Singers from Vermont embody a rich tapestry of musical traditions, creativity, and authenticity that reflect the spirit of the Green Mountain State. Rooted in the state’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage, Vermont singers draw inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including folk, bluegrass, rock, and indie music.
With their soulful voices and evocative storytelling, Vermont singers captivate audiences with their heartfelt lyrics and emotive performances. From intimate coffeehouse gigs to sold-out concerts at iconic venues, singers from Vermont showcase their talent and passion on stages large and small, connecting with listeners through the universal language of music.
Despite the state’s relatively small size, Vermont singers have made a significant impact on the national and international music scene, earning critical acclaim and recognition for their artistry and creativity. Whether performing solo or as part of a band, Vermont singers bring a sense of authenticity and originality to their music, celebrating the unique spirit and character of their home state while inspiring audiences around the world.
1. Prydein
Prydein is an American band that blends Celtic music with rock, creating a unique and energetic sound often referred to as “Celtic rock.” The band was formed in 1999 in Vermont and consists of members including Charlie Zahm (vocals, guitar), Bill Baldin (bass, vocals), Wayne Morrison (bagpipes, flute, whistles), and Fred Gilmartin (drums, percussion).
Prydein’s music combines traditional Celtic melodies and instrumentation with the driving rhythms and electric energy of rock music. Their performances are characterized by lively arrangements, spirited instrumentals, and dynamic stage presence, making them a popular act at festivals, concerts, and events across the United States.
The band has released several albums, including “Heads Up” (2005), “Loud Pipes” (2007), and “For the Love of the Music” (2010), each showcasing their distinctive fusion of Celtic and rock influences. Their music often features traditional Celtic tunes reimagined with modern instrumentation and arrangements, as well as original compositions that draw inspiration from Celtic musical traditions.
Prydein’s infectious energy and passionate performances have earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim within the Celtic music community. They continue to delight audiences with their lively shows and innovative approach to blending traditional and contemporary musical styles, cementing their reputation as one of the leading Celtic rock bands in the United States.
2. JoJo
JoJo, born Joanna Noëlle Levesque on December 20, 1990, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She rose to fame in the early 2000s as a teenage R&B and pop sensation with her debut single “Leave (Get Out)” in 2004, which reached the top of the Billboard Pop songs chart, making her the youngest solo artist to have a number-one single in the United States at the age of 13.
Following the success of her debut single, JoJo released her self-titled debut album, which also included hits like “Baby It’s You” and “Not That Kinda Girl.” Her powerful voice, soulful delivery, and mature songwriting belied her young age and quickly earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Despite legal battles with her former record label that limited her ability to release new music, JoJo continued to pursue her music career, releasing mixtapes and independent singles. In 2016, she signed with Atlantic Records and released her third studio album, “Mad Love,” which featured the hit single “F**k Apologies” featuring Wiz Khalifa.
In addition to her music career, JoJo has also ventured into acting, appearing in films like “Aquamarine” (2006) and “G.B.F.” (2013), as well as television shows like “Lizzie McGuire” and “Hollywood Heights.”
JoJo’s talent, resilience, and authenticity have earned her praise from critics and fans alike, and she remains a respected and influential figure in the music industry. She continues to release music and tour, showcasing her vocal prowess and evolving musical style.
3. Phish
Phish is an American rock band known for their improvisational style, eclectic musical influences, and dedicated fanbase. The band was formed in 1983 in Vermont and consists of members Trey Anastasio (guitar, vocals), Page McConnell (keyboards, vocals), Mike Gordon (bass, vocals), and Jon Fishman (drums, vocals).
Phish’s music spans multiple genres, including rock, funk, jazz, blues, and psychedelic rock, creating a unique and ever-evolving sound that defies easy categorization. Their live performances are legendary for their improvisational jams, intricate musical interplay, and extended song structures, with each show offering a unique and unpredictable musical experience.
The band’s dedicated fanbase, known as “Phishheads” or “phans,” follows them from concert to concert, trading recordings of live shows and eagerly anticipating the next performance. Phish’s improvisational prowess and adventurous spirit have earned them a reputation as one of the greatest live acts in rock music.
