New Hampshire, while not widely known for its contributions to the music industry, has nonetheless been home to several talented singers and musicians who have made their mark on the world of music. Situated in the northeastern United States, New Hampshire’s picturesque landscapes and close-knit communities have provided fertile ground for artistic expression and creativity.
One notable singer from New Hampshire is Ronnie James Dio, a legendary vocalist and frontman known for his powerful performances in the realm of heavy metal and hard rock. Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Dio rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of bands like Rainbow and Black Sabbath, solidifying his status as one of the greatest vocalists in rock history.
In addition to Ronnie James Dio, New Hampshire has also produced other talented musicians who have contributed to various genres of music. While the state may not be as renowned for its music scene as some other regions, the artists who have emerged from New Hampshire have left an indelible mark on the industry, showcasing the diverse talents and rich musical heritage that can be found in every corner of the United States.
1. Tom Rush
Tom Rush, born on February 8, 1941, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a legendary American folk and blues singer-songwriter who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With his soulful voice, intricate guitar work, and poignant storytelling, Rush has captivated audiences for over six decades, earning him widespread acclaim and admiration.
Rush emerged as a prominent figure in the folk revival of the 1960s, alongside artists like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Joni Mitchell. His early performances at the famed Club 47 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, helped solidify his reputation as a gifted interpreter of traditional folk songs and a talented songwriter in his own right.
Throughout his career, Tom Rush has released numerous albums showcasing his versatility and musical prowess. His 1968 album “The Circle Game” is considered a classic of the folk genre, featuring iconic songs such as “No Regrets” and Joni Mitchell’s “Urge for Going.” Rush’s ability to blend elements of folk, blues, country, and rock has endeared him to fans of all ages and musical backgrounds.
In addition to his solo work, Tom Rush has also been a champion of emerging talent, helping to launch the careers of artists like James Taylor and Jackson Browne by covering their songs and inviting them to open for his concerts.
As he continues to perform and record music, Tom Rush remains a beloved and influential figure in the folk music community, inspiring generations of musicians with his timeless songs and heartfelt performances. His legacy as a storyteller and troubadour continues to resonate with audiences around the world, ensuring that his music will be cherished for years to come.
2. Livingston Taylor
Livingston Taylor, born on November 21, 1950, in Boston, Massachusetts, is a highly regarded American singer-songwriter and folk musician whose illustrious career has spanned over five decades. As a member of the esteemed Taylor musical family, which includes his brother James Taylor, Livingston has carved out a unique and celebrated niche in the music industry.
From an early age, Livingston Taylor demonstrated a natural aptitude for music, mastering various instruments and developing a distinctive vocal style that blends elements of folk, pop, blues, and jazz. His early performances in the vibrant folk scene of Boston garnered attention for his soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting.
In 1970, Livingston Taylor released his self-titled debut album, which included the hit single “Carolina Day.” The album showcased Taylor’s talent as a songwriter and performer, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Subsequent albums like “Liv” and “Over the Rainbow” further solidified his reputation as a gifted musician and storyteller.
In addition to his music career, Livingston Taylor is also an accomplished educator and author, known for his engaging and insightful lectures on music and performance. He has served as a professor at the Berklee College of Music for over 30 years, inspiring countless students with his passion for music and his wealth of knowledge.
Throughout his career, Livingston Taylor has remained true to his roots, crafting timeless songs that resonate with audiences of all ages. His soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious enthusiasm continue to captivate listeners around the world, cementing his status as a beloved icon of the folk music genre.
3. Mark Levine
Mark Levine may refer to several individuals, but one notable figure is Mark Levine, an American radio host, author, and former politician. Here’s a brief overview:
Mark Levin (note: Levin, not Levine) is a conservative American lawyer, author, and media personality. He hosts “The Mark Levin Show,” a nationally syndicated talk radio show, and he is also the president of the Landmark Legal Foundation, a conservative legal advocacy group.
Levin served in the Reagan administration and has authored several books on politics and legal theory, including “Liberty and Tyranny: A Conservative Manifesto” and “The Liberty Amendments: Restoring the American Republic.”
His radio show often focuses on conservative political commentary and analysis, with Levin advocating for limited government, individual liberty, and traditional American values.
