Singers from Iowa have contributed significantly to the diverse landscape of American music. From the rural towns to the bustling cities, Iowa has nurtured a variety of talented vocalists across different genres, including country, folk, rock, and pop.
Drawing inspiration from the state’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Iowa singers infuse their music with authenticity, sincerity, and a strong sense of community. Whether they’re performing in local coffee shops, dive bars, or concert halls, Iowa singers bring a sense of warmth and authenticity to their music that resonates with audiences far and wide.
While some Iowa singers have achieved national and international fame, others have made their mark primarily within the state, performing at local venues and festivals and enriching the cultural fabric of their communities. Regardless of their level of recognition, Iowa singers play an important role in preserving and celebrating the state’s musical heritage while also pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories.
Through their music, Iowa singers tell the stories of their state, its people, and its landscapes, leaving a lasting impact on listeners and ensuring that the spirit of Iowa continues to be heard and appreciated through the power of song.
1. Hailey Whitters
Hailey Whitters, an emerging country music artist, hails from Shueyville, Iowa. With her authentic storytelling, emotive vocals, and down-to-earth charm, Whitters has quickly gained recognition within the country music scene.
Whitters’ music often reflects her Midwestern roots, drawing inspiration from her upbringing in rural Iowa. Her lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and personal anecdotes, offering listeners a glimpse into her life and experiences. Songs like “Ten Year Town” and “The Days” showcase Whitters’ introspective songwriting style and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
Despite growing up in a small town, Whitters’ talent and determination have propelled her to national prominence. She has toured with country music heavyweights like Maren Morris and Brent Cobb, earning praise for her captivating live performances and genuine stage presence.
As a proud representative of Iowa, Whitters’ music embodies the values of hard work, perseverance, and authenticity that are ingrained in the state’s culture. With her soulful voice and relatable lyrics, she continues to win over fans across the country, proving that you don’t have to come from a big city to make a big impact in the music industry.
2. Jinxx
Jinxx, born Jeremy Miles Ferguson, is a talented musician and songwriter known for his work as the guitarist and violinist for the American rock band Black Veil Brides. Born in Webster City, Iowa, Jinxx’s musical journey began at a young age when he started playing the violin.
With a passion for music, Jinxx honed his skills on the violin and later transitioned to the guitar, expanding his musical repertoire. His unique blend of classical violin techniques and rock guitar riffs became a defining feature of Black Veil Brides’ sound.
As a member of Black Veil Brides, Jinxx has contributed to the band’s success with his dynamic performances and songwriting abilities. Hits like “In the End” and “Knives and Pens” have showcased his musical talents and helped propel the band to international fame.
Beyond his work with Black Veil Brides, Jinxx has also pursued solo projects and collaborations with other artists, further demonstrating his versatility and creativity as a musician.
As a proud representative of Webster City and a respected figure in the rock music community, Jinxx continues to inspire fans with his passion for music and dedication to his craft. His contributions to Black Veil Brides and the rock genre as a whole have earned him a place in the hearts of music lovers around the world.
3. Emily West
Emily West is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals, captivating stage presence, and diverse musical style. Born on July 9, 1981, in Waterloo, Iowa, West first gained national attention as a contestant on the reality singing competition “America’s Got Talent” in 2014.
Throughout her time on the show, Emily West wowed audiences and judges alike with her soulful performances and unique interpretations of classic songs. Her rendition of “Chandelier” by Sia, in particular, garnered widespread praise and showcased her incredible vocal range and emotional depth.
Following her appearance on “America’s Got Talent,” Emily West signed a record deal with Sony Music Nashville and released her album “All for You” in 2015. The album featured a mix of original songs and covers, highlighting West’s versatility as an artist and her ability to blend genres such as pop, country, and jazz.
In addition to her solo career, Emily West has collaborated with other artists and musicians, lending her vocals to various projects and live performances. She continues to tour and perform regularly, captivating audiences with her powerhouse vocals and dynamic stage presence.
Emily West’s music is characterized by her rich, expressive voice, heartfelt lyrics, and memorable melodies. Whether performing her own original songs or putting her unique spin on beloved classics, she has established herself as a talented and versatile artist with a bright future ahead in the music industry.
