South Dakota, often referred to as the “Mount Rushmore State” and the “Coyote State,” has a rich and diverse musical heritage that reflects its cultural diversity, historical significance, and contributions to American music. The state’s musical traditions encompass a wide range of genres and have left a lasting impact on the world of music.
One of the most notable musical traditions in South Dakota is Native American music. The state is home to various indigenous communities, each with its own unique musical traditions. Traditional Native American music includes songs, drumming, and dances that have been passed down through generations and are often performed at cultural gatherings and powwows.
South Dakota has also contributed to the country and folk music genres. The state’s rural landscapes and cultural heritage have inspired artists to create songs that reflect the beauty and challenges of life in the region.
In addition, the state’s music scene has produced artists and bands that have achieved national recognition in various genres, including rock, pop, and country.
South Dakota’s musical heritage is celebrated through music festivals, cultural events, and the preservation of traditional Native American music. The state’s contributions to American music continue to be appreciated and celebrated, showcasing the depth and diversity of South Dakota’s musical traditions.
1. Dorothy Provine
Dorothy Provine (January 20, 1935 – April 25, 2010) was an American actress, singer, and dancer known for her versatile talents in both film and television. She was born in Deadwood, South Dakota, and grew up to become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Provine’s career took off in the 1950s, and she quickly gained attention for her vivacious personality and musical abilities. She appeared in a variety of films, including “The Bonnie Parker Story” (1958) and “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” (1963), where she showcased her singing and acting skills.
In addition to her film work, Dorothy Provine also had a successful career on television. She starred in the popular series “The Roaring 20’s” (1960-1962), a show set in the 1920s, where she portrayed Pinky Pinkham, a bubbly flapper.
As a singer, Provine released several albums, and her performances often included a blend of jazz, pop, and musical theater numbers. She was known for her vibrant stage presence and her ability to captivate audiences with her singing and dancing.
While her career saw its peak in the 1960s, Dorothy Provine left a lasting legacy in both film and television. Her contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be appreciated by fans of classic cinema and television.
2. EMA
EMA, whose real name is Erika Michelle Anderson, is an American singer, songwriter, and musician known for her contributions to the indie and experimental music scenes. She was born on April 2, 1982, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Erika Anderson’s music is characterized by its experimental and genre-blurring nature, incorporating elements of noise, folk, rock, and electronic music. Her work often explores themes of personal introspection, emotional depth, and societal commentary.
EMA gained recognition as a member of the noise-folk band Gowns before embarking on her solo career. Her debut solo album, “Past Life Martyred Saints,” was released in 2011 and received critical acclaim for its raw and emotionally charged sound.
She followed up with albums like “The Future’s Void” and “Exile in the Outer Ring,” further establishing her reputation as an artist willing to push musical boundaries and tackle provocative subject matter.
EMA’s ability to create immersive and thought-provoking music, combined with her distinctive voice and songwriting skills, has solidified her status as a respected and influential figure in the indie and experimental music scenes. Her music continues to resonate with fans who appreciate her fearless exploration of unconventional sounds and her fearless examination of societal issues.
3. We All Have Hooks for Hands
“We All Have Hooks for Hands” is an indie rock band from South Dakota, USA. The band was formed in 2005 and gained popularity in the indie music scene for their energetic and eclectic sound.
Known for their dynamic live performances and a unique blend of indie rock, folk, and alternative influences, We All Have Hooks for Hands released several albums and EPs during their active years.
Their music often featured catchy melodies, thoughtful lyrics, and a mix of acoustic and electric instrumentation. The band’s ability to create emotionally resonant and engaging music earned them a dedicated following.
While We All Have Hooks for Hands is no longer active, their music remains appreciated by fans of indie and alternative rock. They are remembered as a significant presence in the South Dakota music scene and a band that made a mark on the broader indie music landscape.
