Iowa, known for its vast cornfields and friendly Midwestern charm, has also given rise to a number of talented singers who have made their mark on the music industry. From classic crooners to contemporary pop stars, these artists have showcased their unique voices and captivated audiences around the world. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 famous singers from Iowa and explore their remarkable careers.
1. Andy Williams
Andy Williams, born in Wall Lake, Iowa, was a beloved American singer known for his smooth, mellow voice and his popular TV variety show, “The Andy Williams Show.” With a career spanning over six decades, Williams recorded numerous hit songs, including “Moon River,” “Days of Wine and Roses,” and “Can’t Get Used to Losing You.” His warm, easy-listening style and his annual Christmas specials made him a household name and earned him a place in the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Williams continued to perform well into his later years, showcasing his enduring talent and passion for music. His legacy as one of Iowa’s most famous singers lives on through his timeless recordings and the memories he created for generations of music lovers.
2. Maddie Poppe
Maddie Poppe, a native of Clarksville, Iowa, rose to fame as the winner of the 16th season of American Idol in 2018. With her distinctive voice, heartfelt performances, and indie-folk style, Poppe captured the hearts of viewers and judges alike. Her debut album, “Whirlwind,” showcased her songwriting skills and featured a mix of original songs and covers that highlighted her unique sound. Since her Idol victory, Poppe has been touring extensively, sharing her music with fans across the country and beyond. Her down-to-earth personality and genuine passion for music have made her a rising star in the industry, and she continues to inspire aspiring singers with her talent and determination. As one of Iowa’s most recent breakout stars, Maddie Poppe is poised for a bright future in the music world.
3. Corey Taylor
Corey Taylor, born in Des Moines, Iowa, is best known as the lead vocalist and lyricist of the Grammy-nominated heavy metal band Slipknot and the rock band Stone Sour. With his powerful, dynamic voice and intense stage presence, Taylor has become one of the most influential figures in the metal and rock genres. His work with Slipknot, known for their elaborate masks and high-energy performances, has earned the band a devoted global following and critical acclaim. Taylor’s lyrics often explore themes of personal struggle, social commentary, and the human condition, adding depth and meaning to his music. Beyond his work with Slipknot and Stone Sour, Taylor has also collaborated with various artists and pursued solo projects, showcasing his versatility as a singer and songwriter. As one of Iowa’s most prominent musical exports, Corey Taylor continues to push the boundaries of heavy music and inspire fans with his raw talent and unwavering passion.
4. Gary Kroeger
Gary Kroeger, born in Cedar Falls, Iowa, is a multi-talented performer known for his work as a singer, actor, and comedian. Kroeger first gained recognition as a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1982 to 1985, where he showcased his comedic skills and musical abilities. As a singer, Kroeger has lent his voice to various projects, including the theme song for the animated series “Dilbert” and several musical theater productions. His smooth, expressive voice and his ability to infuse his performances with humor and charm have made him a sought-after talent in the entertainment industry. Beyond his singing career, Kroeger has also appeared in numerous films and television shows, further demonstrating his versatility as a performer. As one of Iowa’s most accomplished entertainers, Gary Kroeger continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences through his multifaceted talents.
5. Lolo
Lolo, born Lauren Pritchard in Jackson, Tennessee, and raised in Davenport, Iowa, is a talented singer, songwriter, and actress known for her powerful, soulful voice and her eclectic musical style. With a sound that blends elements of pop, rock, and R&B, Lolo has carved out a unique space in the music industry. Her debut EP, “Comeback Queen,” showcased her raw, emotive vocals and her ability to craft deeply personal and relatable lyrics. Lolo’s music has been featured in various television shows and films, exposing her talent to a wide audience. In addition to her music career, Lolo has also found success as an actress, appearing in Broadway productions and on television shows such as “Panic” and “The Affair.” As one of Iowa’s most promising young talents, Lolo continues to captivate audiences with her undeniable talent and her fearless approach to her art.
