Ohio, often referred to as the heart of America, has a rich musical heritage that has produced some of the most influential and renowned singers in the world. From soulful crooners to rock ‘n’ roll icons, Ohio has been a breeding ground for exceptional vocal talent. In this article, we delve into the lives and careers of the top 10 famous singers hailing from the Buckeye State. These artists have not only left an indelible mark on the music industry but have also become household names, captivating audiences with their distinct styles and exceptional voices. Whether it’s the smooth melodies of rhythm and blues, the rebellious spirit of rock, or the infectious beats of pop, Ohio has been the birthplace of numerous vocal powerhouses who have shaped the landscape of popular music. Join us on a journey through the lives and achievements of these incredible artists, from the streets of Akron to the stages of the world. Discover the stories behind their rise to stardom, their musical contributions, and the lasting legacies they have created. Get ready to be inspired by the immense talent that Ohio has given the world.
1. John Legend
With a soulful voice that transcends all genres, Oklahoma native and Grammy award-winning artist John Legend has made a name for himself in the music industry. Known for hits like "All of Me" and "Ordinary People," he has become an influential figure in both pop and R&B music. His talent has also extended beyond singing as he is an accomplished pianist and songwriter. Legend’s dedication to social activism has also garnered attention, from his work with criminal justice reform to advocating for education reform. He continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide with his timeless music and impactful philanthropy efforts.
Legend is not only a renowned singer but also a celebrated songwriter, writing songs for other artists such as Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson, and Kanye West. With over 20 years of experience in the music industry, John Legend remains a prominent figure with critical acclaim and loyal fan base.
Regarding his upbringing, Legend was born in Springfield, Ohio, but his family moved to Tulsa when he was young where he attended the University of Pennsylvania. However, despite living outside of Oklahoma most of his life, he remains proud of his roots and often speaks about how growing up in Tulsa influenced him artistically and personally.
Legend's success speaks volumes about what can be achieved through hard work and talent coupled with a deep passion for social change. From humble beginnings in Tulsa to global recognition today, John Legend remains an icon representing the best of Oklahoma's values – perseverance, resilience, creativity and determination.
Art Tatum may have been blind, but his fingers could see the keys better than most people with 20/20 vision.
2. Art Tatum
The renowned pianist, Art Tatum, hails from the state of Oklahoma and is considered one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. His virtuosic piano skills and innovative harmony arrangements were groundbreaking at the time and influenced many future jazz artists. Tatum's style incorporated elements of swing, stride, and boogie-woogie, and he was known for his lightning-fast runs and intricate improvisation.
Tatum began playing piano as a child in Toledo before moving to New York City in the 1930s to launch his professional career. He quickly gained acclaim for his dazzling performances and recorded extensively throughout his lifetime. Despite suffering from impaired vision, Tatum continued to play and tour until his death in 1956.
Interestingly, Tatum's impact on jazz extended beyond his own music. Many composers like George Gershwin and Cole Porter were known to attend his performances just to hear his innovative arrangements. Even after his death, Tatum's influence can still be heard on contemporary jazz recordings.
If you consider yourself a fan of jazz music or seek inspiration from musical pioneers, listening to Art Tatum is an absolute must!
Dean Martin may not have been born in Oklahoma, but his smooth vocals could melt butter faster than an Oklahoma summer.
3. Dean Martin
One of the most famous singers from Oklahoma is a renowned swing crooner who seamlessly blended comedy and music. He started his career as a nightclub performer under the name Dino Martini before changing it to what he's now known by. His smooth voice won audiences over, leading to a successful recording and movie career.
Dean Martin not only sang but also acted in several films, displaying his versatility as an artist across multiple mediums. His camaraderie with Jerry Lewis and appearances on TV shows like The Dean Martin Show made him a beloved household name.
Interestingly, Dean Martin didn't read sheet music and had a unique method of memorizing songs by listening to recordings repeatedly. This talent helped him become an influential figure in the music industry, earning him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.
In one memorable moment during the filming of Rio Bravo, co-star Ricky Nelson was nervous about performing alongside such a big star. Martin quickly put Nelson at ease by composing a song for him overnight that they performed together in the film, showcasing his generosity and collaboration skills.
Doris Day may have been born in Cincinnati, but her heart and soul belonged to Oklahoma – just like her signature song 'Que Sera, Sera' belongs on every playlist.
4. Doris Day
Doris Day was an iconic singer born in Oklahoma who left a lasting impression on the entertainment world. Her soothing voice and charming demeanor captivated listeners around the globe. Her music career spanned over two decades, and she released numerous hit songs that cemented her position as a legend in the industry.
She began her singing career at a young age and quickly rose to fame with her talent. She achieved widespread success with songs like "Sentimental Journey" and "Que Sera, Sera". Doris Day also had successful collaborations with well-known composers such as Frank De Vol and Billy May.
In addition to her accomplishments in music, Doris Day made seamless transitions to the film industry. She starred in numerous films that showcased her multifaceted abilities, including "Calamity Jane," "Pillow Talk," and "The Man Who Knew Too Much."
Despite facing personal challenges, Doris Day remained dedicated to using her platform for social good. She was a devoted animal rights activist who founded the Doris Day Animal Foundation.
For those looking to appreciate her legacy further, exploring some of her timeless classics or watching some of her classic films is always recommended. By immersing oneself in the work of this talented artist, one can truly understand why she remains an inspiring figure years after leaving this world.
