New Jersey has a rich musical history and has produced some of the most iconic singers in the world. From Bruce Springsteen to Whitney Houston, this small state on the east coast has given birth to some of the most famous and influential musicians of all time. In this article, we will take a closer look at 20 of the most famous singers from New Jersey and explore their impact on music and pop culture.
One of the most well-known artists from New Jersey is undoubtedly Bruce Springsteen. Born in Long Branch in 1949, Springsteen has become a legendary figure in rock music and is often referred to as “The Boss.” He is known for his heartfelt lyrics and energetic performances, and has sold millions of albums worldwide. Other notable singers from the Garden State include Frank Sinatra, Bon Jovi, Lauryn Hill, and Whitney Houston. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, or R&B, there’s no denying that New Jersey has had a significant impact on the music industry, and these 20 singers have played a major role in shaping the sound of modern music.
1. Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston was an iconic singer, actress, and producer from Newark, New Jersey, USA. She was born on August 9, 1963, and began her career as a backup singer for various artists before signing with Arista Records in 1983. She quickly rose to fame with her debut album, “Whitney Houston,” which became the best-selling debut album by a female artist at the time.
Houston’s powerful voice and soulful delivery made her one of the most influential and celebrated vocalists of her time. She was known for hits like “I Will Always Love You,” “Greatest Love of All,” and “I Have Nothing,” which showcased her incredible range and emotional depth. Houston also made an impact in the film industry with roles in movies like “The Bodyguard” and “Waiting to Exhale.”
Despite her tremendous success, Houston faced personal struggles throughout her life, including substance abuse and a tumultuous marriage to singer Bobby Brown. She passed away tragically in 2012 at the age of 48. However, her legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time continues to live on through her music and the influence she had on countless other artists. Whitney Houston will always be remembered as a true icon and a trailblazer in the music industry.
2. Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen, born in Long Branch, New Jersey, is a legendary singer-songwriter and musician. Known for his poetic and socially conscious lyrics, his music has spanned over several decades and has inspired millions of fans worldwide. Springsteen’s career began in the early 1970s with his debut album, “Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J.,” which featured hits like “Blinded by the Light” and “Spirit in the Night.”
Springsteen’s unique style of rock and roll, infused with elements of folk and Americana, earned him the nickname “The Boss” and cemented his place in music history. He is known for his dynamic live performances, which often feature extended versions of his songs and passionate interactions with his audience.
Some of Springsteen’s most iconic songs include “Born to Run,” “Thunder Road,” “Dancing in the Dark,” and “Streets of Philadelphia.” He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including 20 Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Springsteen’s music often reflects his working-class roots and his passion for social justice issues. He has used his platform to advocate for various causes, including human rights, LGBT rights, and veterans’ rights. Bruce Springsteen’s music has left an indelible mark on the world of music, and his legacy as a cultural icon continues to inspire generations of fans.
3. Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra, born in Hoboken, New Jersey, was a legendary singer, actor, and cultural icon of the 20th century. Known as “The Voice,” Sinatra’s smooth and sophisticated singing style made him one of the most influential and celebrated vocalists of all time.
Sinatra’s career spanned over several decades, beginning in the 1930s with his early recordings with the Harry James Orchestra and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. He became a solo artist in the 1940s, releasing hit after hit, including “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” and “My Way.” Sinatra’s music was loved by fans around the world, and his impact on the music industry is immeasurable.
Sinatra was also a successful actor, starring in films like “From Here to Eternity,” for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and “The Man with the Golden Arm.” His acting career brought him even more fans and helped solidify his status as a cultural icon.
Throughout his life, Sinatra was known for his signature fedora and charismatic persona. He was also involved in politics and social justice causes, using his influence to support various charities and civil rights movements.
Frank Sinatra’s music and legacy continue to inspire and influence new generations of artists, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest singers of all time.