6. Greg Brown
Greg Brown, born in Fairfield, Iowa, is a renowned folk singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his rich, deep voice and his poetic, introspective lyrics. With a career spanning over four decades, Brown has released more than 30 albums and has become a beloved figure in the American folk music scene. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, nature, and the human experience, and his ability to paint vivid, evocative pictures with his words has earned him a dedicated following. Brown’s music is deeply rooted in the Midwest, and his songs often reflect the landscapes, people, and stories of his native Iowa. Beyond his solo work, Brown has also collaborated with numerous other artists and has been a mentor to many aspiring singer-songwriters. As one of Iowa’s most respected and influential folk musicians, Greg Brown continues to inspire and move audiences with his timeless music and his unwavering commitment to his craft.
7. Patty Ankrum
Patty Ankrum, born in Des Moines, Iowa, is a gifted opera singer known for her stunning soprano voice and her captivating stage presence. Ankrum has performed with opera companies and orchestras around the world, earning critical acclaim for her portrayals of some of the most iconic roles in the opera repertoire. Her voice has been described as luminous, expressive, and technically brilliant, and her ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters has made her a favorite among opera enthusiasts. Ankrum’s talent was recognized early on, and she received her training at some of the most prestigious music schools in the country, including the Juilliard School and the Curtis Institute of Music. Beyond her work on the opera stage, Ankrum has also been a sought-after concert performer and has recorded several acclaimed albums. As one of Iowa’s most distinguished classical singers, Patty Ankrum continues to enchant audiences with her extraordinary talent and her passion for her art.
8. Susan Werner
Susan Werner, born in Manchester, Iowa, is a versatile singer-songwriter known for her witty, intelligent lyrics and her ability to seamlessly blend elements of folk, jazz, and cabaret. With a career spanning over two decades, Werner has released more than a dozen albums and has become a beloved figure in the contemporary folk music scene. Her songs often tackle complex themes such as religion, politics, and social justice, and her clever wordplay and sharp observations have earned her a reputation as one of the most insightful and engaging songwriters of her generation. Werner’s live performances are known for their humor, warmth, and intimacy, and her ability to connect with her audience has made her a popular draw at festivals and concerts around the country. As one of Iowa’s most accomplished and respected singer-songwriters, Susan Werner continues to push the boundaries of her craft and inspire audiences with her unique voice and her fearless approach to her music.
9. Iris DeMent
Iris DeMent, born in Paragould, Arkansas, and raised in Oskaloosa, Iowa, is a celebrated folk and country singer-songwriter known for her distinctive, plaintive voice and her deeply personal, emotionally charged lyrics. DeMent’s music is rooted in the traditional sounds of the American South and Midwest, and her songs often explore themes of family, faith, and the struggles of everyday life. Her debut album, “Infamous Angel,” released in 1992, was a critical and commercial success and established her as one of the most promising new voices in folk and country music. DeMent’s subsequent albums have further showcased her talent as a songwriter and her ability to connect with her audience on a deep, emotional level. Beyond her solo work, DeMent has also collaborated with numerous other artists and has been a frequent guest on radio shows such as “A Prairie Home Companion.” As one of Iowa’s most beloved and influential singer-songwriters, Iris DeMent continues to touch the hearts of listeners with her timeless music and her unwavering commitment to her art.
10. Tracie Spencer
Tracie Spencer, born in Waterloo, Iowa, is a talented R&B and pop singer known for her powerful, soulful voice and her energetic, charismatic stage presence. Spencer first gained fame as a teenager in the late 1980s with her hit single “Symptoms of True Love,” which showcased her impressive vocal range and her ability to infuse her music with emotion and passion. Her subsequent albums, including “Make the Difference” and “Tracie,” further established her as a rising star in the R&B and pop genres, and she earned critical acclaim for her dynamic live performances. Spencer’s music often addresses themes of love, relationships, and personal empowerment, and her lyrics have resonated with fans around the world. Although she has taken breaks from the music industry throughout her career, Spencer’s talent and impact have not been forgotten, and she remains one of Iowa’s most beloved and influential R&B singers. With her undeniable talent and her enduring legacy, Tracie Spencer continues to inspire and entertain audiences with her timeless music.
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.
