Vermont may be known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil small towns, but this New England gem has also given rise to a diverse array of musical talent. From the jam-band legends who redefined live performance to soulful rockers with voices that echo through the Green Mountains, Vermont’s music scene is as rich and varied as its natural beauty. In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular and influential singers and bands to emerge from the Green Mountain State. These artists have not only captured the hearts of Vermonters but have also made waves on the national and international stages. Whether it’s the electrifying energy of a Phish concert or the hauntingly beautiful melodies of Anaïs Mitchell, each of these musicians brings something uniquely Vermont to the world of music. So, grab your headphones and get ready to explore the sounds of Vermont with our countdown of the state’s most celebrated and beloved artists!
1. Phish
Phish is not just a band; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Formed in 1983 at the University of Vermont in Burlington, Phish quickly became synonymous with the jam band movement. With Trey Anastasio on guitar, Mike Gordon on bass, Jon Fishman on drums, and Page McConnell on keys, the band’s improvisational prowess and genre-blurring style have garnered a devoted fan base over the decades, often compared to that of the Grateful Dead. Phish’s live shows are legendary for their unpredictability, with setlists that vary nightly and extended jams that explore uncharted musical territory. Their ability to blend rock, jazz, funk, blues, and even classical elements into a seamless performance is unparalleled. Whether it’s the soaring guitar solos of “You Enjoy Myself” or the funky grooves of “Down with Disease,” Phish creates an immersive experience that’s more than just a concert—it’s a communal celebration of music.
2. Grace Potter
Hailing from Waitsfield, Vermont, Grace Potter is a powerhouse vocalist and multi-instrumentalist whose raw energy and charisma have made her a standout in the modern rock scene. As the frontwoman of Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Potter’s bluesy voice and fiery stage presence have drawn comparisons to rock icons like Janis Joplin and Bonnie Raitt. Her music is a potent mix of rock, blues, and soul, with hits like “Paris (Ooh La La)” and “Stars” showcasing her ability to craft anthemic, emotionally charged songs. But Potter isn’t just a vocalist; she’s also a skilled songwriter and instrumentalist, often taking to the keys or guitar during her electrifying live shows. With a dynamic range that can move from tender ballads to foot-stomping rockers, Grace Potter is a force of nature who continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
3. Neko Case
Neko Case is a fiercely independent artist whose roots may span across the country, but her time spent in Burlington, Vermont, left a lasting influence on her music. Known for her powerful, soaring voice and dark, poetic lyrics, Case has carved out a unique space in the indie and alt-country scenes. Her solo work, including critically acclaimed albums like Fox Confessor Brings the Flood and Hell-On, showcases her ability to blend country, rock, and folk into something distinctly her own. Neko’s collaborations with the supergroup The New Pornographers further highlight her versatility and creative vision. What makes Case truly special is her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, whether it’s the haunting melancholy of “Hold On, Hold On” or the defiant strength of “Man.” Neko Case is an artist who doesn’t just sing songs—she tells stories, and each one is a journey worth taking.
4. Anaïs Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell is a folk singer-songwriter from Middlebury, Vermont, whose work transcends the boundaries of traditional folk music. Best known for her folk opera Hadestown, which became a critically acclaimed Broadway musical, Mitchell’s storytelling prowess is nothing short of extraordinary. Her music is steeped in mythology, history, and personal narrative, with a lyrical depth that invites listeners to explore complex themes of love, power, and redemption. Anaïs’ voice is both tender and powerful, capable of conveying the most intimate emotions with a simplicity that is profoundly moving. Albums like Young Man in America and The Brightness showcase her ability to blend folk traditions with contemporary sensibilities, creating a sound that is timeless yet entirely her own. Mitchell’s work on Hadestown has not only solidified her place in the folk music pantheon but also introduced her to a broader audience who has fallen in love with her uniquely poetic vision.
