10 Famous Singers from Ohio

Ohio, a state known for its rich musical heritage, has birthed some of the most iconic and influential voices in the world of music. From soulful ballads to powerful rock anthems, Ohio has consistently produced a diverse range of talented singers who have left an indelible mark on the industry. In this article, we will explore the top 10 famous singers from Ohio, celebrating their extraordinary contributions to the world of music. Each artist on this esteemed list has captured the hearts and ears of audiences worldwide with their unique styles and exceptional vocal abilities. From legendary rock stars to R&B sensations and country music icons, Ohio’s musical landscape has been shaped and amplified by these extraordinary individuals. We will delve into their upbringing, their breakthrough moments, and the lasting impact they have had on the music industry. Join us as we journey through the lives and careers of these extraordinary artists, and discover how their Ohio roots have influenced their artistic journeys and propelled them to the pinnacle of fame.

1. Scott Walker

Scott Walker, an Ohioan singer, has enthralled audiences with his remarkable voice and mesmerizing performances. Spanning decades, he's become one of the most powerful figures in the music industry.

Let's take a closer look at his life and career:

• Birthdate: January 9, 1943
• Hometown: Hamilton, Ohio
• Genre: Baroque pop, art rock
• Albums: "Scott," "Scott 2," "Scott 3," "Scott 4"

Not only talented vocally, Walker stands out in the music industry for his extraordinary songwriting. His music conveys deep themes and thought-provoking lyrics.

Achieving great success, he's even been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of The Walker Brothers. His impact on music is undeniable.

If you have yet to try out Scott Walker's grand voice and passionate performances, now is your chance! Let his music take you away to a world of emotion and ardor.

2. Screamin Jay Hawkins

Screamin' Jay Hawkins, the musical legend from Ohio, had a unique vocal style and an extravagant stage presence. He captivated fans with his soulful and lively performances. His renowned song "I Put a Spell on You" blended blues, rock, and R&B in an unconventional way.

Hawkins was born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1929, and started out as a pianist before becoming a solo artist. His deep baritone voice and dramatic delivery made him stand out from other singers back then. His wild screams, growls, and howls were a mesmerizing experience, and he became one of the founders of shock rock.

Beyond his music, Jay Hawkins also had an iconic look, often wearing elaborate costumes and makeup that included bones and skulls. This creative approach inspired many artists who came after him, such as Alice Cooper and Marilyn Manson.

In addition, Screamin' Jay Hawkins made history as a father. He is said to have fathered over 75 children, but this has not been confirmed.

3. The OJays

The OJays, the iconic American singing group from Canton, Ohio, have made a lasting impression on the music industry. Known for their soulful R&B music, they have produced numerous chart-topping hits.

Some of their most celebrated songs include:

1. Love Train (1972)
2. Back Stabbers (1972)
3. For the Love of Money (1973)
4. I Love Music (1975)

These tunes have held up over time and still resonate with audiences today. The OJays have also used their platform to bring attention to important causes such as civil rights and inequality.

If you haven't heard their tracks yet, now is the time! Their melodic tunes and meaningful lyrics will leave you enchanted. Don't miss out on experiencing the magic of The OJays' music firsthand! Move over Hollywood – Ohio has all the vocal powerhouses, and The OJays are the crown jewel!

4. Andy Biersack

Andy Biersack is an American singer and songwriter from Ohio. Born on December 26th, 1990 in Cincinnati, Andy is best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band Black Veil Brides. Here are some unique details about him:

• He initially went by the stage name of "Andy Six" before changing to his birth name.
• His musical influences include KISS, Motley Crue and Iron Maiden.
• He's released solo music under the name 'Andy Black' as well as with Black Veil Brides.
• His style is unmistakable, often incorporating glam rock elements.
• He's been open about his battles with addiction and mental health issues, raising awareness and destigmatization.

Pro Tip: Don't be afraid of being yourself – the music industry needs more artists like Andy Biersack who express their unique style without fear.

5. Kim Deal

Kim Deal, from Ohio, is a renowned singer in the music industry. Her contributions are significant and noteworthy. Let's learn about her!

It is clear that her talent knows no bounds. To better understand her success, let's look at the following table of her accomplishments:

In addition to her chart positions, Kim Deal is an integral part of several successful bands like The Pixies and The Breeders. Her vocals and songwriting skills have gained recognition.

Here are some tips to enjoy Kim Deal's music:

1. Listen to "Cannonball" – This song by The Breeders shows Kim Deal's vocals and melodies. It represents her unique style.
2. Check out The Amps – Kim Deal formed this band during a break from The Breeders. "Pacer" is their album, with an enjoyable sound of her versatility.
3. Discover "Gigantic" by The Pixies – As the bassist and backing vocalist, Kim Deal was important in creating their hit "Gigantic".

