1991. He was known for his dynamic performances, often interacting with the audience and encouraging them to sing along with him. Mercury’s stage persona was characterized by his flamboyant costumes, energetic movements, and his signature microphone stand.
In addition to his musical talents, Mercury was known for his engaging personality, quick wit, and charitable efforts. He used his platform as a famous musician to raise awareness and funds for AIDS research and was an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Freddie Mercury’s impact on the music industry and pop culture cannot be overstated, and his music continues to be beloved by fans around the world.
4. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder, born Stevland Hardaway Morris, is an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer. He is considered to be one of the most influential and successful musicians of the 20th century, known for his soulful voice, catchy melodies, and innovative use of various instruments, including the harmonica, keyboard, and synthesizer.
Stevie Wonder’s music career began in the 1960s, when he signed with Motown Records and released his first album “The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie” at the age of 12. Throughout the following decades, he became a major force in popular music, producing numerous hit singles, including “Superstition,” “Sir Duke,” “I Just Called to Say I Love You,” and “Isn’t She Lovely.” He has won 25 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most decorated musicians in history.
Aside from his impressive music career, Stevie Wonder is also known for his humanitarian efforts and activism. He has supported various causes, including the fight against apartheid in South Africa and the promotion of peace and unity worldwide. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2014.
Despite losing his sight shortly after birth, Stevie Wonder has never let that hinder his musical ability or career. He continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans with his timeless music, unwavering positivity, and dedication to making the world a better place.
5. Carole King
Carole King is an American singer-songwriter and pianist who has had a profound impact on the music industry since the 1960s. She is known for her soulful voice, catchy melodies, and relatable lyrics that touch on themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth. King has written and performed some of the most iconic songs of the 20th century, including “You’ve Got a Friend,” “I Feel the Earth Move,” and “It’s Too Late.”
King’s career began in the early 1960s as a songwriter for other artists, working alongside her then-husband, Gerry Goffin. Together, they wrote hit songs for several popular musicians of the time, including The Shirelles and The Monkees. In 1971, King released her breakthrough album “Tapestry,” which went on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time. The album showcased King’s unique songwriting and vocal talents, and cemented her place in music history.
In addition to her musical achievements, King has been an advocate for various causes, including environmentalism and peace activism. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career.
6. Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen, also known as “The Boss”, is an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and activist who has become an iconic figure in the rock music genre. Born in New Jersey in 1949, Springsteen began his career in the late 1960s, performing in local clubs before signing his first record deal in 1972.
Springsteen’s music is a blend of rock, folk, and blues, often featuring poignant lyrics about the struggles of the working class and themes of hope, redemption, and the American Dream. His live performances are legendary, featuring high-energy shows with his E Street Band and his signature brand of heartland rock.
Springsteen’s breakthrough album, “Born to Run”, released in 1975, propelled him to superstardom, and he went on to release many critically acclaimed albums, including “Darkness on the Edge of Town”, “The River”, and “Born in the USA”. He has sold over 150 million records worldwide and is regarded as one of the most influential artists in rock music history.
In addition to his music career, Springsteen is also known for his activism and advocacy for social justice causes, including support for workers’ rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigrants’ rights. He has been honored with numerous awards throughout his career, including 20 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Today, Springsteen remains a revered figure in American music, beloved for his authentic storytelling, passionate performances, and unwavering commitment to his fans and causes.
7. Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys is an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and actress who has made a significant impact on the music industry with her soulful voice, impressive piano skills, and empowering lyrics. She was born and raised in New York City and began playing piano at the age of seven, displaying a prodigious talent for music from a young age.
Keys’ career began in the late 1990s when she signed with Columbia Records and released her debut album, “Songs in A Minor,” in 2001. The album was a huge success, earning her five Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist, and establishing her as a major force in contemporary R&B and soul music. Since then, Keys has released several more successful albums, including “The Diary of Alicia Keys” and “As I Am,” which both earned her additional Grammy Awards.
Aside from her music career, Keys is also known for her philanthropy and activism. She co-founded the Keep a Child Alive organization in 2003, which provides life-saving medication to children and families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India. She is also an advocate for various causes, including education, poverty, and social justice.
Alicia Keys’ powerful voice, impressive piano skills, and socially conscious lyrics have made her a beloved and respected artist worldwide. She continues to inspire and empower listeners with her music and activism, proving that she is not only a talented musician but also a force for good in the world.
