North Carolina is a state in the southeastern region of the United States that is known for its rich musical history. From the birthplace of bluegrass music in the western part of the state to the thriving hip-hop scene in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina has produced a wide variety of talented musicians over the years. In particular, the state has been a hotbed for talented singers, with many famous names hailing from the Tar Heel State.
In this article, we will be exploring 20 famous singers from North Carolina who have made their mark on the music industry. These artists represent a diverse range of genres, from country and bluegrass to R&B and soul. Some of the names on our list are household names with decades-long careers, while others are up-and-coming talents who are just beginning to make a name for themselves. Whether you’re a lifelong North Carolinian or a music lover from elsewhere in the world, this list is sure to introduce you to some of the state’s most talented and beloved singers.
1. Randy Travis
Randy Travis is a renowned country singer and songwriter from Marshville, North Carolina. He was born on May 4, 1959, and grew up listening to country music on the radio, which eventually inspired him to pursue a career in the genre. Travis began playing guitar at a young age and started performing in local clubs in his late teens.
Travis rose to fame in the 1980s with a string of hit singles, including “On the Other Hand,” “Forever and Ever, Amen,” and “Three Wooden Crosses.” He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including seven Grammy Awards, 10 Academy of Country Music Awards, and 10 American Music Awards. Travis has also been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
In addition to his success as a singer, Travis has also acted in several movies and television shows, including “The Rainmaker” and “Touched by an Angel.” However, his music remains his primary focus, and he continues to tour and record new material. Despite facing health challenges in recent years, Travis’s legacy as one of the most influential country singers of all time remains secure, and his music continues to inspire new generations of artists.
2. James Taylor
James Taylor is a singer-songwriter and guitarist originally from Boston, Massachusetts but has strong connections to North Carolina. He moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina in the late 1950s with his family and began playing music in local coffeehouses while attending the University of North Carolina. Taylor’s unique style, blending elements of folk, rock, and pop, quickly gained popularity, and he signed a record deal with Apple Records in 1968.
Taylor’s career took off in the early 1970s with the release of his hit song “Fire and Rain,” which earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. He continued to produce chart-topping hits, including “You’ve Got a Friend,” “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You),” and “Carolina in My Mind.” Taylor has won multiple Grammy Awards throughout his career, including Best Pop Vocal Performance for “Handy Man” and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for “Stardust.”
Taylor’s impact on popular music has been enormous, with his soulful, introspective lyrics and laid-back guitar style inspiring countless musicians. He remains a beloved figure in both the folk and rock worlds, and his music continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
3. Ben Folds
Ben Folds is a singer-songwriter and pianist hailing from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He was born on September 12, 1966, and grew up playing piano and drums in local bands. In 1994, Folds formed the band Ben Folds Five, which quickly gained a cult following with its unique blend of piano-driven pop and alternative rock.
Ben Folds Five released their self-titled debut album in 1995, which featured the hit single “Brick.” The album was a critical and commercial success, and the band went on to release several more albums, including “Whatever and Ever Amen” and “The Unauthorized Biography of Reinhold Messner.” In addition to his work with Ben Folds Five, Folds has also released numerous solo albums, including “Rockin’ the Suburbs” and “Songs for Silverman.”
Folds is known for his witty and poignant lyrics, as well as his dynamic piano playing. He has collaborated with numerous musicians over the years, including Regina Spektor and William Shatner. Folds has also been involved in several side projects, such as the a cappella group The Bens and the supergroup 8in8. His music continues to be a favorite of fans of piano-driven pop and alternative rock, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless contemporary artists.
4. Rhiannon Giddens
Rhiannon Giddens is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Greensboro, North Carolina. She was born on February 21, 1977, and began playing the violin at a young age. Giddens later learned to play several other instruments, including the banjo, guitar, and percussion.
Giddens first gained recognition as a member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, a traditional African-American string band that helped to revive and preserve the music of the Piedmont region of the southeastern United States. The band won a Grammy Award in 2011 for their album “Genuine Negro Jig.” Giddens has also released several solo albums, including “Tomorrow Is My Turn” and “Freedom Highway.”
Giddens is known for her powerful vocals and her ability to blend elements of folk, blues, and traditional African-American music. She has been recognized for her contributions to American music, receiving a MacArthur “Genius Grant” in 2017 and being inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in 2018.
5. J. Cole
J. Cole is a rapper, singer, and songwriter hailing from Fayetteville, North Carolina. He was born on January 28, 1985, and began rapping at a young age. Cole first gained recognition with the release of his mixtapes, which caught the attention of music industry insiders and led to a record deal with Roc Nation in 2009.
