10 Famous Singers from Rhode Island
Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States, has made a significant impact on the music industry, producing some of the most talented singers and musicians of our time. From rock to country, jazz to electronic, the Ocean State has been home to a diverse range of musical styles and genres. In this article, we will explore ten famous singers from Rhode Island who have made a name for themselves in the music industry.
First on the list is John Cowsill, a drummer and vocalist from Newport, who became famous as a member of the family band The Cowsills in the 1960s. Jeffrey Osborne, a soulful R&B singer from Providence, is also featured, known for his hits like “On the Wings of Love” and “Stay With Me Tonight.” DJ and reality TV star Pauly D, hailing from Johnston, has also made a name for himself in the electronic dance music scene. Other notable singers on the list include Billy Gilman, a country music prodigy from Westerly, and Jesse Leach, a metal vocalist from Providence who is best known as the lead singer of Killswitch Engage. With such a rich musical history, Rhode Island has truly made its mark on the music industry, and these ten singers are just a small sample of the incredible talent that has emerged from the state.
1. John Cowsill
John Cowsill is a singer and musician hailing from Newport, Rhode Island. He is perhaps best known as a member of the Cowsills, a family band that rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like “The Rain, the Park and Other Things” and “Hair.” John joined the band as a drummer when he was just eight years old, and later went on to play with other groups such as The Beach Boys and Jan & Dean. In addition to his drumming skills, John is also a talented vocalist, and has contributed backing vocals to a wide range of artists and projects over the years. With a career spanning several decades, John Cowsill remains a respected figure in the world of pop and rock music.
2. Jeffrey Osborne
Jeffrey Osborne is a soulful R&B singer from Providence, Rhode Island. He first rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the funk and soul band L.T.D., known for hits like “Love Ballad” and “Back in Love Again.” After leaving the band in 1980, Jeffrey embarked on a successful solo career, releasing popular tracks such as “On the Wings of Love” and “Stay With Me Tonight.” With his smooth vocals and romantic lyrics, Jeffrey has become known as one of the premier balladeers of his generation. In addition to his music career, he is also an accomplished drummer and percussionist. Despite his success, Jeffrey has remained connected to his Rhode Island roots, often performing at local events and supporting charitable causes in the area
3. Pauly D
Pauly D, whose real name is Paul DelVecchio, is a DJ and reality TV star from Johnston, Rhode Island. He first gained national attention as a cast member on the hit MTV series “Jersey Shore,” where his distinctive hair, catchphrases, and partying antics made him a fan favorite. Pauly D parlayed his reality TV success into a successful career as a DJ, performing at clubs and festivals around the world and releasing his own music. He is known for his high-energy performances and ability to mix different genres of music, from hip-hop to EDM. Despite his global success, Pauly D has remained connected to his Rhode Island roots, often performing at local venues and events. He has also been involved in philanthropic efforts in the area, including supporting organizations that help children with developmental disabilities.
4. Bill Conti
Bill Conti is a composer and conductor from Providence, Rhode Island, best known for his work in film and television. He has composed the scores for numerous movies, including the Rocky series, The Karate Kid, and For Your Eyes Only. Bill has also worked extensively in television, creating the iconic theme for the original series of “Dynasty” and serving as the musical director for the Academy Awards ceremony for many years. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Bill is also an accomplished musician and has conducted orchestras around the world. He has won numerous awards for his work, including an Academy Award for Best Original Score for his work on Rocky. Despite his international success, Bill has maintained ties to his Rhode Island roots, serving as the music director for the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra for several years.
5. Billy Gilman
Billy Gilman is a country music singer from Westerly, Rhode Island, who first gained fame as a child prodigy in the late 1990s. At just 11 years old, he released his debut album, “One Voice,” which quickly became a commercial success, propelled by the hit title track. Billy’s powerful voice and mature sound belied his young age, and he quickly became one of the most popular country singers of the era. Despite his early success, Billy faced challenges as he grew older, including a hiatus from music and struggles with his sexuality. However, he has continued to release music and perform, and in recent years has been praised for his resilience and honesty in discussing his personal struggles. With his distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics, Billy Gilman remains a beloved figure in the world of country music.
