Idaho may not be as well-known for producing famous musicians as some other states, but there are still some notable singers who hail from this western state. From folk and country to pop and rock, the music scene in Idaho has produced a diverse array of talent.
One of the most well-known singers from Idaho is Paul Revere, the frontman of the popular 60s band Paul Revere and the Raiders. Another notable Idahoan is Josh Ritter, who has gained a following for his indie-folk sound and poetic lyrics. Curtis Stigers is another successful singer from Idaho, known for his smooth jazz and pop vocals.
Idaho has also produced several successful country artists, including Luke Bryan, who spent much of his childhood in the state, and Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Cam. The state has also produced some rising stars in the indie music scene, such as Eilen Jewell and Lee Penn Sky.
Overall, while Idaho may not have the same level of fame as some other states when it comes to producing musicians, it is clear that there is no shortage of talent from the Gem State.
1. Josh Ritter
Josh Ritter is an American singer-songwriter known for his introspective lyrics, distinctive voice, and eclectic musical style. Born in Idaho in 1976, Ritter grew up in a musical family and started playing guitar and writing songs in his teens. He attended Oberlin College and later moved to Scotland to pursue a career in music.
Ritter’s music draws from a wide range of influences, including folk, rock, and country. His songs often deal with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, and his lyrics are known for their poetic sensibility and vivid imagery. Ritter has released several acclaimed albums over the course of his career, including “The Animal Years” (2006), “So Runs the World Away” (2010), and “Fever Breaks” (2019).
In addition to his solo work, Ritter has collaborated with a number of other musicians, including Jason Isbell, Bob Weir, and The Milk Carton Kids. He is also an accomplished novelist, having published several books, including “Bright’s Passage” (2011) and “The Great Glorious Goddamn of It All” (2021). With his unique voice and thought-provoking lyrics, Josh Ritter has earned a devoted following among music lovers around the world.
2. Gary Peacock
Gary Peacock was an American jazz bassist who was known for his distinctive style of playing that often incorporated elements of free jazz and avant-garde music. Born on May 12, 1935, in Burley, Idaho, Peacock began playing piano as a child and later switched to bass in his early teens. He studied music at several universities before moving to Los Angeles in the early 1960s, where he quickly became involved in the city’s vibrant jazz scene.
Peacock worked with a wide variety of musicians throughout his career, including such notable jazz figures as pianist Bill Evans, drummer Paul Motian, and saxophonist Albert Ayler. He was known for his ability to adapt to different styles of music while still maintaining his own unique sound, and his playing was often characterized by its melodic inventiveness and rhythmic complexity.
Peacock released numerous albums as a bandleader and also appeared as a sideman on countless recordings by other artists. He was widely regarded as one of the most influential bassists of his generation and continued to perform and record well into his later years. Peacock passed away on September 4, 2020, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most respected and innovative musicians in the history of jazz.
3. Curtis Stigers
Curtis Stigers is an American singer, songwriter, and saxophonist who first gained fame in the early 1990s with his hit song “I Wonder Why.” Born in Boise, Idaho, Stigers began his music career playing jazz saxophone in local clubs. He then moved to New York City to pursue his dream of being a musician, where he signed with Arista Records and released his self-titled debut album in 1991.
Stigers’ music style is a blend of jazz, pop, rock, and blues, with a distinctive raspiness in his voice that sets him apart from other singers. His music often deals with themes of love, heartbreak, and the ups and downs of life. Stigers is not only a talented singer but also a gifted songwriter, having written many of his own songs.
Over the course of his career, Stigers has released several successful albums, including “Brighter Days,” “Real Emotional,” and “Lost in Dreams.” He has also collaborated with many other musicians and artists, such as jazz legend Dave Brubeck and pop icon Elton John. With his smooth vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and impressive saxophone playing, Curtis Stigers remains a beloved and respected figure in the world of music.
4. Eilen Jewell
Eilen Jewell is an American singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and her blend of Americana, country, blues, and folk music. Born in Boise, Idaho, in 1979, Jewell grew up listening to traditional country and blues music. She began performing as a street musician in Santa Fe, New Mexico, before forming her own band and releasing her debut album, “Boundary County,” in 2006.
