Kansas is home to some of the most talented singers and musicians in the world. From rock and country to jazz and blues, Kansas has produced a diverse range of musical talents over the years. In this article, we will take a closer look at 20 famous singers from Kansas who have made a significant impact on the music industry.
1. Charlie Parker
Charlie Parker, also known as “Bird,” was an American jazz saxophonist and composer who revolutionized the jazz genre in the 1940s. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1920, Parker began playing the saxophone at a young age and quickly developed a unique and complex style characterized by his lightning-fast improvisation and virtuosic technique. Parker’s contributions to jazz included a new harmonic vocabulary, intricate melodic lines, and a bebop style that emphasized individual expression and improvisation. Despite his short life, Parker’s impact on jazz and music as a whole has been immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians.
2. Joe Walsh (The Eagles)
Stan Kenton was an American jazz pianist, arranger, composer, and bandleader who was known for his innovative and experimental approach to big band jazz. Born in Kansas in 1911, Kenton formed his first band in 1941 and quickly gained attention for his use of unusual instrumentation, such as strings and Latin percussion. He also experimented with different styles of jazz, incorporating elements of classical and avant-garde music into his compositions. Kenton’s legacy includes a vast repertoire of recordings and compositions that continue to inspire musicians today. He is remembered as one of the most influential figures in the development of modern jazz.
3. Stan Kenton
Stan Kenton was an American jazz pianist, arranger, composer, and bandleader who was known for his innovative and experimental approach to big band jazz. Born in Kansas in 1911, Kenton formed his first band in 1941 and quickly gained attention for his use of unusual instrumentation, such as strings and Latin percussion. He also experimented with different styles of jazz, incorporating elements of classical and avant-garde music into his compositions. Kenton’s legacy includes a vast repertoire of recordings and compositions that continue to inspire musicians today. He is remembered as one of the most influential figures in the development of modern jazz.
4. Janelle Monáe
Janelle Monáe is an American singer-songwriter, actress, and producer who has gained critical acclaim for her unique blend of R&B, funk, and soul music. Born in Kansas in 1985, Monáe moved to Atlanta to pursue her music career and gained attention for her independent albums before signing with a major label. Her music is known for its powerful lyrics, socially conscious themes, and theatrical live performances. Monáe has been recognized for her contributions to music, including multiple Grammy nominations, and has also made a name for herself in the film industry with roles in films such as “Hidden Figures” and “Moonlight”. She is known for her advocacy for social justice and representation in the entertainment industry.
5. Martina McBride
Martina McBride is an American country music singer-songwriter who has sold over 14 million records and won multiple awards for her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Born in Kansas in 1966, McBride began her music career in the 1980s as a backup singer before releasing her debut album, “The Time Has Come,” in 1992. She quickly gained popularity with hits like “Independence Day,” “Concrete Angel,” and “A Broken Wing.” McBride’s music often deals with themes of love, family, and empowerment, and her strong voice and emotive performances have made her a beloved figure in the country music world. She has also used her platform to advocate for causes such as breast cancer research and hunger relief.
6. Melissa Etheridge
Melissa Etheridge is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist who has been a prominent figure in the rock music scene since the late 1980s. Born in Kansas in 1961, Etheridge began playing guitar and writing songs at a young age and moved to Los Angeles in the early 1980s to pursue her music career. She gained widespread attention with her self-titled debut album in 1988 and went on to release a string of successful albums throughout the 1990s, including “Yes I Am” and “Your Little Secret”. Etheridge’s music is known for its confessional lyrics and powerful vocals, and she has been recognized for her contributions to music with multiple Grammy Awards. She is also an advocate for LGBT rights and has been open about her own experiences as a lesbian.
7. Kendall Schmidt (Big Time Rush)
Kendall Schmidt is an American singer, songwriter, and actor who is best known as the lead vocalist of the boy band, Big Time Rush. Born in Kansas in 1990, Schmidt began his music career at a young age and gained attention for his role in the Nickelodeon television series, “Big Time Rush,” which followed the adventures of the fictional boy band of the same name. Schmidt’s vocal abilities were a key element of the band’s success, and he also co-wrote many of their hit songs. Since the band’s hiatus in 2014, Schmidt has pursued solo music projects and continues to act in television and film.
8. Andy McKee
Melissa Etheridge is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist who has been a prominent figure in the rock music scene since the late 1980s. Born in Kansas in 1961, Etheridge began playing guitar and writing songs at a young age and moved to Los Angeles in the early 1980s to pursue her music career. She gained widespread attention with her self-titled debut album in 1988 and went on to release a string of successful albums throughout the 1990s, including “Yes I Am” and “Your Little Secret”. Etheridge’s music is known for its confessional lyrics and powerful vocals, and she has been recognized for her contributions to music with multiple Grammy Awards. She is also an advocate for LGBT rights and has been open about her own experiences as a lesbian.
9. Hattie McDaniel
Hattie McDaniel was an American actress, singer, and comedian who became the first African-American to win an Academy Award in 1940 for her role in the film “Gone with the Wind.” Born in Kansas in 1895, McDaniel began her career in entertainment as a singer and later became a popular character actress in films and radio shows. Despite facing racial discrimination throughout her career, McDaniel persevered and became a trailblazer for Black performers in Hollywood. Her contributions to the film industry have been recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and she is remembered as an important figure in the fight for racial equality in entertainment.
