West Virginia, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, has been home to numerous influential singers who have left an enduring mark on the music industry. One such luminary is Brad Paisley, the multi-talented country music artist born in Glen Dale. Paisley’s distinctive blend of traditional country sounds with modern flair has earned him widespread acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying his status as one of country music’s most beloved artists.
Another notable figure from West Virginia is Kathy Mattea, the Grammy-winning country music singer-songwriter born in South Charleston. Mattea’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with audiences around the world, earning her critical praise and commercial success.
West Virginia has also produced rock icons like Bill Withers, whose timeless hits like “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Lean on Me” have become classics of the genre. Withers’ soulful vocals and evocative songwriting have left an indelible mark on popular music and continue to inspire generations of artists.
These singers, among others, represent the diverse talent and musical legacy of West Virginia, each contributing their own unique voice to the cultural fabric of the state and leaving an enduring impact on the world of music.
1. Brad Paisley
Brad Paisley is a highly acclaimed American country music artist known for his distinctive blend of traditional country sounds with modern flair. Born on October 28, 1972, in Glen Dale, West Virginia, Paisley’s career began at a young age, and he quickly rose to prominence in the country music scene.
Paisley’s clever songwriting, virtuosic guitar skills, and charismatic stage presence have earned him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and Country Music Association Awards. His chart-topping hits like “Whiskey Lullaby,” “Mud on the Tires,” and “She’s Everything” have solidified his status as one of country music’s most beloved artists.
Beyond his musical talent, Paisley is also known for his witty sense of humor, often showcased in his lyrics and stage banter. He is a master storyteller, weaving tales of love, heartbreak, and everyday life that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Paisley’s contributions to country music extend beyond his own solo career. He has collaborated with numerous artists across genres and is a respected producer and songwriter in the industry. Additionally, Paisley is involved in philanthropic efforts, supporting causes like disaster relief and music education.
With his timeless melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and genuine passion for his craft, Brad Paisley continues to inspire audiences around the world and remains a shining star in the country music landscape.
2. Kathy Mattea
Kathy Mattea is an acclaimed American country music singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and captivating stage presence. Born on June 21, 1959, in South Charleston, West Virginia, Mattea’s career spans several decades and has earned her numerous awards and accolades.
Mattea’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and the human experience, resonating with audiences around the world. Her rich, emotive vocals and authentic storytelling have made her a beloved figure in the country music community.
With hits like “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses,” “Where’ve You Been,” and “Come from the Heart,” Mattea has solidified her status as one of country music’s most iconic voices. Her chart-topping albums and singles have earned her multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards, and Academy of Country Music Awards.
Beyond her musical career, Mattea is also known for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy work. She has used her platform to raise awareness about issues such as environmental conservation and Appalachian culture, using her music as a means to promote positive change in the world.
With her timeless melodies, poignant lyrics, and unwavering commitment to her artistry, Kathy Mattea continues to inspire audiences and leave an indelible mark on the world of country music.
3. Little Jimmy Dickens
Little Jimmy Dickens, born James Cecil Dickens on December 19, 1920, was an American country music singer and songwriter. He was known for his diminutive stature, standing at just 4 feet 11 inches tall, and his comedic stage presence.
Dickens began his music career in the 1940s and gained fame as a performer on the Grand Ole Opry radio show in Nashville, Tennessee. He released numerous singles and albums throughout his career, with hits such as “Take an Old Cold ‘Tater (And Wait)” and “Country Boy.”
One of Dickens’ most famous songs is “May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose,” released in 1965. The song became a crossover hit, reaching the top of the country charts and the top 20 on the pop charts.
In addition to his music career, Little Jimmy Dickens was known for his colorful personality and comedic antics on stage. He often dressed in elaborate costumes and told humorous stories between songs, earning him a reputation as a beloved entertainer.
