Wisconsin, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant music scene, has produced some of the most renowned and influential singers in the music industry. From rock legends to pop icons, the state’s diverse musical talent has left an indelible mark on various genres, captivating audiences worldwide. In this article, we explore the top 10 most popular and famous singers from Wisconsin, celebrating their contributions and achievements. Among these illustrious artists are trailblazers who have shaped the soundscape of their respective eras, such as the legendary rock band Cheap Trick’s frontman Robin Zander, whose powerful vocals have become a hallmark of classic rock. Joining him are alternative rock pioneers like Butch Vig, whose work with Nirvana and Garbage has left an enduring legacy. The list also includes contemporary pop sensations like Justin Vernon of Bon Iver, whose ethereal voice and innovative sound have garnered critical acclaim. From folk to metal, Wisconsin’s musical exports are as varied as they are exceptional, reflecting the state’s ability to nurture and produce talent that resonates on a global scale. Join us as we delve into the lives and careers of these remarkable artists who proudly hail from the Badger State.
1. Joe Schermie
Joe Schermie, born Joseph Edward Schermetzler on February 12, 1946, in Madison, Wisconsin, was a talented bassist best known for his work with the iconic rock band Three Dog Night. His musical journey began early in his hometown, where he developed a passion for the bass guitar. Schermie joined Three Dog Night in 1968, contributing to the band’s distinctive sound that combined rock, pop, and soul influences.
His skillful bass lines and energetic stage presence played a crucial role in the band’s success during their peak years in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Schermie was a part of several hit singles, including “One,” “Mama Told Me (Not to Come),” and “Joy to the World,” which became anthems of the era. His contributions were instrumental in earning the band numerous gold records and widespread acclaim.
After leaving Three Dog Night in 1973, Schermie continued his musical career with other bands and solo projects. He remained an influential figure in the rock music scene until his passing in 2002. Joe Schermie’s legacy lives on through his timeless performances and the enduring popularity of Three Dog Night’s music, solidifying his place among the most celebrated musicians from Wisconsin.
2. Al Jarreau
Al Jarreau, born Alwyn Lopez Jarreau on March 12, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was a renowned jazz and R&B singer whose unique vocal style and versatility earned him a place among the music industry’s elite. Known for his smooth, flexible voice and innovative scat singing, Jarreau’s career spanned five decades, making him one of the few artists to win Grammy Awards in three different categories: jazz, pop, and R&B.
Jarreau’s early life in Milwaukee laid the foundation for his musical career. He grew up singing in church and later honed his craft in local clubs while pursuing higher education. His big break came in the mid-1970s with the release of his debut album, “We Got By,” which showcased his exceptional talent and brought him international recognition.
Throughout his career, Al Jarreau released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including “Breakin’ Away” and “Glow,” featuring hit singles like “We’re in This Love Together” and “Moonlighting,” the theme song for the popular TV series. His dynamic live performances and innovative vocal techniques earned him a dedicated fan base and respect from fellow musicians.
Jarreau’s influence extended beyond his music; he was known for his humanitarian efforts and commitment to various social causes. His legacy as a groundbreaking artist from Wisconsin endures, celebrated for his contributions to jazz, R&B, and pop music until his passing in 2017.
3. Garbage
Garbage, an alternative rock band formed in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1993, quickly rose to fame with their unique blend of rock, electronic, and pop music. The band consists of Scottish lead singer Shirley Manson, and American musicians Duke Erikson, Steve Marker, and Butch Vig. Vig, renowned for his production work on Nirvana’s “Nevermind,” brought a distinctive sound and expertise to the band.
Garbage’s self-titled debut album, released in 1995, was a commercial and critical success, featuring hits like “Stupid Girl” and “Only Happy When It Rains.” The album’s innovative sound and Manson’s captivating stage presence garnered widespread acclaim and established the band as a formidable force in the 1990s alternative rock scene. Their music often explores themes of love, rebellion, and introspection, resonating with a diverse audience.
The band’s subsequent albums, including “Version 2.0” and “Beautiful Garbage,” continued to receive praise, solidifying their reputation for pushing musical boundaries. Garbage’s influence extends beyond their recorded work, with their dynamic live performances and visually compelling music videos contributing to their lasting impact on the music industry.
Garbage remains an active and influential band, with a legacy marked by their genre-defying sound and contributions to alternative rock. Their origins in Wisconsin and their continued success make them one of the most celebrated musical acts from the state.
4. Violent Femmes
Violent Femmes, a pioneering alternative rock band from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was formed in 1980 by singer, guitarist, and songwriter Gordon Gano, bassist Brian Ritchie, and drummer Victor DeLorenzo. Known for their raw acoustic sound and lyrical wit, the band quickly became a staple of the alternative and college rock scenes.