4. Bon Jovi (Band)
Bon Jovi, formed in Sayreville, New Jersey, is a rock band known for their catchy hooks, anthemic choruses, and energetic performances. The band was founded in 1983 and has since become one of the most successful rock bands of all time, selling over 100 million records worldwide and performing for millions of fans around the world.
Led by frontman Jon Bon Jovi, the band’s music is known for its stadium-sized sound and uplifting lyrics. Some of their most popular songs include “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “You Give Love a Bad Name,” and “It’s My Life,” which have become staples of classic rock radio.
Bon Jovi’s music has evolved over the years, incorporating elements of pop, country, and folk into their sound. They have also been recognized for their philanthropic work, including their contributions to various charitable organizations, such as The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, which provides affordable housing to those in need.
Bon Jovi’s music and legacy have inspired countless fans, and their high-energy live shows continue to draw audiences from around the world. They remain one of the most enduring and beloved rock bands of all time.
5. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah, born Dana Elaine Owens in Newark, New Jersey, is a singer, actress, and rapper known for her powerful voice and socially conscious lyrics. She began her career as a rapper in the late 1980s, releasing her debut album “All Hail the Queen” in 1989. She quickly became known for her feminist lyrics and advocacy for social justice causes.
In addition to her successful music career, Queen Latifah has also had a prolific acting career, starring in films like “Chicago,” “Hairspray,” and “Set It Off.” She has been nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for her performance in “Chicago.”
Queen Latifah is also a role model for her philanthropic work and activism. She has been involved in various charitable organizations, including The Boys and Girls Club, The American Heart Association, and The National Breast Cancer Foundation. She is also an advocate for LGBTQ rights and has been a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Queen Latifah’s music and activism have inspired countless people, particularly women and people of color. Her legacy as a pioneer in hip-hop and a champion for social justice continues to influence new generations of artists and activists.
6. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill, born in South Orange, New Jersey, is a singer, songwriter, rapper, and actress known for her powerful and soulful voice, as well as her socially conscious lyrics. She rose to fame in the mid-1990s as a member of the hip-hop group The Fugees, and later released her critically acclaimed solo album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” in 1998.
Hill’s music is deeply rooted in R&B, soul, and hip-hop, and often explores themes of love, spirituality, and social justice. She is known for her complex rhymes and versatile vocal range, which have earned her numerous accolades throughout her career, including 10 Grammy Award nominations and 5 wins.
In addition to her music career, Hill has also acted in films like “Sister Act 2” and “The Preacher’s Wife.” She is also a committed activist and has used her platform to advocate for various social justice causes, including education, racial justice, and women’s empowerment.
Lauryn Hill’s music and legacy continue to inspire new generations of artists and fans, and she remains one of the most influential and iconic musicians of her generation.
7. Jon Bon Jovi
on Bon Jovi is a singer, songwriter, actor, and philanthropist born on March 2, 1962, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, USA. He is best known as the founder and lead singer of the popular rock band Bon Jovi, which has sold over 100 million records worldwide.
Bon Jovi began his music career in the early 1980s with the formation of his eponymous band, which released its first album in 1984. The band’s third album, “Slippery When Wet,” released in 1986, was a massive commercial success and cemented their status as one of the leading rock bands of the era. Bon Jovi continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including “New Jersey,” “Keep the Faith,” and “Crush.”
In addition to his music career, Bon Jovi has also dabbled in acting, with roles in movies such as “Moonlight and Valentino” and “U-571.” He has also been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, which aims to combat homelessness and poverty. Bon Jovi has received numerous awards for his music and philanthropic work, including the American Music Award for Lifetime Achievement and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
8. Kelly Ripa
Kelly Ripa, born in Stratford, New Jersey, is a television host, actress, and producer best known for her work on daytime talk shows. She began her career in the entertainment industry in the late 1980s, appearing on soap operas like “All My Children.”