4. Cris Williamson
Cris Williamson is an American folk and women’s music singer-songwriter who has made significant contributions to the world of folk and LGBTQ+ music. She was born on January 26, 1947, in Deadwood, South Dakota.
Cris Williamson gained recognition in the 1970s and became a prominent figure in the women’s music movement, a cultural and musical movement that emerged within the feminist and lesbian communities. She released her debut album, “The Changer and the Changed,” in 1975, which is considered one of the seminal works in women’s music. The album included songs that celebrated love, empowerment, and identity and resonated strongly with the LGBTQ+ community.
“The Changer and the Changed” became an anthem for many within the lesbian and feminist communities and was instrumental in creating a space for LGBTQ+ voices in music.
Cris Williamson continued to release albums that explored themes of love, social justice, and personal growth, further solidifying her role as a pioneering figure in the world of folk and LGBTQ+ music. Her music has inspired and uplifted audiences and remains an integral part of the women’s and LGBTQ+ music canon.
Cris Williamson’s contributions to folk and LGBTQ+ music, her advocacy for social change, and her significant impact on the visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ voices in the music industry have solidified her status as a respected and influential figure in the realm of folk and social justice music. Her music continues to resonate with fans and remains a source of inspiration for those who appreciate her heartfelt and socially conscious songwriting.
5. Brule
Brulé is a Native American music and performance group founded by Paul LaRoche, a member of the Lower Brulé Sioux Tribe from South Dakota, USA. The group combines elements of traditional Native American music with contemporary rock, pop, and world music influences.
Brulé’s music is characterized by a fusion of Native American flutes, drums, and vocals with modern instruments, creating a distinctive sound that bridges cultural and musical traditions. Their performances often incorporate elements of dance, storytelling, and visual art, creating a multi-sensory experience for audiences.
Over the years, Brulé has released numerous albums, each showcasing their unique blend of Native American musical heritage and contemporary styles. Some of their well-known albums include “We the People,” “Star People,” and “One Earth, One People.”
The group’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Native American culture through their music and performances has earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Their music serves as a bridge between cultures, offering a platform for Native American voices and a means to share their rich traditions with the world.
6. Bob Stewart
Bob Stewart, whose full name is Robert Stewart, is an American jazz tubist and composer. He was born on October 4, 1945, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Stewart is known for his contributions to the world of jazz music, particularly for his innovative approach to the tuba.
Stewart began his career in the late 1960s and has worked with various notable jazz musicians and bands, including the World Saxophone Quartet and the Gil Evans Orchestra. He is known for his exceptional skill on the tuba and his ability to adapt the instrument to jazz contexts.
In addition to his work as a performer, Bob Stewart is a composer and has contributed to the jazz repertoire with his original compositions. His work often blends elements of traditional jazz, free jazz, and world music influences, creating a unique and dynamic sound.
Stewart’s ability to expand the possibilities of the tuba in jazz, as well as his contributions to the genre as a composer and bandleader, have solidified his status as a respected and influential figure in the world of jazz music. His innovative approach to the tuba and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of the instrument continue to be celebrated by jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike.
7. Myron Floren
Myron Floren (November 5, 1919 – July 23, 2005) was an American musician known for his virtuoso accordion playing and his long-time association with “The Lawrence Welk Show,” a popular television variety show that aired from the 1950s to the 1980s.
Born in North Dakota, Floren began playing the accordion at a young age and quickly developed a prodigious talent for the instrument. He joined Lawrence Welk’s orchestra in 1950, and his energetic and skillful accordion performances became a hallmark of the show. Floren’s contributions were crucial in helping to define the sound and style of “The Lawrence Welk Show.”
Over the years, Myron Floren became a beloved figure among fans of the show, earning the nickname “The Happy Norwegian” for his cheerful demeanor and infectious enthusiasm. He was known for his ability to play a wide range of musical styles, from polkas and waltzes to classical pieces and popular tunes.
