New Hampshire, despite its small size, has been home to several notable singers who have left a lasting impact on the music world. These artists have hailed from various genres, showcasing the state’s diverse musical talent. From rock to folk to classical, New Hampshire singers have captivated audiences with their unique voices and heartfelt performances. Their music often reflects the beauty and tranquility of the state, drawing inspiration from its picturesque landscapes and rich history. Despite not always being in the spotlight, these singers have made significant contributions to the music industry and continue to be celebrated for their talent and artistry.
1. Tom Rush
Tom Rush is an American folk and blues singer-songwriter known for his rich, deep voice and intricate guitar picking. Born on February 8, 1941, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Rush emerged as a prominent figure in the folk music revival of the 1960s. He is known for introducing audiences to a wide range of songwriters, including Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Jackson Browne, through his covers of their songs. Rush’s music blends elements of folk, blues, and rock, creating a sound that is both traditional and innovative. With his distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics, Rush continues to captivate audiences with his music, showcasing his talent as a storyteller and musician.
2. Livingston Taylor
Livingston Taylor is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his warm voice, introspective lyrics, and engaging live performances. Born on November 21, 1950, in Boston, Massachusetts, Taylor comes from a musical family, with his siblings including singer-songwriter James Taylor. Livingston Taylor began his music career in the late 1960s and released his debut album in 1970. He is known for songs like “Carolina Day,” “I Will Be in Love with You,” and “I Can Dream of You.” Taylor’s music blends elements of folk, pop, and country, and his heartfelt songs have resonated with audiences for decades. He continues to tour and record music, sharing his passion for music with fans around the world.
3. Mark Levine
Mark Levine, an American jazz pianist and educator, has made significant contributions to the world of music through his versatile talent and dedication to jazz education. Born in Concord, New Hampshire, Levine began studying piano at a young age and later pursued formal training in jazz at the Berklee College of Music.
As a pianist, Levine has performed with renowned jazz musicians and bands, showcasing his proficiency in various jazz styles, including bebop, Latin jazz, and modal jazz. His dynamic playing and innovative improvisational skills have earned him acclaim from audiences and critics alike.
In addition to his performing career, Levine is also an esteemed jazz educator and author, known for his instructional books on jazz theory and piano technique. He has taught at prestigious institutions such as the Stanford Jazz Workshop and has conducted masterclasses around the world, inspiring aspiring musicians with his wealth of knowledge and passion for jazz.
Mark Levine’s contributions to jazz music, both as a performer and educator, have had a lasting impact on the genre, shaping the development of countless musicians and enriching the global jazz community with his talent and expertise.
4. Our Last Night
Our Last Night, an American rock band formed in Hollis, New Hampshire, has garnered widespread acclaim for their dynamic sound, emotive lyrics, and electrifying live performances. Comprising brothers Trevor Wentworth (vocals) and Matthew Wentworth (guitar, vocals), as well as Alex “Woody” Woodrow (bass) and Tim Molloy (drums), the band has cultivated a devoted fanbase with their powerful blend of post-hardcore, alternative rock, and metalcore influences.
Known for their innovative cover songs of popular hits, as well as their original compositions, Our Last Night has consistently pushed the boundaries of the rock genre, exploring themes of love, loss, and personal growth with raw honesty and intensity.
With a discography spanning several albums and EPs, including “Younger Dreams” and “Selective Hearing,” Our Last Night continues to captivate audiences with their infectious energy, thought-provoking lyrics, and relentless commitment to their craft. As they evolve and mature as musicians, the band remains a driving force in the contemporary rock scene, inspiring fans with their passion, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to their art.
5. Say Zuzu
Say Zuzu is an American indie rock band known for its melodic songwriting, tight harmonies, and rich instrumentation. The band, originally from Massachusetts, was formed in the early 1990s and gained a following for its distinctive sound and engaging live performances. Say Zuzu’s music blends elements of folk, rock, and pop, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. The band has released several albums and EPs, including “Bull,” “Fine,” and “Every Mile.” With their heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies, Say Zuzu continues to captivate audiences with their music, showcasing their talent and creativity as a band.
