South Carolina, often referred to as the “Palmetto State,” boasts a rich and diverse musical heritage that reflects its cultural diversity, historical significance, and contributions to American music. The state’s musical tapestry encompasses various genres and has left a lasting impact on the world of music.
One of the most notable musical traditions in South Carolina is gospel music. The state has a deep connection to gospel, with numerous churches and choirs contributing to the vibrant gospel scene. Gospel legend Mahalia Jackson, while born in New Orleans, Louisiana, made a significant impact on gospel music and civil rights in South Carolina.
South Carolina has also played a crucial role in the development of the beach music and shag dance culture. This unique genre combines elements of R&B, soul, and pop and is closely associated with the coastal areas of the state. Beach music has a distinct sound that is celebrated in the region and at events like the Carolina Beach Music Awards.
In addition, South Carolina has nurtured artists in various genres, including country (Darius Rucker), jazz (Chris Potter), and blues (Drink Small), showcasing the state’s musical diversity.
The state’s contributions to American music are celebrated through various music festivals, cultural events, and historic landmarks, making South Carolina a significant contributor to the country’s musical heritage. South Carolina’s rich and diverse musical traditions continue to be celebrated and appreciated by fans and music enthusiasts worldwide.
1. Ruston Kelly
Ruston Kelly is an American singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt and introspective approach to country and folk music. He was born on July 31, 1988, in South Carolina, and his music is characterized by raw and honest lyricism, often drawing from personal experiences and struggles.
Kelly’s debut album, “Dying Star” (2018), received critical acclaim and showcased his ability to blend elements of country, folk, and rock into a distinctive sound. The album explores themes of addiction, mental health, and personal growth, reflecting Kelly’s own journey towards recovery.
Songs like “Mockingbird” and “Faceplant” are poignant examples of Kelly’s songwriting prowess, addressing complex emotions with a combination of vulnerability and poetic language.
In addition to his solo work, Ruston Kelly has collaborated with various artists and continues to perform live, captivating audiences with his emotionally charged performances.
Kelly’s contributions to the country and folk genres have earned him a dedicated fan base and recognition within the music industry. His ability to convey deep, personal narratives through his music resonates with listeners, making him a notable figure in contemporary Americana music.
2. Teddy Pendergrass
Teddy Pendergrass, whose full name was Theodore DeReese Pendergrass, was an American R&B and soul singer known for his powerful and emotive vocals. He was born on March 26, 1950, in Kingstree, South Carolina, and he became a prominent figure in the world of R&B music.
Pendergrass began his music career as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes in the early 1970s. His distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence quickly gained recognition, and he became known for hits like “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” and “The Love I Lost.”
In 1977, Pendergrass embarked on a successful solo career and released a string of albums, including “Teddy” and “Teddy Pendergrass,” which featured iconic R&B and soul songs like “Turn Off the Lights,” “Close the Door,” and “Love T.K.O.” His music is characterized by its sensual and romantic themes, and he became a symbol of love and intimacy in R&B music.
Pendergrass was celebrated for his passionate and soulful singing style, often conveying deep emotions through his music. His voice was revered for its ability to connect with audiences on a personal and emotional level.
Tragically, in 1982, Pendergrass was involved in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Despite his physical challenges, he continued to make music and inspire fans. He released songs like “Hold Me” in collaboration with Whitney Houston.
Teddy Pendergrass’s enduring influence on R&B and soul music, as well as his legacy as a romantic and soulful vocalist, has solidified his status as a celebrated and influential figure in the world of soul and R&B. His music continues to be cherished by fans and is celebrated for its emotional depth and heartfelt performances.
3. Bill Anderson
Bill Anderson, born James William Anderson III on November 1, 1937, in Columbia, South Carolina, is an American country music singer, songwriter, and television personality. He is known for his distinctive voice and his contributions to the country music genre.
Anderson began his music career in the 1950s and gained recognition with hits like “Mama Sang a Song” and “Still.” He became known for his ability to craft emotionally resonant and storytelling songs, often addressing themes of love, heartbreak, and everyday life.