Jewell has since released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Sea of Tears” (2009), “Queen of the Minor Key” (2011), and “Sundown Over Ghost Town” (2015). Her music is often characterized by its evocative storytelling, memorable melodies, and honest lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and the American experience.
In addition to her solo work, Jewell has collaborated with a number of other musicians, including guitarist Jerry Miller and songwriter David Dondero. She has also been recognized for her contributions to the Americana music scene, receiving nominations for several Americana Music Association Awards.
Overall, Eilen Jewell is a talented singer-songwriter whose music reflects a deep appreciation for the roots of American music while also exploring new directions and possibilities.
5. Doug Martsch (Built to Spill)
Doug Martsch is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist best known as the frontman of the indie rock band Built to Spill. Martsch’s music career began in the late 1980s with the Boise-based punk band Treepeople. After the band’s dissolution, Martsch formed Built to Spill in 1992. The band’s sound is characterized by Martsch’s intricate guitar work, introspective lyrics, and strong melodic hooks.
Martsch’s songwriting often touches on themes of personal reflection, relationships, and existential questions, and his introspective lyrics have garnered him a dedicated following among indie rock fans. His guitar playing, which is often described as “jangly” or “twangy,” is heavily influenced by Neil Young and J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr.
Martsch’s career has been marked by experimentation and growth. Over the course of several critically acclaimed albums, he has explored various musical styles, incorporating elements of psychedelia, folk, and country into his sound. In addition to his work with Built to Spill, Martsch has collaborated with numerous other musicians and bands, including the Halo Benders, Caustic Resin, and The Strokes.
With his distinctive voice and thoughtful songwriting, Martsch has cemented his place as one of the most respected and influential figures in the indie rock scene.
6. Norma Zimmer
Norma Zimmer was an American singer who is known for her work as a member of the gospel quartet, The Four Star Quartet, and as the soloist of the Lawrence Welk Orchestra. Born in 1923 in Larson, Idaho, Zimmer began singing in church choirs from a young age and later became a member of The Four Star Quartet in the late 1940s.
In 1960, Zimmer joined the Lawrence Welk Show, which was a popular musical variety program that aired on television for over 30 years. She became known for her clear, powerful soprano voice and performed a wide range of musical genres, including show tunes, popular songs, and religious hymns.
Zimmer remained with the Lawrence Welk Show until it ended in 1982, and she continued to perform in various musical productions and concerts after the show’s cancellation. She also released several albums throughout her career, including “Norma Zimmer Sings Her Most Requested Sacred Songs” and “The Best of Lawrence Welk’s Champagne Lady.”
Zimmer was known for her warmth, grace, and professionalism both on and off stage. She was admired by audiences and fellow performers alike for her beautiful voice and her dedication to her craft. Zimmer passed away in 2011, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most beloved singers of her time.
7. Branden Steineckert (Rancid)
Branden Steineckert is a musician and songwriter best known for his work as the drummer for the punk rock band Rancid. Born in Utah in 1978, Steineckert first began playing drums as a teenager and eventually joined the band The Used, which achieved commercial success in the early 2000s. In 2006, he joined Rancid as their new drummer, replacing Brett Reed.
As a member of Rancid, Steineckert has contributed to several of the band’s albums, including “Let the Dominoes Fall” and “Trouble Maker,” and has toured extensively with the group. He is known for his dynamic and powerful drumming style, which has helped to define the sound of Rancid and influenced countless other punk rock musicians.
In addition to his work with Rancid, Steineckert has also released solo material and has collaborated with other artists, including ska punk band The Interrupters. He is an advocate for animal rights and has used his platform to raise awareness about animal welfare issues.
Overall, Branden Steineckert is a respected and influential figure in the punk rock community, known for his technical skill and his dedication to the genre’s DIY ethos.
8. Ryan Stevenson
Ryan Stevenson is a contemporary Christian musician from Bonanza, Oregon. His music is known for its honest, vulnerable lyrics and catchy melodies. Stevenson’s career began in the early 2000s as a part of the Christian rock band, Grits. He eventually left the band to pursue a solo career, releasing his debut album, “Yesterday, Today, Forever,” in 2007.
