Singers from Idaho bring a unique blend of influences from the rugged landscapes, cultural diversity, and rich heritage of the Gem State. While Idaho may not be as commonly associated with the music industry as other states, it has produced talented vocalists who have left their mark on various genres.
Idaho singers often draw inspiration from the state’s natural beauty, weaving themes of adventure, solitude, and connection to the land into their music. Whether it’s the folk-inspired melodies reflecting the simplicity of rural life or the introspective lyrics evoking the vastness of Idaho’s wilderness, singers from the state have a distinct sound that resonates with listeners.
While some Idaho singers may pursue local fame and perform at venues across the state, others have garnered national attention through their recordings or performances. Regardless of their level of recognition, singers from Idaho contribute to the cultural tapestry of the state and showcase its artistic diversity.
From country crooners to indie darlings, singers from Idaho embody the spirit of resilience, creativity, and authenticity that defines the Gem State. Through their music, they offer a glimpse into the soul of Idaho, captivating audiences with their talent and storytelling prowess.
1. Sun Blood Stories
Sun Blood Stories is a captivating psychedelic rock band hailing from Boise, Idaho, known for their ethereal soundscapes, mesmerizing performances, and experimental approach to music. Formed in 2011, the band consists of three core members: Amber Pollard (vocals, guitar), Ben Kirby (vocals, bass), and Jon Fust (drums).
Combining elements of psychedelic rock, shoegaze, folk, and blues, Sun Blood Stories creates a sonic landscape that is both immersive and hypnotic. Their music is characterized by haunting vocals, intricate guitar work, and layers of atmospheric textures, drawing listeners into a dreamlike journey of sonic exploration.
Since their inception, Sun Blood Stories has released several albums and EPs, including “Twilight Midnight Morning” and “It Runs Around the Room with Us,” garnering critical acclaim and a dedicated following along the way. Their dynamic live performances, which often incorporate elements of improvisation and visual art, have earned them a reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative bands to emerge from Idaho’s music scene.
As proud representatives of Idaho’s vibrant music community, Sun Blood Stories embodies the spirit of creativity, experimentation, and collaboration that defines the state’s musical landscape. With their bold sonic vision and boundless creativity, they continue to push the boundaries of psychedelic rock and inspire audiences with their mesmerizing music.
2. The Ongoing Concept
The Ongoing Concept is an American rock band known for their eclectic and experimental approach to music. Formed in 2010 in Rathdrum, Idaho, the band consists of brothers Kyle Scholz (vocals, guitar), Parker Scholz (drums), and TJ Nichols (bass), along with Andy Crateau (guitar, vocals).
The Ongoing Concept gained attention for their unique blend of various genres, including alternative rock, punk, metalcore, and even elements of bluegrass and folk. Their music is characterized by complex instrumentation, aggressive riffs, and dynamic shifts in tempo and style.
In 2013, The Ongoing Concept released their debut album, “Saloon,” which showcased their genre-bending sound and garnered praise for its creativity and originality. The album featured tracks like “Cover Girl,” “Failures & Fakes,” and “Class of Twenty-Ten,” which exemplified the band’s penchant for energetic performances and unconventional song structures.
Following the success of “Saloon,” The Ongoing Concept released their sophomore album, “Handmade,” in 2015. True to its title, the album was entirely self-produced and featured a DIY aesthetic, with the band crafting their own instruments and recording the album in a barn. “Handmade” further solidified the band’s reputation for innovation and experimentation, featuring tracks like “Amends” and “Unwanted” that showcased their dynamic range and musical versatility.
The Ongoing Concept continues to push boundaries and defy expectations with their music, captivating audiences with their raw energy and fearless creativity. With each release, they prove themselves to be a band unafraid to challenge the norms of the music industry and explore new sonic territories, earning them a dedicated following and critical acclaim in the process.
3. Septic Death
Septic Death was an American hardcore punk band formed in Boise, Idaho, in 1981. They are known for their raw and intense sound, as well as their distinctive visual aesthetic, which often featured gruesome and unsettling imagery.
The band was fronted by artist Brian “Pushead” Schroeder, who also contributed artwork for many other punk and metal bands. Their music was characterized by fast-paced tempos, aggressive guitar riffs, and Schroeder’s distinctive vocal delivery, which ranged from manic shouts to guttural screams.
Septic Death released their debut EP, “Need So Much Attention… Acceptance of Whom,” in 1984, followed by several other EPs and compilation appearances throughout the 1980s. Their music often dealt with themes of social alienation, political unrest, and personal turmoil, reflecting the angst and disillusionment of the era.