As a songwriter, Bill Anderson has penned numerous hits for himself and other artists. His compositions have been recorded by artists such as George Strait, Brad Paisley, and Vince Gill, solidifying his status as a prolific and influential songwriter in country music.
In addition to his music career, Bill Anderson has had success in television, hosting the popular country music game show “Fandango” and appearing on various programs, including “Hee Haw.”
Over the years, Anderson has received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His contributions to country music, both as a performer and songwriter, have left an indelible mark on the genre, and he remains a respected figure in the country music community.
4. Shovels & Rope
Shovels & Rope is an American folk duo consisting of husband and wife Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst. Formed in Charleston, South Carolina, the duo’s music is characterized by its blend of folk, rock, and country elements, as well as their harmonious vocal interplay.
Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst started their musical journey as solo artists before joining forces to create Shovels & Rope. Their partnership has yielded a distinctive sound that incorporates elements of storytelling and Americana roots music.
Shovels & Rope’s self-titled debut album was released in 2008, and they gained wider recognition with their 2012 album “O’ Be Joyful,” which included the song “Birmingham.” The album received critical acclaim and established the duo as a notable presence in the indie folk and Americana scenes.
The duo’s music often explores themes of love, struggle, and everyday life, and their energetic live performances have endeared them to a dedicated fan base. They are known for their ability to create a full sound despite their two-person setup, playing multiple instruments and singing in harmonious unison.
Shovels & Rope’s contributions to the folk and Americana genres, as well as their skillful storytelling and harmonious performances, have solidified their status as respected and influential figures in the world of indie folk and roots music. Their music continues to resonate with fans who appreciate their authentic and heartfelt approach to songwriting and performance.
5. Reverend Gary Davis
Reverend Gary Davis, born on April 30, 1896, in Laurens, South Carolina, was an influential American blues and gospel guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He was known for his virtuosic fingerpicking style, powerful vocals, and profound impact on the folk and blues music scenes.
Davis’ early life was marked by hardship and blindness, which he experienced from infancy. Despite his disability, he became a highly skilled musician, drawing inspiration from gospel, blues, and folk traditions. He blended these influences to create a unique and dynamic style.
Throughout his career, Reverend Gary Davis played a significant role in the folk revival of the 1960s, influencing a generation of musicians. His songs, including “Hesitation Blues,” “Samson and Delilah,” and “Cocaine Blues,” became staples of the folk and blues repertoires.
In addition to his musical talents, Davis was ordained as a Baptist minister, earning him the title “Reverend.” He often incorporated spiritual themes into his music, and his performances were known for their soul-stirring quality.
Reverend Gary Davis’ legacy lives on through his recordings and the musicians he inspired. His influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who continue to draw from his rich musical heritage. He remains a revered figure in the history of American roots music.
6. Lee Brice
Lee Brice is an American country singer and songwriter who has made a significant impact in the world of country music. He was born on June 10, 1979, in Sumter, South Carolina.
Brice’s music is characterized by its heartfelt and emotionally resonant lyrics, often focusing on love, relationships, and life’s experiences. His warm and raspy voice, combined with his skillful songwriting, has made him a prominent figure in the country music genre.
Lee Brice’s breakthrough came with his debut album, “Love Like Crazy,” in 2010, which included the title track “Love Like Crazy.” The song became a major hit and set a record for the longest-charting single in the history of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Brice followed up with successful albums like “Hard 2 Love” and “I Don’t Dance,” which featured chart-topping country hits, including “I Drive Your Truck” and the title track “I Don’t Dance.”
In addition to his singing career, Lee Brice is known for his collaborations with other country artists and for his contributions as a songwriter in the Nashville music scene.
His heartfelt and relatable music, along with his ability to connect with audiences through his lyrics and vocal delivery, has solidified his status as a respected and influential figure in contemporary country music. Lee Brice’s songs continue to resonate with country music enthusiasts and are celebrated for their emotional depth and authenticity.
