Singers from Ohio contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of American music, drawing inspiration from the state’s diverse cultural landscape and vibrant musical heritage. Ohio has produced a remarkable array of talented singers across various genres, ranging from rock and roll and rhythm and blues to country, pop, and hip-hop.
The state’s musical legacy is deeply rooted in its history, with cities like Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Dayton serving as hubs for innovation and creativity. Ohio’s singers often reflect the resilience, authenticity, and spirit of its people, with their music resonating with audiences around the world.
From Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees like the Isley Brothers and the Pretenders to chart-topping pop stars like John Legend and Twenty One Pilots, Ohio singers have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Their songs speak to universal themes of love, loss, and resilience, capturing the essence of the human experience and connecting listeners across generations.
Furthermore, Ohio singers continue to push boundaries and break new ground, exploring new sounds, styles, and techniques while staying true to their roots. With their talent, passion, and dedication to their craft, singers from Ohio continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, ensuring that the state remains a vital and vibrant force in the world of music.
1. John Legend
John Legend, born John Roger Stephens on December 28, 1978, in Springfield, Ohio, is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, musician, and actor known for his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and powerful performances. Growing up in a working-class family in Ohio, Legend discovered his passion for music at an early age, learning to play piano and singing in church choirs.
Legend’s breakthrough came in the early 2000s with the release of his debut album, “Get Lifted,” which featured the hit singles “Ordinary People” and “Used to Love U.” The album earned him critical acclaim and three Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist, catapulting him to stardom and establishing him as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary R&B and soul music.
Since then, Legend has released a series of successful albums and singles, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his ability to transcend genres. Songs like “All of Me,” “Glory,” and “Save Room” have topped the charts and earned him numerous awards and accolades, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and ten Grammy Awards.
In addition to his music career, Legend is also known for his activism and philanthropy, using his platform to advocate for social justice, criminal justice reform, and education. With his soulful voice, thoughtful lyrics, and commitment to making a difference in the world, John Legend continues to inspire audiences around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond.
2. Art Tatum
Art Tatum, born on October 13, 1909, in Toledo, Ohio, was a groundbreaking jazz pianist renowned for his virtuosic technique, unparalleled improvisational skills, and innovative approach to harmony and rhythm. Raised in a musical family, Tatum began playing the piano at a young age and quickly developed a prodigious talent for the instrument.
Tatum’s playing was characterized by its lightning-fast speed, intricate chord voicings, and dazzling runs across the keyboard. His ability to effortlessly navigate complex harmonic progressions and create spontaneous melodies made him one of the most influential jazz musicians of his time.
Despite being blind from a young age, Tatum’s musical genius knew no bounds. He was known for his encyclopedic knowledge of jazz standards and popular songs, often incorporating them into his performances with his own unique style and flair.
Throughout his career, Tatum recorded extensively and performed in jazz clubs and concert halls around the world, earning him widespread acclaim and admiration from fellow musicians and fans alike. His recordings, including classics like “Tea for Two” and “Tiger Rag,” continue to be studied and revered by aspiring pianists and jazz enthusiasts.
As a native of Ohio, Art Tatum’s legacy is celebrated as one of the greatest pianists in the history of jazz music. His unparalleled technical skill, innovative improvisation, and boundless creativity continue to inspire generations of musicians and leave an indelible mark on the world of jazz.
3. Dean Martin
Dean Martin, born Dino Paul Crocetti on June 7, 1917, was an American singer, actor, and comedian who became one of the most popular and enduring entertainers of the 20th century. He was known for his smooth baritone voice, charismatic stage presence, and laid-back charm.
Born in Steubenville, Ohio, Martin began his entertainment career as a nightclub singer in the 1940s, where he gained a reputation for his effortless vocal style and his ability to croon romantic ballads. He quickly rose to fame as part of the musical comedy duo Martin and Lewis, alongside comedian Jerry Lewis. The duo became one of the most successful comedy teams in history, starring in a series of popular films and television shows throughout the 1950s.
After parting ways with Jerry Lewis in 1956, Martin embarked on a successful solo career as a singer and actor. He released a string of hit singles, including classics like “That’s Amore,” “Volare,” and “Everybody Loves Somebody,” which became his signature song. His albums consistently topped the charts, earning him numerous gold and platinum certifications.
In addition to his music career, Martin was also a highly successful actor, starring in a series of popular films, including “Rio Bravo” (1959), “Ocean’s 11” (1960), and “The Sons of Katie Elder” (1965). He became known for his roles in stylish, Rat Pack-era films and his effortless portrayal of charming, debonair characters.
Throughout his career, Dean Martin remained one of the most beloved entertainers in the world, admired for his talent, charisma, and enduring appeal. He passed away on December 25, 1995, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music and iconic performances.
4. Doris Day
Doris Day, born Doris Mary Anne Kappelhoff on April 3, 1922, in Cincinnati, Ohio, was a beloved singer, actress, and animal welfare activist whose career spanned over six decades. Raised in a musical family, Day discovered her love for singing at a young age and began performing on local radio stations and in bands in her teens.