In addition to his work on television, Floren released numerous albums, showcasing his accordion prowess. His music resonated with audiences around the world, and he played a significant role in popularizing the accordion as a versatile and entertaining instrument.
Myron Floren’s legacy lives on through his recordings, performances, and the enduring popularity of “The Lawrence Welk Show.” He remains a celebrated figure in the world of traditional and popular music, and his contributions to the accordion’s prominence in American entertainment are widely recognized and appreciated.
8. Boyd Raeburn
Boyd Raeburn was an American jazz bandleader and composer, known for his innovative and forward-thinking approach to big band and orchestral jazz. He was born on October 27, 1913, in Faith, South Dakota, and his career left a lasting impact on the development of jazz in the mid-20th century.
Raeburn began his musical journey as a saxophonist and arranger but quickly transitioned into a bandleader role. He led several bands during the 1940s, experimenting with different arrangements and orchestrations that pushed the boundaries of traditional big band jazz. His music often incorporated elements of bebop, cool jazz, and modern composition.
One of Raeburn’s notable innovations was his use of French horn and cello in his orchestras, introducing new textures and tonal colors to the jazz ensemble. His collaborations with forward-thinking arrangers and musicians, such as Dizzy Gillespie and Johnny Mandel, helped shape the direction of modern jazz.
Although Boyd Raeburn’s bands faced challenges related to their experimental sound and the complexities of his arrangements, his contributions to the evolution of jazz were significant. His innovative compositions and orchestrations left an indelible mark on the genre, and he is celebrated for his pioneering spirit in big band jazz.
Boyd Raeburn’s willingness to explore new musical territories, his inventive arrangements, and his influence on the development of modern jazz have solidified his status as a respected and influential figure in the world of jazz music. His contributions to the genre continue to be appreciated by jazz enthusiasts and musicians who admire his groundbreaking work.
9. Jess Thomas
Jess Thomas (August 4, 1927 – October 11, 1993) was an American operatic tenor known for his powerful and expressive voice. He was born in Hot Springs, South Dakota, and rose to prominence as one of the leading dramatic tenors of his time.
Thomas enjoyed a successful international career, performing at renowned opera houses and festivals around the world. He was particularly acclaimed for his interpretations of Wagnerian roles, such as Tristan in “Tristan und Isolde” and Siegmund in “Die Walküre.”
His rich, resonant voice and exceptional acting abilities allowed him to bring depth and emotional intensity to the characters he portrayed. Thomas’ performances were known for their dramatic impact and the way he could convey the complexities of human emotion through his singing.
In addition to his stage career, Jess Thomas recorded a range of operatic and classical works, leaving a lasting legacy for opera enthusiasts and music lovers. His contributions to the world of opera continue to be celebrated, and he is remembered as one of the great dramatic tenors of the 20th century.
10. Buddy Red Bow
Buddy Red Bow, whose full name was Robert Joseph Red Bow, was a Native American musician and singer known for his contributions to Native American country and folk music. He was a member of the Lakota Sioux tribe and was born on November 15, 1944, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Buddy Red Bow played a significant role in preserving and promoting Native American cultural heritage through his music.
Red Bow’s music often focused on the experiences and struggles of Native Americans, and he used his songs to convey the history and stories of his people. He was particularly known for his heartfelt and evocative lyrics, which touched on themes of identity, culture, and social issues affecting Native Americans.
One of his most notable songs is “Hoka Hey,” which has been celebrated for its powerful lyrics and message of resilience and pride. Red Bow’s music captured the essence of his heritage and resonated with both Native American and non-Native American audiences.
Buddy Red Bow’s contributions to Native American country and folk music, his dedication to preserving and sharing the stories and struggles of his people, and his impact as a cultural ambassador have solidified his status as a respected and influential figure in the world of Native American music. His music continues to be appreciated for its ability to educate and inspire, and it remains an essential part of the Native American music tradition.
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.