Phish has released numerous studio albums, including “Junta” (1989), “A Picture of Nectar” (1992), and “Billy Breathes” (1996), as well as live albums and archival releases that capture the magic of their live performances. They’ve also performed at major music festivals and events, including their own annual festival, “The Great Went,” and the famous “Big Cypress” millennium concert.
With their innovative approach to music and their dedicated fanbase, Phish continues to push the boundaries of rock music and inspire generations of musicians and fans alike. They remain a beloved and influential fixture in the jam band scene, captivating audiences with their virtuosic musicianship and boundless creativity.
4. Nothing,Nowhere
Nothing,Nowhere is the stage name of Joe Mulherin, an American musician known for his unique blend of emo, alternative rock, and hip-hop. Born on June 4, 1992, Mulherin grew up in Vermont and began making music at a young age.
Nothing,Nowhere gained attention in the mid-2010s for his emotionally raw lyrics, atmospheric production, and genre-blending sound. His music often explores themes of mental health, self-reflection, and personal struggles, resonating with a diverse audience of fans who connect with his honest and introspective approach.
Mulherin’s debut album, “Reaper,” released in 2017, received widespread acclaim for its innovative sound and heartfelt lyrics. Since then, he has released several more albums and EPs, including “Ruiner” (2018) and “Trauma Factory” (2021), further establishing himself as a leading figure in the emo rap scene.
In addition to his solo work, Nothing,Nowhere has collaborated with other artists and bands, contributing vocals and production to various projects. He’s known for his versatile musical style and his willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds.
Nothing,Nowhere’s music has earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim, and he continues to evolve as an artist, pushing the boundaries of genre and expression with each new release. With his honest lyrics and innovative production, he has solidified his place as a unique and influential voice in contemporary music.
5. Strangefolk
Strangefolk, a dynamic jam band hailing from Burlington, Vermont, has captivated audiences with their genre-defying sound, improvisational prowess, and infectious energy. While not originally from Utah, Strangefolk has made a significant impact on the state’s music scene through their performances at venues like The State Room and the Snowbasin Resort.
Formed in 1991, Strangefolk quickly gained a dedicated following with their blend of rock, folk, bluegrass, and Americana influences, as well as their penchant for extended live improvisations. Their eclectic sound and adventurous spirit have earned them a reputation as one of the pioneers of the jam band movement.
Over the years, Strangefolk has released several studio albums and live recordings, including fan favorites like “Weightless in Water” and “A Great Long While.” Their music, characterized by its intricate harmonies, infectious melodies, and uplifting lyrics, resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
As proud representatives of Vermont’s vibrant music community, Strangefolk’s performances in Utah have become eagerly anticipated events, drawing fans from across the region to experience their electrifying live shows and communal atmosphere. Their enduring popularity and influence serve as a testament to the power of music to inspire, unite, and uplift audiences in profound and meaningful ways.
6. The Static Age
The Static Age is an American rock band formed in the early 2000s. The band hails from New Jersey and is known for its energetic live performances and dynamic sound, which blends elements of punk rock, alternative rock, and indie rock.
The Static Age gained attention in the underground music scene with their self-titled debut album, “The Static Age,” released in 2006. The album showcased the band’s raw energy and catchy melodies, drawing comparisons to bands like The Ramones, The Clash, and The Replacements.
Since then, The Static Age has released several more albums and EPs, including “Blank Screens” (2009) and “In The City Of Wandering Lights” (2011), further establishing their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the punk and alternative music scenes.
Known for their socially conscious lyrics and anthemic choruses, The Static Age’s music often addresses themes of identity, alienation, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Their songs resonate with listeners who appreciate their passionate performances and heartfelt songwriting.
With their infectious energy and uncompromising authenticity, The Static Age continues to captivate audiences and build a loyal following of fans who connect with their music on a deeply personal level. They remain a vital and influential presence in the contemporary rock music landscape, inspiring others with their fearless approach to creativity and expression.
7. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, an American rock band originating from Vermont, have left an indelible mark on the music scene with their soulful vocals, electrifying performances, and infectious energy. While not originally from Utah, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals have become a beloved fixture of the state’s music scene through their frequent performances at venues like The State Room and Red Butte Garden.
