Virginia, known for its rich history and diverse culture, has long been a breeding ground for exceptional talent in the music industry. From the sultry tones of blues to the infectious rhythms of hip-hop, the state has produced an impressive array of renowned singers who have captivated audiences around the world. In this article, we explore the top 10 famous singers from Virginia, celebrating their contributions to the music scene and their impact on popular culture. These artists have not only achieved remarkable success in their careers but have also left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of music lovers everywhere. We delve into their unique styles, their chart-topping hits, and the stories behind their rise to stardom. Whether it’s the soulful melodies of a legendary R&B vocalist or the powerful lyrics of a boundary-pushing rapper, Virginia has consistently nurtured exceptional talent that has shaped the music industry. Join us as we pay tribute to these iconic singers who have emerged from the Old Dominion, cementing their place in the annals of music history and inspiring generations of aspiring artists along the way.
1. Jason Mraz
With his smooth vocals and unique blend of pop, rock, and folk music, this famous singer from Virginia has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Jason Mraz's chart-topping hits like "I'm Yours" and "Lucky" have earned him multiple Grammy nominations. He's also made a name for himself in the theater world with his role as Dr. Pomatter in the Broadway musical Waitress. Mraz is known for his environmental activism and philanthropy, supporting causes like LGBT rights and sustainable farming through his Jason Mraz Foundation.
Wayne Newton may be from Virginia, but with that smooth voice and suave style, he could have easily been mistaken for a Vegas performer.
2. Wayne Newton
An iconic performer from Virginia, this singer is none other than "Mr. Las Vegas" himself. Known for his suave vocals and captivating stage presence, he has been entertaining audiences for over five decades. Among his many accolades are two Grammy nominations and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Throughout his career, this legendary artist has been recognized not only for his amazing voice but also for his acting skills. His credits include a starring role in the original Ocean's 11 film as well as appearances in several TV shows and movies. Additionally, he has penned many hit songs that have become beloved classics.
Adding to his reputation as one of Virginia's most famous singers, this artist has also taken on various humanitarian causes throughout his career. He is known for supporting numerous charities benefiting children, veterans, and animal welfare.
According to an article published by CNN in 2020, Wayne Newton sang to a packed house at Las Vegas Hilton for nearly 30 years straight.
Even if you're not a jazz aficionado, it's impossible not to appreciate the vocal wizardry of Ella Fitzgerald from Virginia – she could scat so fast her tongue needed a seatbelt.
3. Ella Fitzgerald
Ella Fitzgerald – The Queen of Jazz, born in Virginia, left a timeless legacy through her velvety vocals and exceptional improvisation skills. She rose to stardom during a time of racial segregation but defied the odds by collaborating with renowned musicians and winning numerous awards. Her rendition of 'Summertime' remains a classic even today.
Fitzgerald's career spanned over six decades, during which she released countless albums and performed at esteemed venues. Her distinct voice and ability to scat made her stand out among other jazz singers. She broke barriers in the music industry by becoming the first African-American woman to win a Grammy award.
Aside from her music career, Fitzgerald was also known for her philanthropic efforts. She established the Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation aimed at promoting musical education and helping those in need.
Even though she passed away in 1996, Ella Fitzgerald continues to inspire people worldwide with her remarkable talent and unwavering spirit.
If you haven't already listened to her music, make sure you do so soon as missing out on this legendary artist's works would be a travesty.
Even though he's from Virginia, Bruce Hornsby still managed to play the piano with the grace of a New Yorker and the soul of a Southern bluesman.
4. Bruce Hornsby
One of the most notable singers from Virginia is a talented musician, known for his versatility and mastery of various musical genres. He has won several Grammy Awards for his works as a solo artist, songwriter, and pianist. His music career took off in the 1980s with his band, The Range, and he continued to produce chart-topping hits throughout the decades that followed.
This legendary Virginia singer-songwriter has collaborated with renowned musicians like Bob Dylan and Grateful Dead, demonstrating his wide-ranging versatility. Beyond music, he has also composed soundtracks for movies and television shows, including Spike Lee's "Clockers" and HBO's "The Wire."
Interestingly, Hornsby is also an advocate for environmental conservation efforts in Virginia. Alongside his music pursuits, he has worked on projects to restore endangered species' habitats in the state's wetlands.
For those looking to explore Bruce Hornsby's music further, they could check out some of his most iconic hits like 'The Way It Is' or 'Mandolin Rain'. Additionally, one could attend any of his live concerts to witness firsthand why he has been an essential figure in Virginia's rich musical legacy.
Patsy Cline may have left us too soon, but her voice will always remain timeless in the hearts of country music fans.