Their self-titled debut album, released in 1983, featured enduring hits like “Blister in the Sun,” “Kiss Off,” and “Add It Up.” The album’s minimalist production and Gano’s distinctive voice and songwriting captured the angst and energy of teenage life, resonating with a wide audience and earning the band a dedicated fanbase.
Violent Femmes’ music blends elements of punk, folk, and rock, characterized by Gano’s biting lyrics and the band’s unconventional instrumentation. Their follow-up albums, including “Hallowed Ground” and “The Blind Leading the Naked,” further cemented their reputation for innovative and eclectic music.
Despite lineup changes over the years, the band has continued to tour and release new music, maintaining their influence on subsequent generations of musicians. Their rebellious spirit and distinctive sound have left a lasting mark on the alternative rock landscape.
Violent Femmes’ contributions to music, particularly their ability to convey raw emotion and humor through their songs, make them one of the most iconic bands to emerge from Wisconsin. Their legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
5. Tank
Tank, born Durrell Artaze Babbs on January 1, 1976, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a renowned R&B singer, songwriter, and producer known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Tank’s career began in the late 1990s, and he quickly established himself as a significant force in contemporary R&B.
Tank’s debut album, “Force of Nature,” released in 2001, showcased his exceptional vocal range and songwriting skills, featuring hit singles like “Maybe I Deserve.” The album’s success was followed by several others, including “One Man,” “Sex, Love & Pain,” and “This Is How I Feel,” each demonstrating Tank’s ability to blend sensual ballads with modern R&B sounds.
In addition to his solo work, Tank is a prolific songwriter and producer, having collaborated with numerous artists across the R&B and hip-hop genres. His work with artists like Jamie Foxx, Chris Brown, and Aaliyah highlights his versatility and influence within the industry.
Tank is also a member of the R&B supergroup TGT, alongside Tyrese Gibson and Ginuwine. The group’s debut album, “Three Kings,” was well-received, further solidifying Tank’s status in the music world.
Beyond his musical achievements, Tank is known for his dedication to fitness and health, often sharing his journey and inspiring fans to lead healthier lifestyles. His continued relevance in the R&B scene, coupled with his contributions as a songwriter and producer, make Tank one of the most prominent musical figures from Wisconsin.
6. Steve Miller
Steve Miller, born October 5, 1943, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a legendary rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter best known as the leader of the Steve Miller Band. His innovative blend of rock, blues, and pop has made him a key figure in American rock music for over five decades.
Miller’s interest in music was nurtured from a young age, influenced by his mother, a jazz-influenced singer, and his father, a pathologist with a passion for recording music. This early exposure to music set the stage for Miller’s future career. He formed the Steve Miller Band in 1966 in San Francisco, a hotbed of musical innovation during that era.
The band’s breakthrough came with their third album, “Brave New World,” in 1969, but it was the 1970s that saw their greatest success. Albums like “The Joker” (1973), “Fly Like an Eagle” (1976), and “Book of Dreams” (1977) produced a string of hit singles, including “The Joker,” “Fly Like an Eagle,” “Take the Money and Run,” and “Rock’n Me.” These songs became rock staples, known for their catchy melodies and Miller’s smooth vocals.
Miller’s work is characterized by his virtuosic guitar playing and his ability to craft memorable, radio-friendly hits that still resonate with audiences today. His influence extends beyond his recordings, with his contributions to music education and his role in preserving blues and rock heritage.
Steve Miller’s enduring popularity and his significant contributions to rock music make him one of Wisconsin’s most celebrated musicians. His timeless songs and dynamic performances continue to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
7. Skylar Grey
Skylar Grey, born Holly Brook Hafermann on February 23, 1986, in Mazomanie, Wisconsin, is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, and record producer. Known for her hauntingly beautiful voice and evocative songwriting, Grey has made significant contributions to contemporary pop, hip-hop, and alternative music.
Grey’s musical journey began at a young age, performing in a folk duo with her mother. She later moved to Los Angeles to pursue a solo career, initially releasing music under her birth name. However, it was her rebranding as Skylar Grey and her collaboration with Eminem on the 2010 hit “Love the Way You Lie” that catapulted her to fame. Her powerful hook on the song, sung by Rihanna, showcased her vocal prowess and songwriting talent.
Following this success, Grey co-wrote and provided vocals for several major hits, including Diddy-Dirty Money’s “Coming Home” and Dr. Dre’s “I Need a Doctor.” Her ability to blend genres and convey deep emotion through her music has made her a sought-after collaborator.
In addition to her work with other artists, Skylar Grey has released several solo albums, such as “Don’t Look Down” (2013) and “Natural Causes” (2016). These albums highlight her versatility and creativity, featuring a mix of introspective ballads and powerful anthems.
Skylar Grey’s influence extends beyond her distinctive voice and songwriting skills. She is also known for her artistic integrity and her ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. Her contributions to music, both as a solo artist and a collaborator, have solidified her status as one of Wisconsin’s most successful and respected musicians.