Formed in 2002, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals quickly gained attention for their eclectic blend of rock, blues, folk, and soul influences, as well as their dynamic live shows. Led by lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Grace Potter, the band’s music is characterized by its powerful vocals, gritty guitar riffs, and driving rhythms, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Over the years, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals have released several studio albums, including fan favorites like “This Is Somewhere” and “Grace Potter and the Nocturnals.” Their music, known for its raw emotion, infectious hooks, and honest lyrics, resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
8. RAQ
RAQ is an American jam band known for their improvisational style, eclectic musical influences, and high-energy live performances. The band was formed in Burlington, Vermont, in the early 2000s and consists of members Chris Michetti (guitar, vocals), Jay Burwick (bass, vocals), Todd Stoops (keyboards, vocals), and Scotty Zwang (drums).
RAQ’s music is characterized by its fusion of rock, funk, jazz, and psychedelic elements, creating a sound that is both dynamic and genre-defying. The band’s improvisational approach to songwriting and performance allows them to explore a wide range of musical ideas and experiment with different sounds and textures.
RAQ gained a dedicated following in the jam band scene with their electrifying live shows, which often feature extended jams, intricate instrumental interplay, and audience participation. They’ve toured extensively across the United States and have performed at major music festivals, earning a reputation as one of the premier live acts in the jam band community.
In addition to their live performances, RAQ has released several studio albums, including “Shambhala” (2002), “Ton These” (2006), and “Supernatural” (2008), each showcasing their diverse musical influences and improvisational prowess.
With their adventurous spirit and infectious grooves, RAQ continues to push the boundaries of jam band music, delighting audiences with their improvisational wizardry and dynamic stage presence. They remain a beloved and influential fixture in the jam band scene, inspiring fans and fellow musicians alike with their fearless approach to creativity and exploration.
9. Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan is an American singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt lyrics, soulful vocals, and folk-pop sound. Born on January 1, 1997, in Vermont, Kahan gained attention in the music industry with his debut single “Young Blood” in 2017, which quickly amassed millions of streams online and introduced him to a wider audience.
Kahan’s music often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the human experience, resonating with listeners who appreciate his introspective songwriting and authentic storytelling. His emotive vocals and poignant lyrics have earned him comparisons to artists like Vance Joy and Ben Howard.
In 2018, Noah Kahan released his debut EP, “Hurt Somebody,” which featured the title track, a collaboration with Australian musician Julia Michaels. The song became a chart-topping hit in Australia and earned Kahan international acclaim, propelling him further into the spotlight.
Since then, Noah Kahan has continued to release music, including singles like “False Confidence,” “Mess,” and “Cape Elizabeth,” further establishing himself as a rising star in the indie folk-pop scene. His debut album, “Busyhead,” was released in 2019 to critical acclaim, showcasing his growth as a songwriter and musician.
With his soulful voice, introspective lyrics, and authentic musicality, Noah Kahan continues to captivate audiences around the world. He remains a promising talent in the music industry, with a bright future ahead of him as he continues to evolve and mature as an artist.
10. Anaïs Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell is an American singer-songwriter and playwright known for her unique blend of folk, Americana, and indie rock music. Born on March 26, 1981, in Vermont, Mitchell began her music career in the early 2000s, releasing several independent albums that showcased her poetic lyrics and haunting melodies.
Mitchell gained widespread acclaim with her concept album “Hadestown,” released in 2010, which reimagines the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice as a folk opera set in a post-apocalyptic world. The album features guest appearances from artists like Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon and folk icon Ani DiFranco and received rave reviews for its innovative storytelling and musicality.
In addition to her solo music career, Anaïs Mitchell is also a talented playwright and theater artist. “Hadestown” was adapted into a full-scale stage musical that premiered off-Broadway in 2016 and later moved to Broadway in 2019, winning multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Mitchell’s other albums include “Young Man in America” (2012) and “Child Ballads” (2013), both of which further showcase her storytelling prowess and unique musical style. Her songs often explore themes of love, loss, and the human condition, resonating with audiences around the world.
With her poetic lyricism, haunting melodies, and innovative storytelling, Anaïs Mitchell continues to captivate audiences with her music and theater productions. She remains a vital and influential voice in the folk and indie music scenes, inspiring listeners with her heartfelt songs and visionary artistry.
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.