5. Joan Osborne
Although Joan Osborne was born in Kentucky, her time spent in Vermont has influenced her eclectic musical style. Best known for her hit single “One of Us,” Joan Osborne has a voice that is both soulful and versatile, capable of delivering anything from gritty blues to tender ballads. Her debut album, Relish, catapulted her into the spotlight with its blend of rock, soul, and folk influences. But Osborne is more than a one-hit wonder; she’s a seasoned performer whose career has spanned nearly three decades, with numerous Grammy nominations to her name. Joan’s music often explores themes of spirituality, love, and social justice, with a sincerity that resonates deeply with her audience. Whether she’s interpreting classic blues tracks or delivering her own original material, Joan Osborne’s performances are always imbued with a sense of honesty and passion that make her one of the most compelling artists of her generation.
6. Peter Ostroushko
Peter Ostroushko may not be a household name, but his contributions to American music, particularly through his work on A Prairie Home Companion, are nothing short of legendary. Born to Ukrainian immigrants, Ostroushko’s music is a rich tapestry of folk traditions, blending elements of bluegrass, old-time, and Eastern European folk music into something uniquely his own. Though he was born in Minnesota, Peter’s extensive touring and collaborations with Vermont musicians over the years have made him a beloved figure in the state’s folk community. His mandolin and fiddle playing are virtuosic, yet always in service of the melody and the story. Ostroushko’s compositions, many of which have been featured on NPR, are marked by their lyrical beauty and emotional depth. Whether he’s performing a lively fiddle tune or a poignant instrumental ballad, Peter Ostroushko’s music is a testament to the enduring power of traditional music in the modern age.
7. Toby Aronson
Toby Aronson is a key figure in Vermont’s experimental music scene, co-founding the influential label NNA Tapes. Based in Burlington, Aronson’s work as a musician and label head has helped to foster a vibrant underground community that defies easy categorization. NNA Tapes has become known for its adventurous releases, spanning genres from ambient to noise to avant-garde electronic music. Aronson himself is a versatile artist, known for his innovative use of synthesizers and electronic textures to create immersive soundscapes. His work often challenges conventional notions of melody and structure, inviting listeners to experience music in new and unexpected ways. Through his label and his own musical projects, Toby Aronson has played a crucial role in putting Vermont on the map as a hub for cutting-edge, experimental music that pushes the boundaries of what music can be.
8. Sam Amidon
Sam Amidon is a Brattleboro, Vermont native who has redefined what it means to be a folk musician in the 21st century. With a deep respect for traditional American folk music, Amidon takes old songs and breathes new life into them, often reinterpreting them with a modern twist. His voice, understated yet full of emotion, carries a timeless quality that makes his renditions of classic folk tunes feel both familiar and fresh. Albums like All Is Well and Bright Sunny South showcase his talent for blending folk with elements of jazz, indie rock, and even electronic music. Sam’s collaborations with artists like Beth Orton and the experimental composer Nico Muhly further highlight his versatility and willingness to push the boundaries of folk music. Amidon’s work is a bridge between the past and the present, honoring the traditions of folk music while also expanding its possibilities for the future.
9. Kat Wright
Kat Wright is a Burlington, Vermont-based singer whose voice is as smooth as velvet and as powerful as a freight train. Leading her band with an effortless charisma, Wright blends soul, jazz, and rock into a sound that is both retro and modern. Her music is a throwback to the golden age of soul, yet it feels completely fresh and relevant today. Wright’s live performances are magnetic, drawing audiences in with her sultry vocals and the tight, dynamic playing of her band. Songs like “By My Side” and “Come Down” showcase her ability to move from a whisper to a roar, all while maintaining a deep emotional connection with her listeners. Kat Wright is not just a singer; she’s a storyteller, using her voice to convey the highs and lows of the human experience with a sincerity that is truly captivating.
10. The Smittens
The Smittens are a quintessential indie pop band from Burlington, Vermont, known for their infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Formed in 2002, The Smittens have carved out a niche in the indie pop world with their blend of twee, punk, and classic pop influences. Their songs are often sweet and catchy, filled with harmonies that recall the best of 60s pop, but with a modern, DIY sensibility. The band’s music is unabashedly joyful, yet there’s an underlying emotional depth that gives their songs a lasting impact. Tracks like “Party Time” and “Gumdrops” are perfect examples of The Smittens’ ability to craft pop gems that are both fun and meaningful. With their playful stage presence and undeniable chemistry, The Smittens have become a beloved part of Vermont’s music scene, embodying the spirit of indie pop with every note they play.
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.