Following these tips will help you gain appreciation for Kim Deal's contributions to the industry. Let her talent and creativity enrich your journey! Maynard James Keenan may be from Ohio, but his voice is definitely not for weak-hearted listeners – unless they like being both scared and captivated.

6. Maynard James Keenan

Maynard James Keenan is a legendary singer from Ohio. His powerful, captivating voice has made a huge contribution to the music industry. Here are some fascinating details about this amazing artist.

Name: Maynard James Keenan
Born: April 17, 1964
Hometown: Akron, Ohio
Genre: Progressive metal, alternative rock
Claim to fame: Lead vocalist of Tool and A Perfect Circle
Notable Hits: "Sober," "Schism," "Judith"

Keenan's unique style and emotive vocals have gained him heaps of fans worldwide. His songs mix various musical genres, making them incredibly meaningful to listeners.

Aside from music, Keenan is also a winemaker. He owns a vineyard in Arizona that makes top-quality wines through Caduceus Cellars.

What's more, Keenan is famously private. He rarely does interviews or engages with the media, making his persona even more mysterious.

Ultimately, Maynard James Keenan is one of Ohio's most beloved singers. His influence on the music world is undeniable and his performances always captivate. Why play the lottery when you can just listen to the Ohio Players and get lucky every time?

7. Ohio Players

The Ohio Players, a musical group from Ohio, have made a big impression on the music industry. Their groovy blend of funk, soul, and R&B has delighted audiences with their beat and live shows. Let's take a peek at some info about them in a cool table:

The Ohio Players are legendary for their hits. They're an inspiration to many young musicians. Get ready to have fun with the Ohio Players. Listen to their timeless classics and feel the groove. Their music is an amazing journey, one that will leave you wanting more. Roger Troutman put Ohio on the map with his funky sound and talk box—we know why the Buckeye State is 'Zapp'-ing now!

8. Roger Troutman

Roger Troutman, a renowned singer from Ohio, is renowned for his one-of-a-kind and iconic style. His mastery of funk and talk box have made him popular among fans and musicians. Let us explore the life and achievements of this talented artist!

1. Early Life: Roger was born in Hamilton, Ohio, on November 29, 1951. He grew up surrounded by music, and was inspired by his brother, Larry Troutman.
2. Musical Journey: Troutman began his musical journey with Zapp in the late 1970s. This group blended funk and R&B music, and Roger's talent with the talk box set them apart from other bands.
3. The Talk Box Pioneer: The talk box is an instrument that modifies sound with the musician's mouth. Roger Troutman became a master of this device, creating sounds that mesmerized people all over the world.
4. Solo Success: Not only was he part of Zapp, but Troutman also had a successful solo career. His albums, "The Many Facets of Roger" and "Unlimited!", showed his singing and songwriting skills.
5. Chart-Topping Hits: Troutman's hits, like "More Bounce to the Ounce", "I Wanna Be Your Man", and "Computer Love", soared the charts. These songs established him as a top funk artist.
6. Legacy: Sadly, Roger passed away on April 25, 1999. But his influence on the music industry is still alive today. His unique style and use of the talk box are unforgettable.

9. Bobby Womack

Bobby Womack was a renowned singer who made a lasting impact on music. His soulful voice and captivating performances charmed millions around the globe. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Womack's talent was evident from an early age. This led him to become a revered singer from the state.

His career spanned decades and featured various genres such as soul, R&B, and gospel. He blended these styles to create a unique sound that resonated with audiences.

Womack was also an accomplished songwriter. He wrote hit songs for himself and other artists, displaying his versatility and creativity. His distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics stirred emotions in listeners.

Despite facing difficulties, Womack never let obstacles hinder his artistic expression. He showed resilience and passion in every performance he delivered. In 2009, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as recognition for his talent and contributions.

Bobby Womack's story is an inspiration for aspiring singers from Ohio and beyond. It demonstrates the power of raw talent and determination. Through his music, he leaves an everlasting mark on the hearts of fans worldwide.

10. Johnny Paycheck

Donald Eugene Lytle, also known as Johnny Paycheck, was a renowned singer-songwriter from Ohio. He was famous for his raspy voice and rebellious nature. He made a name for himself with hits like "Take This Job and Shove It" and "She's All I Got".

Paycheck was also a masterful guitarist, putting on shows that left audiences mesmerized. His sound was a special mix of traditional country and outlaw country.

In addition to his talent, he earned numerous awards and nominations. These included two Academy of Country Music Awards and six Grammy nominations. His soulful voice moved fans everywhere.

Unfortunately, he had a hard life, filled with legal issues and substance abuse. Despite his struggles, he still created beautiful music that connected deeply with people. His personal challenges added to the emotion of his songs.

Samuel Moore

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.