Singers from New York represent a kaleidoscope of musical styles, talents, and cultural backgrounds, reflecting the vibrant and diverse nature of the state itself. From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of upstate New York, the Empire State has been a breeding ground for some of the most iconic voices in music history.
New York’s singers draw inspiration from the city’s rich cultural tapestry, incorporating elements of jazz, hip-hop, Broadway, rock, classical, and everything in between into their music. Whether crooning soulful ballads in smoky jazz clubs, spitting rapid-fire verses on street corners, or belting out show tunes on Broadway stages, singers from New York infuse their performances with a unique blend of energy, passion, and authenticity.
Moreover, New York’s singers often become synonymous with the city itself, embodying its spirit of ambition, resilience, and creativity. From Frank Sinatra’s ode to the city that never sleeps in “New York, New York” to Alicia Keys’ anthem celebrating the concrete jungle where dreams are made of in “Empire State of Mind,” singers from New York capture the essence of the state’s iconic landmarks, its diverse communities, and its indomitable spirit through their music.
1. Huey Lewis (Huey Lewis And The News)
Huey Lewis, best known as the frontman of the band Huey Lewis and the News, is an iconic singer, songwriter, and harmonica player who emerged as a prominent figure in the music scene of the 1980s. Born on July 5, 1950, in New York City, Lewis and his band achieved widespread success with their infectious blend of rock, pop, and soul, characterized by catchy hooks, upbeat rhythms, and Lewis’s distinctive gravelly voice.
Formed in San Francisco in 1979, Huey Lewis and the News rose to fame with their third album, “Sports,” released in 1983. The album spawned several hit singles, including “The Heart of Rock & Roll,” “I Want a New Drug,” and “If This Is It,” catapulting the band to international stardom and earning them critical acclaim.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Huey Lewis and the News continued to churn out hit albums and singles, solidifying their status as one of the era’s most successful acts. Their music, characterized by its catchy melodies, tight arrangements, and Lewis’s charismatic stage presence, resonated with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making them a mainstay on radio airwaves and MTV.
Beyond their chart-topping success, Huey Lewis and the News are also known for their contributions to popular culture, with their songs featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. Lewis’s engaging personality and down-to-earth charm have endeared him to fans around the world, earning him a reputation as one of rock’s most affable and enduring figures.
As a native of New York City, Huey Lewis’s music reflects the eclectic energy and cultural diversity of his hometown. With his band, he has left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring generations of fans and fellow musicians with his timeless hits and unwavering commitment to rock ‘n’ roll.
2. Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur, also known as 2Pac, was a highly influential rapper, actor, and poet, born on June 16, 1971, in East Harlem, New York City. Raised in the borough of Brooklyn, Tupac’s upbringing was marked by struggles with poverty, violence, and racial inequality, themes that would later permeate his music and artistic expression.
Tupac rose to prominence in the early 1990s as one of the most prominent voices in the West Coast hip-hop scene. His debut album, “2Pacalypse Now,” released in 1991, showcased his raw talent and powerful storytelling, addressing issues such as police brutality, inner-city life, and social injustice. His subsequent albums, including “Me Against the World” and “All Eyez on Me,” solidified his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time, earning him widespread acclaim and commercial success.
Beyond his music, Tupac was also known for his activism and outspokenness on social and political issues. He was a vocal advocate for the African American community, speaking out against racism, poverty, and systemic oppression. His iconic tracks like “Changes” and “Keep Ya Head Up” became anthems for social change and empowerment.
Tragically, Tupac’s life was cut short when he was fatally shot in Las Vegas on September 13, 1996, at the age of 25. Despite his untimely death, his legacy continues to resonate, inspiring countless artists and activists with his music, poetry, and enduring spirit. Tupac Shakur’s influence on hip-hop culture and beyond is immeasurable, cementing his place as a cultural icon and a voice for the voiceless.