Despite their relatively short-lived existence, Septic Death left a lasting impact on the hardcore punk scene, influencing subsequent generations of bands with their uncompromising sound and DIY ethos. They remain a cult favorite among fans of hardcore punk and are remembered for their ferocious live performances and unapologetic approach to music.
4. Treepeople
Treepeople was an influential indie rock band that originated in Boise, Idaho, in the late 1980s. Formed by members Doug Martsch (vocals, guitar), Pat Brown (guitar), Wayne Rhino Flower (bass), and Scott Schmaljohn (drums), the band quickly gained attention for their raw energy, melodic songwriting, and dynamic live performances.
Drawing inspiration from punk, indie rock, and alternative music, Treepeople developed a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Their music was characterized by catchy hooks, introspective lyrics, and a sense of urgency that captured the spirit of the underground music scene of the 1990s.
Throughout their career, Treepeople released several albums and EPs, including “Guilt, Regret, Embarrassment,” “Just Kidding,” and “Something Vicious for Tomorrow/Time Whore,” earning them a dedicated following and critical acclaim. They also toured extensively, sharing stages with bands like Built to Spill, Sebadoh, and Jawbreaker, and leaving a lasting impact on the indie rock community.
While Treepeople disbanded in the mid-1990s, their influence continues to be felt in the indie rock scene, and their music remains cherished by fans of underground rock music. As proud representatives of Idaho’s vibrant music scene, Treepeople’s legacy endures as a testament to the creativity, passion, and DIY ethos that define the state’s musical heritage.
5. Paul Revere & the Raiders
Paul Revere & the Raiders were a dynamic and influential rock band that emerged from Boise, Idaho, in the early 1960s. Led by charismatic frontman Paul Revere Dick (known as Paul Revere) and featuring members Mark Lindsay (vocals), Phil “Fang” Volk (bass), and others, the band quickly rose to fame with their high-energy performances and catchy, danceable tunes.
With their distinctive Revolutionary War-inspired costumes and energetic stage presence, Paul Revere & the Raiders became one of the most popular and recognizable bands of the 1960s. Their music, characterized by a mix of rock and roll, garage rock, and pop, produced a string of hits, including “Kicks,” “Hungry,” and “Indian Reservation (The Lament of the Cherokee Reservation Indian).”
The band’s success extended beyond their music, as they also became regular fixtures on television, appearing on shows like “Where the Action Is” and “Happening ’68.” Their catchy tunes, infectious energy, and rebellious spirit made them icons of the era and helped shape the sound and style of 1960s rock music.
Although Paul Revere & the Raiders experienced various lineup changes over the years, their legacy as pioneers of rock and roll endures. With their chart-topping hits, memorable performances, and lasting influence on popular culture, they remain one of the most beloved and influential bands to emerge from Idaho.
6. Caustic Resin
Caustic Resin is an American alternative rock band hailing from Boise, Idaho. Formed in 1992 by lead vocalist and guitarist Brett Netson, the band’s sound is characterized by its raw and gritty guitar-driven melodies, coupled with introspective and often emotionally charged lyrics.
Caustic Resin gained recognition in the underground music scene for their unique blend of alternative rock, punk, and psychedelic influences. Netson’s distinctively raspy vocals and intricate guitar work, combined with the band’s dynamic rhythm section, created a sound that was both aggressive and melodic.
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Caustic Resin released several albums and EPs, including “The Medicine Is All Gone” (1993), “Trick Question” (1995), and “Keep on Truckin'” (1998). They also collaborated with other notable musicians, such as Built to Spill’s Doug Martsch, with whom they released the album “Built to Spill Caustic Resin” in 1995.
Despite undergoing various lineup changes over the years, Caustic Resin continued to evolve their sound and maintain a loyal fanbase. Their music often explored themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the human experience, resonating with listeners who appreciated their unfiltered and introspective approach to songwriting.
While Caustic Resin may not have achieved mainstream success, they remain a beloved and influential band within the alternative rock and indie music communities. Their legacy lives on through their recordings and live performances, as well as the lasting impact they’ve had on subsequent generations of musicians.
7. Providence
Providence is a Christian rock band that originated in Boise, Idaho, in the late 1990s. Comprising members Dan Zamudio (vocals, guitar), Nick White (guitar), Matt Johnson (bass), and Ben Zabriskie (drums), the band’s music combines elements of alternative rock, pop punk, and worship music, creating a unique sound that appeals to audiences of all ages.
Providence gained popularity in the Christian music scene with their energetic live performances, heartfelt lyrics, and catchy melodies. Their music is characterized by themes of faith, hope, and perseverance, resonating with listeners seeking spiritual encouragement and connection.