4. Simon Estes
Simon Estes is an internationally acclaimed American bass-baritone opera singer born on February 2, 1938, in Centerville, Iowa. He is celebrated for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the world of classical music.
Estes rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, making his professional opera debut at the Deutsche Oper Berlin in 1965. He quickly gained recognition for his exceptional talent and vocal prowess, earning accolades for his performances in leading roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Wagner, and Mozart.
Throughout his illustrious career, Simon Estes has performed at many of the world’s most prestigious opera houses and concert halls, including the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and the Royal Opera House. He has collaborated with renowned conductors and orchestras, thrilling audiences with his commanding voice and dramatic interpretations.
In addition to his operatic performances, Estes is also known for his commitment to social justice and humanitarian causes. He has used his platform as an artist to advocate for racial equality, education, and access to the arts for marginalized communities. He established the Simon Estes Foundation to support young musicians and provide scholarships for aspiring opera singers.
Simon Estes’ contributions to the world of opera and classical music extend beyond his exceptional talent as a performer. He has inspired countless individuals with his dedication to excellence, his commitment to social change, and his belief in the transformative power of music. Estes’ legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists and music lovers around the world.
5. Jason Reeves
Jason Reeves is a talented singer-songwriter who has made significant contributions to the contemporary pop and folk music scenes. Born and raised in Iowa City, Iowa, Reeves began his musical journey at a young age, honing his skills as a guitarist and vocalist.
Reeves gained recognition for his heartfelt songwriting and emotive performances, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and the world around him. His introspective lyrics and melodic compositions resonate with audiences, capturing the complexities of love, life, and self-discovery.
With a soulful voice and a knack for crafting memorable melodies, Reeves has released several albums and EPs, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. His music often explores themes of love, relationships, and personal growth, offering listeners a sense of connection and introspection.
In addition to his solo work, Reeves has collaborated with numerous artists in the music industry, contributing his songwriting talents to hit songs across various genres. His collaborations have further showcased his versatility as a songwriter and his ability to connect with audiences through his music.
As a proud representative of Iowa City and a respected figure in the singer-songwriter community, Jason Reeves continues to inspire listeners with his heartfelt music and genuine authenticity. His contributions to the music industry have left a lasting impact, earning him recognition as one of the most talented songwriters of his generation.
6. Tracie Spencer
Tracie Spencer is an American singer and actress known for her soulful vocals and success in the pop and R&B music scenes during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Born on July 12, 1976, in Waterloo, Iowa, Spencer first gained prominence as a teenager with her debut album, “Make the Difference,” released in 1988.
Spencer’s music blended elements of pop, R&B, and dance, showcasing her versatile vocal range and emotive delivery. Her debut single, “Hide and Seek,” became a hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, establishing her as a rising star in the music industry.
In 1990, Spencer released her second album, “Tracie,” which featured the hit single “This House,” a soulful ballad that showcased her mature vocals and heartfelt lyrics. The song became a top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidified Spencer’s status as a rising talent in the R&B music scene.
Throughout the 1990s, Tracie Spencer continued to release music and collaborate with other artists, earning critical acclaim for her vocal ability and stage presence. She also ventured into acting, appearing in television shows and films such as “Family Matters” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”
While Spencer’s music career slowed down in the late 1990s, she remains a beloved figure in the world of R&B music, admired for her soulful voice and contributions to the genre. Her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, showcasing her talent and enduring appeal as a vocalist and performer.
7. William Elliott Whitmore
William Elliott Whitmore, a singer-songwriter and musician, hails from Lee County, Iowa. Known for his distinctive baritone voice, raw authenticity, and soulful performances, Whitmore has carved out a niche for himself in the world of folk and Americana music.
Growing up on a family farm in rural Iowa, Whitmore’s music reflects his Midwestern roots and connection to the land. His lyrics often draw inspiration from his experiences working the land and navigating life’s trials and tribulations. With his powerful storytelling and emotive delivery, Whitmore’s music resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level.
Throughout his career, Whitmore has released several albums and EPs, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Hits like “Old Devils” and “Hell or High Water” showcase his songwriting prowess and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience with honesty and depth.
