Alaska, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rugged wilderness, has also produced a number of talented singers who have made significant contributions to the music industry. One notable example is Jewel Kilcher, commonly known as Jewel, who rose to fame in the 1990s with her unique blend of folk, pop, and country music. Hailing from Homer, Alaska, Jewel’s soulful voice and introspective songwriting captivated audiences worldwide, earning her multiple Grammy Award nominations and millions of album sales.
Another Alaskan singer who has gained recognition is Kodiak native Kate Earl. With her soulful voice and eclectic sound, Earl has earned critical acclaim for her music, which blends elements of pop, folk, and indie rock. Her songs have been featured in various films and television shows, and she has toured extensively, building a dedicated fan base.
These Alaskan singers, among others, have demonstrated that talent knows no geographical bounds, and their music continues to resonate with audiences far beyond the borders of the Last Frontier. Through their artistry and passion, they have helped put Alaska on the map as a source of musical talent and inspiration.
1. Hilary Weeks
Hilary Weeks is a highly regarded contemporary Christian music singer and songwriter who has made a significant impact with her heartfelt lyrics, soulful voice, and uplifting melodies. Born and raised in Gilbert, Arizona, Weeks discovered her passion for music at a young age and began writing songs as a teenager.
Throughout her career, Weeks has released numerous albums and singles that have resonated with audiences around the world. Her music often explores themes of faith, hope, and gratitude, drawing inspiration from her own personal experiences and beliefs. With her powerful voice and poignant lyrics, Weeks has touched the hearts of listeners and inspired them to find strength and solace in their own lives.
In addition to her work as a recording artist, Weeks is also known for her dynamic live performances and has toured extensively, sharing her music and message with audiences across the United States and beyond. Her concerts are known for their heartfelt sincerity and uplifting atmosphere, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
As one of the leading voices in contemporary Christian music, Hilary Weeks continues to inspire and uplift audiences with her music and message of hope. Her enduring legacy as a singer and songwriter is a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact of music on the human spirit.
2. John Luther Adams
John Luther Adams, born on January 23, 1953, is a highly acclaimed American composer known for his evocative and immersive works inspired by nature and the environment. With a deep reverence for the natural world, Adams’s music explores themes of landscape, ecology, and the human relationship with the Earth.
Born in Meridian, Mississippi, Adams spent much of his life in Alaska, where he developed a profound connection to the Arctic wilderness and the expansive landscapes of the region. This connection is reflected in his music, which often features expansive sonic textures, long sustained tones, and a sense of spaciousness reminiscent of the Alaskan wilderness.
Adams’s compositions range from large-scale orchestral works to intimate chamber pieces, but all share a common thread of environmental consciousness and a desire to evoke the beauty and power of the natural world. His most famous work, “Become Ocean,” won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2014 and has been hailed as a masterpiece of contemporary classical music.
In addition to his achievements as a composer, Adams is also a respected author and environmental activist, advocating for the protection of wild places and the importance of preserving our planet’s natural resources. Through his music and his advocacy, Adams has inspired countless listeners to reconsider their relationship with the Earth and to appreciate the profound beauty and complexity of the natural world.
3. Lincoln Brewster
Lincoln Brewster, born on July 30, 1971, in Fairbanks, Alaska, is an accomplished American musician, singer, songwriter, and worship leader. Known for his exceptional guitar skills, soulful vocals, and heartfelt lyrics, Brewster has made a significant impact in the contemporary Christian music scene.
Brewster’s musical journey began at a young age when he started playing drums in his father’s church. He later transitioned to guitar and quickly developed a prodigious talent for the instrument. His early experiences in church worship services laid the foundation for his future career as a worship leader and Christian artist.
In the late 1990s, Lincoln Brewster caught the attention of the music industry with his debut album, “Live to Worship,” which showcased his dynamic guitar playing and passionate vocals. He followed up with several successful albums, including “Amazed,” “Let the Praises Ring,” and “Real Life,” earning widespread acclaim and a devoted fan base within the Christian music community.
Brewster’s music is characterized by its uplifting messages, anthemic choruses, and infectious melodies, which have resonated with audiences around the world. His songs, such as “Everlasting God,” “Today Is the Day,” and “There Is Power,” have become staples in worship services and church gatherings, inspiring believers to deepen their faith and draw closer to God.
In addition to his solo career, Lincoln Brewster is also known for his work as a worship pastor, serving at churches such as Bayside Church in Granite Bay, California. His passion for leading others in worship and his commitment to spreading the message of hope and redemption through music continue to define his ministry and influence.