If you were referring to a different Mark Levine or had a specific context in mind, please provide more details.
4. Our Last Night
“Our Last Night” is an American post-hardcore band formed in 2004 by brothers Trevor Wentworth (vocals) and Matt Wentworth (guitar, vocals). The band is based in Hollis, New Hampshire. Alongside the Wentworth brothers, the band’s current lineup includes Alex “Woody” Woodrow (bass) and Timothy Molloy (drums).
The band gained popularity through their YouTube channel, where they post covers of popular songs as well as original music. Their covers often feature a post-hardcore or alternative rock twist, and they’ve covered songs by artists such as Adele, Katy Perry, and Ed Sheeran, among others.
In addition to their covers, Our Last Night has released several albums and EPs of original music, blending elements of post-hardcore, alternative rock, and metalcore. Some of their notable albums include “The Ghosts Among Us,” “We Will All Evolve,” and “Younger Dreams.”
The band has built a dedicated fanbase and continues to tour and release new music, maintaining a strong presence in the alternative music scene.
5. Say Zuzu
Say Zuzu is a band formed in 1990 by brothers Rob and Tom Lisenbee, originating from Lincoln, Nebraska. Their music blends elements of folk, rock, and Americana, creating a unique and captivating sound that has garnered them a dedicated following.
The band’s name, Say Zuzu, is derived from a line in the film “It’s a Wonderful Life,” adding a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to their identity. Since their inception, Say Zuzu has been known for their heartfelt lyrics, lush harmonies, and skilled instrumentation, drawing inspiration from the landscapes and experiences of their Midwestern roots.
Throughout their career, Say Zuzu has released several albums, including “Halfway From Nogales” and “Blink,” which have received critical acclaim for their evocative storytelling and rich musical textures. Their songs often explore themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, resonating with audiences who appreciate their introspective and authentic approach to songwriting.
In addition to their studio recordings, Say Zuzu is celebrated for their dynamic live performances, where they showcase their musical prowess and heartfelt performances. Whether performing in intimate venues or larger festivals, the band’s infectious energy and genuine connection with their audience leave a lasting impression on all who experience their music.
Despite lineup changes and the ebb and flow of the music industry, Say Zuzu has remained a steadfast presence in the Nebraska music scene, continuing to create beautiful music that speaks to the heart and soul. With their enduring talent and timeless sound, Say Zuzu continues to inspire listeners and remind us of the power of music to uplift and connect us all.
6. Ray LaMontagne
Ray LaMontagne is an American singer-songwriter known for his soulful, folk-inspired music. He was born on June 18, 1973, in Nashua, New Hampshire, USA. LaMontagne emerged onto the music scene with his debut album, “Trouble,” released in 2004, which received critical acclaim and earned him comparisons to artists like Van Morrison and Otis Redding.
LaMontagne’s music is characterized by his distinctive raspy voice, introspective lyrics, and a blend of folk, rock, and soul influences. His songwriting often delves into themes of love, loss, redemption, and self-discovery.
Some of his most well-known songs include “Trouble,” “Jolene,” “You Are the Best Thing,” “Hold You in My Arms,” and “Such a Simple Thing.”
Throughout his career, LaMontagne has released several successful albums, including “Till the Sun Turns Black” (2006), “Gossip in the Grain” (2008), “God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise” (2010, which won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album), “Supernova” (2014), “Ouroboros” (2016), and “Part of the Light” (2018).
LaMontagne’s music has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. He continues to tour and release new music, showcasing his unique blend of soulful vocals and heartfelt songwriting.
7. Jon Spencer
Jon Spencer is an American singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for his work in several influential alternative rock bands. Born on February 4, 1965, in Hanover, New Hampshire, Spencer has been a prominent figure in the indie and underground music scene since the late 1980s.
One of Spencer’s most notable projects is the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, a band he formed in 1991 with guitarist Judah Bauer and drummer Russell Simins. The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion blended elements of blues, punk, garage rock, and electronic music, creating a raw and energetic sound. The band released numerous albums, including “Extra Width” (1993), “Orange” (1994), and “Now I Got Worry” (1996), which garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
In addition to the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Jon Spencer has been involved in various other musical projects, including Pussy Galore, Boss Hog (with his wife Cristina Martinez), and Heavy Trash (with Matt Verta-Ray).
