Idaho, a state nestled in the rugged beauty of the American Northwest, may not be widely recognized as a hub for famous singers, but it has produced a handful of talented musicians who have made significant contributions to the music industry.
One of the most notable singers from Idaho is Paul Revere, the lead vocalist and keyboardist of the rock band Paul Revere & The Raiders. With their energetic performances and catchy songs, the band achieved great success in the 1960s, becoming known for hits like “Kicks” and “Indian Reservation.”
Another celebrated singer hailing from Idaho is Josh Ritter, an acclaimed folk and Americana artist. Known for his poetic lyrics and heartfelt storytelling, Ritter has garnered a loyal following with albums such as “The Animal Years” and “So Runs the World Away.” His captivating voice and introspective songwriting have earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
Additionally, the state of Idaho has produced country music stars like Aaron Tippin and Gary Allan. Aaron Tippin, known for his distinctive voice and patriotic anthems, achieved success with songs like “You’ve Got to Stand for Something” and “There Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong with the Radio.” Gary Allan, with his soulful voice and emotionally charged ballads, has garnered hits such as “Man to Man” and “Watching Airplanes.”
While Idaho may not be as widely associated with famous singers as some other states, these talented musicians have undoubtedly made their mark on the music industry, showcasing the diverse talent that can emerge from even the most unexpected places.
1. Norma Zimmer
Norma Zimmer, a renowned American vocalist, was born in Larson, Idaho. She was popularly known as the "Champagne Lady" on The Lawrence Welk Show, where she sang from 1960 to 1982. Zimmer had a remarkable singing career and performed at various events with top artists. Her smooth voice and charm made her a fan-favorite that resonates even today. Zimmer is undoubtedly one of the most talented singers to have come out of Idaho.
Continuing our list of famous singers from Idaho, we have Aaron Tippin. Born in Pensacola but raised in Florida's Bartow County, Aaron Tippin began his music career playing guitar with local Bay Area country bands while working part-time jobs as a truck driver and an aircraft mechanic.
Idaho has some other renowned musicians like Josh Ritter, Martha Scanlan, Emily Braden, and Paul Revere. Josh Ritter is known for his folk-rock ballads while Martha Scanlan is admired for her haunting traditional compositions. Emily Braden's soulful voice and Paul Revere's rockabilly style exclusively demonstrate their musical ingenuity.
Pro Tip: Do research to expand your knowledge about each artist's distinctive style to understand how they became successful in their respective genres.
Move over, potatoes, Judy Lynn is Idaho's true claim to fame in the music world.
2. Judy Lynn
One of the notable names on the list of famous singers from Idaho is a talented artist with a timeless voice. She's none other than Judy Lynn, a seasoned musician known for her captivating performances. Born and raised in Boise, she made significant contributions to country music and became a well-respected figure in the industry. With numerous chart-topping hits under her belt, Lynn was one of the biggest names in country music during her time. Her legacy continues to inspire up-and-coming artists today.
Lynn had an eventful career that spanned over two decades. She started singing at a young age and quickly developed her craft. After moving to California, she signed with Columbia Records and released several successful albums. Her most popular song, "Footsteps of a Fool," topped the charts for six weeks straight. In addition to making hit records, she also worked as a television host for multiple shows, showcasing her talent as an all-around entertainer.
What's interesting about Judy Lynn's story is how she paved the way for female artists in country music at a time when it was dominated by men. She broke barriers by being one of the first women to get regular airplay on radio and television networks across the country. Furthermore, she inspired many aspiring musicians to pursue their dreams with passion and dedication.
If you're a fan of classic country or simply interested in learning more about music history, don't miss out on exploring Judy Lynn's musical legacy!
Even though his music may not be as famous as potatoes from Idaho, Josh Ritter is still a gem worth discovering.
3. Josh Ritter
One notable singer from the state of Idaho is Josh Ritter, known for his unique blend of folk and rock music. Ritter has garnered praise for his songwriting abilities and has released several albums throughout his career. He gained popularity with his fourth album, "The Animal Years," which received critical acclaim. His songs often tackle socially conscious themes and make use of literary devices such as metaphors and allusions.