8. Ray Charles
Ray Charles, also known as “The Genius,” was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who is widely considered to be one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. He was born in Georgia in 1930 and grew up in poverty, but his talent for music was evident from a young age.
Charles’ music career began in the 1950s, when he signed with Atlantic Records and released a string of hit singles, including “What’d I Say,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “Hit the Road Jack.” He combined elements of blues, gospel, jazz, and R&B to create his own unique sound, and his powerful voice and energetic performances made him a favorite among audiences.
Aside from his impressive music career, Charles was also known for his activism and philanthropy. He was a supporter of the civil rights movement and refused to perform in segregated venues, using his influence to promote equality and justice. He also established the Robinson Foundation for Hearing Disorders, which provides funding for research into hearing loss and related disorders.
Ray Charles’ contributions to music and society have made him a beloved and respected figure worldwide. His innovative use of different genres and instruments, combined with his powerful vocals, continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day. His legacy will forever be remembered as one of the greatest in music history.
9. John Lennon
John Lennon was an English singer-songwriter, musician, and peace activist who rose to fame as a member of the Beatles. Born in Liverpool in 1940, Lennon was a talented musician from a young age, and he and his bandmates went on to achieve unprecedented success in the 1960s, becoming one of the most iconic and influential bands in history.
Lennon’s music is known for its emotional depth, social commentary, and experimentation with different genres, including rock and roll, folk, and psychedelia. His solo career after leaving the Beatles continued to showcase his unique and creative approach to music, with hits like “Imagine”, “Instant Karma!”, and “Give Peace a Chance”.
Lennon was also known for his activism and outspoken views on peace, love, and social justice. He used his platform to advocate for causes he believed in, including the anti-war movement and civil rights, and he and his wife Yoko Ono famously staged bed-ins for peace in the late 1960s.
Sadly, Lennon’s life was cut short when he was assassinated in 1980 in New York City. However, his music and legacy continue to inspire and influence musicians and fans around the world. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and his message of peace and love remains a powerful reminder of the potential for music to bring people together and effect positive change.
10. Jerry Lee Lewis
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDOIL5OqvYs
Jerry Lee Lewis, also known as “The Killer”, is an American singer-songwriter and pianist who is considered one of the pioneers of rock and roll. Born in Louisiana in 1935, Lewis began playing the piano at a young age and was heavily influenced by the sounds of blues, country, and gospel music.
Lewis’s music is characterized by his distinctive piano playing style, energetic vocals, and dynamic stage presence. His hits include classics like “Great Balls of Fire”, “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On”, and “Breathless”. Lewis was known for his flamboyant performances, which often involved him playing the piano with his feet or setting it on fire.
Despite his immense talent and success, Lewis’s career was not without controversy. He faced backlash for his marriage to his underage cousin and was banned from performing in some parts of the United States due to concerns over his wild and unpredictable behavior.
Despite these setbacks, Lewis’s impact on rock and roll is undeniable, and he is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and has influenced countless musicians with his energetic and innovative approach to music. Today, at 87 years old, Lewis remains an icon of rock and roll, revered for his raw talent, rebellious spirit, and enduring contributions to the genre.
11. Paul McCartney
Paul McCartney is an English singer, songwriter, and musician who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music. He is best known for his work as a member of the Beatles, one of the most successful and influential bands of all time.
McCartney’s career began in the early 1960s, when he formed the Beatles with John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. The band’s innovative songwriting, catchy melodies, and electrifying performances made them an instant sensation, and they quickly rose to become the biggest band in the world.
After the Beatles disbanded in 1970, McCartney went on to establish a successful solo career, releasing numerous hit albums and singles, including “Band on the Run,” “Live and Let Die,” and “Maybe I’m Amazed.” He has also collaborated with several other musicians, including Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder.
Aside from his music career, McCartney is also known for his philanthropy and activism. He has supported various causes, including animal rights, environmental conservation, and anti-landmine campaigns.
Paul McCartney’s innovative songwriting, catchy melodies, and powerful vocals have made him a beloved and respected musician worldwide. His contributions to music have been recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Grammys and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as both a member of the Beatles and as a solo artist.
12. Randy Newmaz
Randy Newman is a highly acclaimed American singer-songwriter, pianist, and composer known for his distinctive voice, biting wit, and musical versatility. Born in Los Angeles in 1943, Newman grew up in a family of musicians and began playing piano and writing songs at a young age. He quickly gained attention in the 1960s as a songwriter for other artists, with his songs being covered by the likes of Dusty Springfield and Three Dog Night.