8. Woody Herman
Woody Herman, born Woodrow Charles Herman on May 16, 1913, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was a renowned jazz clarinetist, saxophonist, singer, and big band leader. A pivotal figure in the development of jazz and big band music, Herman’s career spanned over five decades, during which he led several influential bands known as the “Herds.”
Herman began performing professionally at a young age, joining the Tom Gerun band at 20. In 1936, he formed his own group, Woody Herman and His Orchestra, which gained popularity for its swinging arrangements and Herman’s charismatic leadership. The band’s success grew with hits like “Woodchopper’s Ball,” which became a jazz standard and sold over a million copies.
In the 1940s, Herman’s band evolved into the First Herd, known for its innovative arrangements and for incorporating elements of bebop, a new style of jazz. This period produced some of Herman’s most acclaimed recordings, including “Caldonia” and “Northwest Passage.” The band’s high energy and sophisticated musicianship made them a favorite among jazz enthusiasts.
Herman continued to adapt to changing musical trends, forming the Second Herd, which featured future jazz legends like Stan Getz and Zoot Sims. This group was notable for its “Four Brothers” saxophone section, which became a hallmark of Herman’s sound.
Throughout his career, Woody Herman was celebrated for his ability to discover and nurture young talent, helping launch the careers of many prominent jazz musicians. His dedication to music and constant innovation earned him numerous accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Woody Herman’s enduring legacy as a bandleader and jazz innovator makes him one of Wisconsin’s most illustrious musical figures. His contributions to jazz have left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing generations of musicians and listeners worldwide.
9. Bon Iver
Bon Iver, an indie folk band led by singer-songwriter Justin Vernon, originated in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Formed in 2006, Bon Iver gained critical acclaim and a dedicated following for their introspective lyrics, ethereal melodies, and unique blend of folk, rock, and experimental music.
Justin Vernon, the creative force behind Bon Iver, began recording the band’s debut album, “For Emma, Forever Ago,” in a remote cabin in Wisconsin. Released in 2007, the album’s raw emotion and haunting beauty resonated with listeners and critics alike. Tracks like “Skinny Love” and “Flume” propelled Bon Iver into the indie music spotlight, earning Vernon comparisons to iconic singer-songwriters.
Following the success of “For Emma, Forever Ago,” Bon Iver’s sound evolved with each subsequent album. Their self-titled sophomore release in 2011 explored richer musical textures and earned them Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Best Alternative Music Album. The album’s tracks, including “Holocene” and “Beth/Rest,” showcased Vernon’s growth as a songwriter and the band’s ability to create expansive, atmospheric soundscapes.
Bon Iver’s third album, “22, A Million,” released in 2016, marked another artistic departure, incorporating electronic elements and experimental production techniques. The album’s cryptic lyrics and intricate compositions further solidified Bon Iver’s reputation for pushing musical boundaries while maintaining a deeply personal and introspective approach.
Beyond their studio albums, Bon Iver is known for their mesmerizing live performances and collaborations with artists across various genres. Justin Vernon’s introspective songwriting and Bon Iver’s innovative musical arrangements continue to captivate audiences worldwide, cementing their status as one of Wisconsin’s most influential and critically acclaimed musical acts.
10. Les Paul
Les Paul, born Lester William Polsfuss on June 9, 1915, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, was a pioneering musician, inventor, and innovator who revolutionized the sound of modern music. Best known for his contributions to the development of the solid-body electric guitar, the “Les Paul” model produced by Gibson Guitar Corporation became iconic in the world of rock and roll.
Paul’s interest in music began early, influenced by his father’s music store in Waukesha. He began performing as a country and jazz guitarist in his teens and quickly gained recognition for his virtuosic playing and technical innovations. In the 1940s, he developed the solid-body electric guitar, which addressed issues of feedback and resonance that plagued earlier electric instruments. His collaboration with Gibson led to the introduction of the Gibson Les Paul guitar in 1952, which became immensely popular among musicians for its versatility and distinctive sound.
Beyond his innovations in guitar design, Les Paul was also a skilled recording artist and pioneer in multitrack recording techniques. He and his wife, Mary Ford, achieved widespread fame in the 1950s with hits like “How High the Moon” and “Vaya Con Dios,” showcasing their harmonized vocals and Paul’s innovative recording techniques.
Les Paul’s impact on music extended far beyond his own recordings and inventions. His contributions to the development of electric guitars and recording technology laid the groundwork for modern rock, pop, and jazz music. He received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Les Paul’s legacy as a musician and inventor continues to influence generations of guitarists and recording artists. His innovative spirit and dedication to pushing the boundaries of music and technology make him one of Wisconsin’s most revered musical figures.
Samuel Moore 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.