Spencer’s music is characterized by his intense and charismatic stage presence, as well as his unique approach to blending various musical genres. Over the years, he has remained a significant figure in alternative rock and underground music scenes, continuing to innovate and push boundaries with his music.
8. Ronnie James Dio
Ronnie James Dio, born Ronald James Padavona on July 10, 1942, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, was a legendary vocalist and songwriter in the realm of heavy metal and hard rock. Dio’s career spanned over five decades, during which he fronted several iconic bands and established himself as one of the most influential and revered figures in the history of rock music.
Dio first gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the band Rainbow, formed by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore in 1975. With Dio at the helm, Rainbow released several classic albums, including “Rising” and “Long Live Rock ‘n’ Roll,” solidifying his reputation as a powerhouse vocalist with his soaring vocal range and charismatic stage presence.
In 1979, Dio joined forces with Black Sabbath, replacing Ozzy Osbourne as the band’s lead vocalist. With Dio on board, Black Sabbath released two highly successful albums, “Heaven and Hell” and “Mob Rules,” revitalizing the band’s sound and earning widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike.
Following his tenure with Black Sabbath, Ronnie James Dio embarked on a successful solo career, releasing a string of albums under the band name Dio. His solo work, characterized by epic storytelling, fantasy themes, and powerful vocals, further solidified his status as a heavy metal icon.
Throughout his career, Ronnie James Dio’s influence on the genre of heavy metal was immeasurable, inspiring countless musicians with his distinctive voice, dynamic stage presence, and unwavering dedication to his craft. His contributions to the world of rock music continue to be celebrated by fans around the globe, ensuring that his legacy as one of the greatest vocalists in rock history will endure for generations to come.
9. Mandy Moore
Mandy Moore is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She was born on April 10, 1984, in Nashua, New Hampshire, USA. Moore began her career in music in the late 1990s, gaining recognition for her pop music albums.
Her debut single, “Candy,” released in 1999, became a commercial success and helped establish her as a pop music sensation. Moore’s debut album, “So Real,” was released later that year, followed by “I Wanna Be with You” in 2000.
In addition to her music career, Moore has also found success as an actress. She made her film debut in “The Princess Diaries” (2001) and later starred in films such as “A Walk to Remember” (2002), “Saved!” (2004), and “Because I Said So” (2007).
One of Moore’s most notable acting roles is as Rebecca Pearson in the NBC drama series “This Is Us,” which premiered in 2016. Her performance in the series has earned her critical acclaim and award nominations.
In recent years, Moore has returned to her music career with the release of the album “Silver Landings” in 2020, marking her first studio album in over a decade. The album showcases a more mature and introspective sound compared to her earlier pop music.
Throughout her career, Moore has demonstrated versatility and talent both as a musician and actress, earning her a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim in both fields.
10. The Shaggs
The Shaggs were an American all-female rock band formed in Fremont, New Hampshire, in 1968. The band consisted of three sisters: Dorothy “Dot” Wiggin (vocals, lead guitar), Betty Wiggin (vocals, rhythm guitar), and Helen Wiggin (drums). The group was managed by their father, Austin Wiggin Jr.
The Shaggs gained notoriety for their unconventional and idiosyncratic musical style. Despite having minimal musical training or experience, the sisters were encouraged by their father to form a band and pursue a career in music. Their music is characterized by its raw, unpolished sound, unconventional song structures, and off-kilter lyrics.
In 1969, the Shaggs recorded their only studio album, “Philosophy of the World,” which was released in 1969. The album received little attention upon its release and was largely ignored by the mainstream music industry. However, over time, “Philosophy of the World” gained a cult following and became celebrated for its outsider art appeal and unique charm.
Despite their lack of commercial success during their initial run, the Shaggs’ music has since been reevaluated and praised by musicians and critics alike for its sincerity and authenticity. Their story has inspired documentaries, books, and tribute albums, cementing their legacy as one of the most unusual and intriguing bands in rock history.
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.
