Washington State, nestled in the Pacific Northwest with its towering evergreens and vibrant cityscapes, has long been a breeding ground for groundbreaking music. From the grunge revolution that shook the ’90s to the indie rock and pop stars dominating today’s charts, Washington’s influence on the music world is undeniable. Beyond its stunning natural beauty and tech-forward cities like Seattle, this state has nurtured voices that have not only captivated millions but also shaped entire genres. Whether it’s the raw energy of rock, the smooth grooves of R&B, or the infectious beats of pop, Washington has produced some of the most iconic and genre-defining singers of our time.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular famous singers from Washington—artists whose incredible talent and unforgettable performances have made them household names. These singers, hailing from the rainy streets of Seattle to the quiet suburbs, have risen to global stardom, winning Grammys, selling out arenas, and dominating the airwaves. Whether you’re a fan of gritty rock anthems, soulful ballads, or catchy pop hits, Washington’s music scene has given the world something for everyone. Get ready to dive into the stories and sounds of the voices that have put Washington on the musical map. Let’s get started!
1. Kenny G
Seattle-born Kenny G is synonymous with smooth jazz, becoming one of the best-selling instrumentalists of all time. His signature saxophone sound, characterized by long, flowing melodies, captured the hearts of millions throughout the 1980s and 1990s. His 1986 album, Duotones, propelled him to international stardom, with the track “Songbird” becoming an instant hit. Kenny G has a unique ability to make complex musical pieces feel accessible and relaxing, and his music has become a staple of easy listening radio worldwide. Whether you love or loathe smooth jazz, there’s no denying Kenny G’s impact on the genre.
2. Chris Cornell (Soundgarden, Audioslave)
Chris Cornell, a Seattle native, was one of the defining voices of the grunge movement. As the lead singer of Soundgarden, Cornell’s powerhouse vocals helped define the sound of 1990s alternative rock, with songs like “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman” becoming instant classics. Following Soundgarden’s initial breakup, Cornell formed Audioslave with members of Rage Against the Machine, further solidifying his place in rock history with hits like “Like a Stone.” His voice, known for its range and emotional intensity, made him one of the most respected vocalists in rock. Cornell’s tragic death in 2017 left a huge void in the music world, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music.
3. Ben Gibbard (Death Cab for Cutie, The Postal Service)
Ben Gibbard, frontman of Death Cab for Cutie, is one of the most celebrated figures in indie rock. Raised in Bremerton, Washington, Gibbard’s introspective and poetic songwriting has earned him a loyal following. Death Cab for Cutie’s albums, especially Transatlanticism (2003) and Plans (2005), became indie anthems for a generation. Gibbard also found success with The Postal Service, a collaboration with producer Jimmy Tamborello, whose song “Such Great Heights” became a defining track of the early 2000s. Gibbard’s ability to weave personal, often melancholy stories into his music has made him a voice for the soul-searching and introspective.
4. Duff McKagan (Guns N’ Roses)
Duff McKagan, born and raised in Seattle, is best known as the bassist for the legendary hard rock band Guns N’ Roses. His punchy bass lines helped drive the band’s most iconic songs, including tracks from their breakthrough album Appetite for Destruction (1987), which remains one of the best-selling albums of all time. McKagan’s punk rock roots and rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle became the backbone of Guns N’ Roses’ rebellious image. In addition to his work with GNR, McKagan has pursued solo projects and written books, proving himself as a multifaceted artist and storyteller.
5. Ann Wilson (Heart)
Ann Wilson, the powerful voice behind Heart, hails from Seattle and has been a trailblazer for women in rock for decades. With her sister Nancy, Ann helped Heart break into the male-dominated rock scene of the 1970s. Songs like “Barracuda,” “Magic Man,” and “Crazy on You” showcased her incredible vocal range and commanding stage presence. Heart’s music blends hard rock with folk and acoustic elements, creating a sound that’s both aggressive and melodic. Ann’s voice, often described as one of the best in rock history, has earned her legions of fans and inspired countless female rockers to follow in her footsteps.
6. Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix is widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in the history of rock music. Born in Seattle in 1942, his meteoric rise to fame came in the late 1960s, marked by his groundbreaking fusion of blues, rock, and psychedelia. With hits like “Purple Haze” and “All Along the Watchtower,” Hendrix delivered a sound that was both raw and otherworldly, captivating audiences with his virtuosic guitar playing. His performance at Woodstock in 1969, especially his rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” remains one of the most iconic moments in music history. Despite his untimely death at 27, Hendrix’s legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians, and his influence can still be heard in modern rock, blues, and beyond.
7. Kurt Cobain (Nirvana)
Kurt Cobain, the voice of a generation, forever changed the music landscape with his raw, emotional songwriting and unique vocal style as the frontman of Nirvana. Born in Aberdeen, Washington, Cobain helped catapult the Seattle grunge scene into the mainstream with Nirvana’s 1991 release of Nevermind, driven by the smash hit “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” His deeply personal and often dark lyrics resonated with disillusioned youth, making him a reluctant spokesperson for Generation X. Cobain’s tragic death in 1994 solidified his place as a cultural icon, but his music continues to inspire listeners and musicians, blending punk energy with melodic songwriting in unforgettable ways.
8. Bing Crosby
Bing Crosby, one of the most beloved entertainers of the 20th century, was born in Tacoma, Washington, in 1903. Best known for his velvety smooth voice, Crosby’s influence spans radio, film, and television, but perhaps his greatest legacy is his contributions to popular music. His rendition of “White Christmas” remains the best-selling single of all time, a timeless holiday classic. Crosby helped pioneer the crooning style of singing, and his relaxed, conversational delivery set the standard for vocalists of his era. He was also a pioneer in the early days of sound recording, using groundbreaking techniques that shaped the future of the industry.
9. Brandi Carlile
Hailing from Ravensdale, Washington, Brandi Carlile has emerged as one of the most powerful voices in contemporary Americana and folk rock. Known for her deeply emotional songwriting and dynamic vocal range, Carlile’s music spans across genres, touching on themes of love, loss, and resilience. Her breakthrough album, The Story (2007), earned her critical acclaim, but it was By the Way, I Forgive You (2018) that cemented her as a Grammy-winning force to be reckoned with. Her ability to connect with audiences through poignant lyrics and soul-stirring melodies has made her a champion of both the indie scene and mainstream music.
10. Macklemore
Macklemore, born Ben Haggerty in Seattle, shot to stardom with his infectious blend of socially conscious lyrics and catchy beats. Teaming up with producer Ryan Lewis, Macklemore achieved massive success with their 2012 album The Heist, which included hit singles like “Thrift Shop” and “Same Love.” His music often tackles themes of consumerism, addiction, and equality, resonating with fans around the world. Macklemore’s ability to craft clever and meaningful lyrics, combined with his energetic performances, has solidified him as one of the most successful and influential hip-hop artists to come out of the Pacific Northwest.
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.
