Oregon, a state located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, has been home to many famous musicians over the years. From the jazz greats of the mid-20th century to the alternative rock and indie pop stars of today, Oregon has produced a diverse array of talented singers who have left a lasting mark on the music industry. These singers have not only gained popularity and commercial success, but have also had a significant influence on the development of various musical genres and styles.
In this article, we will take a closer look at 20 of the most famous singers from Oregon, ranked by their influence and popularity. We will explore the diverse backgrounds and musical styles of these artists, from the smooth jazz of Bing Crosby to the alternative rock of Courtney Love and the indie pop of Portugal. The Man. We will also highlight the impact that these singers have had on the music industry, both in Oregon and around the world. Whether you are a music lover or simply interested in the rich cultural history of Oregon, this article is sure to provide an engaging and informative look at some of the state’s most iconic musicians.
1. Bing Crosby
Bing Crosby was an American singer and actor, born in Tacoma, Washington in 1903. He rose to fame in the 1930s with his smooth baritone voice and laid-back singing style, which made him one of the most popular and successful performers of his era. Crosby had a career spanning over five decades, during which he recorded hundreds of songs and appeared in numerous films and television shows.
Crosby was known for his signature song, “White Christmas,” which became a Christmas classic and remains popular to this day. He also had a string of hits in the 1930s and 1940s, including “Pennies from Heaven,” “Swinging on a Star,” and “Don’t Fence Me In.” Crosby was one of the first artists to embrace the concept album, and his recordings of “The Great American Songbook” are still regarded as some of the finest interpretations of these classic songs.
Crosby was also a successful actor, appearing in over 70 films and winning an Academy Award for his role in “Going My Way.” He was a beloved figure in popular culture and a pioneer in the entertainment industry. Crosby passed away in 1977, but his music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by generations of fans.
2. Esperanza Spalding
Esperanza Spalding is a jazz bassist, singer, and composer from Portland, Oregon. Born in 1984, Spalding began playing music at a young age and quickly developed a passion for jazz. She attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she became the youngest faculty member in the school’s history at just 20 years old.
Spalding has released several critically acclaimed albums throughout her career, including “Esperanza,” which won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 2011. She is known for her unique style, which blends jazz, funk, and R&B influences, as well as her virtuosic bass playing and distinctive singing voice.
In addition to her solo work, Spalding has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Prince. She has also been involved in various social and political causes, using her platform to advocate for issues such as climate change and racial justice.
Spalding is widely regarded as one of the most talented and innovative musicians of her generation. Her music pushes boundaries and defies categorization, and her performances are known for their energy and spontaneity. She continues to be a major force in the jazz world and a trailblazer for women in music.
3. Storm Large
Storm Large is a singer, actress, and author from Southborough, Massachusetts, who is based in Portland, Oregon. She is known for her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, as well as her ability to blend genres and styles.
Large rose to national prominence as a contestant on the reality TV show “Rock Star: Supernova” in 2006, where she was a fan favorite and finished in fourth place. She has since released several albums, including “Ladylike” and “Le Bonheur,” which showcase her versatility and range as a performer.
In addition to her music career, Large has also worked as an actress, appearing in numerous stage productions and films. She has also written a memoir, “Crazy Enough,” which was adapted into a one-woman show that she performed to critical acclaim.
Large is known for her fearlessness and willingness to tackle difficult subjects in her music and writing. She has been open about her struggles with addiction and mental health, and uses her platform to advocate for greater awareness and understanding of these issues. She continues to be a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest arts scene and a powerful voice for change.
4. Jenny Conlee
Jenny Conlee is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Eugene, Oregon. She is best known as a member of the indie rock band The Decemberists, with whom she has recorded and toured extensively since 2002.
Conlee’s musical career began in the Pacific Northwest punk scene of the 1990s, where she played keyboards and accordion in a number of bands. She joined The Decemberists in 2002 and has since become an integral part of the group’s sound, contributing keyboards, accordion, and vocals to their albums and live shows.