Dickens was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983, recognizing his contributions to the genre over the years. He continued to perform on the Grand Ole Opry until shortly before his death in January 2015 at the age of 94. Despite his small stature, Little Jimmy Dickens left a big impact on the world of country music, and he is remembered as a true legend of the genre.
4. Hazel Dickens
Hazel Dickens was an American bluegrass singer, songwriter, and musician, born on June 1, 1935, in Montcalm, West Virginia. She was known for her powerful voice, poignant songwriting, and advocacy for social justice.
Growing up in a coal mining family in Appalachia, Hazel Dickens experienced firsthand the hardships faced by working-class people. Her music often reflected these experiences, with songs that addressed issues such as labor rights, poverty, and environmental degradation.
Dickens rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s as part of the folk and bluegrass revival movements. She gained recognition for her solo work as well as her collaborations with other artists, including Alice Gerrard, with whom she released several albums.
One of Dickens’ most famous songs is “Black Lung,” which highlights the struggles of coal miners suffering from the debilitating lung disease caused by years of working in the mines. The song became an anthem for the labor movement and cemented Dickens’ reputation as a voice for the working class.
In addition to her music career, Hazel Dickens was a passionate advocate for social causes, including workers’ rights, women’s rights, and environmental conservation. She used her platform as a musician to raise awareness about these issues and to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.
Hazel Dickens’ impact on American roots music and her legacy as a champion of social justice continue to be celebrated today. She remains an inspiration to musicians and activists alike, remembered for her powerful music and her unwavering commitment to fighting for a more just and equitable society.
5. Bill Withers
Bill Withers was an American singer-songwriter and musician, born on July 4, 1938, in Slab Fork, West Virginia. He was known for his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and timeless songs that resonated with audiences around the world.
Withers began his music career relatively late, releasing his debut album, “Just as I Am,” in 1971 at the age of 33. The album featured the classic hit “Ain’t No Sunshine,” which earned him widespread acclaim and a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song.
Throughout the 1970s, Bill Withers continued to release a string of successful albums, including “Still Bill” (1972), which featured the hits “Lean on Me” and “Use Me,” and “Live at Carnegie Hall” (1973), a critically acclaimed live album that showcased his dynamic stage presence.
Withers’ music often explored themes of love, heartache, and resilience, with lyrics that were deeply personal and relatable. He was known for his soulful vocals, understated instrumentation, and memorable melodies, which helped solidify his reputation as one of the greatest soul singers of his generation.
In addition to his commercial success, Bill Withers was also recognized for his influence on popular music and his contributions to the soul and R&B genres. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015, honoring his impact and legacy as a singer-songwriter.
Bill Withers passed away on March 30, 2020, but his music continues to be celebrated and cherished by fans around the world. His timeless songs remain a testament to his talent, authenticity, and enduring legacy in the world of music.
6. Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.
Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. is an American jazz singer who rose to fame as the winner of the sixth season of the reality television show “America’s Got Talent” in 2011. Born on August 11, 1974, in Logan, West Virginia, Murphy’s journey to success is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and passion for music.
Murphy’s smooth, velvety voice and classic style captivated audiences and judges alike during his time on the show. His renditions of jazz standards and timeless classics showcased his vocal range and musical versatility, earning him a devoted fan base and ultimately leading to his victory.
Following his win on “America’s Got Talent,” Murphy embarked on a successful music career, releasing albums and performing at venues across the country. His debut album, “That’s Life,” reached the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart, solidifying his status as a rising star in the jazz world.
In addition to his music career, Murphy is also known for his philanthropic efforts and community involvement. He remains dedicated to giving back to his hometown of Logan, West Virginia, and supporting charitable causes close to his heart.
With his soulful voice, magnetic stage presence, and genuine charisma, Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. continues to inspire audiences with his music and remains a shining example of the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
7. Hank Williams Jr.
Hank Williams Jr., born Randall Hank Williams on May 26, 1949, in Shreveport, Louisiana, is a highly influential American singer-songwriter and musician, primarily known for his contributions to country music. As the son of country music legend Hank Williams, he inherited a rich musical heritage and has made his own mark on the industry.