In addition to his successful music career, Ritter also dabbles in writing novels and essays, making him a multi-talented artist. His work has been likened to the likes of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, cementing him as a prominent figure in the American music scene.
Pro Tip: Explore Josh Ritter's discography starting with "The Animal Years" for a deeper appreciation of his unique musical style.
Move over, potatoes – Doug Martsch is giving Idaho a new claim to fame as the indie rock king of the Gem State.
4. Doug Martsch
Doug Martsch, a celebrated songwriter, and guitarist was born and raised in the state of Idaho. Being a founding member of Built to Spill, he has released critically acclaimed albums spanning over two decades. The rock band is known for its eclectic sound, intricate guitar work, and introspective lyrics.
Martsch's music has influenced several indie-rock artists worldwide and has also been featured in popular TV series soundtracks such as Friends, The O.C., and Parks and Recreation. He continues to tour actively and showcase his growth as an artist through his solo works.
His songwriting style often showcases his love for nature with references to Idaho's lush greenery and scenic beauty. Martsch has created a unique blend of folk-inspired melodies with punk-infused riffs that make him stand out among contemporaries.
Interestingly, Martsch is also an accomplished visual artist and has designed apparel for his band merchandise over the years.
Move over potatoes, Eilen Jewell is the real gem of Idaho.
5. Eilen Jewell
Eilen Jewell, one of the most respected singer-songwriters in the music industry today, hails from Idaho. Her soulful, bluesy voice and lyrics that delve deep into themes of love, loss, and life have earned her a loyal following around the world. Her discography spans over a decade and reveals her innate ability to blend country, folk, rockabilly and Americana into a unique sound that is all her own.
Jewell began her career as a street performer in Santa Fe before moving to Boston to study at Berklee School of Music. She then made her way to Idaho where she formed the band Eilen Jewell & The Sacred Shakers. Her critically acclaimed album "Sea of Tears" put her on the map and led to collaborations with other artists such as JD McPherson and Pokey LaFarge.
One unique aspect of Jewell's music is its cinematic quality – many of her songs paint vivid pictures through their lyrics. She is also known for incorporating social justice themes into her music, such as in her song "Codeine Arms," which addresses issues of opioid addiction.
If you want to get a taste of Jewell's music, listen to "Queen of the Minor Key" or check out one of her live performances on YouTube. Her haunting rendition of Neil Young's "Unknown Legend" is not to be missed.
Kevin Sharp may have been born in Idaho, but his music was so good, it went platinum and crossed state borders faster than a fugitive on the run.
6. Kevin Sharp
This Idaho-born country singer rose to fame in the early 90s, releasing his debut album in 1996. Kevin Sharp was known for his powerful vocals and heart-wrenching ballads that touched the hearts of millions worldwide. His second album, "Love Is," featured two top 10 hits, solidifying his place in the country music scene.
Unfortunately, Sharp was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma at the age of 43 and passed away in 2014.
Sharp's perseverance through adversity and remarkable talent make him a prominent figure in Idaho's musical history. His soothing melodies and emotive lyrics continue to captivate audiences globally, leaving a lasting impact on the industry. Fans can still relive his artistry through his timeless records or catch a glimpse of his impressive range through live recorded performances.
Missing out on Kevin Sharp's masterpiece is like missing out on a piece of Idaho's rich cultural heritage. Don't let that happen – immerse yourself in one of Idaho's finest and most celebrated talents today!
Move over potatoes, Idaho's got some talented voices in Cary Judd.
7. Cary Judd
Cary Judd is a talented musician from Idaho who has made his mark in the industry. He started his music career in church and later moved to Nashville to pursue it professionally. Judd has written songs for renowned artists, including LeAnn Rimes and Tim McGraw. He is also a recipient of multiple awards for his contribution to the country music scene. As an accomplished lyricist, Judd continues to make waves with his music, inspiring aspiring artists along the way.
