New York, the city that never sleeps, has long been a vibrant hub for artistic expression and a breeding ground for exceptional talent. In the realm of music, the Big Apple has birthed countless legendary singers who have left an indelible mark on the industry. From soul-stirring ballads to catchy pop anthems and everything in between, the diverse music scene of New York has consistently produced artists who captivate global audiences with their extraordinary vocal prowess and unique style. In this article, we will explore the top 10 famous singers from New York, whose melodious voices and charismatic personas have earned them a place in the hearts of millions around the world. Whether they were born and raised in the city or found their artistic calling amidst its bustling streets, these singers have not only achieved remarkable commercial success but have also become cultural icons, influencing generations of aspiring musicians. Join us on a journey through the rich musical heritage of New York as we celebrate the unforgettable contributions of these talented artists and reflect on their lasting impact on the world of music.
1. Sean Combs
Sean John Combs, famously known as P. Diddy, Puff Daddy or Diddy, was born on 4th November, 1969 in Harlem, New York City. He is an artist, entrepreneur and a master of Hip Hop and R&B genres.
Marc Anthony may be blessed with a heavenly voice, but even angels need a guide to navigate NYC's subway system!
2. Marc Anthony
Marc Anthony, hailing from New York, has created a niche for himself in the music industry with his captivating performances and melodious voice. Born and raised in Spanish Harlem, Marc Anthony displayed his musical talent from an early age. He began as a backup vocalist and gradually made his way to the top as a solo artist.
Let's get a closer look at Marc Anthony's remarkable journey:
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Born | September 16, 1968 |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York |
| Genre | Latin, salsa, pop |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Notable Works | "I Need to Know," "You Sang to Me," "Vivir Mi Vida" |
| Awards | 2 Grammy Awards, 6 Latin Grammy Awards |
Marc Anthony's success is not only attributed to his powerful voice but also to his ability to mix different genres of music skillfully. His style combines Latin, salsa, and pop. Some of his popular songs are "I Need to Know," "You Sang to Me," and "Vivir Mi Vida."
Apart from his musical career, Marc Anthony is known for his philanthropy. He co-founded the Maestro Cares Foundation with businessman Henry Cardenas. This foundation works towards providing assistance and support to orphaned children in Latin America.
Don't miss out on the musical extravaganza of Marc Anthony! Whether you are a fan of Latin music or just appreciate soulful melodies, his songs are sure to leave you spellbound. Join the millions who have been touched by his music and let Marc Anthony's mesmerizing voice transport you into a world of emotion and passion.
Experience the unique New York flair of one of its finest musical talents. Tune in to Marc Anthony's music today and let his captivating melodies move your soul.
3. Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper – a New York native and renowned singer – is an iconic figure in the music industry. Her unique voice and eclectic style captivate audiences across the globe. In the 80's she rose to fame with hits, such as "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" and "Time After Time". Her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics won her many awards and accolades.
In addition to her successful music career, Cyndi is a prominent activist in society. She stands up for LGBTQ+ rights and promotes equality. Her dedication to making a positive impact has earned her respect from fans across the globe.
Moreover, Cyndi's talent goes beyond singing. She has made appearances in both film and television, showing her versatility. One of her notable roles was in the cult classic film "The Goonies", where she played Sloth's mother. Her ability to embody characters further demonstrates her artistic range.
Throughout her career, Cyndi has overcome obstacles and stayed true to herself; inspiring others to embrace their individuality. One legendary story that showcases her perseverance is the creation of her breakthrough album "She's So Unusual". Despite resistance from executives, she believed in the album and fought for its release. It became a massive hit, establishing Cyndi as a force in the music industry.
In summary, Cyndi Lauper is not only one of New York's most famous singers, but also a major figure in pop culture. Her distinctive voice, fearless attitude, and dedication have left a lasting impression on the music world. Through her activism and artistry, she continues to motivate generations with her talent and spirit.
4. Sonic Youth
Sonic Youth – a legendary alt-rock group from New York – has left an unforgettable mark on music. Let's explore some fascinating facts about this influential band.
At the beginning, the line-up included: Thurston Moore, Kim Gordon, Lee Ranaldo and Steve Shelley. They were famed for their unique fusion of noise rock and avant-garde elements, pushing the limits of regular rock music.
Have a glance at this table with the most important info about Sonic Youth:
| Band Members | Years Active | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Thurston Moore | 1981-2011 | Noise Rock |
| Kim Gordon | 1981-2011 | Noise Rock |
| Lee Ranaldo | 1981-2011 | Noise Rock |
| Steve Shelley | 1985-2011 | Drums/Percussion |
Their discography includes masterpieces such as "Daydream Nation, Goo, and Dirty." They are also renowned for their unconventional guitar tunings and innovative playing styles.
Tip: To really appreciate Sonic Youth's art, go through their albums in chronological order to witness their growth and sound experimentation up close.
5. Kiss
Kiss – the iconic band from New York – has left a huge mark on the music industry with their unique style and unforgettable performances. Let's explore the four talented musicians who formed this revolutionary rock band in the early 1970s: Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss.