Day’s breakthrough came in the 1940s when she signed a contract with Columbia Records and released her first hit single, “Sentimental Journey,” in 1945. Her sweet, velvety voice and charming personality endeared her to audiences, making her one of the most popular vocalists of her time.
In addition to her success as a singer, Day also found fame as an actress, starring in a series of hit films throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Her roles in movies like “Pillow Talk,” “Calamity Jane,” and “The Man Who Knew Too Much” showcased her natural talent, versatility, and comedic timing, earning her critical acclaim and several awards.
Throughout her career, Day continued to record music and perform live, releasing numerous albums and singles across various genres, including pop, jazz, and country. Her timeless songs like “Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)” and “Secret Love” remain beloved classics to this day.
Beyond her entertainment career, Day was also a passionate advocate for animal rights and welfare, founding the Doris Day Animal Foundation in 1978 to support animal rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
As a native of Ohio, Doris Day’s music and movies reflect the warmth, charm, and optimism of her Midwestern upbringing. With her talent, grace, and humanitarian efforts, she continues to be remembered as one of the most beloved and enduring icons of American popular culture.
5. Anita Baker
Anita Baker is an American singer-songwriter whose smooth, soulful voice and sophisticated style have made her one of the most celebrated R&B artists of her generation. Born on January 26, 1958, in Toledo, Ohio, Baker began singing in church choirs as a child and later pursued a career in music.
Baker’s breakthrough came in the mid-1980s with the release of her second album, “Rapture” (1986). The album featured the hit singles “Sweet Love,” “Caught Up in the Rapture,” and “Same Ole Love (365 Days a Year),” and earned her critical acclaim and commercial success. “Rapture” went on to win two Grammy Awards, including Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, Baker continued to release successful albums, including “Giving You the Best That I Got” (1988) and “Rhythm of Love” (1994). Her music is characterized by its lush, romantic ballads, smooth jazz influences, and Baker’s distinctive contralto voice.
Anita Baker’s music has earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including eight Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards, and seven Soul Train Music Awards. She is also known for her powerful live performances, captivating audiences with her soulful vocals and magnetic stage presence.
Despite her success, Baker has maintained a relatively low profile in the public eye, preferring to focus on her music and her family. She announced her retirement from touring in 2018 but has expressed a desire to continue recording new music.
Anita Baker’s contributions to R&B music have earned her a permanent place in the hearts of music lovers around the world. Her timeless songs and soulful voice continue to inspire and resonate with audiences of all ages.
6. Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman, born on March 30, 1964, in Cleveland, Ohio, is a highly acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice, poignant lyrics, and socially conscious songs. Raised in a working-class family, Chapman discovered her love for music at an early age, learning to play the guitar and honing her songwriting skills.
Chapman rose to prominence in the late 1980s with the release of her self-titled debut album, which featured the hit single “Fast Car.” The song’s raw emotion, evocative storytelling, and soulful vocals struck a chord with listeners around the world, earning Chapman widespread acclaim and commercial success.
Throughout her career, Chapman has continued to release albums that explore themes of love, loss, injustice, and social change. Songs like “Talkin’ ’bout a Revolution,” “Give Me One Reason,” and “Change” have become anthems for activism and empowerment, solidifying Chapman’s reputation as a voice for the voiceless and a champion for social justice.
In addition to her music career, Chapman is also known for her philanthropy and humanitarian work, supporting causes like education, poverty alleviation, and human rights. Her dedication to making a positive impact on the world has earned her numerous awards and accolades, including four Grammy Awards and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
As a native of Ohio, Tracy Chapman’s music reflects the resilience, empathy, and compassion of her Midwestern roots. With her soul-stirring voice and thought-provoking lyrics, she continues to inspire and empower audiences around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and social activism.
7. Bobby Womack (The Valentinos)
Bobby Womack was an American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer who had a significant impact on soul music. Born on March 4, 1944, in Cleveland, Ohio, Womack began his music career in the 1950s as a member of the gospel group The Womack Brothers, which later evolved into The Valentinos with Bobby as the lead singer.
In the early 1960s, The Valentinos gained attention for their soulful sound and released several successful singles, including “Lookin’ for a Love” and “It’s All Over Now.” The latter song, written by Bobby Womack, became a hit when it was covered by The Rolling Stones in 1964, launching Womack’s songwriting career into the mainstream.
As a solo artist, Womack released a series of acclaimed albums that showcased his powerful vocals and his ability to blend elements of soul, R&B, funk, and rock music. His 1971 album “Communication” and 1972 album “Understanding” are regarded as classics of the genre, featuring hits like “That’s the Way I Feel About Cha” and “Woman’s Gotta Have It.”
Throughout his career, Womack’s music often explored themes of love, heartbreak, and social commentary, resonating with audiences around the world. His raw, emotive singing style and his gritty, soulful voice earned him a reputation as one of the greatest soul singers of his generation.