In addition to her work with The Decemberists, Conlee has also collaborated with a wide range of artists and bands, including Laura Veirs, Black Prairie, and Neko Case. She is known for her versatility and skill as a musician, as well as her ability to craft intricate and emotive melodies.
Conlee has also been open about her battle with breast cancer, which she was diagnosed with in 2011. She underwent treatment and returned to touring with The Decemberists in 2012, inspiring fans with her resilience and determination.
Overall, Jenny Conlee is a highly respected musician and a beloved member of the Pacific Northwest music community. Her contributions to The Decemberists and her collaborations with other artists have helped to shape the indie rock landscape and inspire countless fans and musicians alike.
5. Courtney Love
Courtney Love is a musician, actress, and visual artist who was born in San Francisco but spent much of her childhood in Eugene, Oregon. She is best known as the lead singer of the alternative rock band Hole, which she founded in 1989 and which quickly became one of the most popular and influential bands of the 1990s.
Love’s music is characterized by its raw, confessional lyrics and its fierce guitar-driven sound, which draws heavily on punk and grunge influences. Her performances are known for their intense energy and emotional power, and she is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and charismatic performers of her generation.
In addition to her music career, Love has also worked as an actress and visual artist, and has been a prominent figure in the fashion world. She has been the subject of controversy throughout her career, often being criticized for her outspokenness and her tumultuous personal life.
Despite the challenges she has faced, Love remains one of the most iconic and influential musicians of the past few decades, and her impact on the world of rock and roll cannot be overstated.
6. Robert Cray
Robert Cray is a blues singer, guitarist, and songwriter from Columbus, Georgia, who grew up in Tacoma, Washington, and is now based in Eugene, Oregon. He is known for his soulful voice and dynamic guitar playing, which draw from a wide range of blues and R&B influences.
Cray first gained national recognition with his breakthrough album “Strong Persuader” in 1986, which spawned the hit single “Smokin’ Gun” and earned him a Grammy Award. He has since released numerous critically acclaimed albums and collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
In addition to his music career, Cray is also a noted philanthropist and advocate for social justice. He has worked with organizations such as the Northwest African American Museum and the Musicians United for Safe Energy (MUSE) concerts.
Cray’s music continues to resonate with fans around the world, and he remains a beloved figure in the blues and R&B communities. His live performances are renowned for their energy and intensity, and he has earned a reputation as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation.
7. Portugal. The Man
Portugal. The Man is an indie rock band originally from Wasilla, Alaska, and now based in Portland, Oregon. The band was formed in 2004 and is known for their unique blend of psychedelic rock, pop, and electronic music, as well as their socially conscious lyrics.
Portugal. The Man rose to national prominence with their hit single “Feel It Still” in 2017, which won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. The band has since released several critically acclaimed albums and collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Danger Mouse, Brian Burton, and Mike D of the Beastie Boys.
In addition to their music career, Portugal. The Man is also known for their activism and advocacy work. They have worked with organizations such as the ACLU and Planned Parenthood, and have used their platform to raise awareness about issues such as climate change and social justice.
Portugal. The Man’s music continues to evolve and push boundaries, and they remain a beloved figure in the indie rock scene. Their live shows are known for their energy and unpredictability, and they have earned a reputation as one of the most innovative and exciting bands of their generation.
8. John Fahey
John Fahey was an American guitarist, composer, and musicologist born in Washington D.C. in 1939. He is often credited with being a pioneer of the American primitive guitar style, which blends elements of blues, folk, and classical music.
Fahey’s music was characterized by his intricate fingerpicking style, and his use of unusual and unconventional tunings. He was a prolific artist, releasing over 40 albums throughout his career, many of which have been highly influential in the development of the acoustic guitar genre.