Since then, Stevenson has released multiple successful albums, including “Fresh Start” and “No Matter What,” which both charted on the US Christian albums chart. His hit single, “Eye of the Storm,” spent multiple weeks at number one on the US Christian airplay chart and was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Stevenson’s music often explores themes of hope, redemption, and the struggles of daily life. He frequently collaborates with other well-known Christian artists such as TobyMac and Bart Millard of MercyMe. In addition to his music career, Stevenson is also a pastor at Vertical Church in Boise, Idaho.
Overall, Ryan Stevenson is a talented musician with a heart for sharing the message of hope and grace through his music.
9. Jake Sinclair
Jake Sinclair is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer based in Los Angeles, California. He has worked with a variety of artists across multiple genres, including Weezer, Fall Out Boy, Panic! at the Disco, P!nk, 5 Seconds of Summer, and Taylor Swift.
Sinclair began his career as a musician, playing in a number of bands before transitioning into production work. He has become known for his versatile production style, which combines elements of rock, pop, and electronic music.
In addition to producing, Sinclair has also released music as a solo artist. His debut single, “Still Everybody’s Son,” was released in 2020 and showcases his powerful vocals and introspective songwriting.
Sinclair has also been recognized for his charitable work, particularly with the MusiCares Foundation, which provides financial and medical assistance to musicians in need.
With his unique blend of musical talent, production skills, and philanthropic spirit, Jake Sinclair has become a respected figure in the music industry and continues to make an impact on the industry through his work.
10. Shook Twins
Shook Twins is an indie folk band formed by identical twin sisters Katelyn and Laurie Shook. The band, which hails from Portland, Oregon, is known for its unique blend of folk, pop, and rock music. The sisters grew up in a small town in Idaho and started playing music together at a young age. They moved to Portland in their early twenties and began performing in local venues.
Shook Twins’ music is characterized by Katelyn and Laurie’s tight harmonies and the use of unusual instrumentation, including a variety of stringed instruments and percussion. Their lyrics often explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth. The band has released several albums, including “You Can Have the Rest” and “Some Good Lives.”
In addition to their musical career, the Shook Twins are also known for their commitment to environmentalism and social justice causes. They have performed at numerous benefit concerts and have been outspoken about issues such as climate change and immigration. Overall, Shook Twins’ unique sound and commitment to making a difference in the world have earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim in the indie folk community.
11. Rosalie Sorrels
Rosalie Sorrels was an American folk singer and songwriter who emerged in the 1960s during the folk music revival. She was known for her distinctive voice and her ability to write and perform songs that tackled a range of social and political issues. Sorrels’ music often explored themes of love, loss, and social justice, and she was celebrated for her ability to capture the human experience through her songs.
Sorrels grew up in Idaho, and her music was heavily influenced by the natural beauty of the state. She began performing in the late 1950s, and her career took off in the 1960s when she moved to California and began performing in coffeehouses and folk clubs. Over the years, Sorrels recorded more than 20 albums and collaborated with a range of musicians, including Utah Phillips and Pete Seeger.
Sorrels was also known for her commitment to social activism, and she used her music as a way to raise awareness about issues such as environmentalism, feminism, and civil rights. She was a trailblazer for women in folk music, and her influence can still be heard in the work of many contemporary artists. Sorrels passed away in 2017 at the age of 83, but her legacy lives on through her music and the impact she had on the folk music community.
12. Judy Lynn
Judy Lynn was a country music singer who enjoyed success in the 1950s and 1960s. She was born in Idaho in 1936, and began performing as a teenager. In 1956, she landed her first recording contract with RCA Victor Records, and her debut single, “Little White Lies,” was released later that year. The song became a hit, and helped establish her as a rising star in the country music scene.
Over the next several years, Lynn continued to release successful singles and albums, earning a reputation as a talented vocalist and engaging performer. She was known for her traditional country sound and heartfelt lyrics, and her songs often explored themes of love, heartbreak, and longing.
