Wisconsin may be known for its cheese and bratwurst, but the state has also produced a rich and diverse array of musical talent. From jazz legends to indie folk icons, Wisconsin has been home to some of the most celebrated and influential singers of the past century. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 famous singers from Wisconsin, exploring their backgrounds, careers, and contributions to the world of music.
Our list includes a wide range of genres and styles, from the swing-era jazz of Woody Herman to the alternative rock of Violent Femmes. We’ll also feature contemporary R&B star Tank, indie folk band Bon Iver, and the iconic Les Paul, whose contributions to guitar design and recording techniques continue to shape modern music. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, you’re sure to discover some new insights and appreciation for these talented artists. Join us as we celebrate the best and brightest of Wisconsin’s musical heritage.
1. Woody Herman
Woody Herman was a jazz clarinetist, saxophonist, singer, and bandleader born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1913. He formed his first band in the early 1930s and gained fame in the swing era of the 1930s and 1940s with hits such as “Woodchopper’s Ball” and “At the Woodchopper’s Ball.” His big band went through several incarnations and was known for its innovative and eclectic approach to jazz, incorporating elements of bebop and cool jazz in the 1940s and 1950s. Herman also nurtured the talents of many jazz greats in his band, including Stan Getz and Bill Evans. Despite facing financial difficulties and changing musical tastes in the 1960s and 1970s, Herman continued to perform and record until his death in 1987, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most important and influential figures in jazz history.
2. Steve Miller
Steve Miller is a singer-songwriter and guitarist born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1943. He rose to prominence in the 1970s with his eponymous band, The Steve Miller Band, known for their blues-influenced rock hits such as “Fly Like an Eagle,” “The Joker,” and “Take the Money and Run.” Miller’s distinctive vocals and catchy guitar riffs became hallmarks of his sound, blending rock, blues, and pop into a unique style that has earned him a dedicated following. Despite changes in the music industry and personal struggles, Miller continued to record and tour, collaborating with other artists and exploring new musical avenues. In addition to his musical achievements, he has also been an advocate for music education and preservation, helping to establish the Steve Miller Band Jazz Scholarship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
3. Tank
Tank, also known as Durrell Babbs, is a singer, songwriter, and actor from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, born in 1976. He began his career in the late 1990s, singing backup for Ginuwine and Aaliyah, before releasing his debut album, “Force of Nature,” in 2001. Tank’s smooth and soulful voice has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, with hits such as “Maybe I Deserve” and “When We” showcasing his vocal range and emotional depth. He has collaborated with many other artists, including Chris Brown and Drake, and has also ventured into acting, appearing in films such as “Preacher’s Kid” and “The New Edition Story.” Despite facing personal struggles, Tank has continued to make music and connect with his fans, cementing his place as one of the most talented R&B artists of his generation.
4. Al Jarreau
Al Jarreau was a singer and musician born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1940. He began his musical career in the 1960s, performing in clubs and making guest appearances on albums before releasing his debut album, “We Got By,” in 1975. Jarreau’s unique vocal style, blending jazz, R&B, and pop, made him one of the most distinctive and acclaimed singers of his time, earning him seven Grammy Awards over the course of his career. His hits included “Moonlighting,” the theme song from the popular television show, and “We’re in This Love Together,” a duet with George Benson. Jarreau also collaborated with other artists, including Miles Davis and Chick Corea, and was known for his engaging and dynamic live performances. Despite his passing in 2017, Jarreau’s music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians.
5. Bon Iver
Bon Iver is an indie folk band formed in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, in 2006, fronted by singer-songwriter Justin Vernon. The band’s debut album, “For Emma, Forever Ago,” was recorded in a cabin in the Wisconsin woods and received critical acclaim for its intimate and haunting sound. Their subsequent albums, including “Bon Iver, Bon Iver” and “22, A Million,” continued to push the boundaries of indie folk, incorporating elements of electronic music and experimental soundscapes. Bon Iver has been nominated for and won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Kanye West, James Blake, and Taylor Swift. Despite their success, the band has maintained a strong connection to their Wisconsin roots, with Vernon founding the Eaux Claires music festival in his hometown and using his platform to support local artists and community initiatives.
6. Garbage
Garbage is an alternative rock band formed in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1993. The band’s lineup includes Scottish singer Shirley Manson, American musicians Duke Erikson and Steve Marker, and Butch Vig, a producer and drummer who has worked with many notable artists. Garbage’s self-titled debut album, released in 1995, was a critical and commercial success, with hits such as “Only Happy When It Rains” and “Stupid Girl” showcasing the band’s edgy and infectious sound. Their subsequent albums, including “Version 2.0” and “Beautiful Garbage,” continued to explore themes of identity, desire, and society, while pushing the boundaries of rock and pop. Garbage has won numerous awards and accolades over the course of their career, and their music continues to inspire and influence artists in the alternative and rock genres.
7. Les Paul
Les Paul was a legendary musician and inventor born in Waukesha, Wisconsin, in 1915. He is known for his innovations in guitar design and his contributions to the development of multi-track recording techniques, which revolutionized the music industry. Paul began his musical career as a jazz guitarist, performing with the likes of Nat King Cole and Bing Crosby before launching his own successful solo career in the 1940s and 1950s. He was also an early adopter of electronic effects, using his namesake guitar and various amplifiers to create unique sounds and textures. Paul continued to perform and record well into his 90s, earning numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music. His legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians across genres, and his name is synonymous with innovation, creativity, and excellence.
8. Joe Schermie
Joe Schermie was a bassist born in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1945. He is best known for his work as a member of the band Three Dog Night, one of the most successful rock bands of the 1970s. Schermie joined the band in 1968 and played on many of their biggest hits, including “Joy to the World,” “Mama Told Me (Not to Come),” and “Black and White.” His distinctive bass lines and grooves helped to define the band’s sound and contribute to their enduring popularity. Despite personal struggles and health issues, Schermie continued to play music and perform throughout his life, remaining a respected and beloved figure in the rock community. His contributions to Three Dog Night and to the wider world of rock and roll music will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
9. Skylar Grey
Skylar Grey is a singer-songwriter and musician born in Mazomanie, Wisconsin, in 1986. She began her music career as a songwriter, penning hits for artists such as Eminem, Rihanna, and Nicki Minaj before launching her own solo career. Grey’s distinctive voice and introspective lyrics have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, with hits such as “Love the Way You Lie” and “I Need a Doctor” showcasing her talent and versatility. In addition to her solo work, Grey has also collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Macklemore and Linkin Park, and has continued to write songs for others. She has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards and has won numerous accolades for her music, cementing her place as one of the most talented and respected singer-songwriters of her generation.
10. Violent Femmes
Violent Femmes is an alternative rock band formed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1980. The band’s original lineup consisted of singer and guitarist Gordon Gano, bassist Brian Ritchie, and drummer Victor DeLorenzo, and they quickly gained a reputation for their raw and energetic live performances. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1983, became a cult classic and featured hits such as “Blister in the Sun” and “Add It Up.” The band’s subsequent albums, including “Hallowed Ground” and “The Blind Leading the Naked,” continued to showcase their unique blend of folk, punk, and rock, with Gano’s distinctive vocals and lyrics at the forefront. Despite personnel changes and hiatuses, Violent Femmes has remained a beloved and influential band, inspiring generations of musicians in the alternative and punk genres.
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.