Cole’s debut album, “Cole World: The Sideline Story,” was released in 2011 and debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart. He has since released several more successful albums, including “2014 Forest Hills Drive” and “KOD.” Cole is known for his introspective lyrics and his ability to tackle complex social and political issues in his music.
In addition to his music career, Cole is also a philanthropist and community activist. He has used his platform to raise awareness about issues such as police brutality and the need for greater access to education and healthcare. Cole founded the Dreamville Foundation, which works to provide resources and support to underprivileged youth in his hometown of Fayetteville and other communities across the United States.
Cole’s impact on the hip-hop industry has been significant, with his thoughtful and socially conscious lyrics inspiring a new generation of artists. He continues to be one of the most respected and influential figures in contemporary rap music.
6. Petey Pablo
Petey Pablo, born Moses Barrett III, is a rapper and songwriter from Greenville, North Carolina. He was born on July 22, 1973, and grew up in poverty, often turning to music as an escape from his difficult surroundings. In 2001, Pablo burst onto the national music scene with his hit single “Raise Up,” which became an anthem for North Carolina and helped to establish him as a major player in the Southern hip-hop scene.
Pablo’s debut album, “Diary of a Sinner: 1st Entry,” was released later that year and was a critical and commercial success. The album showcased Pablo’s distinctive voice and his ability to blend elements of hip-hop, R&B, and Southern rap. Pablo went on to release several more albums, including “Still Writing in My Diary: 2nd Entry” and “A&R: Anticipated Recordings.”
In addition to his music career, Pablo has also dabbled in acting, appearing in films such as “Drumline” and “Holla If You Hear Me: Black and Gay in the Church.” He has also been involved in various legal troubles over the years, including a stint in prison for weapons charges.
Despite his ups and downs, Pablo remains an important figure in the Southern hip-hop scene and is remembered for his distinctive voice and his contributions to the genre.
7. Shirley Caesar
Shirley Caesar is a gospel singer and songwriter hailing from Durham, North Carolina. Born on October 13, 1938, she began singing in her local church choir at a young age and quickly developed a reputation as a talented and powerful vocalist. Caesar went on to become one of the most renowned gospel singers of all time, with a career spanning several decades.
Caesar has released over 40 albums throughout her career, including “After 40 Years: Still Sweeping Through the City” and “He’s Working It Out for You.” She has won 13 Grammy Awards and multiple Stellar Awards, Dove Awards, and NAACP Image Awards. Caesar is known for her powerful voice and her ability to connect with audiences through her music.
In addition to her music career, Caesar is also a pastor and evangelist. She has used her platform to spread messages of hope, faith, and empowerment, and has been recognized for her contributions to the African-American community. In 2017, Caesar was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Caesar’s impact on the gospel music genre has been significant, with her powerful vocals and inspirational lyrics inspiring generations of listeners. She remains a beloved figure in the music world and a trailblazer for women in gospel music.
8. Fantasia Barrino
Fantasia Barrino, known simply as Fantasia, is a singer and actress from High Point, North Carolina. She rose to fame as the winner of the third season of American Idol in 2004, impressing judges and audiences alike with her soulful voice and dynamic performances. Following her American Idol win, Fantasia went on to release several successful albums, including “Free Yourself” and “The Definition Of…”.
Fantasia is known for her powerful vocals and her ability to infuse soul and gospel influences into her music. She has won several awards throughout her career, including three Billboard Music Awards and a Grammy Award for her single “Bittersweet.”
In addition to her music career, Fantasia has also pursued acting, appearing in several films and television shows. She has also been open about her struggles with mental health and has used her platform to advocate for greater awareness and understanding of mental health issues.
Fantasia’s impact on the music industry has been significant, with her soulful voice and passionate performances inspiring countless fans and fellow musicians. She continues to be an influential figure in the worlds of R&B and gospel music.
9. Scotty McCreery
Scotty McCreery is a country music singer and songwriter from Garner, North Carolina. He rose to fame as the winner of the tenth season of American Idol in 2011, impressing judges and audiences with his deep, rich voice and his natural charm. Following his American Idol win, McCreery released his debut album, “Clear as Day,” which went on to become a certified platinum record.
McCreery’s music is known for its traditional country sound, with influences from classic artists such as George Strait and Conway Twitty. He has released several successful albums throughout his career, including “See You Tonight” and “Seasons Change.” McCreery has also won several awards, including the Academy of Country Music’s New Artist of the Year award in 2011.
In addition to his music career, McCreery is also a devout Christian and has used his platform to share his faith with his fans. He has been involved in several philanthropic efforts, including raising funds for disaster relief efforts and supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
McCreery’s impact on the country music industry has been significant, with his traditional sound and relatable lyrics resonating with fans around the world. He continues to be a beloved figure in the country music scene and a role model for aspiring musicians.
