Maryland, located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, has a rich history and cultural heritage that has produced a wide variety of talented musicians, especially in the realm of popular music. From classic jazz to modern pop, rock, and hip-hop, Maryland has been a fertile breeding ground for some of the most influential and celebrated musical artists of our time.
In this article, we will be highlighting 20 of the most famous singers to hail from the state of Maryland. These artists have left an indelible mark on the music industry, both through their exceptional talent and their contributions to the rich cultural tapestry of Maryland and the wider world.
Some of the artists featured in this list are household names, whose music has been enjoyed by millions around the world. Others may be lesser-known, but their impact on the music industry and their local communities cannot be overstated. Whether they are known for their soulful ballads, powerful rock anthems, or infectious pop hits, these singers have all left a lasting legacy in their own unique way.
So without further ado, let us explore the lives and careers of 20 of the most famous singers to come out of the great state of Maryland.
1. Frank Zappa
Frank Zappa was an American composer, singer-songwriter, and guitarist known for his innovative music, unconventional lyrics, and satirical social commentary. He was a prolific musician who released over 60 albums during his career. Zappa’s music blended elements of rock, jazz, classical, and avant-garde music, often featuring complex musical arrangements and virtuosic instrumental performances. He was also known for his witty and irreverent lyrics, which tackled topics such as politics, religion, and sexuality. Zappa’s music has had a significant influence on a wide range of musicians, and he is widely regarded as one of the most important and original composers of the 20th century.
2. Philip Glass
Philip Glass is an American composer and pianist known for his contributions to the minimalist music movement. His music is characterized by repetitive patterns, a steady pulse, and a sense of meditative calmness. Glass has composed numerous operas, symphonies, and film scores, including the critically acclaimed score for the movie “The Hours”. His music has been described as hypnotic, mesmerizing, and transformative, and has been used in a variety of settings, including dance performances, installations, and theater productions. Glass is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential composers of the 20th century, and his music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
3. Logic
Logic, born Sir Robert Bryson Hall II, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer known for his introspective lyrics, technical skills, and diverse musical style. His music often explores themes such as mental health, social justice, and personal growth. Logic has released six studio albums and several mixtapes, with his 2017 album “Everybody” debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200. He is also known for his advocacy work, including his efforts to raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health issues. Logic’s music has had a significant impact on the hip-hop community, and he is widely respected for his talent and artistry.
4. Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her soulful voice, emotional ballads, and powerful stage presence. She rose to fame in the 1990s with hits such as “Un-Break My Heart” and “You’re Makin’ Me High”, and has won several Grammy Awards throughout her career. Braxton’s music is characterized by her distinctive vocal range, which spans from alto to soprano, and her ability to convey deep emotions through her lyrics and performance. In addition to her music career, Braxton has also acted in film and television, and has written a memoir detailing her experiences with lupus and bankruptcy.
5. Ric OcaseK
Ric Ocasek was an American musician, songwriter, and record producer, best known as the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and primary songwriter for the new wave band The Cars. Born in 1944 in Maryland, Ocasek formed The Cars in 1976, and the band quickly gained popularity with hits like “Just What I Needed”, “My Best Friend’s Girl”, and “Drive”. In addition to his work with The Cars, Ocasek also produced albums for other artists, including Weezer, No Doubt, and Bad Brains. Known for his distinctive voice and quirky lyrics, Ocasek was a pioneer of the new wave movement and a major influence on alternative rock. He passed away in 2019 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of innovative and influential music.
6. Sisqó
Sisqó, born Mark Althavan Andrews in 1978, is an American R&B singer, songwriter, and actor. He first gained fame as a member of the group Dru Hill, known for hits such as “In My Bed” and “How Deep Is Your Love.” Sisqó later embarked on a successful solo career, releasing his debut album “Unleash the Dragon” in 1999, which included the smash hit single “Thong Song.” He continued to release music throughout the 2000s and 2010s, and also appeared on reality TV shows such as “Celebrity Big Brother” and “The Bachelor.” Sisqó is known for his unique voice, flamboyant fashion sense, and energetic performances.
7. Tamar Braxton
Tamar Braxton, born in 1977, is an American singer, actress, and television personality. She first gained recognition as a founding member of the R&B group The Braxtons, along with her sisters, before embarking on a solo career in 2000. Her debut album, “Tamar,” showcased her powerful vocals and unique sound, which combines elements of R&B, soul, and pop. Braxton has released several successful albums over the years, including “Love and War” and “Bluebird of Happiness,” and has also appeared on reality TV shows such as “Braxton Family Values” and “Celebrity Big Brother.” Braxton is known for her dynamic voice and vibrant personality.
8. Bill Callahan
Bill Callahan is an American singer-songwriter known for his deep, introspective lyrics and unique baritone voice. With over 20 solo albums to his name, Callahan has established himself as a prolific and respected figure in the indie music scene. His music is characterized by sparse instrumentation, often featuring just his guitar and voice, and his lyrics often touch on themes of love, loss, and self-reflection. In his live performances, Callahan is known for his understated and enigmatic stage presence, captivating audiences with his subtle yet powerful delivery.
9. Gina Schock (The Go-Gos)
Gina Schock is an American musician best known as the drummer for the iconic all-female rock band, The Go-Go’s. With hits like “We Got the Beat” and “Our Lips Are Sealed,” The Go-Go’s were at the forefront of the new wave and punk rock movements in the 1980s. Schock’s energetic and precise drumming style was a key component of the band’s signature sound. In addition to her work with The Go-Go’s, Schock has also performed with other notable artists and bands, including Belinda Carlisle and The Delphines. She continues to tour and record music to this day.
