Alaska, known for its stunning natural beauty and rugged wilderness, has also produced a number of talented and influential singers over the years. From folk and country to pop and rock, these artists have made their mark on the music world, showcasing the unique spirit and creativity of the Last Frontier. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 famous singers from Alaska, delving into their backgrounds, musical styles, and the impact they’ve had on the industry.
1. Jewel
Jewel Kilcher, known mononymously as Jewel, is an acclaimed singer-songwriter born in Payson, Utah, but raised in Homer, Alaska. Her unique blend of folk, country, and pop music has earned her a devoted following and numerous accolades, including four Grammy Award nominations. Jewel’s debut album, “Pieces of You,” released in 1995, showcased her powerful, emotive vocals and introspective lyrics, with hit singles like “Who Will Save Your Soul,” “You Were Meant for Me,” and “Foolish Games.” Throughout her career, she has explored various genres, from folk and country to children’s music and even poetry. Jewel’s music often reflects her Alaskan roots, with themes of nature, self-discovery, and resilience. Beyond her musical achievements, she is also known for her philanthropy and activism, particularly in the areas of mental health and youth homelessness. With her distinctive voice, heartfelt lyrics, and commitment to making a difference, Jewel has become one of Alaska’s most beloved and influential musical exports.
2. Portugal. The Man
Portugal. The Man is an indie rock band formed in Wasilla, Alaska, in 2004. The group, known for their psychedelic and experimental sound, consists of John Gourley, Zach Carothers, Kyle O’Quin, Jason Sechrist, and Eric Howk. Their music often incorporates elements of rock, pop, and electronic genres, with introspective and socially conscious lyrics. Portugal. The Man gained mainstream success with their 2017 single “Feel It Still,” which topped charts worldwide and earned them a Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. The band’s albums, such as “Evil Friends,” “In the Mountain in the Cloud,” and “Woodstock,” have showcased their evolving sound and eclectic influences. Throughout their career, Portugal. The Man has collaborated with various artists and producers, including Danger Mouse and Mike D of the Beastie Boys. The band’s Alaskan roots have influenced their music and imagery, often incorporating themes of nature, isolation, and self-discovery. With their unique blend of genres, thought-provoking lyrics, and dynamic live performances, Portugal. The Man has become one of Alaska’s most successful and influential musical acts.
3. Marian Call
Marian Call is an indie singer-songwriter born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. Known for her quirky, witty, and genre-bending music, Call has built a loyal following through her engaging live performances and clever lyrics. Her music often incorporates elements of folk, jazz, and geek culture, with songs inspired by science fiction, literature, and her Alaskan upbringing. Call’s debut album, “Vanilla,” released in 2007, showcased her unique style and storytelling abilities. She has since released several albums and EPs, including “Got to Fly,” “Something Fierce,” and “Standing Stones,” each exploring different themes and musical influences. Call is known for her innovative approach to touring and fan engagement, often organizing house concerts and using social media to connect with her audience. She has also collaborated with various artists and musicians, including fellow geek culture enthusiasts and members of the San Francisco Bay Area music scene. With her distinctive voice, creative songwriting, and passion for community-building, Marian Call has become a beloved figure in the Alaskan music scene and beyond.
4. Pamyua
Pamyua is an Inuit-Yup’ik musical group from Anchorage, Alaska, known for their unique blend of traditional Alaskan Native music and contemporary genres like funk, R&B, and gospel. The group, consisting of brothers Phillip and Stephen Blanchett, along with Ossie Kairaiuak and Karina Moeller, has been performing and recording since 1995. Pamyua’s music celebrates and preserves the cultural heritage of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples, with songs performed in Yup’ik and Inuit languages and featuring traditional drum patterns and vocal techniques. The group’s albums, such as “Caught in the Act,” “Side A / Side B,” and “Aasiva,” have earned critical acclaim and a devoted following. Pamyua has performed at numerous festivals and events worldwide, including the Olympics, the Kennedy Center, and the Smithsonian Institution. They have also collaborated with various artists and musicians, including Tanya Tagaq and Zap Mama. Through their music, Pamyua aims to promote cultural understanding, celebrate Indigenous identity, and inspire future generations to embrace their heritage. With their innovative sound, powerful vocals, and commitment to preserving tradition, Pamyua has become one of Alaska’s most unique and influential musical acts.
5. Kate Earl
Kate Earl is a singer-songwriter born and raised in Chugiak, Alaska. Known for her soulful, poetic, and genre-blending music, Earl has built a successful career in the indie and alternative music scenes. Her music often incorporates elements of folk, pop, and R&B, with introspective and emotionally charged lyrics. Earl’s debut album, “Fate Is the Hunter,” released in 2005, showcased her unique style and songwriting abilities. She has since released several albums and EPs, including “Kate Earl,” “Stronger,” and “Tongue Tied,” each exploring different themes and musical influences. Earl’s music has been featured in various television shows and films, including “Grey’s Anatomy,” “One Tree Hill,” and “27 Dresses.” She has also collaborated with numerous artists and producers, such as Rilo Kiley’s Blake Sennett and Eurythmics’ Dave Stewart. Throughout her career, Earl has drawn inspiration from her Alaskan roots, often incorporating themes of nature, self-discovery, and resilience into her music. With her powerful voice, evocative lyrics, and ability to blend genres seamlessly, Kate Earl has become one of Alaska’s most distinctive and captivating musical talents.