5. Patsy Cline
Patsy Cline was a Virginia-born singer and one of the most significant country music icons of all time. She began her career at the young age of 16, and by the time she was in her mid-20s, she had become one of the biggest stars in the industry. Cline's unique voice and style are still celebrated today, more than 50 years after her untimely death.
Cline's iconic performances include hits such as "Crazy" and "I Fall to Pieces," which have become timeless classics in American music history. Her voice had an exceptional quality that captivated audiences worldwide, even before the advent of modern studio recording techniques. Despite her brief life, Patsy Cline left an indelible mark on popular music that continues to inspire new artists today.
A lesser-known fact about Cline is that she was also a skilled pianist in addition to being an accomplished singer. In fact, many of her early recordings feature her playing piano alongside some of Nashville's best musicians, demonstrating her versatility as a performer. Cline's incredible talent coupled with strong self-belief made her a trailblazer for women – empowering female musicians to follow their dreams with confidence.
Timbaland keeps Virginia Beach bumping with his beats, proving that even the smallest state can pump out some big talent.
6. Timbaland
This Virginia native is a renowned rapper, singer, and music producer. He has produced chart-topping songs for many famous musicians such as Justin Timberlake and Missy Elliot. Timbaland's distinctive beats and unique style have earned him numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards. He has also been featured in several movies and TV shows, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Interestingly, he often uses unconventional instruments such as clay pots, glass bottles, and trash cans to create his music.
Pro Tip: Timbaland's success is a result of his determination to innovate, experiment with different sounds and be creative in his approach to making music.
Pharrell Williams proves that Virginia is for lovers…of groundbreaking music.
7. Pharrell Williams
Pharrell Williams is a celebrated musician and producer from Virginia. His unique voice and unmistakable presence have distinguished him as one of the most accomplished artists in contemporary music. He has worked with countless stars, including Jay Z and Beyonce, and produced some of the biggest hits in recent years. Aside from his music career, Pharrell is also an entrepreneur and fashion icon who has collaborated with brands like Adidas to produce eye-catching clothing lines.
Pharrell's success can be attributed in part to his early roots in gospel music, which instilled a deep sense of spiritual passion that still infuses all of his work today. Moreover, he grew up in Virginia Beach, where he was surrounded by talented musicians who inspired him to pursue his dreams at all costs. This local community provided an incredible foundation for Pharrell's artistic vision.
Fun Fact: Pharrell has won 13 Grammy Awards throughout his career!
D'Angelo's voice is so smooth, it could make a cactus feel like a pillow.
8. D’Angelo
This Virginia-born singer, known by the name D’Angelo, made a significant impact on the music industry in the 90s and early 2000s with his neo-soul style. His debut album earned him a Grammy nomination and critical acclaim for its fusion of jazz, funk, and R&B. D’Angelo is also recognized as an accomplished musician who played several instruments on his recordings. His contribution to the genre was notable worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.
In addition to his music achievements, D’Angelo won an award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 2001 Grammy Awards for his song "Untitled (How Does It Feel).” He is viewed as one of Virginia’s proudest exports in terms of musical talent along with other legends such as Ella Fitzgerald and Pharrell Williams.
Fun fact: D’Angelo's real name is Michael Eugene Archer.
Move over Beethoven, Hilary Hahn is giving classical music a run for its money in Virginia.
9. Hilary Hahn
Hilary Hahn, a renowned violinist from Virginia, has captivated audiences worldwide with her virtuosic performances. Her talent was recognized at a young age when she made her professional debut at the age of 12, and she has since become one of the most influential classical musicians of our time. Hahn has performed with the world's leading orchestras and conductors and has received numerous awards for her exceptional artistry. With her unwavering dedication to music and continuous pursuit of excellence, Hilary Hahn is a true inspiration to aspiring musicians around the world.
Chris Brown may have a troubled past, but let's not forget that he can still hit every note with the precision of a restraining order.
10. Chris Brown
This talented artist, hailing from Virginia, has made a name for himself in the music industry. With chart-topping hits and captivating performances, Chris Brown is known for his unique sound and electrifying dance moves. He has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album, and continues to inspire fans with his music and philanthropy work through his foundation. Despite challenges and controversies, he remains one of the most influential artists of our time.
His early career began at a young age when he was discovered by record producers who recognized his potential as a singer and dancer. Brown quickly rose to fame with his debut single "Run It!" topping charts. Over the years, he has released multiple albums that showcase his vocal range and versatility in different genres. In addition to singing, Brown has also appeared in films such as "Stomp The Yard" and "This Christmas."
Away from the spotlight, Brown is also active in giving back to the community through his charity foundation, which supports programs that empower youth through education and arts programs.
As one of the top singers from Virginia, Chris Brown's influence on popular music cannot be ignored. Fans continue to look forward to new releases that showcase his talent and creativity. Don't miss out on following this inspiring artist's journey!
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.