10. John Coltrane
John Coltrane was a jazz saxophonist and composer born in Hamlet, North Carolina in 1926. He is considered one of the most influential and innovative jazz musicians of all time, with a career that spanned over two decades. Coltrane’s music was known for its technical virtuosity, innovative harmonic structures, and emotional intensity.
Coltrane began his professional career as a sideman with several big bands, including those led by Dizzy Gillespie and Johnny Hodges. He later became a member of Miles Davis’ quintet, where he developed his distinctive sound and style. Coltrane went on to release several influential albums as a bandleader, including “Giant Steps,” “A Love Supreme,” and “Ascension.”
Coltrane’s influence on jazz and music in general has been enormous, with his innovative approach to improvisation and composition inspiring countless musicians. He was posthumously awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1992 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.
Despite passing away at a relatively young age, Coltrane’s legacy continues to inspire and captivate listeners around the world. His music remains a testament to his passion, creativity, and dedication to his craft.
11. Elizabeth Cotten
Elizabeth Cotten was a blues and folk singer and songwriter born in Carrboro, North Carolina in 1893. She is best known for her distinctive style of fingerpicking on the guitar, which she developed as a child by playing her older brother’s guitar upside down and backwards. Cotten’s music was known for its simplicity and authenticity, with her soulful voice and intricate guitar work drawing listeners in.
Despite not achieving mainstream success until later in life, Cotten’s influence on folk and blues music has been significant. She wrote several iconic songs, including “Freight Train,” which has been covered by numerous artists over the years. In 1984, Cotten was awarded a Grammy for her album “Elizabeth Cotten Live!” which was recorded when she was 92 years old.
Cotten’s life and career were marked by perseverance and resilience. She put her music career on hold for several years while raising her family, but eventually returned to performing in the 1950s. She continued to write and perform until her death in 1987.
Cotten’s impact on the music industry continues to be felt today, with her fingerpicking style inspiring countless guitarists and her songs remaining beloved by fans of folk and blues music.
12. Roberta Flack
Roberta Flack is a singer and songwriter born in Black Mountain, North Carolina in 1937. She is best known for her soulful and expressive voice, as well as her ability to blend genres like R&B, pop, and jazz into her music. Flack’s career spans several decades, and she has released numerous successful albums and singles, including “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.”
Flack’s music has earned her multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year for “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and Album of the Year for “The Best of Roberta Flack.” She has also been recognized for her humanitarian efforts, including her work with the Save the Children foundation.
Throughout her career, Flack has used her music to address social and political issues, including racism and poverty. She has collaborated with a variety of other musicians, including Donny Hathaway and Peabo Bryson.
Flack’s impact on the music industry has been significant, with her distinctive voice and style influencing countless artists over the years. She remains a beloved figure in North Carolina and beyond, with her music continuing to inspire and uplift listeners.
13. Anthony Hamilton
Anthony Hamilton is an R&B and soul singer born in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1971. He is known for his powerful and emotive voice, which has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. Hamilton began his music career in the 1990s as a backup singer for artists like D’Angelo and Tupac Shakur before releasing his debut album, “XTC,” in 1996.
Hamilton’s music often deals with themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience, with his soulful voice and thoughtful lyrics resonating with listeners. He has released several successful albums, including “Comin’ from Where I’m From” and “The Point of It All,” and has collaborated with a variety of other artists over the years.
Hamilton’s impact on the music industry has been significant, with his contributions to the R&B and soul genres earning him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. He has been recognized with multiple Grammy nominations and has won several other awards for his music. Hamilton continues to write and perform today, and his music remains beloved by fans around the world.
14. Eric Church
Eric Church is a country music singer and songwriter born in Granite Falls, North Carolina in 1977. He began his music career in the early 2000s and has since become one of the most successful artists in the country genre, known for his distinctive voice and rock-influenced sound. Church’s music often deals with themes of small-town life, hard work, and the struggles and joys of everyday people.
Church has released several successful albums, including “Chief,” which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and earned him numerous accolades, including the Country Music Association Award for Album of the Year. He has also collaborated with a variety of other artists, including Keith Urban and Luke Bryan.
Church’s impact on the country music industry has been significant, with his innovative approach to the genre earning him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. He has been recognized with multiple Grammy nominations and has won several other awards for his music, including the Academy of Country Music Award for Entertainer of the Year in 2020. Church continues to write and perform today, and his music remains a favorite among country music fans.
15. Warren Haynes
Warren Haynes is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist born in Asheville, North Carolina in 1960. He is best known for his work as a member of the bands Gov’t Mule and the Allman Brothers Band, as well as his prolific solo career. Haynes’ music is heavily influenced by blues, rock, and soul, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation.