Fahey was also a respected musicologist and historian, and he founded the record label Takoma Records in 1959, which became an important platform for a wide range of artists, including Leo Kottke and Robbie Basho.
Fahey’s influence on the American music scene cannot be overstated, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians. He was posthumously inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.
Fahey’s music remains a testament to the power of the acoustic guitar and the beauty of American folk traditions. His unique style and approach to music have left an indelible mark on the world of music, and he remains a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest music community.
9. Greg Sage
Greg Sage is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist who is best known for his work as the frontman of the influential punk band, The Wipers. Sage was born in Olympia, Washington, and is now based in Portland, Oregon.
The Wipers were formed in 1977 and quickly gained a reputation for their intense live performances and powerful, stripped-down punk sound. Sage’s distinctive guitar playing and raw vocals were a defining feature of the band’s sound, and they went on to influence a generation of punk and alternative rock bands.
In addition to his work with The Wipers, Sage has released several critically acclaimed solo albums, and has collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr. and Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain.
Sage’s music continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world, and his uncompromising approach to songwriting and performance has made him a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest music scene. He remains active as a musician and continues to push the boundaries of punk and rock music.
10. Jerry Cantrell
Jerry Cantrell is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist who was born in Tacoma, Washington and is best known as the co-founder and lead guitarist of the influential rock band, Alice in Chains. Cantrell has also released several solo albums and has collaborated with a range of musicians, including Ozzy Osbourne and Metallica.
Alice in Chains was formed in Seattle in 1987, and quickly gained a reputation for their unique blend of heavy metal, grunge, and alternative rock. Cantrell’s intricate guitar playing and powerful songwriting were a defining feature of the band’s sound, and they went on to become one of the most successful rock bands of the 1990s.
In addition to his work with Alice in Chains, Cantrell has released several critically acclaimed solo albums, including his most recent release, “Brighten”. His music continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world, and his guitar playing and songwriting have made him one of the most respected musicians in the Pacific Northwest music scene.
Cantrell’s legacy as a musician and songwriter is a testament to the power of rock music and the enduring influence of the Pacific Northwest music scene.
11. Beth Ditto
Beth Ditto is a singer and songwriter from Searcy, Arkansas, who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the indie rock band, Gossip. After forming in Olympia, Washington in the late 1990s, Gossip quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live shows and their unique blend of punk, disco, and soul.
Ditto’s powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence were a defining feature of Gossip’s sound, and the band went on to release several critically acclaimed albums, including “Standing in the Way of Control” and “Music for Men”. After the band disbanded in 2016, Ditto launched a successful solo career, releasing her debut album, “Fake Sugar,” in 2017.
Ditto’s music is characterized by her soulful vocals, her fierce feminist politics, and her unapologetic approach to self-expression. She has become a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest music scene, and her music continues to inspire and empower fans around the world.
Ditto is also known for her outspoken activism on a range of issues, including LGBTQ+ rights and body positivity. She remains an important voice in the music world and a powerful advocate for social justice.
12. Everclear
Everclear is a rock band that was formed in Portland, Oregon in 1991 by singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Art Alexakis. The band quickly gained a following in the Pacific Northwest music scene with their catchy, guitar-driven songs and Alexakis’ introspective lyrics.
Everclear’s breakthrough album, “Sparkle and Fade,” was released in 1995 and featured hit songs such as “Santa Monica” and “Heroin Girl”. The album’s success propelled the band to international fame and established them as one of the leading bands of the post-grunge era.
Throughout their career, Everclear has continued to release successful albums and tour extensively. Alexakis’ songwriting has always been a key component of the band’s sound, and his lyrics often deal with themes of addiction, loss, and redemption.
Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, Everclear has remained a beloved band in the Pacific Northwest music scene, and their music continues to resonate with fans around the world. Alexakis’ honest and heartfelt lyrics, combined with the band’s powerful guitar-driven sound, have made them one of the most enduring bands of their era.