Paul Stanley, or 'The Starchild', is renowned for his mesmerizing vocals and captivating stage makeup. Gene Simmons, aka 'The Demon', stunned audiences with his fire-breathing stunts and tongue-wagging. Ace Frehley, or 'The Spaceman', amazed fans with his eccentric outfits and guitar solos. Lastly, Peter Criss, or 'The Catman', showcased his dynamic drumming skills and soulful voice.
Kiss had to overcome many obstacles before becoming successful. From financial struggles to rejection from record labels, they persevered and crafted their signature sound which resonated with fans around the world.
Kiss is a tribute to resilience and creativity. Their impact is still felt today, as they continue to inspire and entertain new generations of music lovers. There's no denying it – Kiss is one of the most famous bands to ever come out of New York.
6. Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur, a legendary rapper and actor, is an iconic figure in the music industry. He charmed audiences with his thought-provoking songs and stage presence. Tupac was born in East Harlem, New York City, where he faced hardships and struggles. He rose above, becoming a prominent voice for social change. His music addressed racism, poverty, and police brutality.
Tupac's career began in the early 1990s. His debut album, "2Pacalypse Now," launched him to stardom. He followed with hit records like "Me Against the World" and "All Eyez on Me," cementing his status as one of the greatest rappers ever.
Tupac also had a successful acting career. He starred in films such as "Juice" and "Poetic Justice," demonstrating his talent and versatility.
Though Tupac died at 25, his legacy persists. He still influences future generations of artists and is beloved by fans around the world.
Pro Tip: Take inspiration from Tupac's determination and resilience. Let his powerful words guide you in the pursuit of success.
7. Ramones
Move over Empire State Building, the Ramones are here! This iconic punk rock band from New York made a huge impact on the music scene.
Let's explore some facts about the legendary group.
Joey Ramone was born on May 19, 1951 in Queens, New York.
Johnny Ramone was born on October 8, 1948 in Queens, New York.
Dee Dee Ramone was born on September 18, 1951 in Fort Lee, Virginia.
Tommy Ramone was born on January 29, 1949 in Budapest, Hungary.
Each member of the Ramones brought their own unique style and talent to the group, creating a sound that resonated with fans all over the world. They left an indelible mark on the music industry with their energetic performances and catchy tunes.
The history of the Ramones is intertwined with the mid-1970s New York City underground music scene. They emerged as a revolutionary force, challenging conventional norms and redefining punk rock with their fast-paced songs and minimalistic approach. Their self-titled debut album released in 1976 became an instant classic and cemented their place in music history.
8. Ashanti
Ashanti, a singer hailing from New York, has made a major impact on the music industry. Let's look at some awesome facts about this gifted performer!
| Name: | Ashanti |
| Birth Date: | October 13, 1980 |
| Genre: | R&B, hip hop, pop |
| Albums Released: | 5 |
Apart from her stunning singing, Ashanti is also a masterful songwriter. She has penned many hit tunes for herself and other renowned artists. Her ability to reach out to the listeners through her heartfelt lyrics makes her stand out.
Pro Tip: If you want to enjoy Ashanti's music, make sure to listen to her classic songs like "Foolish" and "Rock wit U." Be ready to be swept away by her amazing voice and unstoppable energy! To sing or not to sing, that is the Vandross-tion!
9. Luther Vandross
Luther Vandross, the illustrious singer from New York, is renowned for his soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. His immense talent has left a lasting mark on the music industry, inspiring and captivating audiences worldwide.
- Luther Vandross
Hailing from NYC, Luther Vandross not only represented his city but also became a global music icon. Let's uncover his remarkable journey and explore the talent that made him famous.
- Table: Luther Vandross' Achievements
| Albums Sold | Grammy Awards | Billboard Hits |
|---|---|---|
| Over 35 million | 8 | 30 |
A voice with immense power, Luther Vandross was able to move people with his vocal range. His mastery of R&B ballads gained him recognition and admiration from fans of all ages.
It was in the exuberant streets of New York where Luther Vandross honed his craft and embraced his love for music. Through hard work and perseverance, he achieved stardom and left an everlasting legacy in the hearts of millions. Lenny Kravitz may have a cool vibe, but his secret weapon is his NYC swagger and guitar skills that make even the Statue of Liberty want to jam.
10. Lenny Kravitz
Lenny Kravitz is from New York and is a renowned musician. He is well-known for his versatile talent and captivating performances. Let's learn some cool facts about him!
Name: Lenny Kravitz
Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York
Genre: Rock, soul, funk, reggae
Albums: He has released 11 studio albums, from "Let Love Rule" in 1989 to "Raise Vibration" in 2018.
Grammy Awards: He has won 4 awards, including Best Male Rock Vocal Performance from 1999 to 2002.
Multi-talented Artist: He is a singer, songwriter and instrumentalist. He plays guitar, bass, drums, keyboard and percussion.
Fashion Icon: He is an icon for his unique style and avant-garde outfits.
Influences: Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie and Prince.
Continual Evolution: He continues to evolve, experimenting with different sounds.
Collaborations: Slash (Guns N' Roses), Madonna, Mick Jagger (The Rolling Stones) and Jay-Z.
Live Performances: His shows are electrifying and energetic.
Musical Legacy: He has left a mark on the music industry, inspiring musicians.
To appreciate Lenny Kravitz, listen to his discography and attend a live performance. Keep an eye out for any new collaborations and releases from this musical icon!
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.