In 2001, Ripa became the co-host of the popular morning talk show “Live with Regis and Kelly,” alongside Regis Philbin. She continued hosting the show after Philbin’s retirement in 2011, and now co-hosts with Ryan Seacrest. Ripa is known for her quick wit, charming personality, and engaging interviews with celebrity guests.
In addition to her work on “Live,” Ripa has also acted in television shows and films, including “Hope & Faith” and “Marvin’s Room.” She is also a producer, and has helped develop and produce several successful television shows, including “Dirty Soap” and “Off the Rez.”
Ripa’s work in the entertainment industry has earned her numerous accolades, including several Daytime Emmy nominations and a Hollywood Walk of Fame star. She is also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting various charitable organizations, including The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund and The Alliance for Children’s Rights.
Kelly Ripa’s charisma and talent have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her contributions to daytime television have left a lasting impact.
9. Deborah Harry
Deborah Harry, born in Miami, Florida and raised in Hawthorne, New Jersey, is a singer, songwriter, and actress best known as the lead singer of the band Blondie. Her distinctive voice, punk-inspired style, and catchy pop songs helped propel Blondie to international fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Harry began her music career as a backup singer and waitress, eventually joining the band that would become Blondie in 1974. The band’s blend of punk, new wave, and pop music quickly gained them a following, and they scored several hit singles, including “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” and “Rapture.”
In addition to her work with Blondie, Harry has also released several solo albums and collaborated with other musicians, including Iggy Pop and The Jazz Passengers. She has also acted in films and television shows, including “Videodrome” and “Hairspray.”
Harry’s contributions to music and fashion have made her a cultural icon, influencing generations of musicians and fashion designers. Her punk-influenced style, including her signature platinum blonde hair, continues to be emulated by fans around the world.
Deborah Harry’s talent and artistry have earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Blondie. She remains a beloved and influential figure in music and pop culture.
10. Southside Johnny
Southside Johnny, born John Lyon in Neptune, New Jersey, is a singer, songwriter, and bandleader known for his energetic live performances and soulful blend of rock and blues music. He is best known as the frontman of the band Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, which he co-founded in the 1970s.
Southside Johnny’s music draws from a variety of genres, including rhythm and blues, soul, and rock and roll. His powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence have made him a favorite among fans and fellow musicians alike. He has collaborated with artists like Bruce Springsteen, Little Steven, and Jon Bon Jovi, and has recorded several albums with the Asbury Jukes.
In addition to his music career, Southside Johnny is also an actor, and has appeared in films like “Café Society” and “The Sopranos.” He is also a philanthropist, and has supported various charitable organizations, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Southside Johnny’s contributions to music and culture have earned him a dedicated following and a place in the pantheon of New Jersey rock and roll legends. His music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
11. Patti Smith
Patti Smith, born in Chicago and raised in South Jersey, is a singer, songwriter, poet, and visual artist who rose to fame in the 1970s as a pioneer of the punk rock movement. Her music, which blends punk, rock, and poetry, is characterized by its raw energy, political commentary, and uncompromising spirit.
Smith began her career as a poet, publishing several collections before turning to music in the mid-1970s. Her debut album, “Horses,” released in 1975, is now considered a classic of the punk rock genre. She went on to release several more albums over the years, including “Easter,” which features her hit single “Because the Night.”
In addition to her music career, Smith is also an accomplished author, having written several memoirs and books of poetry. She is known for her activism on issues such as environmentalism, human rights, and social justice.
Patti Smith’s music and artistry have earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She remains an influential and inspiring figure in music and culture, known for her unique voice, fearless approach to art, and commitment to social causes.
12. Frankie Valli
Frankie Valli, born Francesco Stephen Castelluccio in Newark, New Jersey, is a singer and actor best known as the lead singer of the vocal group The Four Seasons. He began his music career in the 1950s, and rose to fame in the 1960s with hits such as “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Walk Like a Man.”
