Vermont may be known for its stunning landscapes, charming small towns, and vibrant arts scene, but nestled among its rolling hills and serene lakes is a musical heartbeat that boasts some truly exceptional talent. From soulful rockers to indie folk sensations, the Green Mountain State has produced a diverse range of artists who have made their mark on the national stage. Whether it’s through electrifying live performances, top-charting hits, or innovative musical compositions, these Vermont-born or Vermont-based singers and musicians have captivated audiences far and wide with their unique sounds and unmistakable artistry. In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular and influential singers from Vermont, showcasing the voices and talents that have helped put this quiet New England state on the musical map. From internationally acclaimed jam bands to rising indie stars, these artists are proof that Vermont’s music scene is as rich and varied as its natural beauty. Get ready to discover—or rediscover—the Vermont musicians who are leaving their unique stamp on the world of music!
1. Grace Potter
Grace Potter is a dynamic force in rock music, hailing from Waitsfield, Vermont. Known for her electrifying stage presence and powerful vocals, Potter first gained national attention as the frontwoman of Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. With a voice that seamlessly shifts between raspy rock grit and soulful warmth, she channels influences from legends like Janis Joplin and Tina Turner. Songs like “Paris (Ooh La La)” and “Stars” showcase her versatility, blending blues, rock, and pop into a sound both timeless and fresh. Beyond her work with the Nocturnals, Potter’s solo career has seen her explore a more personal, introspective side, as evidenced in albums like Midnight and Daylight. Whether she’s belting out anthems or delivering heart-wrenching ballads, Potter’s authenticity and raw talent make her one of Vermont’s most celebrated musical exports.
2. Phish (Trey Anastasio, Mike Gordon, Jon Fishman, Page McConnell)
Phish, one of the most influential jam bands in the world, was formed in Burlington, Vermont, in the 1980s. Led by the virtuosic guitar work of Trey Anastasio, Phish became known for their eclectic blend of rock, jazz, funk, and psychedelic improvisation. Each show is a unique experience, with the band rarely playing the same setlist twice, making their concerts a communal celebration of creativity and spontaneity. With songs like “You Enjoy Myself” and “Bouncing Around the Room,” Phish has cultivated a massive following, often compared to the Grateful Dead for their loyal fanbase and improvisational prowess. While their studio albums are compelling, it’s Phish’s live performances that have solidified them as legends. From their sold-out New Year’s Eve shows at Madison Square Garden to massive festivals like The Great Went, Phish is a band that has transcended Vermont to become a global musical phenomenon.
3. Joan Osborne
Joan Osborne, best known for her 1995 smash hit “One of Us,” has a career that stretches far beyond that singular moment. Though born in Kentucky, Osborne has long had ties to Vermont, where she has spent significant time throughout her life. Her voice—soulful, bluesy, and unmistakably powerful—has earned her a place among the greats of modern rock and blues. Over the years, Osborne has explored a wide range of genres, from her roots in folk and country to her more recent work with blues and soul influences. Her critically acclaimed album Relish solidified her as a major force in 90s rock, but Osborne has proven her staying power with a diverse discography that continues to captivate audiences. Whether she’s performing solo or collaborating with artists like the Grateful Dead, Osborne’s raw vocal power and emotional depth make her an enduring figure in American music.
4. Neko Case
Neko Case, though born in Virginia, has deep connections to Vermont, where she has lived and recorded music. An indie rock icon, Case is best known for her haunting, powerful voice and evocative songwriting. As both a solo artist and a member of the critically acclaimed supergroup The New Pornographers, Case has carved out a unique space in the world of alternative country and indie rock. Her solo work, particularly albums like Fox Confessor Brings the Flood and Middle Cyclone, showcases her ability to craft songs that are both epic and intimate, weaving stories of nature, loss, and love. Case’s voice is a force of nature—rich, raw, and full of emotion. Her music often defies easy categorization, blending elements of country, rock, and folk into something entirely her own. Vermont’s quietude and natural beauty seem to resonate in her music, making her time in the state a fitting backdrop to her atmospheric sound.