7. Angie Stone
Angie Stone, born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her soulful vocals and contributions to the R&B and neo-soul genres.
Stone’s music career began in the 1970s when she joined the female hip-hop trio The Sequence. She later gained prominence as a member of the R&B group Vertical Hold. However, it was her solo career that brought her widespread recognition.
Her debut solo album, “Black Diamond” (1999), featured hits like “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” and “Everyday.” The album showcased Stone’s powerful voice and her ability to infuse elements of R&B, soul, and gospel into her music.
Subsequent albums, including “Mahogany Soul” (2001) and “Stone Love” (2004), further solidified her status as a prominent figure in the neo-soul movement. Stone’s music often addresses themes of love, relationships, and personal empowerment.
In addition to her music career, Angie Stone has ventured into acting, appearing in films and television shows, including “The Fighting Temptations” and “Lincoln Heights.”
Angie Stone’s contributions to R&B and neo-soul have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Her soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and ability to connect with audiences through her music continue to make her a respected figure in the world of contemporary R&B.
8. Linda Martell
Linda Martell is an American country and gospel singer who made history as one of the first African American women to achieve recognition in the country music genre. She was born on June 4, 1941, in Leesville, South Carolina.
Martell began her music career in the early 1960s and gained recognition for her distinctive voice and talent. In 1969, she signed with Plantation Records and released her debut album, “Color Me Country,” which included the single “Bad Case of the Blues.”
Linda Martell’s music is characterized by her rich and soulful vocals, and she often incorporated gospel and R&B influences into her country songs. Despite facing challenges and racial prejudice as an African American woman in the predominantly white country music industry of the time, she persevered and made a lasting impact.
“Color Me Country” became a groundbreaking album, and Linda Martell’s presence in country music challenged traditional norms and paved the way for more diversity in the genre. Her contributions to country music, her determination to break barriers, and her distinctive voice have solidified her status as a trailblazer and an influential figure in the history of country music. Her legacy continues to be celebrated as a symbol of resilience and diversity in the genre.
9. Toro y Moi
Toro y Moi is the stage name of Chaz Bear (formerly Chaz Bundick), an American musician, singer, songwriter, and producer. He was born on November 7, 1986, in Columbia, South Carolina. Toro y Moi is known for his contributions to the genres of chillwave, indie pop, and electronic music.
Toro y Moi gained recognition with his debut album “Causers of This” (2010), which was associated with the emerging chillwave movement. His music is characterized by its dreamy, synth-laden soundscapes, layered with smooth vocals and intricate production.
Over the years, Toro y Moi has explored various musical styles and released albums that showcase his versatility, including “Underneath the Pine” (2011), “Anything in Return” (2013), and “Boo Boo” (2017). His ability to seamlessly blend elements of funk, R&B, and electronic music has contributed to his enduring popularity.
Toro y Moi’s music has been influential in shaping the contemporary indie and electronic music scenes. His unique approach to production and his willingness to experiment with different musical styles have earned him a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
Chaz Bear’s work as Toro y Moi continues to be celebrated by fans of alternative and electronic music, and he remains an influential figure in the realm of indie and experimental music.
10. The Independents
The Independents is an American punk rock and horror punk band that was formed in 1992 in Florence, South Carolina. The band is known for their energetic and theatrical live performances and their unique blend of punk, rockabilly, and horror-themed lyrics.
The Independents’ music often features catchy melodies, driving rhythms, and lyrics inspired by classic horror and B-movie themes. Their stage shows are known for their theatricality, with band members often dressed in horror-themed costumes and makeup.
The band’s discography includes albums like “The Independents” and “Eternal Bond.” They have gained a dedicated following in the punk and horror punk scenes and are known for their contributions to the subgenre, blending punk rock with elements of horror and campy fun.
The Independents’ ability to combine punk energy with a love for horror and B-movie culture has solidified their status as respected and influential figures in the world of punk rock and horror punk. Their music continues to be appreciated by fans who enjoy their unique and energetic approach to punk music.
Edward Tomlin 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.