Some of Lynn’s most well-known songs include “Footsteps of a Fool,” “The Greatest Sin,” and “Rockin’ the Jukebox.” She also appeared on numerous television and radio programs, including “The Grand Ole Opry” and “The Jimmy Dean Show.”
Lynn continued to perform and record throughout the 1960s, but her career began to slow down in the following decade. She passed away in 2010, but her music lives on as a testament to her talent and legacy as a country music pioneer.
13. Jeanette Loff
Jeanette Loff was an American actress and singer popular during the 1920s and 1930s. Born in California in 1906, Loff began her career in vaudeville as a child performer, appearing in various stage shows and touring with traveling troupes. She made her film debut in the silent comedy “The Big Noise” in 1928 and quickly became known for her bubbly personality, comic timing, and musical talent.
Throughout the 1920s, Loff appeared in dozens of films, both silent and “talkies,” including “Tanned Legs” (1929), “The Love Parade” (1929), and “Oh, For a Man!” (1930). She was often cast as the spunky, vivacious girl-next-door, and her singing voice and comedic timing helped make her a popular star of the era.
In addition to her film career, Loff also recorded several songs during the 1920s, including “My Man o’ War,” “You’re My Everything,” and “You’re the Cream in My Coffee.” Her bright, cheerful singing style and effervescent personality made her a favorite among audiences of the time.
Loff’s career slowed down in the 1930s, and she retired from acting in the mid-1930s. However, her legacy as one of the most charming and talented performers of the 1920s lives on, and she is remembered as a beloved figure of the Golden Age of Hollywood.
14. Kevin Sharp
Kevin Sharp was an American country music singer known for his deep, rich baritone voice and his inspiring story of overcoming obstacles to achieve success. Born in 1970 in Redding, California, Sharp was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer at the age of 12, which required surgery and extensive chemotherapy. Despite the odds, he beat the disease and became a motivational speaker and advocate for cancer research.
In the early 1990s, Sharp pursued a career in music and signed with Asylum Records. His debut album, Measure of a Man, was released in 1996 and featured the hit single “Nobody Knows”, which topped the Billboard country charts and earned him a nomination for the ACM Award for New Male Vocalist of the Year. Sharp’s subsequent albums also garnered critical acclaim and chart success, including Love Is, Make a Wish, and the holiday album, A Very Kevin Christmas.
Throughout his career, Sharp continued to inspire others with his resilience and positive attitude. He was involved in numerous charitable organizations, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Sharp passed away in 2014 at the age of 43, but his legacy continues to live on through his music and his inspiring story of triumph over adversity.
15. Lee Morse
Lee Morse was an American jazz and blues singer, songwriter, and actress who became popular in the 1920s and 1930s. She was born in 1897 in Oregon and began performing at a young age, singing in vaudeville shows and touring with bands. Her style was a blend of jazz, blues, and pop, and she was known for her distinctive low-pitched voice and dynamic stage presence.
Morse recorded hundreds of songs during her career, many of which became hits. Some of her most famous songs include “Tain’t No Sin to Dance Around in Your Bones,” “Bring Back Those Rock-a-Bye Baby Days,” and “My Inspiration is You.” She also appeared in several films and was a regular performer on the radio.
Despite her success, Morse struggled with personal problems throughout her life, including alcoholism and financial difficulties. She retired from performing in the 1940s and passed away in 1954 at the age of 57. Despite her relatively short career, Lee Morse left a lasting impact on the jazz and blues world and is remembered as one of the pioneering women of early 20th century popular music.
16. Lucy Ann Polk
Lucy Ann Polk was an American jazz singer born in 1926 in the United States. Polk began her music career in the mid-1940s as a member of Benny Carter’s band, where she recorded her first hit song, “Love for Sale.” She later became a solo artist and worked with several other bands, including Les Brown and His Band of Renown.
Polk’s voice was known for its smooth and sultry quality, with a range that spanned three octaves. Her ability to swing and improvise made her a popular choice among jazz musicians, and she often collaborated with well-known jazz artists like Dave Brubeck and Shorty Rogers.
In addition to her work as a singer, Polk was also a songwriter and composer, writing music for television and film. She appeared in a number of films during the 1950s and 1960s, including “The Big Beat” and “Johnny Cool.”