3. Tom Morello (Rage Against The Machine)
Tom Morello is an American musician, best known as the guitarist for the influential rock band Rage Against the Machine. Born on May 30, 1964, in Harlem, New York City, Morello grew up in Libertyville, Illinois, and developed a passion for music at a young age.
Morello’s guitar playing is characterized by its innovative use of effects pedals, unique playing techniques, and politically charged lyrics. His style blends elements of heavy metal, punk rock, and hip-hop, creating a sound that is both aggressive and melodic.
With Rage Against the Machine, Morello helped pioneer the rap-rock genre and became known for his politically charged lyrics and activism. The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1992, featured hits like “Killing in the Name” and “Bullet in the Head,” addressing themes of social injustice, police brutality, and government corruption.
Rage Against the Machine continued to release successful albums throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, including “Evil Empire” (1996) and “The Battle of Los Angeles” (1999), before going on hiatus in 2000. Morello later formed the supergroup Audioslave with former members of Soundgarden, releasing several albums before disbanding in 2007.
In addition to his work with Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, Morello has pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists across different genres. He is also known for his activism and outspoken political views, advocating for causes such as workers’ rights, social justice, and environmentalism.
Morello’s contributions to music and activism have earned him widespread acclaim and recognition. He is regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation and continues to inspire musicians and activists around the world with his powerful music and message.
4. Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys, born Alicia Augello Cook on January 25, 1981, in Hell’s Kitchen, New York City, is a multi-talented musician, singer, songwriter, and actress. Known for her powerful vocals, virtuosic piano playing, and soulful songwriting, Keys has established herself as one of the most accomplished and influential artists of her generation.
Keys rose to fame in the early 2000s with the release of her debut album, “Songs in A Minor,” which earned her five Grammy Awards and critical acclaim. With hits like “Fallin'” and “A Woman’s Worth,” Keys showcased her impressive vocal range and emotional depth, captivating audiences with her heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies.
Throughout her career, Keys has continued to push musical boundaries, experimenting with different genres, including R&B, soul, jazz, and hip-hop. Her subsequent albums, such as “The Diary of Alicia Keys,” “As I Am,” and “Girl on Fire,” have all achieved commercial success and earned her numerous accolades, including additional Grammy Awards.
Beyond her music, Keys is also known for her activism and philanthropy, advocating for causes such as HIV/AIDS awareness, children’s rights, and racial justice. She co-founded the nonprofit organization Keep a Child Alive and has been recognized for her humanitarian efforts and commitment to social change.
As a native of New York City, Alicia Keys’ music reflects the eclectic energy and cultural diversity of her hometown. Her powerful voice and soul-stirring performances have touched the hearts of millions around the world, solidifying her status as one of the most iconic and beloved artists in contemporary music.
5. Rivers Cuomo (Weezer)
Rivers Cuomo is an American musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist, guitarist, and principal songwriter of the rock band Weezer. Born on June 13, 1970, in New York City, Cuomo formed Weezer in 1992 with drummer Patrick Wilson, bassist Matt Sharp, and guitarist Jason Cropper.
Weezer’s self-titled debut album, commonly referred to as the “Blue Album,” was released in 1994 and became an instant commercial success, featuring hits like “Buddy Holly” and “Undone – The Sweater Song.” Cuomo’s catchy melodies, witty lyrics, and distinctive vocal style helped establish Weezer as one of the most influential rock bands of the 1990s.
Throughout his career with Weezer, Cuomo has continued to write and record music, releasing numerous albums that have achieved both critical and commercial success. Some of Weezer’s other notable albums include “Pinkerton” (1996), “Weezer (The Green Album)” (2001), and “Weezer (The White Album)” (2016).
In addition to his work with Weezer, Cuomo has pursued various side projects and collaborations over the years, exploring different musical styles and genres. He is known for his eclectic musical influences, which range from alternative rock and power pop to hip-hop and electronic music.