Moving beyond his achievements, Judd's versatility as a singer-songwriter is something that sets him apart from others. He has shown a great deal of diversity in his music journey – experimenting with different genres like rock, pop and contemporary country. His deep understanding of songwriting techniques coupled with distinct vocals is what truly makes him stand out.
Interestingly, Judd's musical taste is not confined to just his own compositions. In fact, he cites legendary musicians like John Mayer and Ray Charles as some of his biggest inspirations. His undying passion for creating soulful melodies reflects in everything he does.
It's hard not to appreciate Cary Judd's contributions to Idaho's rich musical legacy. Growing up surrounded by the state's stunning landscapes may have influenced much of who he is today as a musician – but it was his unwavering dedication towards music that truly set him apart.
Julie Gibson may be from Idaho, but her vocal range could reach far beyond the potato fields.
8. Julie Gibson
One talented singer from Idaho is Julie Gibson, known for her work in the entertainment industry during the mid-twentieth century. Gibson began her career as a member of Bob Crosby and his Orchestra, where she gained attention for her vocal abilities. She later appeared in several films and television shows, including singing roles in popular musicals such as "The Harvey Girls" and "Hollywood Canteen". Gibson's notable contributions to the music and film industry have solidified her place among the famous singers from Idaho.
In addition to her music career, Julie Gibson was also active in various philanthropic organizations throughout her life. She worked with organizations such as the Arthritis Foundation and the Variety Club to raise funds for those in need. Moreover, she was an advocate for animal welfare and supported several animal rights groups.
Notably, Julie Gibson was also one of the first recipients of a star on Idaho's Walk of Fame, which recognizes outstanding individuals who have contributed significantly to Idaho's culture and heritage. Her contributions to both music and philanthropy continue to inspire many today.
Don't miss out on discovering more about iconic singers from Idaho – check out our list of 10 talented musicians from this great state!
Jake Pitts, the only famous person to come out of Boise since potatoes.
9. Jake Pitts
Jake Pitts is an accomplished musician hailing from Idaho. With his significant contributions to the rock and heavy metal music genre, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the industry. Throughout his career, he has toured extensively and collaborated with various artists, displaying his remarkable guitar skills and musical talents. His distinctive sound and energetic performances have earned him a loyal fan base worldwide.
Pitts rose to fame as a lead guitarist for the American rock band Black Veil Brides. He joined the band in 2009 and quickly became an integral member, contributing to the writing process of their albums. Besides his work with Black Veil Brides, Pitts has also pursued solo projects and worked on side collaborations. He released his instrumental solo album "Electronic Alchemy" in 2013, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
What sets Jake Pitts apart is not just his talent but also his commitment to inspiring others to pursue their passion for music. Over the years, he has given guitar clinics across the globe, mentoring young musicians on technique and encouraging them to explore their creativity.
Pro Tip: If you aspire to become a successful musician like Jake Pitts, never stop practicing your craft and always strive for improvement. Attend workshops or masterclasses to gain insights from experienced musicians and network with other aspiring artists to develop your skills and build a strong support system.
Lucy Ann Polk may be from Idaho, but her voice could make you feel like you're sipping a martini in a swanky LA jazz club.
10. Lucy Ann Polk
Lucy Ann Polk was one of the famous singers from Idaho, known for her incredible vocal range and smooth tones. Now, let's take a closer look at some of the unique aspects of her life and career.
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Birthplace: | Scobey, MT |
Birthdate: | April 16, 1923 |
Occupation(s): | Singer, jazz vocalist |
Genre(s): | Jazz |
Notable Work(s): | "My Blue Heaven" |
Despite being born in Montana, Lucy Ann Polk spent most of her life in Idaho and considered it to be her home state. She began singing as a child and later pursued a professional career in music. Throughout her career, she collaborated with renowned musicians such as Dave Brubeck and Les Brown.
If you haven't had the chance to listen to Lucy Ann Polk's music yet, do yourself a favor and give it a listen. You don't want to miss out on such an influential musical talent from the Pacific Northwest!