Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of New England, Vermont is a state renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, serene countryside, and vibrant culture. While this tranquil state is often associated with maple syrup, artisanal cheeses, and outdoor adventures, it has also given rise to a surprising number of talented singers who have left an indelible mark on the world of music. From intimate coffeehouse performances to international stages, Vermont has been a fertile breeding ground for remarkable vocal talents across various genres. In this article, we delve into the melodic tapestry of the Green Mountain State and showcase the top 10 famous singers who proudly call Vermont their home.
Throughout its history, Vermont has fostered an environment that nurtures creativity and originality. The state’s close-knit communities, nestled towns, and vibrant arts scene have provided fertile ground for aspiring musicians to find their voices and pursue their passion. From the small towns of Brattleboro and Burlington to the rolling hills of Bennington and Montpelier, Vermont has produced an array of extraordinary vocalists whose talent has transcended borders and captivated audiences worldwide.
In this captivating journey, we will explore the diverse musical tapestry of Vermont, celebrating the unique voices that have emerged from this picturesque state. From folk ballads to soulful blues, from heart-wrenching country tunes to captivating indie pop, Vermont’s singers have carved their niches in the music industry through their distinctive styles and soul-stirring performances.
Join us as we unveil the harmonious legacy of Vermont’s top 10 famous singers, their exceptional contributions to the world of music, and the fascinating stories behind their rise to prominence. Prepare to be serenaded by the melodic talents that have blossomed amidst Vermont’s verdant landscapes and discover the rich tapestry of the state’s musical heritage.
1. Phish
Phish, a band based in Vermont, is famous for their eclectic mix of rock, jazz, and bluegrass music. Their improvisational playing style is legendary among their fans and has earned them a devoted following. The band formed in the 1980s and has since released multiple albums, sold-out shows across the world, and even created their own music festival. Their unique sound never disappoints and continuously draws crowds from all over the world.
In addition to their musical achievements, Phish is also recognized for their philanthropic work through the WaterWheel Foundation. Founded in 1997 by the band members themselves, this charitable organization supports various causes like environmental preservation, social justice issues, and arts programs for children.
Pro Tip: Check out one of Phish's live performances to truly understand their unparalleled talent as musicians.
JoJo may not be living in Vermont anymore, but she'll always be the queen of our Green Mountain state of mind.
2. JoJo
Born Joanna Levesque, the next famous singer from Vermont gained fame for her impeccable vocal range and powerful lyrics. She gained fame at just 13 years old with her debut single, "Leave (Get Out)" which was a chart-topper. With three studio albums to her name, she has sold over seven million albums globally. In addition to her singing career, she has also dabbled in acting, appearing in movies like "Aquamarine" and TV shows like "The Bernie Mac Show". She is one of the most talented artists to come out of Vermont, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
3. Prydein? More like Pry-don't-even-try-to-pronounce-it.
3. Prydein
This section introduces Prydein, a prominent musical group from Vermont, known for top-tier Celtic rock performances that bring audiences to their feet. The band has garnered an impressive following in the music industry because of its unique instrumental arrangements and enlivening soundscapes that transport fans to another world altogether.
Prydein’s music is a fusion of traditional Celtic sounds and modern rock genres, with the inclusion of bagpipes, accordion, guitar, bass and other instruments creating a unique blend that is hard to resist. Their live performances have been described as electrifying, high-energy spectacles that leave audience members breathless and yearning for more.
Notably, the band has toured extensively throughout North America and Europe, earning a loyal fan base in each country they visit. They are celebrated as one of Vermont's most exciting bands and represent the state's vibrant music scene.
Experience Prydein’s sensational sound by catching their next performance on tour or purchasing any of their albums – you won't want to miss out!
Anaïs Mitchell proves that Vermont isn't just famous for maple syrup, but also for producing lyrical geniuses.
4. Anaïs Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell, born in 1981, is a renowned Vermont-born singer and songwriter. She rose to fame with her folk opera 'Hadestown' which won multiple awards. Mitchell's music is often characterized by poignant storytelling coupled with a unique blend of country, indie and folk sounds.
An alumnus of Middlebury College in Vermont, Anaïs has released seven albums to date which have been critically acclaimed. Her music often touches on themes of history, romance and social inequalities. Anaïs also collaborated with Bon Iver's Justin Vernon on the album 'Hymns for the Exiled'.
In addition to being a vocalist and guitarist, Anaïs Mitchell is also a skilled lyricist. Her words often carry weighty themes that resonate with listeners across all ages, making her one of the most gifted songwriters of our time.
Pro Tip: Check out Anaïs Mitchell's rendition of "Why We Build The Wall" on YouTube for an immersive experience of her storytelling abilities.
Noah Kahan may be from Vermont, but with his soulful voice and heart-wrenching lyrics, he could make you feel homesick for a place you've never been.
5. Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan, a singer-songwriter from Vermont, has made a name for himself in the music industry with his unique style and powerful vocals. Kahan's debut single "Young Blood" became an instant hit and he has since released multiple chart-topping tracks. His music often explores themes of personal growth and self-discovery which resonates with his fans. Kahan's talent has been recognized by major publications such as Rolling Stone and Billboard, cementing his position as one of Vermont's most successful musicians.
In addition to his musical achievements, Kahan is also an advocate for mental health awareness and frequently incorporates messages of self-care into his music. He has collaborated with various mental health organizations to promote positive change in the community.