In addition to his solo work, Whitmore has collaborated with other artists and bands, further expanding his musical horizons and reaching new audiences. His collaborations have showcased his versatility as a musician and his willingness to experiment with different styles and genres.
As a proud representative of Lee County and a respected figure in the folk music community, William Elliott Whitmore continues to inspire listeners with his heartfelt music and unwavering commitment to his craft. His contributions to the world of folk and Americana music have earned him recognition as one of the genre’s most authentic and talented artists.
8. Nate Ruess
Nate Ruess is an American singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice, charismatic stage presence, and heartfelt songwriting. Born on February 26, 1982, in Iowa City, Iowa, Ruess rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of the indie rock band fun.
Ruess began his music career in the early 2000s with the band The Format, releasing two albums before the group disbanded in 2008. He then formed the band fun. with Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff, releasing their debut album, “Aim and Ignite,” in 2009. The album received critical acclaim for its infectious melodies and Ruess’s emotive vocals.
In 2012, fun. achieved mainstream success with their second album, “Some Nights,” which featured the chart-topping singles “We Are Young” and “Some Nights.” The album earned the band multiple Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year for “We Are Young,” and catapulted Ruess to stardom as one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary pop-rock music.
Following the success of fun., Nate Ruess embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut solo album, “Grand Romantic,” in 2015. The album showcased Ruess’s songwriting prowess and dynamic vocal range, with tracks like “Nothing Without Love” and “AhHa” earning praise from critics and fans alike.
In addition to his solo work, Nate Ruess has collaborated with various artists across different genres, lending his vocals to hit songs such as “Just Give Me a Reason” by Pink and “Bright Lights” by Thirty Seconds to Mars. His distinctive voice and emotive performances continue to resonate with audiences, cementing his status as one of the most talented and versatile vocalists in contemporary music.
9. Tionne Watkins
Tionne Watkins, famously known as T-Boz, is a renowned singer, songwriter, and member of the iconic R&B girl group TLC. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, Tionne’s musical journey began at a young age, fueled by her passion for music and performance.
As one-third of TLC, T-Boz contributed to the group’s massive success, delivering powerful vocals and captivating audiences with her dynamic stage presence. TLC rose to prominence in the 1990s with hit songs like “Waterfalls,” “No Scrubs,” and “Creep,” becoming one of the best-selling girl groups of all time.
Beyond her work with TLC, T-Boz has pursued solo projects, collaborating with other artists and releasing her own music. Her distinctive voice, coupled with her unique sense of style and charisma, has solidified her status as a pop culture icon.
In addition to her music career, T-Boz is also known for her advocacy work, particularly in raising awareness about sickle cell disease, a condition she has battled since childhood. Her efforts to educate and support others living with the disease have earned her widespread recognition and admiration.
As a proud representative of Des Moines and a trailblazer in the music industry, Tionne Watkins’ contributions to R&B and pop music have left an indelible mark on the world. Her talent, resilience, and commitment to making a difference continue to inspire fans around the globe.
10. Maddie Poppe
Maddie Poppe is an American singer-songwriter who gained national recognition as the winner of the sixteenth season of the reality singing competition “American Idol” in 2018. Born on December 5, 1997, in Clarksville, Iowa, Poppe first began pursuing music at a young age, honing her skills as a guitarist and vocalist.
During her time on “American Idol,” Maddie Poppe captivated audiences with her distinctive voice, authentic performances, and ability to connect emotionally with the songs she performed. She showcased her versatility by covering a wide range of genres, including folk, pop, and indie rock, and received praise from the judges for her musicality and artistry.
Following her victory on “American Idol,” Maddie Poppe released her debut studio album, “Whirlwind,” in 2019. The album featured a mix of original songs and covers, highlighting Poppe’s songwriting ability and her unique blend of folk and pop influences. Tracks like “Going Going Gone” and “Made You Miss” showcased her catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
In addition to her music career, Maddie Poppe has continued to pursue opportunities in acting and television, appearing in various projects and collaborating with other artists. She remains an active performer, touring and sharing her music with audiences around the country.
With her soulful voice, genuine artistry, and infectious charm, Maddie Poppe has established herself as one of the rising stars in the music industry. Her talent and dedication to her craft continue to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike, as she continues to evolve as an artist and share her passion for music with the world.
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.