In addition to his solo work, Womack collaborated with numerous artists across different genres, including Gorillaz, Damon Albarn, and Lana Del Rey. He continued to record and perform music up until his passing in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music that continues to inspire and influence artists today. Bobby Womack’s contributions to soul music have earned him a permanent place in the pantheon of music legends.
8. Bootsy Collins
Bootsy Collins, born William Earl Collins on October 26, 1951, in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a legendary funk musician, singer, songwriter, and producer known for his flamboyant style, virtuosic bass playing, and influential contributions to the genre. Raised in a musical family, Collins began playing the guitar at a young age before switching to the bass guitar, which would become his signature instrument.
Collins rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of James Brown’s backing band, The J.B.’s, where his funky bass lines and stage presence caught the attention of audiences and fellow musicians alike. He later joined George Clinton’s Parliament-Funkadelic collective, where he further solidified his reputation as one of the greatest bassists in funk music history.
In addition to his work with James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic, Collins also released several solo albums, including “Stretchin’ Out in Bootsy’s Rubber Band” and “Bootsy? Player of the Year,” which featured hits like “I’d Rather Be with You” and “Bootzilla.” His distinctive sound, colorful persona, and innovative approach to funk music earned him a devoted following and inspired countless musicians across genres.
Throughout his career, Collins has continued to push the boundaries of funk music, collaborating with artists like Prince, Deee-Lite, and Fatboy Slim, and releasing albums that blend funk with elements of rock, hip-hop, and electronica. With his larger-than-life persona and infectious grooves, Bootsy Collins remains a true icon of funk music, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and pop culture.
9. Kid Cudi
Kid Cudi, born Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi on January 30, 1984, in Cleveland, Ohio, is a highly influential rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor known for his introspective lyrics, innovative musical style, and boundary-pushing creativity. Raised in Cleveland, Cudi developed a passion for music at a young age, drawing inspiration from artists like OutKast, A Tribe Called Quest, and Nirvana.
Cudi gained widespread recognition in 2008 with the release of his debut mixtape, “A Kid Named Cudi,” which featured the breakout hit “Day ‘n’ Nite.” The song’s unique blend of hip-hop, electronic, and alternative influences caught the attention of listeners and critics alike, earning Cudi a devoted fanbase and paving the way for his success as an artist.
Since then, Cudi has released a series of successful albums, including “Man on the Moon: The End of Day,” “Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager,” and “Passion, Pain & Demon Slayin’.” His music, characterized by its candid exploration of mental health, substance abuse, and existential struggles, has resonated with audiences around the world, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success.
In addition to his music career, Cudi has also pursued acting, appearing in films such as “How to Make It in America” and “Need for Speed,” as well as the HBO series “Westworld.” His versatility as an artist and his willingness to tackle difficult subject matter have made him a beloved figure in both the music and entertainment industries.
As a native of Ohio, Kid Cudi’s music reflects the resilience, creativity, and authenticity of his Midwestern roots. With his introspective lyrics, genre-blending sound, and fearless approach to self-expression, he continues to inspire and influence artists and fans around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the world of hip-hop and popular culture.
10. Dave Grohl (Nirvana / Foo Fighters)
Dave Grohl is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and producer, best known as the drummer for the iconic rock band Nirvana and as the frontman and guitarist for the Foo Fighters. Born on January 14, 1969, in Warren, Ohio, Grohl’s musical career began in the 1980s when he played drums for various punk rock bands in the Washington, D.C., area.
In 1990, Grohl joined Nirvana as their drummer, replacing Chad Channing. Nirvana, led by Kurt Cobain, became one of the most influential and iconic bands of the 1990s, spearheading the grunge movement with hits like “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” “Come as You Are,” and “Heart-Shaped Box.” Grohl’s powerful drumming style and solid musicianship contributed to Nirvana’s distinctive sound and their meteoric rise to fame.
Following the tragic death of Kurt Cobain in 1994, Nirvana disbanded, and Grohl turned his attention to songwriting and recording his own music. In 1995, he formed the Foo Fighters, serving as the band’s lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter. The Foo Fighters quickly achieved commercial success with their self-titled debut album, featuring hits like “This Is a Call” and “Big Me.”
Since then, the Foo Fighters have released several critically acclaimed albums and have become one of the most successful rock bands of the past few decades. Their discography includes hits like “Everlong,” “My Hero,” “Learn to Fly,” and “The Pretender,” earning them numerous Grammy Awards and a dedicated fanbase worldwide.
In addition to his work with Nirvana and the Foo Fighters, Dave Grohl has collaborated with various artists across different genres and has pursued other creative projects, including the supergroup Them Crooked Vultures and his documentary film “Sound City.”
Dave Grohl’s contributions to rock music have earned him widespread acclaim and recognition as one of the most talented and influential musicians of his generation. He is admired for his songwriting abilities, his dynamic stage presence, and his dedication to preserving the spirit of rock and roll in the modern music landscape.
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.