Despite her talent and popularity among jazz musicians, Polk’s career never achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of her contemporaries. However, her influence on the jazz world can still be heard in the music of artists today.
17. Cary Judd
Cary Judd is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his soulful and emotional performances. Born in Lubbock, Texas, Judd began his musical career as a member of the band 10 West before branching out as a solo artist. His music is a blend of Americana, folk, and rock, with influences ranging from Bruce Springsteen to Tom Petty.
Judd’s breakthrough came in 2011 when his song “To Say Goodbye” was featured in the popular TV show “Grey’s Anatomy.” The exposure helped him gain a following and led to the release of his debut album, “Marathon,” in 2012. The album was well-received by critics and showcased Judd’s unique vocal style and songwriting abilities.
In addition to his solo work, Judd has collaborated with a number of notable artists, including Ryan Adams and Sheryl Crow. He has also written and produced music for TV shows and commercials, including the theme song for the popular ESPN show “First Take.”
Judd’s music is characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and soulful vocals, and he has been praised for his ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. He continues to write and perform music, and his passionate performances have earned him a dedicated fanbase.
18. Julie Gibson
Julie Gibson was an American singer and actress born on September 6, 1913, in Lewiston, Idaho. She started her career as a band singer in 1930s and later transitioned to Hollywood films in the 1940s. She appeared in numerous films including “Charlie Chan in The Chinese Cat”, “The Fighting Seabees”, and “Dillinger”.
Gibson was also a prolific radio actress, and she played various roles in radio shows such as “The Adventures of Superman” and “The Abbott and Costello Show”. She was also a member of the popular vocal group, The Sportsmen Quartet.
Aside from acting, Gibson continued to perform as a singer and recorded several albums in the 1950s, including “Julie Gibson Sings” and “Songs from the Heart”. She had a distinctive, soothing voice and her performances were characterized by her natural phrasing and timing.
Gibson’s career slowed down in the 1960s, and she transitioned into working as a real estate agent. However, she remained active in the entertainment industry, making appearances on various radio shows and performing at events. She passed away on November 2, 2019, at the age of 106.
19. Paul Durham
Paul Durham is an American singer, songwriter, and musician, best known as the lead singer of the rock band Black Lab. He was born on February 14, 1967, in Seattle, Washington, and grew up in the Bay Area of California. Durham began his musical career in the early 1990s, initially working as a producer and engineer before forming Black Lab in 1995.
Durham’s music has been described as a fusion of rock, alternative, and electronic genres, with emotionally charged lyrics that touch on themes such as love, loss, and isolation. His distinctive voice, which has been compared to that of Eddie Vedder and Thom Yorke, is a defining characteristic of Black Lab’s sound.
Black Lab has released several albums over the years, including their debut album “Your Body Above Me” in 1997, which included the hit single “Wash It Away.” The band has also had several of their songs featured in popular television shows and films, including “Spider-Man” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”
In addition to his work with Black Lab, Durham has also released solo material and collaborated with other musicians. He continues to write, record, and perform music, and has developed a devoted following of fans who appreciate his unique style and heartfelt lyrics.
20. Rusty Jackson
Rusty Jackson was an American country music singer and songwriter from Idaho. He was born in 1955 in the small town of Gooding, Idaho. Jackson started singing at a young age and was performing in local bars and venues by the time he was a teenager. He was known for his distinctive baritone voice and his ability to blend traditional country sounds with contemporary country styles.
In 1986, Rusty Jackson released his debut album, titled “Rusty Jackson Sings Country Music”, which was met with critical acclaim. The album featured original songs as well as covers of classic country songs. Jackson went on to release several more albums throughout his career, including “Back to the Basics” and “Love Songs and Memories”.
Despite his success in the music industry, Rusty Jackson remained humble and dedicated to his fans. He often performed at local events and festivals in Idaho, and was beloved by many in the state. Unfortunately, Rusty Jackson passed away in 1993 at the age of 38, leaving behind a legacy of great country music and a devoted fan base. His contributions to the country music genre continue to be remembered and celebrated today.
Simon Robinson 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.