6. AraabMuzik
AraabMuzik, whose real name is Abraham Orellana, is a music producer and DJ from Providence, Rhode Island. He is known for his unique blend of hip-hop, electronic, and trance music, and his high-energy live performances. AraabMuzik first gained recognition in the early 2010s for his production work with artists such as Cam’ron and A$AP Rocky, and quickly became known for his fast and precise drumming style. He has also released several albums and mixtapes under his own name, showcasing his diverse musical influences and production skills. AraabMuzik has performed at major music festivals around the world and has collaborated with a wide range of artists across genres. Despite his global success, he remains connected to his Rhode Island roots, often performing in the area and supporting local charities.
7. Jesse Leach
Jesse Leach is a singer and songwriter from Providence, Rhode Island, best known as the lead vocalist of the metal bands Killswitch Engage and Times of Grace. Jesse first gained attention in the early 2000s with Killswitch Engage, contributing his distinctive screams and melodic singing to albums such as “Alive or Just Breathing” and “As Daylight Dies.” He left the band in 2002, but returned in 2012 to record the album “Disarm the Descent.” In addition to his work with Killswitch Engage, Jesse has also released solo music and collaborated with other artists, including Howard Jones of Light the Torch. He is known for his powerful vocal range and deeply personal lyrics, often addressing themes of mental health and social justice. Despite his success in the metal scene, Jesse has remained connected to his Rhode Island roots, often performing at local venues and supporting charitable causes in the area.
8. Dicky Barrett
Dicky Barrett is a singer and frontman of the ska punk band The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, who hail from Boston, Massachusetts but have strong connections to Rhode Island. Dicky was born in Providence and spent much of his youth in the state, where he developed a love for music and a distinctive singing style that combines elements of punk, ska, and soul. The Mighty Mighty Bosstones rose to fame in the mid-1990s with hits such as “The Impression That I Get” and “Someday I Suppose,” and have continued to tour and release music to this day. In addition to his work with the Bosstones, Dicky has also made numerous television appearances and has served as the announcer for the late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” With his gravelly voice and irreverent stage presence, Dicky Barrett has become a beloved figure in the world of ska and punk rock.
9. Bobby Hackett
Bobby Hackett was a jazz trumpeter and cornetist from Providence, Rhode Island, who became known for his smooth, melodic playing style. He began his career in the 1930s as a member of the legendary bandleader Benny Goodman’s group, and went on to perform with other jazz greats such as Louis Armstrong and Jack Teagarden. Bobby was known for his ability to blend elements of swing, Dixieland, and traditional jazz into his playing, and for his lyrical approach to improvisation. He also played with a number of big bands throughout his career, including those led by Glenn Miller and Ray McKinley. Despite his international success, Bobby remained connected to his Rhode Island roots, often returning to the state to perform at local venues and events. He passed away in 1976, but his legacy as a jazz innovator and virtuoso player continues to inspire musicians to this day.
10. Wendy Carlos
Wendy Carlos is a composer and electronic musician from Pawtucket, Rhode Island, known for her pioneering work in the field of electronic music. She first gained recognition in the late 1960s and early 1970s for her use of synthesizers in classical music, particularly on her albums “Switched-On Bach” and “The Well-Tempered Synthesizer.” Wendy’s use of electronic instruments helped to popularize the synthesizer and pave the way for its use in mainstream music. She has also composed music for several films, including “A Clockwork Orange” and “Tron,” and has been honored with numerous awards for her contributions to music and technology. Despite her groundbreaking work, Wendy has remained a somewhat enigmatic figure, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances. However, her influence on electronic and experimental music continues to be felt to this day.
Darren Jamison 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.