Cuomo’s songwriting often explores themes of love, relationships, and personal introspection, resonating with audiences around the world. He is admired for his songcraft, creativity, and willingness to experiment with different sounds and approaches.
As the frontman of Weezer, Rivers Cuomo has left an indelible mark on the music industry and continues to be celebrated as one of the most talented and influential figures in rock music.
6. Lou Reed
Lou Reed, born on March 2, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York City, was a trailblazing singer-songwriter, guitarist, and poet who helped shape the landscape of rock music. Renowned for his gritty lyrics, experimental soundscapes, and uncompromising artistic vision, Reed emerged as a key figure in the New York City music scene of the 1960s and 1970s.
Reed gained fame as the frontman and principal songwriter of the influential rock band The Velvet Underground, which he co-founded with John Cale. The band’s raw, avant-garde style and provocative subject matter challenged conventional notions of rock music, earning them a cult following and critical acclaim. Despite limited commercial success during their initial run, The Velvet Underground’s impact on music history is immeasurable, with their debut album often cited as one of the greatest of all time.
Following his departure from The Velvet Underground in the early 1970s, Reed embarked on a prolific solo career, releasing a series of acclaimed albums that showcased his versatility and innovation as an artist. From the introspective ballads of “Transformer” to the experimental noise rock of “Metal Machine Music,” Reed’s music defied categorization, earning him a reputation as a boundary-pushing pioneer.
Beyond his musical endeavors, Reed was also a celebrated poet, photographer, and visual artist, exploring themes of urban life, addiction, and the human condition in his work. His influence extended far beyond the realm of music, shaping the cultural landscape of New York City and inspiring generations of artists and musicians.
As a native of Brooklyn, Lou Reed’s music reflects the grit, glamour, and contradictions of his hometown. With his fearless experimentation and uncompromising authenticity, Reed left an indelible mark on the world of music, solidifying his status as a true iconoclast and one of rock’s most enduring legends.
7. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is an American singer-songwriter, pianist, and composer who rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with his distinctive blend of rock, pop, and balladry. Born on May 9, 1949, in The Bronx, New York City, Joel began playing piano at a young age and showed early talent as a musician.
Joel’s career took off with the release of his breakthrough album “Piano Man” in 1973, which featured the hit singles “Piano Man” and “Captain Jack.” He followed up with a string of successful albums throughout the 1970s, including “The Stranger” (1977) and “52nd Street” (1978), both of which won Grammy Awards for Album of the Year.
Throughout his career, Joel has continued to release hit songs and albums, earning him multiple Grammy Awards and numerous chart-topping hits. Some of his most famous songs include “Just the Way You Are,” “Uptown Girl,” “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” and “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song).”
In addition to his success as a recording artist, Joel is also known for his dynamic live performances. He has sold out stadiums and arenas around the world and remains one of the highest-grossing touring artists in history.
Joel’s music often explores themes of love, life, and the struggles of the working class. He is celebrated for his catchy melodies, poignant lyrics, and soulful piano playing, which have earned him a dedicated fanbase and enduring popularity.
In recognition of his contributions to music, Billy Joel was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1992 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999. He continues to perform and record music to this day, leaving an indelible mark on the world of rock and pop music.
8. Carole King
Carole King, born Carol Joan Klein on February 9, 1942, in Manhattan, New York City, is a legendary singer-songwriter and pianist whose impact on the music industry is immeasurable. With her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and innate musical talent, King has become one of the most respected and influential artists of her generation.
King’s career began in the 1960s as a songwriter in New York City’s famed Brill Building, where she penned hit songs for artists like The Shirelles, The Drifters, and The Monkees, often in collaboration with her then-husband Gerry Goffin. Her knack for crafting memorable melodies and insightful lyrics quickly garnered attention, establishing her as one of the preeminent songwriters of the era.