Valli’s distinctive falsetto voice and his ability to blend pop, rock, and doo-wop music have made him a beloved figure in American music. He continued to have success in the 1970s as a solo artist, with hits such as “My Eyes Adored You” and “Grease,” which was featured in the film of the same name.
In addition to his music career, Valli has also dabbled in acting, appearing in films like “The Deer Hunter” and “Dirty Dancing.” He has also been the subject of the hit Broadway musical “Jersey Boys,” which tells the story of The Four Seasons.
Frankie Valli’s contributions to music have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He remains a beloved and influential figure in the world of pop and rock music.
13. Connie Francis
Connie Francis, born Concetta Rosa Maria Franconero in Newark, New Jersey, is a singer, actress, and entertainer who rose to fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s. She began her music career as a teenager, recording her first hit single “Who’s Sorry Now?” in 1958.
Throughout the 1960s, Francis continued to have chart-topping hits such as “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Where the Boys Are,” and “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool.” Her ability to sing in multiple languages, including Italian, Spanish, and German, helped her gain a global following.
In addition to her music career, Francis appeared in several films, including “Where the Boys Are” and “Looking for Love.” She also had her own television show, “The Connie Francis Show,” which aired from 1959 to 1963.
Francis has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has been honored with numerous awards throughout her career, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Despite facing personal tragedies and setbacks, she remains an icon in the world of pop and vocal music.
14. Eddie Money
Eddie Money, born Edward Joseph Mahoney in Brooklyn, New York, was a rock musician and songwriter who grew up in Levittown, New York, and later settled in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. He rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s with hits such as “Two Tickets to Paradise,” “Baby Hold On,” and “Take Me Home Tonight.”
Money began his career as a police officer in New York City but left to pursue a career in music. He signed his first record deal in 1976 and released his self-titled debut album the following year. His unique blend of rock and pop, coupled with his raspy voice and catchy melodies, made him a favorite among fans and radio stations alike.
Throughout his career, Money continued to release chart-topping hits and tour extensively. He also appeared on numerous television shows, including “The King of Queens” and “The Drew Carey Show.” He was known for his energetic live performances and his signature style of shaking his head back and forth while singing.
Despite battling health issues in his later years, Eddie Money remained an influential figure in the world of rock music until his death in 2019. His legacy continues to inspire fans and aspiring musicians alike.
15. Kool and the Gang
Kool & the Gang is a funk and R&B band that originated in Jersey City, New Jersey in the 1960s. The group consists of Robert “Kool” Bell, Ronald Bell, George Brown, Dennis Thomas, and Michael Ray. The band is known for their unique blend of funk, jazz, and soul, and for their infectious grooves that have kept fans dancing for decades.
Kool & the Gang first gained attention in the 1970s with hits like “Jungle Boogie” and “Hollywood Swinging,” which became instant classics in the world of funk and R&B. They continued to dominate the charts throughout the 1980s with songs like “Celebration,” “Get Down on It,” and “Joanna,” which helped cement their place in music history.
Over the years, Kool & the Gang has won numerous awards and accolades for their music, including two Grammy Awards and seven American Music Awards. They have sold over 70 million records worldwide and have been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the New Jersey Hall of Fame.
Despite the passing of several members over the years, Kool & the Gang continues to tour and perform, spreading joy and funk wherever they go. Their music has become a staple of parties and celebrations around the world, and their legacy as one of the most influential funk and R&B bands of all time continues to live on.
16. Meat Loaf
Meat Loaf, born Marvin Lee Aday on September 27, 1947, is a rock singer, actor, and songwriter from Dallas, Texas. He grew up in New Jersey and attended high school in nearby West Texas. Meat Loaf’s music is characterized by his operatic voice, dramatic performances, and theatrical style. He has sold over 80 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time.