With his extraordinary talent, genuine faith, and unwavering dedication to his craft, Lincoln Brewster has become a respected figure in the contemporary Christian music industry. His music continues to touch hearts and transform lives, making him a beloved artist and worship leader for audiences of all ages.
4. Artis the Spoonman
Artis the Spoonman, born Artis Louis Svanberg, is an American musician and performer known for his unique and captivating style of playing the spoons. Born on January 23, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Artis has become an iconic figure in the world of street performance and music.
Artis the Spoonman gained widespread recognition for his collaboration with the legendary grunge band Soundgarden. He was featured prominently in their hit song “Spoonman,” which appeared on their 1994 album “Superunknown.” Artis’s rhythmic spoon playing added a distinctive and memorable element to the song, earning him critical acclaim and a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance.
Beyond his collaboration with Soundgarden, Artis the Spoonman has enjoyed a long and illustrious career as a street performer, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing spoon playing and charismatic stage presence. He has performed on street corners, at festivals, and in venues around the world, showcasing his unique talent and spreading joy to all who hear him play.
In addition to his spoon playing, Artis is also an accomplished musician on other instruments, including the guitar and harmonica. He is known for his improvisational skills and ability to blend different musical styles into his performances, creating a truly one-of-a-kind musical experience for his audiences.
Artis the Spoonman’s contributions to the world of music and performance art have earned him a dedicated following and a lasting legacy as one of the most iconic street performers of his generation. His infectious energy, creativity, and passion for music continue to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.
5. John Gourley (Portugal. The Man)
John Gourley is the lead vocalist and guitarist of the Grammy Award-winning American rock band Portugal. The Man. Born on June 12, 1981, in Alaska, Gourley co-founded the band in 2004 along with his childhood friend Zach Carothers. Since then, Portugal. The Man has garnered widespread acclaim for their eclectic sound, genre-blending music, and thought-provoking lyrics.
Gourley’s distinctive voice and dynamic stage presence have been central to the band’s success, with his soulful vocals and impassioned performances captivating audiences around the world. With hits like “Feel It Still” and “Purple Yellow Red and Blue,” Portugal. The Man has earned critical acclaim and commercial success, winning a Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2018.
In addition to his work with Portugal. The Man, Gourley is also an accomplished songwriter and visual artist, known for his creative vision and innovative approach to music and art. He has collaborated with a variety of artists and musicians, exploring new sonic territories and pushing the boundaries of rock music.
Through his music and his art, John Gourley has become a leading figure in contemporary rock music, inspiring audiences with his creativity, passion, and commitment to artistic expression. As Portugal. The Man continues to evolve and innovate, Gourley’s influence on the music industry remains profound, cementing his legacy as one of the most dynamic and visionary artists of his generation.
6. Khleo Thomas
Khleo Thomas, born on January 30, 1989, in Anchorage, Alaska, is a multi-talented American actor, rapper, singer, and entertainer. He gained prominence at a young age for his acting roles in film and television, and later pursued a career in music.
Thomas began his acting career in the early 2000s with roles in television shows such as “Friends,” “ER,” and “The Bernie Mac Show.” However, he is perhaps best known for his role as Zero in the hit Disney film “Holes” (2003), based on the novel by Louis Sachar. His performance earned him critical acclaim and introduced him to a wider audience.
In addition to his acting career, Khleo Thomas is also a talented musician. He has released several albums and mixtapes, showcasing his skills as a rapper and singer. His music often reflects on his personal experiences and explores themes such as love, relationships, and self-discovery.
Thomas’s music career has been characterized by his versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles and sounds. He has collaborated with a variety of artists and producers, creating a unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop that resonates with listeners of all ages.
In recent years, Khleo Thomas has continued to pursue both acting and music, balancing his time between film and television projects and his music career. He remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, admired for his talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft.
7. Kelly Moneymaker
Kelly Moneymaker is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals, dynamic stage presence, and diverse musical style. Born on June 4, 1970, in Fairbanks, Alaska, Moneymaker began her music career at a young age, honing her skills as a vocalist and performer.
Moneymaker gained prominence in the music industry as the lead singer of the pop group Exposé in the late 1980s and early 1990s. With hits like “Come Go with Me” and “Seasons Change,” Exposé achieved commercial success and earned critical acclaim for their infectious dance-pop sound and Moneymaker’s soulful vocals.
