Vermont, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant cultural scene, has produced a diverse array of musical talent that has left a significant mark on the music industry. From folk and rock to pop and indie, the Green Mountain State boasts a rich musical heritage that reflects its eclectic spirit. This article explores the top ten most popular famous singers from Vermont, highlighting their contributions to various genres and their impact on the music world. Among these celebrated artists are Grace Potter, known for her powerful vocals and dynamic performances; Anaïs Mitchell, a folk singer-songwriter whose storytelling prowess has captivated audiences; and Noah Kahan, whose introspective lyrics and indie-folk sound have garnered a dedicated following. Additionally, Vermont’s music scene has been shaped by influential bands such as Phish, whose improvisational style and loyal fanbase have made them legends in the jam band genre. Each of these artists not only represents the unique musical flavor of Vermont but also showcases the state’s ability to nurture and produce exceptional talent. Join us as we delve into the lives and careers of these remarkable singers, celebrating their achievements and their contributions to the vibrant tapestry of American music.
1. RAQ
RAQ is a prominent jam band originating from Vermont, known for their energetic live performances and improvisational prowess. Formed in 2001, the band quickly gained a loyal following in the jam band scene with their unique blend of rock, funk, and jazz influences. RAQ consists of talented musicians including Chris Michetti on guitar, Todd Stoops on keyboards, Jay Burwick on bass, and Scotty Zwang on drums. Their dynamic sound and intricate compositions set them apart, making their live shows a must-see experience.
RAQ’s music is characterized by tight grooves, complex arrangements, and impressive musicianship. They often incorporate extended improvisational sections in their performances, allowing each member to showcase their skills and create a unique experience for the audience. The band’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres and experiment with their sound has earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Throughout their career, RAQ has released several albums, including “Carbohydrates Are the Enemy” and “Ton These.” They have also shared the stage with notable acts in the jam band community, further solidifying their reputation as one of Vermont’s most beloved musical exports. RAQ’s contribution to the state’s rich musical heritage continues to resonate with fans old and new.
2. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals is a celebrated rock band hailing from Vermont, known for their electrifying performances and powerful blend of rock, blues, and soul. Fronted by the charismatic Grace Potter, the band’s lineup includes Scott Tournet on guitar, Matthew Burr on drums, and Michael Libramento on bass. Formed in 2002, the band quickly gained traction with Potter’s dynamic vocals and magnetic stage presence.
Their music features a rich tapestry of influences, from classic rock to contemporary blues, with Potter’s soulful voice anchoring their sound. The band’s breakout album, “This Is Somewhere” (2007), showcased their ability to craft memorable melodies and poignant lyrics. Hits like “Apologies” and “Falling or Flying” garnered critical acclaim and expanded their fan base.
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals continued to rise in prominence with their self-titled album in 2010, which included standout tracks like “Paris (Ooh La La)” and “Medicine.” Their energetic performances and Potter’s commanding presence made them a favorite on the festival circuit, including appearances at Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza.
The band’s ability to blend rock, soul, and blues into a cohesive and captivating sound has made them a standout act from Vermont, earning them a lasting place in the hearts of music fans.
3. The Static Age
The Static Age is an influential post-punk band from Burlington, Vermont, known for their atmospheric sound and introspective lyrics. Formed in 2001, the band initially comprised Andrew Paley (vocals, guitar, keyboard), Adam Meilleur (bass), Marie Whiteford (keyboard, backing vocals), and Bobby Hackney (drums). Their music is characterized by a fusion of moody, melodic guitar lines and synth-driven arrangements, creating a hauntingly immersive soundscape.
The band’s debut album, “Neon Nights Electric Lives” (2004), established their distinct style, drawing comparisons to iconic post-punk and new wave acts like Joy Division and The Cure. With tracks like “Amphibian” and “Vertigo,” The Static Age captured a sense of melancholic beauty and emotional depth, resonating with fans worldwide.
Throughout their career, The Static Age has maintained a DIY ethic, touring extensively and releasing music independently. Their subsequent albums, including “In the City of Wandering Lights” (2009) and “Mercies” (2011), continued to explore themes of alienation and self-discovery, solidifying their reputation in the post-punk revival scene.