10. Joyce DiDonato
Joyce DiDonato is an American opera singer known for her luminous mezzo-soprano voice and dynamic stage presence. She has been praised for her technical virtuosity and her ability to convey emotion through her singing. DiDonato has performed at many of the world’s most prestigious opera houses and concert halls, and has collaborated with leading conductors and orchestras. In addition to her vocal talents, she is also known for her advocacy work in the classical music world, particularly for her support of young artists and her efforts to expand the reach of opera to wider audiences. DiDonato is considered one of the leading opera singers of her generation.
11. Diane Bish
Diane Bish is an American organist and classical music television host known for her virtuosic playing and engaging personality. She has performed in many of the world’s most prestigious concert halls and cathedrals, and has recorded numerous albums showcasing her talents. Bish is also the host and executive producer of the television program “The Joy of Music,” which features performances and interviews with musicians from around the world. Through her work on this program, Bish has become a beloved figure in the classical music world, inspiring audiences with her passion for the organ and its music. She is considered one of the leading organists of her generation.
12. Chris Mann
Chris Mann is an American pop singer known for his powerful tenor voice and charismatic performances. He first gained national attention as a contestant on the second season of the television show “The Voice,” where he wowed audiences with his renditions of pop and classical songs. Since then, Mann has released several albums, including “Roads” and “Constellation,” which showcase his range and versatility as a singer. He is also known for his work in musical theater, having starred in productions of “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Les Misérables.” Mann’s soaring vocals and engaging stage presence have made him a favorite among fans of contemporary pop music.
13. Logan Mize
Logan Mize is an American country singer-songwriter known for his soulful vocals and honest lyrics. He first gained attention in the mid-2010s with his independently released albums, which showcased his blend of traditional and modern country influences. Since then, Mize has signed with a major record label and released several chart-topping singles, including “Better Off Gone” and “Can’t Get Away from a Good Time.” He is also known for his engaging live performances, which have earned him a dedicated fan base. Mize’s music reflects his roots in small-town America, and his authentic, heartfelt approach has made him a rising star in the country music world.
14. Danny Carey (Tool)
Danny Carey is an American drummer best known for his work with the alternative metal band Tool. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers of his generation, known for his intricate rhythms, technical virtuosity, and creative use of percussion. Carey’s style incorporates elements of jazz, progressive rock, and Middle Eastern music, and his unique approach to drumming has been a major influence on many other musicians. In addition to his work with Tool, Carey has also collaborated with a wide range of artists, and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the music industry.
15. Kerry Livgren
Kerry Livgren is an American musician, best known as a founding member and primary songwriter of the classic rock band Kansas. He was born in Topeka, Kansas in 1949 and began playing guitar at a young age. In the early 1970s, he formed Kansas with his high school friend Phil Ehart, and went on to write many of the band’s biggest hits, including “Carry On Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind”. Livgren’s musical style is characterized by intricate guitar work, complex arrangements, and a fusion of rock, classical, and progressive elements. He has released several solo albums and continues to perform and record to this day.
16. Katrina Leskanich (Katrina and the Waves)
Katrina Leskanich is a British-American singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the band Katrina and the Waves. Born in Kansas in 1960, she moved to England in the late 1970s to pursue a music career. In 1985, Katrina and the Waves achieved international success with their hit song “Walking on Sunshine”, which Leskanich co-wrote and sang lead vocals on. The band went on to release several more albums and singles throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with Leskanich’s powerful and soulful voice becoming a defining characteristic of their sound. After the band disbanded, Leskanich continued to perform and record as a solo artist.
17. Carson Robison
Carson Robison was an American country music singer and songwriter, born in 1890 in Kansas. He was one of the pioneers of country music, with a career that spanned from the 1920s to the 1950s. Robison was known for his distinctive voice and his ability to write catchy songs that appealed to a wide audience. He wrote over 300 songs, including “Life Gets Tee-Jus, Don’t It?”, which became a hit for him in 1949. He was also a prolific recording artist, making hundreds of recordings throughout his career. Robison is remembered as an important figure in the development of country music.
18. Grace VanderWaal
Grace VanderWaal is an American singer-songwriter, ukulele player, and actress. She gained popularity after winning the 11th season of America’s Got Talent in 2016 at the age of 12. VanderWaal’s unique voice, heartfelt lyrics, and ukulele skills have captured the hearts of many. Her debut EP, Perfectly Imperfect, was released in 2016 and her full-length album, Just the Beginning, followed in 2017. She has also acted in films and TV shows such as Stargirl and The Disney Channel’s Bizaardvark. VanderWaal is known for her quirky style and inspiring message of self-love and acceptance. She continues to make music and inspire her fans with her talent and positive attitude.
19. Katrina Leskanich
Katrina Leskanich is a British-American singer, songwriter, and former lead vocalist of Katrina and The Waves. Born in Kansas, USA, she moved to England in the late 1970s and formed the band in 1981. They achieved international success with their hit song “Walking on Sunshine” in 1985. Leskanich’s powerful vocals and energetic stage presence contributed greatly to the band’s success. After the band disbanded in the late 1990s, she continued to make music as a solo artist, releasing several albums. She also hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 1998 and remains a respected figure in the music industry.
20. Rory Feek
Rory Feek is an American singer, songwriter, and author born on April 25, 1965. He is best known for his work as one-half of the country music duo Joey + Rory, which he formed with his wife, Joey Feek, in 2008. The couple released seven studio albums together and were nominated for several awards, including a Grammy in 2016. After Joey’s death from cancer in 2016, Rory has continued to write and record music and has also authored several books, including “This Life I Live: One Man’s Extraordinary, Ordinary Life and the Woman Who Changed It Forever”. He is known for his heartfelt lyrics and storytelling abilities, both in his music and writing.
Macey West 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.