After leaving Exposé, Moneymaker embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums and singles that showcased her versatility as an artist. Her music blends elements of pop, rock, and soul, with Moneymaker’s powerful voice serving as the focal point of her performances.
In addition to her solo work, Moneymaker has collaborated with a variety of artists and musicians, lending her vocals to a wide range of projects across different genres. Her passion for music and dedication to her craft have earned her a dedicated fan base and the respect of her peers in the industry.
As she continues to pursue her musical endeavors, Kelly Moneymaker remains an influential figure in the world of pop music, inspiring audiences with her talent, passion, and unwavering commitment to her artistry.
8. Jewel
Jewel Kilcher, known professionally as Jewel, is a versatile American singer-songwriter, musician, actress, and poet. Born on May 23, 1974, in Payson, Utah, she rose to prominence in the mid-1990s with her distinctive folk-influenced sound and introspective lyrics.
Jewel’s debut album, “Pieces of You,” released in 1995, catapulted her to fame with hit singles like “Who Will Save Your Soul,” “You Were Meant for Me,” and “Foolish Games.” The album’s acoustic-driven sound and heartfelt songwriting resonated with audiences, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. “Pieces of You” went on to become one of the best-selling debut albums of all time.
Throughout her career, Jewel has continued to release albums that showcase her versatility as an artist. She has explored various musical genres, including pop, country, and folk, while maintaining her signature introspective style and poetic lyricism. Her albums, such as “Spirit,” “0304,” and “Perfectly Clear,” have received praise for their emotional depth and musical innovation.
In addition to her music career, Jewel has ventured into acting and writing. She has appeared in films such as “Ride with the Devil” and “Ring of Fire” and has authored several books, including a memoir and collections of poetry.
Jewel’s impact on the music industry extends beyond her own recordings. She has collaborated with a diverse range of artists and has been recognized for her philanthropic efforts, including her work with organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the National Mental Health Association.
With her soulful voice, poetic lyrics, and unwavering authenticity, Jewel has left an indelible mark on the music world. Her enduring influence and commitment to artistic expression continue to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike.
9. Jason Everman (Nirvana)
Jason Everman is a musician who is best known for his brief stints as a guitarist with two iconic bands, Nirvana and Soundgarden. Born on October 16, 1967, Everman joined Nirvana in 1989, shortly after the release of their debut album “Bleach.” He played guitar on the band’s first tour of Europe but left before the recording of their breakthrough album, “Nevermind.”
Following his departure from Nirvana, Everman briefly joined Soundgarden as a bassist, but he was dismissed from the band before they achieved mainstream success. Despite his short-lived tenure with these two influential bands, Everman’s contributions to the grunge scene are noteworthy, and he remains an intriguing figure in the history of alternative rock.
After his time in the music industry, Everman pursued other interests, including serving in the U.S. Army Special Forces and earning a degree in philosophy from Columbia University. His diverse experiences and unconventional career path have made him a fascinating figure to fans and observers of the grunge era.
10. Kate Earl
Kate Earl, born on November 24, 1981, is an American singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and eclectic musical style. Born in Anchorage, Alaska, Earl began pursuing music at a young age, drawing inspiration from her diverse musical influences, including folk, pop, soul, and rock.
Earl gained attention in the mid-2000s with the release of her debut album, “Fate Is the Hunter,” in 2005. The album showcased her powerful vocals and introspective songwriting, earning her critical acclaim and comparisons to artists like Fiona Apple and Norah Jones.
In the years following her debut, Kate Earl continued to release music and explore different musical styles. Her sophomore album, “Vocalist,” released in 2009, featured a more polished pop sound and received positive reviews from critics. Earl’s subsequent albums, including “Stronger” (2012) and “Rendezvous” (2018), further showcased her growth as an artist and her ability to blend elements of folk, pop, and soul into her music.
Throughout her career, Kate Earl has toured extensively and collaborated with a variety of artists and producers. Her music has been featured in film and television, and she has earned a dedicated fan base with her passionate performances and heartfelt lyrics.
In addition to her musical career, Earl is also known for her activism and advocacy work. She has spoken out on issues such as mental health awareness and LGBTQ rights, using her platform to promote positive change and social justice.
With her soulful voice and introspective songwriting, Kate Earl continues to captivate audiences with her music and inspire listeners with her authenticity and passion. As she continues to evolve as an artist, her impact on the music industry is sure to endure for 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.