Throughout his career, Williams Jr. has earned widespread acclaim for his distinctive blend of traditional country, southern rock, and blues. His energetic performances and gritty vocals have resonated with audiences, earning him numerous awards and accolades.
Williams Jr. is best known for his iconic hits such as “Family Tradition,” “Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound,” and “A Country Boy Can Survive,” which have become anthems for country music fans across generations.
In addition to his music career, Williams Jr. is also known for his outspoken personality and political activism. His passion for hunting, fishing, and outdoor pursuits is often reflected in his music and public persona.
With his timeless songs, larger-than-life personality, and enduring influence on the country music landscape, Hank Williams Jr. remains a beloved figure in American music, carrying on the legacy of his legendary father while carving out his own place in music history.
8. John Ellison
John Ellison is an American musician and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist and songwriter for the band The Soul Brothers Six. Ellison was born on August 11, 1941, in Montgomery, West Virginia.
The Soul Brothers Six, formed in Rochester, New York, in the early 1960s, gained fame with their hit song “Some Kind of Wonderful,” released in 1967. John Ellison wrote this iconic soul track, which became one of the band’s signature songs and a classic in the genre. “Some Kind of Wonderful” has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a beloved staple of soul music.
Aside from “Some Kind of Wonderful,” John Ellison wrote many other songs for The Soul Brothers Six and pursued a solo career as well. He continued to perform and record music, contributing to the legacy of soul music with his distinctive voice and songwriting.
John Ellison’s impact on soul music and his contributions to the genre have earned him recognition and respect among fans and fellow musicians alike.
9. Molly O’Day
Molly O’Day, born Lois LaVerne Williamson on July 9, 1923, in Pike County, Alabama, was a pioneering American country and bluegrass singer. With her powerful voice and emotive delivery, O’Day became known for her soul-stirring performances and timeless recordings, earning her a place among the greats of early country music.
Beginning her career in the 1930s, O’Day rose to prominence as a featured vocalist on radio programs, where her distinctive voice and heartfelt renditions of traditional songs captivated listeners. She later recorded a series of singles and albums, often accompanied by her husband, Lynn Davis, and their band, the Cumberland Mountain Folks.
O’Day’s music often explored themes of love, heartbreak, and faith, resonating with audiences across the country. Her signature song, “Tramp on the Street,” became a classic of the genre and solidified her status as a revered figure in country and bluegrass music.
Despite facing personal challenges and setbacks throughout her life, including struggles with alcoholism, O’Day’s talent and passion for music never wavered. Her enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and fans, cementing her place as one of the most influential female voices in early country music history.
10. Garnet Mimms
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Garnet Mimms is an American R&B and soul singer who was prominent during the 1960s. He was born Garrett Mimms on November 26, 1933, in Ashland, West Virginia.
Mimms began his music career in the gospel genre before transitioning to R&B and soul music. He gained attention as the lead singer of Garnet Mimms & the Enchanters, a vocal group formed in the early 1960s. The group’s most famous song is “Cry Baby,” released in 1963, which became a major hit and reached the top of the R&B charts. The song’s impassioned vocal delivery by Mimms and its emotionally charged lyrics made it a classic of the genre.
Following the success of “Cry Baby,” Garnet Mimms & the Enchanters released other notable songs, including “Baby Don’t You Weep” and “For Your Precious Love.” However, despite their talent and impact on the R&B scene, the group struggled to replicate the success of their initial hit.
After the dissolution of Garnet Mimms & the Enchanters, Mimms continued to record and perform as a solo artist, releasing albums and singles throughout the 1960s and 1970s. While he did not achieve the same level of commercial success as he did with “Cry Baby,” Mimms remained respected within the R&B and soul music communities for his powerful voice and emotional delivery.
Garnet Mimms’ influence on R&B and soul music is evident in his passionate performances and enduring hits. He is remembered as a talented vocalist who made a significant contribution to the sound and style of 1960s soul 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.