In 1971, King released her landmark album “Tapestry,” which remains one of the best-selling albums of all time. Featuring classic tracks like “You’ve Got a Friend,” “It’s Too Late,” and “I Feel the Earth Move,” “Tapestry” earned King four Grammy Awards and solidified her status as a solo artist. The album’s intimate, confessional style resonated with audiences worldwide, inspiring generations of singer-songwriters and earning King widespread acclaim.
Beyond her solo career, King’s influence extends to her collaborations with other artists, her activism, and her role as a mentor to aspiring musicians. She continues to perform and record music to this day, remaining a beloved figure in the world of popular music.
As a native of Manhattan, Carole King’s music reflects the energy, diversity, and cultural richness of her hometown. With her timeless songs and heartfelt performances, she has touched the hearts of millions around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the history of music.
9. Art Garfunkel
Art Garfunkel, born Arthur Ira Garfunkel on November 5, 1941, in Forest Hills, Queens, New York City, is a renowned singer, songwriter, and actor best known as one half of the iconic folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. With his ethereal tenor voice, Garfunkel played a pivotal role in shaping the duo’s distinctive sound and contributing to their chart-topping success.
Garfunkel’s musical partnership with Paul Simon began in the late 1950s when they formed a duo known as Tom & Jerry. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that they achieved widespread acclaim under the name Simon & Garfunkel. Their debut album, “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.,” released in 1964, featured the folk classic “The Sound of Silence,” launching them into stardom.
Throughout the 1960s, Simon & Garfunkel released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” and “Bookends,” which showcased their intricate harmonies and poetic songwriting. Hits like “Mrs. Robinson,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” and “Scarborough Fair/Canticle” became anthems of a generation, earning them multiple Grammy Awards and securing their place in music history.
Following the duo’s breakup in 1970, Garfunkel embarked on a successful solo career, releasing a series of albums and achieving chart success with singles like “All I Know” and “Break Away.” He also pursued acting, appearing in films such as “Carnal Knowledge” and “Catch-22.”
As a native of Queens, New York City, Art Garfunkel’s music reflects the vibrant energy and cultural diversity of his hometown. With his angelic voice and profound musicality, he has left an indelible mark on the world of music, inspiring generations of artists and earning a rightful place among the greatest vocalists of all time.
10. Joey and Johnny Ramone (The Ramones)
Joey and Johnny Ramone were two founding members of the iconic punk rock band The Ramones.
Joey Ramone, born Jeffrey Ross Hyman on May 19, 1951, in Queens, New York City, was the lead vocalist and one of the primary songwriters of the band. He had a distinctive vocal style characterized by his nasal, monotone delivery. Joey’s lyrics often touched on themes of alienation, frustration, and adolescent angst. Despite his shy and reserved personality offstage, he was known for his energetic and charismatic stage presence.
Johnny Ramone, born John William Cummings on October 8, 1948, in Queens, New York City, was the guitarist and primary songwriter of The Ramones. Johnny’s guitar playing was characterized by its fast-paced, aggressive style and simple, repetitive chord progressions. He was known for his no-nonsense attitude and dedication to maintaining The Ramones’ signature sound throughout their career.
Together with Dee Dee Ramone (bass) and Tommy Ramone (drums), Joey and Johnny formed The Ramones in 1974. The band’s fast, loud, and stripped-down approach to rock music, along with their distinctive image of leather jackets, ripped jeans, and bowl haircuts, helped define the punk rock genre and influence countless bands that followed.
The Ramones released a series of highly influential albums, including their self-titled debut album (1976), “Rocket to Russia” (1977), and “End of the Century” (1980). Although they never achieved mainstream commercial success, The Ramones became one of the most beloved and influential bands in the history of punk rock.
Joey Ramone passed away on April 15, 2001, from lymphoma, while Johnny Ramone died of prostate cancer on September 15, 2004. Despite their deaths, The Ramones’ legacy lives on, and their music continues to inspire new generations of punk rockers around 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.