10. Greg Kihn
Greg Kihn is an American musician and radio personality best known for his hit songs in the 1980s, such as “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ‘Em).” With a sound that blended elements of new wave, rock, and power pop, Kihn enjoyed success both on the radio and on MTV. He has released over a dozen albums throughout his career and continues to perform live to this day. In addition to his music career, Kihn is also a bestselling author, having penned several books on music and pop culture.
11. Maggie Rose
Maggie Rose is an American singer-songwriter known for her soulful vocals and genre-bending style. With influences ranging from classic rock to R&B to country, Rose’s music defies easy categorization. She has released several albums and EPs over the years, including her critically acclaimed 2020 album “Have a Seat.” In addition to her solo work, Rose has collaborated with several notable artists and bands, including Them Vibes and Kelly Prescott. She is also known for her dynamic live performances, which often feature a mix of original songs and covers of classic hits.
12. Ethel Ennis
Ethel Ennis was an American jazz singer known for her warm, velvety voice and expressive phrasing. With a career spanning several decades, Ennis performed with some of the most famous jazz musicians of her time, including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She released over 20 albums throughout her career, earning critical acclaim for her soulful interpretations of jazz standards and original compositions. In addition to her music, Ennis was also known for her philanthropic work, particularly her efforts to promote music education in schools.
13. Chick Webb
Chick Webb was an American jazz drummer and bandleader known for his virtuosic playing and pioneering role in the swing era. With his band, the Chick Webb Orchestra, he helped popularize swing music and launched the careers of several famous musicians, including Ella Fitzgerald. Webb’s energetic and precise drumming style was a key component of his band’s sound, which featured a mix of original compositions and jazz standards. Despite suffering from spinal tuberculosis from a young age, Webb continued to perform and record music until his death at the age of 34. He remains a beloved figure in the history of jazz music.
14. Bill Clifton
Bill Clifton is an American bluegrass musician and singer-songwriter known for his rich baritone voice and traditional approach to the genre. With a career spanning over 60 years, Clifton has released numerous albums and performed with some of the most respected musicians in the bluegrass and folk music scenes. He is also known for his work as a music historian, having written several books on the history of country and bluegrass music. Clifton’s contributions to the genre have earned him recognition as a pioneer and influential figure in the world of bluegrass music.
15. Chris Rice
Chris Rice is an American singer-songwriter known for his introspective lyrics and unique blend of pop, folk, and Christian music. He has released over a dozen albums throughout his career, earning critical acclaim for his thoughtful and introspective songwriting. Rice’s music is characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies, with songs often touching on themes of love, faith, and self-discovery. In addition to his music, Rice is also a sought-after speaker and author, known for his insightful and engaging talks on spirituality and creativity. He continues to perform and record music to this day.
16. Cass Elliot
Cass Elliot, also known as Mama Cass, was an American singer and actress known for her powerful vocals and role in the folk rock group The Mamas & the Papas. With her rich contralto voice, Elliot was a key contributor to the group’s distinctive harmonies and catchy melodies. After the band’s breakup, Elliot enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing several albums and appearing in films and TV shows. Her legacy as a pioneering female musician has inspired generations of artists. Despite her untimely death at the age of 32, Elliot’s music and impact continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
17. Joel Madden
Joel Madden is an American musician and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the pop punk band Good Charlotte. Along with his twin brother Benji, Madden has released several chart-topping albums and singles over the years, including “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” and “The Anthem.” In addition to his music career, Madden is also a successful producer and entrepreneur, having founded the management company MDDN and the music label DC Flag Records. He has also been a judge on the Australian version of the singing competition show The Voice.
18. Lisa Loeb
Lisa Loeb is an American singer-songwriter known for her intimate lyrics and catchy pop melodies. Her breakthrough hit, “Stay (I Missed You)”, topped the charts in 1994 and earned her critical acclaim for her distinctive vocals and relatable songwriting. Loeb’s music is characterized by its confessional tone and introspective lyrics, often touching on themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. In addition to her music career, Loeb has also appeared in films and TV shows and authored several children’s books. She continues to perform and record music, and her influence as a pioneering female artist in the pop genre has inspired countless musicians over the years.
19. Eva Cassidy
Eva Cassidy was an American singer and guitarist known for her powerful voice and soulful interpretations of classic songs. Despite her untimely death at the age of 33, Cassidy’s music has gained a large following posthumously, with her rendition of “Over the Rainbow” becoming a viral hit. Cassidy’s music is characterized by its emotional depth and raw vulnerability, with her unique voice and guitar playing style garnering critical acclaim. Her legacy as a gifted musician and interpreter of songs continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians.
20. JC Chasez
JC Chasez is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer best known as a member of the boy band NSYNC. With his smooth tenor voice and dance moves, Chasez helped propel the group to international success, with hits like “Bye Bye Bye” and “It’s Gonna Be Me.” After NSYNC’s hiatus, Chasez pursued a solo career, releasing one album and working with a variety of other artists as a songwriter and producer. He has also appeared as a judge on several TV competition shows, including America’s Best Dance Crew and Randy Jackson Presents: America’s Best Dance Crew.
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.