Newman’s music is characterized by his unique vocal style, which ranges from a soft croon to a growling rasp, and his clever and often satirical lyrics, which touch on topics ranging from love and heartbreak to political and social issues. He is also known for his skillful piano playing, which draws on a range of musical styles including blues, jazz, and pop.
Over the course of his long and illustrious career, Newman has released numerous albums, won multiple Grammy awards, and composed music for a variety of films and TV shows, including several Pixar movies. His work is often cited as a major influence on a wide range of musicians, from pop stars to indie rockers.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Newman is also known for his activism and political involvement, having lent his voice and support to various progressive causes over the years. Overall, Randy Newman is a talented and multifaceted artist whose music and contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond.
13. Ben Folds
Ben Folds is a singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer known for his clever lyrics, infectious melodies, and unique blend of rock, pop, and classical music. Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina in 1966, Folds was drawn to music at an early age and started playing piano when he was just nine years old. In the late 80s and early 90s, he played in a number of bands before forming the Ben Folds Five in 1994, which quickly gained a following with their debut album “Ben Folds Five” and hit single “Brick.”
Folds’ music is characterized by his distinctive piano playing, which is both rhythmic and melodic, and his sharp, witty lyrics that often explore the ups and downs of relationships and everyday life. He has released numerous albums as a solo artist, as well as with the Ben Folds Five and other collaborations, and his music has been featured in films and TV shows.
Aside from his successful music career, Folds is also known for his work as a judge on the TV show “The Sing-Off,” where he helped to mentor and develop the talents of young a cappella groups. He is also an advocate for music education, and has worked with various organizations to promote the importance of music in schools. Overall, Ben Folds is a talented and versatile musician who has left his mark on the music industry with his unique style and musicality.
14. Tori Amos
Tori Amos is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the alternative music scene. She was born in North Carolina in 1963 and began playing piano at the age of two, showing a prodigious talent for music from a young age.
Amos’ music career began in the late 1980s, when she signed with Atlantic Records and released her debut album, “Little Earthquakes,” in 1992. The album was a critical and commercial success, earning her a devoted following and establishing her as a major force in alternative rock and pop music. She continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including “Under the Pink,” “Boys for Pele,” and “Scarlet’s Walk.”
Aside from her music career, Amos is also known for her activism and advocacy work. She is a vocal supporter of various causes, including women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmentalism. She has also established the RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) foundation, which provides support and resources for survivors of sexual violence.
Tori Amos’ unique and innovative music, combined with her activism and advocacy work, have made her a beloved and respected figure in the music industry and beyond. Her powerful vocals, haunting melodies, and socially conscious lyrics continue to inspire and empower listeners around the world.
15. Sara Bareilles
Sara Bareilles is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and catchy pop melodies. Born in California in 1979, Bareilles began playing the piano at a young age and was heavily influenced by her parents’ love of music.
Bareilles first rose to fame with her 2007 hit single “Love Song”, which reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Since then, she has released several successful albums and has become known for her anthemic, empowering songs like “Brave” and “King of Anything”.
Bareilles is also a talented musician and has played the piano and guitar on many of her songs. She has collaborated with a number of artists throughout her career, including Jack Antonoff and Ingrid Michaelson, and has written music for Broadway shows like “Waitress”.
In addition to her music career, Bareilles has also acted in several television shows and Broadway productions. She has been praised for her activism and advocacy for causes like LGBTQ+ rights and access to healthcare.
Bareilles’s music is known for its emotional depth, relatable lyrics, and infectious hooks. Her raw talent and dedication to her craft have made her a beloved figure in the music industry, and her music continues to inspire and uplift fans around the world.
16. Rufus Wainwright
Rufus Wainwright is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice, eclectic musical style, and emotive lyrics. Born in New York in 1973, Wainwright grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at a young age. He later studied music at McGill University in Montreal, where he began to hone his skills as a songwriter and performer.
Wainwright’s music is a blend of pop, rock, opera, and cabaret, with his songs often featuring lush orchestration and complex vocal arrangements. He is known for his rich, theatrical performances and his ability to convey powerful emotions through his music.
Some of Wainwright’s most well-known songs include “Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk”, “Hallelujah”, and “Going to a Town”. He has released over ten studio albums throughout his career and has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Elton John, Sharon Van Etten, and Mark Ronson.
