Vermont, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, has also been home to a number of talented musicians who have made their mark on the music industry. From folk to rock, Vermont has produced a diverse array of artists who have captivated audiences with their unique voices and compelling lyrics. In this article, we will explore the top ten most popular and influential singers from Vermont who have left a lasting impact on the world of music.
Among these iconic figures is Grace Potter, whose powerful vocals and energetic performances have earned her a dedicated fan base. The band Phish, with its improvisational style and loyal following, has also emerged as one of Vermont’s most successful musical exports. JoJo, known for her soulful voice and catchy pop tunes, has achieved international acclaim and continues to delight audiences around the globe.
Other notable singers from Vermont include Noah Kahan, whose introspective songwriting has resonated with listeners, and Anaïs Mitchell, whose folk opera “Hadestown” has earned her critical acclaim and a Tony Award. Prydein, a Celtic rock band, has also gained popularity for their energetic performances and unique blend of traditional and modern music. Whether it’s rock, folk, or pop, Vermont has been a breeding ground for musical talent, and these ten singers have solidified their place in music history.
1. Prydein
Prydein, a Celtic rock band hailing from Burlington, Vermont, has garnered popularity for its unique fusion of traditional Celtic music with modern rock elements. Formed in 1999, Prydein quickly became a staple in the local music scene, known for their energetic performances and infectious tunes. The band’s name is derived from the Latin word for Britain, reflecting their deep-rooted connection to Celtic heritage.
Prydein’s music is characterized by lively fiddle tunes, driving guitar riffs, and pounding drumbeats, creating a dynamic and exhilarating sound that captivates audiences. Their repertoire includes traditional Celtic songs as well as original compositions, all delivered with a modern twist that appeals to a wide range of listeners.
Over the years, Prydein has gained a loyal following both in Vermont and beyond, performing at festivals, concerts, and events across the country. Their music has been featured in films and television shows, further solidifying their reputation as one of Vermont’s most popular musical acts.
With their infectious energy and innovative sound, Prydein continues to captivate audiences and cement their status as one of Vermont’s top musical exports.
2. JoJo
JoJo, born Joanna Levesque in Brattleboro, Vermont, emerged as a teenage R&B sensation in the early 2000s with her powerful voice and soulful ballads. Signed to a record deal at just 12 years old, JoJo released her self-titled debut album in 2004, which spawned the hit singles “Leave (Get Out)” and “Baby It’s You.” Her mature vocals and emotional delivery belied her young age, earning her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
Despite facing challenges with her record label that hindered the release of her follow-up albums, JoJo persevered and continued to create music that showcased her vocal prowess and personal growth. In 2016, she made a triumphant return to the music scene with her album “Mad Love,” which featured the hit single “F*** Apologies” featuring Wiz Khalifa.
JoJo’s journey from teen sensation to mature artist has been marked by her resilience and dedication to her craft. Her soulful voice and honest lyrics have resonated with audiences, making her one of Vermont’s most popular and enduring musical talents.
3. Phish
Phish, an iconic jam band formed in Burlington, Vermont, in 1983, has become synonymous with improvisational rock and a cult-like following known as “Phishheads.” The band, consisting of Trey Anastasio, Page McConnell, Mike Gordon, and Jon Fishman, is renowned for their live performances, which often feature extended jams and eclectic musical styles ranging from rock and jazz to funk and bluegrass.
Phish’s music is characterized by complex compositions, intricate instrumentals, and a sense of playful experimentation that sets them apart from other bands. Their improvisational approach to music allows them to create unique and memorable live experiences, with each concert offering something new and unexpected for their devoted fans.
Over the years, Phish has released a string of successful albums, including “A Picture of Nectar,” “Rift,” and “Billy Breathes,” which have further solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative and influential bands in the jam band scene. They have also earned a reputation for their epic multi-night concerts, particularly their annual Labor Day weekend festival known as “Phish Dick’s.”
Phish’s impact on the music world extends far beyond their home state of Vermont, with a dedicated fan base that spans the globe. Their commitment to musical exploration and improvisation continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike, cementing their legacy as one of the top musical acts to come out of Vermont.
4. Nothing,Nowhere
Nothing,Nowhere, the musical project of Vermont-based artist Joe Mulherin, has gained widespread acclaim for its unique blend of emo, rap, and alternative rock. Mulherin, who hails from Foxborough, Massachusetts, began releasing music under the Nothing,Nowhere moniker in 2015, quickly capturing the attention of listeners with his introspective lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes.
Drawing inspiration from personal struggles with mental health issues, Mulherin’s music often explores themes of anxiety, depression, and self-reflection, resonating deeply with a generation grappling with similar challenges. His raw and honest approach to songwriting has earned him a dedicated fan base and critical praise for his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.
Nothing,Nowhere’s music defies easy categorization, blending elements of emo, hip-hop, and rock to create a sound that is uniquely his own. Tracks like “Hammer,” “Dread,” and “Hopes Up” showcase Mulherin’s emotive vocals and introspective lyrics, drawing listeners into his world of vulnerability and self-discovery.
As Nothing,Nowhere continues to evolve as an artist, his music remains a powerful outlet for personal expression and emotional catharsis, solidifying his status as one of Vermont’s most compelling musical talents.
5. Strangefolk
Strangefolk, a beloved jam band formed in 1991 in Burlington, Vermont, has left an indelible mark on the music scene with their blend of folk, rock, and improvisational music. The band, originally consisting of Reid Genauer, Jon Trafton, Erik Glockler, and Luke Smith, quickly gained a dedicated following in the Northeast with their infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and electrifying live performances.