13. Marv Ross
Marv Ross is a singer-songwriter from North Oregon, USA, who has been making music for over four decades. He is best known for his work as the lead guitarist and co-founder of the popular 1980s band, Quarterflash, which produced hits like “Harden My Heart” and “Take Me to Heart.” Ross’s musical style combines elements of rock, pop, and folk, with his distinctive guitar playing and soulful vocals.
In addition to his work with Quarterflash, Ross has released several solo albums, including “Suspicion” and “A Line in the Sand,” which showcase his songwriting skills and dynamic performances. He has also collaborated with other musicians and songwriters, such as his wife, Rindy Ross, who is the lead vocalist and saxophonist for Quarterflash.
Throughout his career, Ross has been recognized for his contributions to the music industry, including induction into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame. He continues to perform and create music, sharing his passion and talent with audiences around the world. With his rich musical heritage and diverse influences, Marv Ross is a true Oregonian music icon.
14. Mel Brown
Mel Brown is a legendary blues singer and guitarist hailing from North Oregon, USA. Born in Jackson, Mississippi, Brown began his music career as a drummer, performing with artists such as B.B. King and John Lee Hooker. He later switched to guitar and established himself as a sought-after musician in the Pacific Northwest blues scene.
Brown’s music is deeply rooted in the blues tradition, with influences from jazz and soul. He is known for his smooth, soulful vocals and his impeccable guitar playing, which blends intricate solos with understated rhythm guitar. Brown’s signature sound can be heard on his many albums, including “Blues: A Beautiful Thing” and “Neck Bones & Caviar.”
In addition to his successful music career, Brown was also a respected music educator and mentor, passing on his knowledge and skills to the next generation of musicians. He received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the blues, including induction into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame and the Cascade Blues Association Hall of Fame.
Mel Brown’s legacy as a blues musician and educator continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world. His music remains a testament to the enduring power of the blues and its ability to connect people across cultures and generations.
15. Johnnie Ray
Johnnie Ray was an American singer and songwriter who was born in Dallas, Oregon in 1927. Ray is often credited with pioneering the genre of rock and roll and is known for his emotional and dramatic vocal performances.
Ray rose to fame in the 1950s with hit songs such as “Cry” and “The Little White Cloud That Cried”. His distinctive singing style, which included intense and sometimes anguished vocalizations, made him a popular performer on both sides of the Atlantic.
Ray’s music was highly influential in the development of rock and roll, and he was known for his energetic stage presence and flamboyant fashion sense. He was also one of the first openly gay performers in popular music and was known for his groundbreaking contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility in the entertainment industry.
Despite struggling with alcoholism and drug addiction throughout his career, Ray continued to record and tour until his death in 1990. He remains an important figure in the history of popular music and his influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in his footsteps.
16. Krist Novoselic
Krist Novoselic is an American musician, best known as the bassist and co-founder of the legendary rock band Nirvana. Born in Compton, California in 1965, Novoselic grew up in Aberdeen, Washington and later moved to Seattle, where he formed Nirvana with Kurt Cobain and drummer Dave Grohl in 1987.
As a member of Nirvana, Novoselic helped to redefine the sound of rock music in the 1990s, pioneering the grunge movement that would go on to influence countless other artists in the decades to come. He played on all three of the band’s studio albums, including the landmark 1991 release Nevermind, which remains one of the best-selling and most critically acclaimed albums of all time.
After Nirvana disbanded in 1994 following the tragic death of Cobain, Novoselic went on to pursue a variety of other musical projects. He has also been involved in political activism and advocacy work, and has spoken out on issues ranging from environmental protection to campaign finance reform.
Today, Novoselic is widely regarded as one of the most influential bassists in the history of rock music, and his contributions to the genre continue to inspire new generations of musicians.