The Static Age’s ability to blend brooding, introspective lyrics with captivating melodies has earned them a dedicated following. As one of Vermont’s notable musical exports, they continue to influence the genre and inspire new generations of post-punk enthusiasts.
4. Strangefolk
Strangefolk is a beloved folk-rock band that emerged from Burlington, Vermont, in the early 1990s. Formed by Reid Genauer (vocals, guitar), Jon Trafton (guitar, vocals), Erik Glockler (bass, vocals), and Luke Smith (drums), the band quickly gained recognition for their rootsy, melodic sound and heartfelt songwriting.
Known for their improvisational jams and engaging live performances, Strangefolk became a staple in the Northeast music scene, blending elements of folk, rock, and Americana. Their music often evokes a sense of nostalgia and camaraderie, resonating with fans of all ages.
The band’s debut album, ” Lore” (1995), helped solidify their place in the jam band community, showcasing their tight musicianship and Genauer’s introspective lyrics. Tracks like ” Speculator” and ” Valhalla” became fan favorites, while their live shows became legendary for their extended improvisations and communal atmosphere.
Over the years, Strangefolk released several albums and built a dedicated fan base through relentless touring and festival appearances. Though they disbanded in 2000, their influence on the jam band genre and Vermont’s music scene remains significant. Their legacy lives on through their music and the continued appreciation from fans who cherish their heartfelt melodies and soulful performances.
5. Nothing,Nowhere
Nothing,Nowhere is the stage name of Joe Mulherin, an influential artist from Vermont known for blending emo, rap, and indie rock into a unique and introspective sound. Emerging in the late 2010s, Nothing,Nowhere gained attention for his raw lyricism and atmospheric productions that tackle themes of mental health, identity, and personal struggles.
Mulherin’s music combines heartfelt lyrics with melancholic melodies, creating a deeply emotive experience for listeners. His debut album, ” Reaper” (2017), showcased his ability to seamlessly blend genres, drawing comparisons to artists like Lil Peep and Dashboard Confessional. Tracks such as ” Hopes Up” and ” Clarity in Kerosene” resonated with a wide audience, establishing Nothing,Nowhere as a voice for a generation grappling with emotional turmoil.
Throughout his career, Mulherin has continued to evolve his sound, exploring new sonic territories while staying true to his introspective storytelling. His subsequent albums, including ” Ruiner” (2018) and ” Trauma Factory” (2021), have received critical acclaim for their authenticity and musical depth.
Nothing,Nowhere’s impact extends beyond his music, as he has connected with fans worldwide through his candid discussions about mental health and self-expression. As one of Vermont’s most influential musical exports in recent years, he continues to push boundaries and inspire listeners with his honest and evocative artistry.
6. Phish
Phish is an iconic rock band that originated in Burlington, Vermont, in 1983. Known for their improvisational jamming and eclectic musical style, Phish quickly became a cultural phenomenon, blending rock, funk, jazz, and psychedelic influences into their music. The band consists of Trey Anastasio (guitar, vocals), Jon Fishman (drums, vocals), Mike Gordon (bass, vocals), and Page McConnell (keyboards, vocals).
Phish’s live performances are legendary for their extended jams, intricate compositions, and unpredictable setlists, which often span multiple genres and incorporate elements of improvisation. Their ability to connect with audiences through improvisational exploration has earned them a devoted fan base known as “Phishheads.”
The band gained national attention with albums like “A Picture of Nectar” (1992) and “Billy Breathes” (1996), showcasing their songwriting prowess and musical versatility. Hits like “Down with Disease,” “Free,” and “Waste” became staples in their expansive repertoire.
Phish’s impact on music extends beyond their recordings, as they have sold out arenas and stadiums worldwide, including notable performances at festivals like Bonnaroo and their own curated events like “The Great Went” and “Big Cypress.” They continue to push musical boundaries and inspire new generations of fans with their innovative approach to live performance and dedication to artistic exploration.
7. JoJo
JoJo, originally Joanna Levesque, is a talented singer-songwriter from Vermont who rose to fame with her powerful vocals and R&B pop style. Born in Brattleboro, Vermont, JoJo gained recognition at a young age, signing with Blackground Records and releasing her debut single, “Leave (Get Out),” in 2004 at just 13 years old. The song became an instant hit, making her the youngest solo artist to have a number-one single in the United States.