Strangefolk’s music is characterized by its intricate harmonies, intricate guitar work, and a sense of communal joy that permeates their live shows. Drawing inspiration from a variety of musical genres, including folk, rock, bluegrass, and jazz, the band’s eclectic sound has earned them a reputation as one of the most innovative and exciting bands in the jam band scene.
Throughout their career, Strangefolk released several acclaimed albums, including “Weightless in Water,” “A Great Long While,” and “Open Road,” which showcased their talent for crafting melodic and thought-provoking songs. Their annual music festival, “Garden of Eden,” became a staple of the jam band circuit, attracting fans from far and wide to celebrate music, community, and creativity.
While the band parted ways in 2000, their music continues to resonate with fans old and new, cementing their legacy as one of Vermont’s most beloved musical exports.
6. The Static Age
The Static Age, a punk rock band originating from Burlington, Vermont, emerged in the early 2000s with a raw and energetic sound that drew inspiration from the punk and hardcore scenes of the 1980s and 1990s. Comprising members Andrew Paley, Adam D’agostino, and Garrett Hack, The Static Age quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy performances and politically charged lyrics.
The band’s music is characterized by its fast-paced rhythms, aggressive guitar riffs, and socially conscious lyrics that touch on issues such as politics, society, and personal struggles. Tracks like “Sin City,” “Cherry Red,” and “Edge of the Knife” exemplify their intense and passionate approach to punk rock, earning them a dedicated following in the local music scene and beyond.
Despite disbanding in the mid-2000s, The Static Age’s music continues to resonate with fans of punk rock, serving as a testament to their enduring influence on the genre. Their commitment to speaking out against injustice and challenging the status quo remains as relevant today as it was during their active years, solidifying their place as one of Vermont’s most iconic punk bands.
7. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, a rock band originating from Waitsfield, Vermont, rose to prominence in the mid-2000s with their soulful vocals, electrifying performances, and eclectic musical style. Fronted by lead singer and songwriter Grace Potter, the band’s lineup also included Matt Burr, Scott Tournet, Benny Yurco, and Michael Libramento.
The band’s music is characterized by its bluesy rock sound, with influences ranging from classic rock and blues to folk and country. Grace Potter’s powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence quickly drew comparisons to rock legends like Janis Joplin and Bonnie Raitt, earning her a reputation as one of the most captivating performers in the industry.
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals achieved mainstream success with their albums “This Is Somewhere” (2007) and “Grace Potter and the Nocturnals” (2010), which featured hit singles like “Paris (Ooh La La)” and “Stars.” Their music has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying their status as one of Vermont’s most successful musical exports.
While the band announced a hiatus in 2015, Grace Potter continues to pursue a successful solo career, showcasing her talent as a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, cementing her legacy as one of Vermont’s most iconic musical talents.
8. RAQ
RAQ, a progressive rock band formed in Burlington, Vermont, in the early 2000s, has garnered acclaim for their improvisational jams, complex compositions, and genre-bending sound. The band, consisting of members Chris Michetti, Todd Stoops, Jay Burwick, and Scotty Zwang, quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances and experimental approach to music.
RAQ’s music is characterized by its intricate guitar work, virtuosic keyboard solos, and tight rhythms, drawing inspiration from a wide range of musical genres including rock, jazz, funk, and electronica. Tracks like “Walking in Circles,” “Clamslide,” and “City Funk” showcase the band’s dynamic and ever-evolving sound, earning them a dedicated following in the jam band scene.
Over the years, RAQ has released several acclaimed albums, including “Shapeshifter,” “Carbohydrates Are the Enemy,” and “Ton These,” which have solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative and exciting bands in the progressive rock genre. Their music continues to push boundaries and defy expectations, captivating audiences with its complexity and energy.
While the band has undergone lineup changes over the years, RAQ’s commitment to musical exploration and creativity remains as strong as ever. Their music continues to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike, making them one of Vermont’s most revered musical acts.
9. Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan, a singer-songwriter from the small town of Strafford, Vermont, has captivated audiences with his heartfelt lyrics, soulful voice, and introspective songwriting. Kahan first gained recognition with his debut single “Young Blood,” which quickly garnered millions of streams online and caught the attention of music lovers around the world.
Kahan’s music is characterized by its honest and introspective lyrics, which often explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. His soulful voice and melodic guitar work create a unique and compelling sound that has resonated with listeners of all ages.
Since his breakthrough, Kahan has released a string of successful singles and EPs, including “Hurt Somebody,” “False Confidence,” and “Cynic,” which have further solidified his reputation as one of Vermont’s most promising musical talents. His debut album, “Busyhead,” was released in 2019 to critical acclaim, showcasing his talent for crafting poignant and relatable songs.
Despite his rising fame, Kahan remains grounded and connected to his Vermont roots, often drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of his surroundings. His music continues to touch the hearts of fans around the world, making him one of Vermont’s most beloved musical exports.
10. Anaïs Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell, a singer-songwriter from Montpelier, Vermont, has gained widespread acclaim for her unique blend of folk, Americana, and indie rock. Mitchell first rose to prominence with her album “Hadestown,” a folk opera based on the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The album, which was later adapted into a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, earned Mitchell critical praise for her poetic lyrics and haunting melodies.
Mitchell’s music is characterized by its storytelling quality, with her songs often exploring themes of love, loss, and the human experience. Her distinctive voice and intricate guitar work create a rich and captivating sound that has resonated with audiences around the world.
In addition to “Hadestown,” Mitchell has released several acclaimed albums, including “Young Man in America” and “Child Ballads,” which further showcase her talent for crafting beautiful and thought-provoking songs. She has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Bon Iver, Josh Ritter, and Ani DiFranco, further solidifying her reputation as one of Vermont’s most respected musical talents.
Mitchell’s music continues to inspire and move listeners with its depth and beauty, making her one of Vermont’s most celebrated musical exports.