Wainwright has been praised for his unique voice, intelligent lyrics, and willingness to experiment with different genres and musical styles. He has also been open about his personal struggles with addiction, mental health, and sexuality, and has used his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and awareness.
Today, Wainwright remains a respected and influential figure in the music industry, beloved by fans for his creativity, authenticity, and emotional depth.
17. Norah Jones
Norah Jones is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who is known for her soulful voice and unique blend of jazz, pop, and country music. She was born in New York City in 1979 and grew up surrounded by music, as her father was the legendary sitar player Ravi Shankar.
Jones’ music career began in the early 2000s, when she released her debut album, “Come Away with Me,” which went on to become a massive commercial success, selling over 27 million copies worldwide. The album earned her multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Best New Artist, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
Jones continued to release successful albums throughout the 2000s and 2010s, including “Feels Like Home,” “The Fall,” and “Day Breaks.” Her music has been praised for its emotional depth, intimate lyrics, and beautiful melodies, and her collaborations with other musicians, including Willie Nelson and Danger Mouse, have only added to her appeal.
Aside from her music career, Jones is also known for her activism and philanthropy. She has supported various causes, including environmentalism, animal rights, and women’s rights.
Norah Jones’ unique voice and musical style have made her a beloved and respected figure in the music industry. Her ability to seamlessly blend different genres and create beautiful, timeless music has earned her legions of fans around the world.
18. Jamie Cullum
Jamie Cullum is a British jazz pianist, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his unique blend of jazz, pop, and rock music. Born in 1979 in Essex, England, Cullum developed an early love for music and began playing the piano at the age of eight. He attended the University of Reading, where he studied English and Drama while also performing at local jazz clubs and bars.
Cullum’s music is characterized by his distinctive voice, energetic stage presence, and eclectic musical influences. He draws inspiration from a wide range of artists, from Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald to Radiohead and Jeff Buckley. His music often features inventive arrangements, improvisation, and a mix of original songs and covers.
Cullum has released multiple albums over the course of his career, including “Twentysomething,” “Catching Tales,” and “The Pursuit,” and has won numerous awards for his work, including two Brit Awards and a Grammy nomination. He has also performed at major music festivals around the world and collaborated with a variety of artists, including Pharrell Williams and Gregory Porter.
19. Regina Spektor
Regina Spektor is a Russian-born American singer, songwriter, and pianist known for her quirky and eclectic style. She was born in Moscow in 1980 and moved to the United States with her family when she was nine years old, settling in New York City.
Spektor’s music career began in the early 2000s, when she released her debut album, “11:11,” which featured her unique blend of piano-driven pop and folk music. She gained a following in the New York City music scene and went on to release several successful albums, including “Soviet Kitsch,” “Begin to Hope,” and “Far.”
Spektor’s music is known for its poetic lyrics, unconventional song structures, and use of unusual instruments and sounds. Her songs often explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, and her ability to craft memorable melodies and hooks has earned her a dedicated fanbase.
Aside from her music career, Spektor is also known for her activism and advocacy work. She has supported various causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and environmentalism, and has used her music to raise awareness about social and political issues.
Regina Spektor’s unique and quirky style, combined with her thoughtful lyrics and powerful vocals, have made her a beloved and respected figure in the music industry. Her ability to push boundaries and create music that is both unconventional and accessible has earned her a place in the pantheon of modern songwriters.
20. Vanessa Carlton
Vanessa Carlton is an American singer-songwriter known for her piano-driven pop music and ethereal vocals. Born in Pennsylvania in 1980, Carlton began playing the piano at a young age and was heavily influenced by classical music.
Carlton’s breakthrough hit came in 2002 with “A Thousand Miles”, which reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned her three Grammy nominations. Since then, she has released several albums and has continued to develop her unique sound, which blends elements of pop, rock, and classical music.
In addition to her music career, Carlton is also an accomplished actress and has appeared in several films and television shows. She has collaborated with a number of artists throughout her career, including Adam Levine and Stevie Nicks, and has toured extensively around the world.
Carlton’s music is known for its poetic lyrics, haunting melodies, and intricate piano arrangements. She has been praised for her ability to convey powerful emotions through her music and for her unique and innovative approach to songwriting.
Today, Carlton remains a respected and influential figure in the music industry, beloved by fans for her creativity, authenticity, and dedication to her craft. Her music continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.
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.