The band released several albums and EPs, including “Undeniable,” “The Providence EP,” and “Fool’s Gold,” garnering critical acclaim and a dedicated following along the way. Their songs, such as “Undeniable,” “Hold On,” and “Foundations,” have become anthems for fans, inspiring them to live out their faith and trust in God’s providence.
In addition to their music, Providence is also known for their commitment to ministry and outreach, using their platform to spread a message of love, acceptance, and redemption. They have toured extensively, performing at churches, festivals, and events across the country, and sharing their passion for music and faith with audiences everywhere.
As proud representatives of Idaho’s Christian music community, Providence continues to inspire and uplift listeners with their heartfelt music and unwavering dedication to their message of hope and grace. Through their music and ministry, they strive to make a positive impact on the world and spread God’s love to all who hear their songs.
8. Shook Twins
Shook Twins is an indie folk-pop band formed by twin sisters Laurie and Katelyn Shook, hailing from Sandpoint, Idaho. Known for their mesmerizing harmonies, inventive instrumentation, and captivating stage presence, the Shook Twins have gained a dedicated following with their unique blend of folk, pop, and experimental elements.
The Shook Twins’ music often features intricate vocal arrangements, with the sisters’ voices weaving together in seamless harmony. Their songs are characterized by thoughtful lyrics that touch on themes of love, nature, and personal reflection, accompanied by an eclectic mix of instruments, including guitar, banjo, ukulele, and percussion.
Since their formation in 2004, the Shook Twins have released several albums and EPs, including “You Can Have the Rest” (2008), “Window” (2011), and “Some Good Lives” (2019). They have also toured extensively, captivating audiences with their dynamic live performances and infectious energy.
In addition to their musical talents, the Shook Twins are known for their creative use of unconventional instruments and homemade percussion, such as the “shuitar” (a hybrid guitar and suitcase percussion instrument) and the “glockenspiel guitar.” Their inventive approach to instrumentation adds an element of whimsy and experimentation to their music, further distinguishing them within the indie folk scene.
With their heartfelt songwriting, soulful vocals, and innovative instrumentation, the Shook Twins continue to enchant listeners and push the boundaries of folk music. They remain a beloved fixture in the indie music landscape, celebrated for their artistry, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to their craft.
9. Judy Lynn
Judy Lynn, born Judy Lynn Voiten, was a country music singer and entertainer born in Boise, Idaho, in 1936. Rising to prominence in the 1950s, Judy Lynn became known for her powerful voice, vibrant stage presence, and ability to captivate audiences with her energetic performances.
Initially gaining attention as a contestant on the television show “Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts,” Judy Lynn’s talent and charisma quickly caught the attention of music industry insiders. She soon signed with Capitol Records and began releasing a string of successful singles and albums.
Throughout her career, Judy Lynn toured extensively, performing at venues across the United States and around the world. She became a regular fixture on television variety shows, including “The Ed Sullivan Show” and “The Tonight Show,” further solidifying her status as one of country music’s leading performers.
Known for her dynamic vocal range and versatility as a performer, Judy Lynn’s music encompassed a wide range of styles, including traditional country, western swing, and gospel. Hits like “Footsteps of a Fool” and “My Secret” became classics, earning her a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.
As a proud representative of Idaho and a beloved figure in the country music community, Judy Lynn’s legacy continues to endure, her music serving as a reminder of her talent, passion, and enduring impact on the world of entertainment.
10. Rosalie Sorrels
Rosalie Sorrels was an American folk singer-songwriter born on June 24, 1933, in Boise, Idaho. She was known for her rich, emotive voice, and her deeply personal and introspective songwriting style, which often explored themes of love, loss, and the human condition.
Sorrels emerged as a prominent figure in the folk music revival of the 1960s, drawing inspiration from traditional American folk music, as well as her own life experiences. Her songs reflected her deep connection to the landscapes and people of the American West, capturing the spirit of the region with authenticity and grace.
Throughout her career, Rosalie Sorrels released over 20 albums, including “No Closing Chord” (1967), “Travelin’ Lady” (1973), and “What Does It Mean to Love?” (1994). She was also a prolific performer, known for her intimate live shows and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
In addition to her music career, Sorrels was a passionate advocate for social justice and environmental causes. She used her platform as a musician to raise awareness about issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, and she was actively involved in various grassroots movements throughout her life.
Rosalie Sorrels’ contributions to American folk music are celebrated for their honesty, authenticity, and profound emotional impact. She remains a revered figure in the folk music community, admired for her powerful voice, poetic lyricism, and unwavering commitment to using music as a tool for social change and personal expression. Sorrels passed away on June 11, 2017, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most beloved and influential folk singers of her generation.
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.