Her self-titled debut album, “JoJo,” followed in 2004, showcasing her soulful voice and mature songwriting beyond her years. Tracks like “Too Little, Too Late” and “Baby It’s You” further solidified her as a rising star in the music industry.
Throughout her career, JoJo has navigated challenges with her record label and legal battles that temporarily stalled her music releases. However, she returned stronger than ever, independently releasing the mixtapes “Can’t Take That Away from Me” (2010) and “Agápē” (2012), showcasing her growth as an artist.
In recent years, JoJo has regained control over her music and released critically acclaimed albums like “Mad Love” (2016) and “Good to Know” (2020), demonstrating her evolution as both a vocalist and songwriter. Her resilience and ability to connect with audiences through her emotive lyrics and powerhouse vocals continue to make her a respected figure in the music industry, representing Vermont’s talent on the global stage.
8. Prydein
Prydein is a dynamic Celtic rock band from Burlington, Vermont, known for their energetic fusion of traditional Scottish and Irish music with modern rock elements. Formed in 1999, the band consists of members who are adept at both traditional Celtic instruments like bagpipes, fiddle, and accordion, as well as guitars, bass, and drums typical of rock bands.
Prydein’s music captures the spirit of Celtic traditions while injecting a contemporary flair, appealing to a wide range of audiences. Their lively performances and infectious melodies have made them a favorite at festivals and events celebrating Celtic culture.
The band’s debut album, “Loud Pipes” (2003), introduced their unique blend of Celtic melodies and rock rhythms, earning them a dedicated following in both the Celtic music community and the broader rock scene. Tracks like “Clumsy Lover” and “Iona” showcase their ability to seamlessly blend traditional Celtic tunes with modern instrumentation.
Over the years, Prydein has continued to release albums and perform across the United States, further establishing themselves as ambassadors of Celtic rock music from Vermont. Their passion for both the music and the cultural roots it represents shines through in every performance, making Prydein a standout in Vermont’s diverse musical landscape.
9. Anais Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell is a renowned singer-songwriter and playwright from Vermont, celebrated for her profound storytelling and distinctive voice. Born in 1981, Mitchell grew up in a creative environment that nurtured her musical talents. She began her career in the early 2000s, and her music is often described as a blend of folk, indie, and Americana, with a strong emphasis on lyrical content.
Mitchell gained widespread recognition with her 2010 album “Hadestown,” a modern retelling of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth set in a post-apocalyptic world. The album features a star-studded cast, including Justin Vernon of Bon Iver and Ani DiFranco, and was later adapted into a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical. “Hadestown” showcases Mitchell’s ability to weave intricate narratives with her poetic lyrics and haunting melodies.
Her other notable works include albums like “Young Man in America” (2012) and “Xoa” (2014), which further cemented her reputation as a gifted songwriter and performer. Mitchell’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and social justice, resonating deeply with listeners.
In addition to her solo work, Anaïs Mitchell is a member of the folk supergroup Bonny Light Horseman, which released their critically acclaimed debut album in 2020. Her contributions to contemporary folk music and theater have made her one of Vermont’s most influential and respected artists.
10. Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan is a rising singer-songwriter from Strafford, Vermont, known for his introspective lyrics and emotive folk-pop sound. Born in 1997, Kahan began writing music at a young age and gained attention with his debut single, “Young Blood,” released in 2017. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and Kahan’s soulful voice quickly garnered millions of streams online, catapulting him into the spotlight.
Growing up in a small town in Vermont, Kahan’s music reflects themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the beauty of rural life. His debut EP, “Hurt Somebody” (2018), produced in collaboration with Australian musician Julia Michaels, further showcased his ability to craft poignant melodies and connect with listeners on a personal level.
Kahan’s music is characterized by its authenticity and emotional depth, resonating with a wide audience across generations. Tracks like “Mess,” “False Confidence,” and “Cynic” from his debut album “Busyhead” (2019) demonstrate his growth as an artist while maintaining the sincerity and vulnerability that define his songwriting.
With his distinctive voice and knack for storytelling, Noah Kahan continues to captivate audiences worldwide. His journey from Vermont’s countryside to international acclaim underscores his talent and determination, making him a standout figure in contemporary folk-pop music.