6. Ray LaMontagne
Ray LaMontagne is an American singer-songwriter known for his soulful voice, introspective lyrics, and folk-influenced sound. Born on June 18, 1973, in Nashua, New Hampshire, LaMontagne emerged as a prominent figure in the indie folk scene in the early 2000s. He gained widespread acclaim with his debut album, “Trouble,” which featured the hit single of the same name. LaMontagne’s music is characterized by its stripped-down instrumentation, raw emotion, and evocative storytelling. With his distinctive voice and heartfelt songs, LaMontagne has earned a dedicated following and critical acclaim, establishing himself as one of the leading singer-songwriters of his generation.
7. Jon Spencer
Jon Spencer, an American musician and songwriter, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his distinctive sound, energetic performances, and boundary-pushing creativity. Born in Hanover, New Hampshire, Spencer is best known as the frontman of the alternative rock bands Pussy Galore, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, and Boss Hog.
With his bands, Spencer has explored a wide range of musical styles, including garage rock, punk, blues, and rockabilly, blending them into a unique and electrifying sound. Known for his charismatic stage presence and raw, visceral vocals, Spencer has captivated audiences around the world with his high-energy performances and infectious enthusiasm for music.
Throughout his career, Spencer has released numerous albums and EPs, both as a solo artist and with his bands, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated following in the process. His influence extends beyond his own music, as he has collaborated with a diverse array of artists and contributed to the evolution of alternative rock and indie music.
With his uncompromising vision, innovative approach to songwriting, and relentless passion for music, Jon Spencer continues to be a driving force in the alternative rock scene, inspiring generations of musicians and fans with his fearless creativity and boundless energy.
8. Ronnie James Dio
Ronnie James Dio, born Ronald James Padavona on July 10, 1942, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, was an American singer, songwriter, and musician. He was known for his powerful vocals and his work in the bands Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and Dio. Dio is often credited with popularizing the “metal horns” hand gesture in heavy metal culture. He was renowned for his operatic vocal range and his ability to convey emotion in his performances. Dio’s music was characterized by its fantasy and mythological themes, often exploring themes of good versus evil. His legacy in the heavy metal genre is significant, and he is regarded as one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time. Dio passed away on May 16, 2010, but his music continues to inspire fans worldwide.
9. Mandy Moore
Mandy Moore, an American singer, songwriter, and actress, has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry with her multifaceted talent and enduring appeal. Born on April 10, 1984, in Nashua, New Hampshire, Moore first rose to prominence as a teenage pop sensation in the late 1990s with her debut single “Candy” and subsequent albums.
Transitioning seamlessly into acting, Moore has garnered acclaim for her performances in films such as “A Walk to Remember” and the Emmy-nominated television series “This Is Us.” Her versatile voice and heartfelt lyrics have earned her recognition as a respected singer-songwriter, with albums like “Wild Hope” and “Silver Landings” showcasing her evolving musical style.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, Moore is also known for her philanthropic work and advocacy efforts, using her platform to raise awareness for various causes, including women’s rights and animal welfare.
With her enduring talent, genuine charm, and unwavering dedication to her craft, Mandy Moore continues to inspire audiences around the world, leaving an indelible mark on both the music and entertainment industries.
10. The Shaggs
The Shaggs were an American all-female rock band formed in Fremont, New Hampshire, in 1968. The band consisted of sisters Dorothy “Dot” Wiggin (vocals/lead guitar), Betty Wiggin (vocals/rhythm guitar), Helen Wiggin (drums), and, later, Rachel Wiggin (bass). The Shaggs are primarily known for their album “Philosophy of the World,” released in 1969, which was produced at the insistence of their father, Austin Wiggin Jr. The album’s unconventional sound, characterized by its off-kilter rhythms, out-of-tune instruments, and naive lyrics, has divided critics and listeners, with some considering it a masterpiece of outsider music and others dismissing it as amateurish. Despite their brief career, The Shaggs have gained a cult following and are celebrated for their unique and unconventional approach to music.