Haynes’ career in music began in the late 1970s, and he has since worked with a wide range of musicians, including members of the Grateful Dead and Bob Dylan. In addition to his work as a musician, he has also produced and recorded music for other artists and is a sought-after collaborator and guest musician.
Haynes’ impact on the music industry has been significant, with his innovative guitar work and songwriting earning him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. He has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career, including the Jammy Award for Guitarist of the Year and the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Haynes continues to write, perform, and record music today, and his influence on the world of rock and blues music is undeniable.
16. Doc Watson
Doc Watson was a legendary singer, songwriter, and guitarist born in Deep Gap, North Carolina in 1923. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians in the history of American folk and bluegrass music. Watson’s music is characterized by his virtuosic guitar playing and soulful singing, and he is best known for his interpretations of traditional folk and bluegrass songs.
Watson began his music career in the late 1940s and quickly gained a reputation as a talented and innovative musician. He recorded numerous albums throughout his career and collaborated with a wide range of other musicians, including his son Merle Watson.
Watson’s impact on the music industry has been significant, with his innovative guitar playing and powerful vocals influencing generations of musicians. He has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career, including several Grammy Awards and the National Medal of Arts. Watson passed away in 2012, but his music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, and he remains a beloved icon of American music.
17. Nina Simone
Nina Simone was a legendary singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist born in Tryon, North Carolina in 1933. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, with her unique blend of jazz, blues, and classical music setting her apart from other artists of her time. Simone’s music is characterized by her powerful vocals, soulful piano playing, and socially conscious lyrics.
Simone began her music career in the late 1950s and quickly gained a reputation as a talented and outspoken artist. She recorded numerous albums throughout her career, including the iconic “Mississippi Goddam,” which became an anthem of the civil rights movement.
Simone’s impact on the music industry has been significant, with her innovative approach to music inspiring countless musicians and artists. She has been recognized with numerous awards throughout her career, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Simone passed away in 2003, but her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, and she remains a beloved icon of American music and activism.
18. Chris Daughtry
Chris Daughtry is a singer and songwriter born in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina in 1979. He rose to fame after competing on the fifth season of American Idol in 2006, where he finished in fourth place. Despite not winning the competition, Daughtry’s powerful vocals and rock-inspired sound made him a fan favorite and launched his music career.
After leaving American Idol, Daughtry formed the band Daughtry and released their self-titled debut album in 2006. The album was a huge success, selling over a million copies in its first five weeks and earning multiple Grammy nominations. Daughtry has since released several more albums with the band, including “Leave This Town” and “Cage to Rattle,” and has continued to tour and perform around the world.
Daughtry’s impact on the music industry has been significant, with his unique blend of rock, pop, and alternative music inspiring countless musicians and fans. He has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career, including several American Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards. Daughtry continues to be a beloved icon of American music, and his powerful vocals and soulful lyrics continue to captivate audiences around the world.
19. Bucky Covington
Bucky Covington is a country singer and songwriter from Rockingham, North Carolina. He rose to fame after competing on the fifth season of American Idol in 2006, where he finished in eighth place. Despite not winning the competition, Covington’s charismatic personality and unique blend of country and rock music made him a fan favorite.
After leaving American Idol, Covington signed a record deal with Lyric Street Records and released his self-titled debut album in 2007. The album was a commercial success, featuring hit singles like “A Different World” and “I’ll Walk.” Covington has since released several more albums, including “Good Guys” and “Happy Man.”
Covington’s impact on the country music industry has been significant, with his powerful vocals and relatable lyrics inspiring countless fans and musicians. He has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career, including several American Country Awards and Country Music Association Awards. Covington continues to tour and perform around the world, and his infectious energy and love for music have made him a beloved icon of American country music.
20. Clay Aiken
Clay Aiken is a singer, actor, and political activist from Raleigh, North Carolina. He rose to fame as the runner-up on the second season of American Idol in 2003. Aiken’s powerful vocals and charming personality made him a fan favorite and propelled him to stardom. Despite not winning the competition, he went on to release multiple successful albums, including “Measure of a Man” and “A Thousand Different Ways”.
Aside from his music career, Aiken has also pursued acting and appeared in several television shows, including “Scrubs” and “Drop Dead Diva.” He has also been involved in numerous philanthropic efforts, serving as a UNICEF ambassador and founding the National Inclusion Project, which works to ensure that children with disabilities have access to quality recreational programs.
Aiken has been recognized with numerous awards throughout his career, including the Billboard Music Award for Top-selling Single of the Year and the American Music Award for Favorite Adult Contemporary New Artist. He continues to perform and tour, as well as engage in political activism and advocacy for various social causes.
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.