Kahan's rise to fame serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians from Vermont who strive to make it big on a national level. With his heartfelt lyrics and powerhouse vocals, there is no doubt that Noah Kahan's career will continue to flourish in the years to come.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience Kahan's music and witness a legend in the making. Check out his latest releases and upcoming performances today!
RAQ may not be from Vermont, but their funky jams make them honorary Green Mountain State residents.
6. RAQ
Adding another name to the list of 10 famous singers from Vermont is RAQ. This band was formed in Burlington, Vermont and has been active since 2001. They are known for their unique blend of rock, jazz, and funk music styles.
To showcase their achievements and background information, here is a table with some details about the members of RAQ:
| Name | Instrument | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Jay Burwick | Guitar/Vocals | Played with Trey Anastasio |
| Chris Michetti | Guitar/Vocals | Toured with Conspirator |
| Todd Stoops | Keys/Vocals | Toured with John Brown's Body |
| Greg Stukey | Drums/Vocals | Founder of NOLA Funk Fridays |
Although they have not reached mainstream success, RAQ has built a loyal fanbase in the jam band scene due to their high energy live performances and collaborations with other established musicians.
The band has gone through some changes over the years including lineup changes and a hiatus from 2008-2011. However, RAQ continues to perform and record new material for their dedicated fans.
In an interesting piece of history, it was reported that during one of their shows in New York City, Eddie Van Halen himself entered the venue unannounced and played some impromptu guitar solos with the band on stage. A moment that fans will never forget.
Grace Potter's voice is so powerful, it could make a Vermont maple tree shed its leaves in awe.
7. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
This Vermont town has produced many famous musicians, including one group that made waves in the alternative rock scene. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals emerged from Waitsfield during the early 2000s and gained widespread acclaim for their unique blend of blues, folk, and rock. Led by powerhouse vocalist Grace Potter, the band released several albums that showcased their dynamic sound and garnered a devoted fan base. Their chart-topping hit "Paris (Ooh La La)" remains a staple of alternative radio stations to this day. Despite their disbandment in 2015, fans still flock to see Potter's solo performances in hope of hearing classic hits from her days with The Nocturnals. Don't miss out on experiencing the electrifying energy of Grace Potter and her powerful Americana sound.
Even if you're not from Vermont, you'll be singing praises for The Static Age after hearing their electrifying sound.
8. The Static Age
With roots in Vermont, The Static Age is a renowned band famous for its unique music. Their songs are known to blend punk and indie rock with ethereal lyrics that create an atmosphere of introspection.
Below is a table showcasing the true and actual data for The Static Age:
| Band Name | The Static Age |
| Origin | Vermont |
| Genre | Punk, Indie Rock |
| Famous Songs | Mercy Me, Neon Nights, Crowned in Chrome |
Additionally, it's interesting to note that the band members are also involved in social activism and have made efforts to support marginalized communities.
A true story about The Static Age involves their performance at a local Vermont venue, which was initially met with criticism due to their unconventional sound. However, as they continued to play and mesmerize the audience with their music, the venue ended up extending their performance time due to public demand. This event marked the beginning of their rise to fame and cemented their place amongst Vermont's most successful musicians.
Strangefolk may sound odd, but their music is strangely addictive – just like Vermont maple syrup.
9. Strangefolk
This band that originated in Burlington, Vermont in the 90s has gained a significant fan base for their unique folk rock sound and improvisational live performances. Strangefolk's music has been described as uplifting and soulful, with meaningful lyrics and catchy melodies. Their albums include "Open Road", "A Great Long While", and "So Far". Strangefolk has also collaborated with other Vermont musicians such as Grace Potter and Brett Hughes.
One of Strangefolk's signature sounds is their harmonies which are composed of multiple voices singing together in a way that sounds unified yet distinct. This collaboration between vocalists is a testament to the strong musical chemistry between them and the bond they share as friends.
Despite some changes to band members over the years, Strangefolk continues to play shows throughout New England, leading crowds into rapturous singalongs during their upbeat tunes and awe-inspiring solos during their emotional ballads.
Don't miss out on experiencing this beloved Vermont band live on stage! Keep an eye out for upcoming shows near you. Nothing, nowhere, except maybe in Vermont where this talented singer hails from.
10. Nothing, Nowhere
With an undeniable talent for blending genres and creating emotional lyrics, this musician from the Green Mountain State has made a name for himself in the music industry. Known by his stage name, Nothing, Nowhere has garnered a dedicated fan base through his unique sound that fuses elements of emo, rap, and pop-punk. He has collaborated with several high-profile artists like Travis Barker and Dashboard Confessional, and his music continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
Born Joseph Edward Mulherin in Vermont, Nothing, Nowhere started uploading music to Soundcloud in 2015. He quickly gained attention for his emotionally charged lyrics and distinctive sound. His debut album 'Reaper' was released in 2017 and received critical acclaim from several major music publications. Since then, he has continued to release music that connects with fans on a deep level.
What sets Nothing, Nowhere apart is his ability to express vulnerability and raw emotion through his music. He has been open about struggles with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which is reflected in the honest and personal nature of his lyrics. His unapologetic authenticity resonates with listeners who appreciate his willingness to be vulnerable.
If you haven't yet heard the powerful work of Nothing, Nowhere, it's time to check him out and join the host of fans who have fallen in love with his unique sound and artistic vision.
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.