Anita Baker may be known for her sultry voice, but little do people know she's also great at baking cakes (just don't ask her to sing while doing it).
5. Anita Baker
Anita Baker, a legendary musician hailing from Oklahoma, has made a remarkable contribution to the R&B genre. With her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, she has won eight Grammy Awards. Baker's unique style draws inspiration from jazz, gospel, and rhythm and blues music, making her stand out in the industry.
Her hit songs 'Sweet Love' and 'Caught Up in the Rapture' have topped charts worldwide. Anita's music has touched millions of hearts globally. Her captivating live performances are a testament to her passion for music.
Anita Baker's incredible ability to improvise and adapt to different types of music while standing firm with her unique musical style is what sets her apart. The profound effect she has had on the music industry and its fans positions her as one of the most influential singers of all time.
In a true story that speaks volumes about Anita's dedication to music, she missed accepting an award at the 29th Annual Grammy Awards due to exhaustion after performing live for four hours straight. This incident highlights how much she values delivering excellent performances for her fans despite facing tough challenges.
Tracy Chapman may have been born in Ohio, but fast cars couldn't keep her from becoming one of Oklahoma's most famous exports.
6. Tracy Chapman
This Oklahoma-born singer-songwriter has captured the hearts of millions with her soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics. Tracy Chapman's 1988 self-titled debut album was met with critical acclaim and included hits such as "Fast Car" and "Talkin' 'Bout a Revolution". With over 30 years in the music industry, Chapman has released eight studio albums and received numerous awards and nominations for her work.
Throughout her career, Chapman's music has addressed themes such as social justice, political activism, love, and loss. Her poignant lyrics have often shed light on issues faced by marginalized communities. In addition to her musical contributions, she has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts related to education and human rights.
As a multi-Grammy award winner, Tracy Chapman continues to inspire listeners across generations through her thought-provoking music. From collaborating with renowned artists to performing at benefit concerts, she remains an important voice in contemporary music.
Bobby Womack may have been known as the 'Preacher' for his soulful vocals, but he also preached the importance of being from Oklahoma.
7. Bobby Womack (The Valentinos)
One of the famous singers from Oklahoma who made a name in the music industry is Bobby Womack. He was part of The Valentinos, a family singing group that became popular for their soul and R&B hits during the 1960s. Womack later achieved success as a solo artist, blending different music genres to create his unique style.
Womack's career spanned several decades and included collaborations with renowned artists like Ray Charles, The Rolling Stones, and Damon Albarn. He received various awards and recognitions for his contributions to the music industry, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.
Aside from his music career, Womack had a turbulent personal life that included addiction struggles and tragedy. He passed away in 2014 but left behind an influential legacy that inspired many aspiring musicians.
Overall, Bobby Womack's talent, versatility, and enduring impact on music make him a notable figure in Oklahoma's rich musical history. Fans of soulful rock and R&B should definitely check out his discography.
For those looking to enhance their own musical abilities, studying Womack's songwriting techniques and experimenting with incorporating different genres can help develop one's signature sound. Additionally, seeking collaboration opportunities with other artists can lead to new creative perspectives and opportunities for growth.
Bootsy Collins may not be from Oklahoma, but his funky bass lines could make anyone feel like they're in Tulsa.
8. Bootsy Collins
Bootsy Collins, a renowned Oklahoma-born singer, is known for his exceptional bass-playing skills and contributions to funk music. Collins started his journey in music by playing guitar in a band with his brother, but later switched over to playing bass. He worked with several notable musicians and bands like James Brown, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Bootsy's Rubber Band throughout his career. His innovative techniques and unique style have influenced future generations of musicians.
In addition to his musical career, Collins also appeared in TV shows and films like The Blues Brothers and Undercover Brother. Despite facing challenges like drug addiction, he managed to overcome them and continued making music that inspired millions around the world.
To learn from Collins' success, If you are an up-and-coming musician looking for inspiration, try collaborating with other artists or experimenting with new styles to find your unique sound. Similarly, overcoming challenges such as addiction requires a strong support system and dedication towards rehabilitation.
Kid Cudi may be from Ohio, but after hearing his music, Oklahoma might want to claim him as one of their own.
9. Kid Cudi
This multi-talented rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer was born in Ohio but has strong roots to Oklahoma. Kid Cudi rose to fame in the late 2000s with his debut hit single "Day 'n' Nite" and has since released numerous critically acclaimed albums. He often incorporates elements of rock, pop, and electronic music into his unique sound.
Kid Cudi has openly spoken about his struggles with mental health and has become an advocate for those dealing with similar issues. In addition to his successful music career, he has also dabbled in acting, appearing in films and television shows such as "How to Make It in America" and "Westworld".
Fun fact: Kid Cudi's real name is Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi and he actually got his stage name from a character he created while working at a fast-food chain.
Pro Tip: Check out Kid Cudi's collaboration with Kanye West on their album "Kids See Ghosts". The duo seamlessly blends both of their unique styles for an unforgettable musical experience.
Dave Grohl may have left Oklahoma, but the music he created with Nirvana and Foo Fighters proves he left his mark on the world.
10. Dave Grohl (Nirvana / Foo Fighters)
This entry highlights the successful career of a musician with roots in Oklahoma, known for his dynamic presence as a frontman and unparalleled guitar skills. He made a name for himself as one of the founding members of an influential rock band before branching off to create his own acclaimed group. With multiple Grammy wins and decades of performances under his belt, he remains an icon in the music industry.
Samuel Moore 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.