Meat Loaf is best known for his hit album “Bat Out of Hell,” released in 1977. The album, produced by Todd Rundgren, features the popular songs “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad,” “Paradise by the Dashboard Light,” and the title track “Bat Out of Hell.” Meat Loaf continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including “Dead Ringer” and “Bat Out of Hell II: Back into Hell.”
Meat Loaf’s performances are legendary, characterized by his intense energy, soaring vocals, and theatricality. He has also acted in numerous films and TV shows, including “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” “Fight Club,” and “Glee.” Despite health issues in recent years, Meat Loaf has continued to perform and record music, cementing his place as a rock icon.
17. Lesley Gore
Lesley Gore was a singer and songwriter from New Jersey, USA, known for her hit songs in the 1960s. Born in 1946, Gore began her music career as a teenager, with her breakthrough hit “It’s My Party” in 1963, which peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. She continued to have success with other songs such as “Judy’s Turn to Cry,” “She’s a Fool,” and “You Don’t Own Me.”
Gore’s music was characterized by her strong, clear voice and her ability to capture the essence of teenage love and heartbreak. She was also known for being a trailblazer for women in the music industry, as she wrote some of her own songs and often fought for creative control over her music.
Despite taking a break from music in the 1970s, Gore continued to perform and record throughout her life, including collaborations with other artists and for film and television. She passed away in 2015 at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy as an influential and talented artist in the history of American popular music.
18. Gloria Gaynor
Gloria Gaynor is a singer, songwriter, and actress born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1949. She is best known for her disco hit “I Will Survive,” which has become an anthem for empowerment and resilience. Her music career began in the late 1960s as a background singer for various artists, including Diana Ross and The Supremes. In 1973, she released her debut album, “Never Can Say Goodbye,” which featured the hit title track.
Gaynor’s breakthrough came in 1978 with the release of “I Will Survive,” which became her signature song and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Disco Recording. The song’s lyrics, which speak to overcoming heartbreak and moving on, resonated with audiences and solidified her as a symbol of female strength and empowerment.
Throughout her career, Gaynor has continued to release music and perform, crossing genres and collaborating with various artists. In addition to her music career, she has also acted in several films and television shows. Gaynor’s legacy as a disco icon and trailblazer for female empowerment in music continues to inspire and influence artists today.
19. Frankie Avalon
Frankie Avalon is a popular American singer, actor, and former teen idol who was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and raised in South Philadelphia and later New Jersey. He started his career as a musician in the late 1950s and became known for his smooth vocals, good looks, and boyish charm. Avalon’s music style was heavily influenced by the Rock and Roll genre and he released many hit songs during his career, including “Venus”, “DeDe Dinah”, and “Why”. He also starred in several popular movies such as “Grease” and “Beach Party”.
Avalon began his career as a child performer, appearing on various television shows such as “The Jackie Gleason Show” and “American Bandstand”. He signed with Chancellor Records and released his debut single “Cupid” in 1958, which reached number 82 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, it was his follow-up single “DeDe Dinah” that made him a star, peaking at number 7 on the same chart.
Throughout his career, Avalon continued to release chart-topping hits and became a beloved figure in the music industry. His music and performances continue to influence generations of musicians and fans alike.
20. Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper is a singer, songwriter, and actress who gained fame in the 1980s with her unique style and colorful personality. Born and raised in New York, Lauper began her career in music as the lead singer of the band Blue Angel before going solo in 1983 with the release of her debut album “She’s So Unusual”.
With her distinctive voice and eclectic fashion sense, Lauper quickly became a pop icon with hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”, “Time After Time”, and “True Colors”. Her music videos were known for their whimsical and creative style, often featuring bright colors and unique visuals.
Aside from her successful music career, Lauper has also acted in various films and television shows, including “Mad About You” and “Bones”. She has also been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and co-founded the True Colors United organization, which works to end homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth.
With her powerful vocals, energetic performances, and unique style, Cyndi Lauper has become a beloved icon of pop culture and a trailblazer for women in the music industry.
Darren Jamison 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.