17. Hazel Dickens
Hazel Dickens was a highly influential singer-songwriter hailing from North Oregon, USA, who is best known for her contributions to the bluegrass and folk music genres. Born in West Virginia, Dickens grew up in a working-class family and was deeply influenced by the struggles of the coal mining communities in which she lived. Her music often reflected these experiences and focused on themes of social justice and economic inequality.
Dickens’s powerful voice and soulful songwriting quickly made her a respected figure in the bluegrass and folk music scenes. She was known for her ability to blend traditional Appalachian music with contemporary themes and was a pioneer in promoting women’s voices in the male-dominated world of bluegrass.
Some of Dickens’s most famous songs include “Black Lung,” “Mama’s Hand,” and “West Virginia, My Home.” She also collaborated with other artists, such as Alice Gerrard, and was featured in the documentary film “Harlan County USA.”
Despite her untimely death in 2011, Hazel Dickens’s music continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world. She was a trailblazer in the world of bluegrass and folk music and a powerful voice for social justice and human rights. Her legacy as a musician and activist remains an important part of American music history.
18. Cherry Poppin’ Daddies
Cherry Poppin’ Daddies is a swing and ska band from North Oregon, USA, known for their high-energy performances and eclectic musical style. The band was formed in 1989 and quickly gained a following in the Pacific Northwest music scene with their unique fusion of swing, punk, and ska music.
Their breakout hit “Zoot Suit Riot” in 1997 brought the band national attention and commercial success. The song reached the top 40 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and propelled their album of the same name to platinum status.
Cherry Poppin’ Daddies continued to release albums throughout the years, showcasing their versatility and experimentation with various musical styles. Some of their most well-known songs include “Brown Derby Jump,” “Drunk Daddy,” and “No Mercy for Swine.”
Despite changes in the music industry and shifting trends in popular music, Cherry Poppin’ Daddies have continued to maintain a dedicated fan base and a reputation as one of the most dynamic and exciting live bands in the business. With their infectious energy and genre-bending approach to music, the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies remain a beloved part of the North Oregon music scene.
19. Kathleen Hanna
Kathleen Hanna is a punk rock singer and activist from North Oregon, USA, who is best known for her work as the lead singer of the bands Bikini Kill and Le Tigre. Born in Portland, Oregon, Hanna began her music career in the early 1990s and quickly became a prominent figure in the riot grrrl movement, a feminist punk rock movement that advocated for gender equality and female empowerment.
Hanna’s music is known for its raw, unapologetic energy and its focus on issues such as sexual assault, misogyny, and reproductive rights. With her powerful voice and confrontational lyrics, she has inspired countless musicians and activists around the world.
In addition to her music career, Hanna is also a well-known activist and advocate for social justice. She has worked with organizations such as RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) and has spoken out on issues such as police brutality and gender discrimination.
Kathleen Hanna’s legacy as a musician and activist continues to inspire and influence people around the world. Her music and advocacy work have been instrumental in promoting feminist ideals and challenging societal norms. She remains an important figure in the punk rock and feminist movements and a role model for those seeking to make a positive difference in the world.
20. Pink Martini
Pink Martini is a musical group based in Portland, Oregon, known for their eclectic blend of genres, including Latin, jazz, pop, and classical music. The band was formed in 1994 by pianist and composer Thomas Lauderdale, and has since become known for their unique sound and engaging live performances.
The band’s music is heavily influenced by classic Hollywood films, and often features guest vocalists singing in a variety of languages, including French, Spanish, and Japanese. They have released several albums over the years, including their 1997 debut Sympathique, which was certified gold in France and remains one of their most popular releases to date.
In addition to their music, Pink Martini is also known for their commitment to social and political causes, and frequently performs at benefit concerts for a variety of organizations. They have also collaborated with a number of other artists and performers over the years, including the von Trapps, the family of singers made famous by the classic film The Sound of Music.
Today, Pink Martini is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and exciting musical groups to come out of the Pacific Northwest, and their music continues to delight audiences around the world.
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.