6. Kat Moore
Kat Moore is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Anchorage, Alaska. Known for her eclectic and experimental music, Moore has built a following in the indie and alternative music scenes. Her music often incorporates elements of folk, rock, and electronic genres, with poetic and introspective lyrics. Moore’s debut EP, “The Reins,” released in 2014, showcased her unique style and songwriting abilities. She has since released several singles and collaborations, including “Untitled (Love Song)” and “The Return.” Moore’s music has been featured in various films and television shows, including “The Vampire Diaries” and “The Originals.” She has also performed at numerous festivals and events, such as the Anchorage Folk Festival and the Alaska State Fair. Beyond her musical pursuits, Moore is also an advocate for mental health awareness and has been open about her own struggles with anxiety and depression. Through her music and activism, she aims to create a space for honest conversation and self-expression. With her innovative sound, heartfelt lyrics, and commitment to authenticity, Kat Moore has become one of Alaska’s most promising and influential young musicians.
7. Irene Bedard
Irene Bedard is an actress, singer, and activist born in Anchorage, Alaska, of Inupiat, Yup’ik, and Cree descent. Best known for her voice acting work in Disney’s “Pocahontas” and its sequel, Bedard has also pursued a successful music career. Her music often incorporates elements of traditional Native American music and contemporary genres like folk and country, with lyrics that celebrate her Indigenous heritage and address social and environmental issues. Bedard’s debut album, “Warrior of Love,” released in 2003, showcased her powerful vocals and storytelling abilities. She has since contributed music to various films and television shows, including “Smoke Signals” and “Into the West.” Bedard has also performed at numerous festivals and events, such as the Native American Music Awards and the Sundance Film Festival. Throughout her career, Bedard has been a vocal advocate for Indigenous rights, environmental protection, and cultural preservation. She has worked with various organizations and initiatives, including the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Indigenous Environmental Network. With her multifaceted talents, commitment to activism, and celebration of her Alaskan Native roots, Irene Bedard has become an influential figure in both the entertainment industry and Indigenous communities.
8. Jody Seay
Jody Seay is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Anchorage, Alaska. Known for her rootsy, Americana-influenced music, Seay has built a devoted following in the folk and country music scenes. Her music often incorporates elements of bluegrass, blues, and rock, with lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and the human experience. Seay’s debut album, “Lately,” released in 2010, showcased her versatile musicianship and songwriting abilities. She has since released several albums and EPs, including “Nothin’ to Lose,” “The Road to Wyo,” and “Heart of Gold,” each highlighting different aspects of her musical style and influences. Seay has performed at various festivals and venues across Alaska and the United States, often collaborating with other musicians and bands. She has also been involved in music education and mentorship, teaching guitar and songwriting to students of all ages. With her warm vocals, skillful instrumentation, and relatable lyrics, Jody Seay has become a respected figure in the Alaskan music scene, representing the state’s rich tradition of folk and country music.
9. Emma Hill
Emma Hill is a singer-songwriter from Sleetmute, Alaska, known for her introspective, folk-influenced music. With a voice that has been described as both haunting and comforting, Hill’s songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, drawing inspiration from her Alaskan upbringing and the natural world. Hill’s debut album, “Clumsy Seduction,” released in 2007, showcased her poetic lyrics and fingerstyle guitar playing. She has since released several albums and EPs, including “Meet Me at the Moon,” “The Black and Wretched Blue,” and “Denali,” each featuring collaborations with various Alaskan and Pacific Northwest musicians. Hill has toured extensively throughout Alaska, the United States, and Europe, captivating audiences with her intimate live performances and storytelling. She has also been involved in various community projects and workshops, using music as a tool for healing and connection. With her raw, emotional vocals and evocative songwriting, Emma Hill has become one of Alaska’s most beloved and influential folk musicians, earning comparisons to artists like Joni Mitchell and Neko Case.
10. Pharis Romero
Pharis Romero is a jazz and soul singer from Juneau, Alaska. With a powerful, expressive voice and a deep love for the jazz tradition, Romero has become a prominent figure in the Alaskan music scene and beyond. Her music often pays homage to the classic jazz singers of the past while incorporating elements of soul, R&B, and Latin jazz. Romero’s debut album, “Introducing Pharis Romero,” released in 2015, showcased her versatile vocal abilities and unique interpretations of jazz standards. She has since released several singles and collaborations, including “Love Is Here to Stay” and “Besame Mucho.” Romero has performed at various jazz clubs, festivals, and events across Alaska and the United States, often accompanied by her band, The Pharis Romero Quartet. She has also been involved in music education and mentorship, teaching vocal workshops and collaborating with schools and community organizations. With her dynamic stage presence, impeccable vocal technique, and passion for jazz, Pharis Romero has become one of Alaska’s most promising and influential young musicians, representing the state’s thriving jazz scene.
In conclusion, these ten singers represent the diverse and vibrant music scene of Alaska, showcasing the state’s unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and creative spirit. From folk and country to jazz and experimental genres, each of these artists has made a significant impact on the music world, inspiring listeners with their powerful voices, heartfelt lyrics, and innovative sounds. As Alaska continues to nurture and support its musical talents, we can expect to see even more exciting and influential singers emerge from the Last Frontier in the years to come.
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.