5. Anaïs Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell is a Vermont native who has gained international recognition for her poetic storytelling and innovative musical compositions. Mitchell is best known as the creator of Hadestown, a folk opera that retells the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice through the lens of Depression-era America. After years of performing Hadestown as a concept album and touring show, it made its way to Broadway, where it won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical. But Mitchell’s talents go beyond theater—she is an accomplished singer-songwriter in her own right, with a discography that spans folk, indie, and Americana. Her songwriting is deeply introspective, often exploring themes of love, loss, and social justice. Albums like Young Man in America have cemented her reputation as one of the most thoughtful and innovative voices in modern folk music. Her Vermont roots, with their deep connection to rural life and storytelling traditions, are evident in every note she sings.
6. Matt Lorenz (The Suitcase Junket)
Matt Lorenz, known by his one-man-band moniker The Suitcase Junket, hails from rural Vermont and has captivated audiences with his gritty, blues-infused folk music. Lorenz’s performances are a spectacle—he plays a guitar salvaged from a dumpster and uses an assortment of homemade instruments, including a suitcase kick drum, to create a rich, full-band sound all on his own. His music is raw, unpolished, and full of heart, blending influences from Delta blues, rock, and folk into something wholly original. Songs like “Earth Apple” and “Busted Gut” display his knack for clever lyricism and infectious rhythms. Watching Lorenz perform is akin to witnessing a mad scientist at work, as he juggles instruments and sounds with effortless skill. In a world of over-produced music, The Suitcase Junket offers a breath of fresh air with his authentic, DIY approach.
7. Chad Hollister
Chad Hollister is a Vermont-based singer-songwriter whose blend of rock and folk has earned him a loyal following in the Northeast and beyond. With a sound that combines the introspective lyrics of folk with the energy and drive of rock, Hollister’s music has a universal appeal. He has shared the stage with legends like Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Paul Simon, but it’s his connection to Vermont that truly defines him as an artist. Hollister’s songs often reflect the natural beauty and quietude of the Green Mountain State, with anthems like “Grow” and “Mama” showcasing his ability to craft heartfelt, relatable music. His live shows are a celebration of community and connection, with Hollister’s warm, inviting stage presence drawing audiences in. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of Vermont’s most beloved musicians, continuously evolving while staying true to his roots.
8. Peter Mulvey
Peter Mulvey, though originally from Milwaukee, has a deep connection to Vermont, where he has often performed and collaborated with local musicians. A masterful guitarist and storyteller, Mulvey’s music is rooted in folk and indie traditions, but he’s never been afraid to push boundaries. His lyrics are poetic and thought-provoking, exploring themes of love, politics, and the human condition. Albums like The Trouble with Poets and Are You Listening? showcase his ability to blend intricate guitar work with introspective, often socially conscious lyrics. Mulvey’s live performances are intimate, engaging affairs where his wit and charisma shine. He is a troubadour in the truest sense, constantly touring and connecting with audiences all over the country. His ties to Vermont’s vibrant folk scene have only deepened his reputation as a thoughtful and innovative voice in contemporary music.
9. Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan, a rising star from Strafford, Vermont, has quickly made a name for himself with his deeply emotional, introspective brand of indie folk-pop. Kahan’s breakout hit “Hurt Somebody” garnered millions of streams, but his music goes far beyond viral success. With a voice that’s equal parts vulnerability and strength, Kahan writes songs that capture the raw complexities of youth, mental health, and small-town life. His debut album Busyhead and follow-up Stick Season showcase his knack for melody and storytelling, with lyrics that are both deeply personal and widely relatable. Kahan’s sound is often compared to artists like Ed Sheeran and Bon Iver, but his Vermont upbringing gives his music a unique flavor, full of rustic charm and authenticity. Whether he’s singing about heartbreak or the beauty of the changing seasons, Kahan’s music resonates deeply with listeners, cementing him as one of Vermont’s brightest musical talents.
10. Kat Wright
Kat Wright, based in Burlington, Vermont, is a powerhouse vocalist whose music blends soul, R&B, and rock into a captivating, genre-defying sound. With a voice that has been compared to greats like Amy Winehouse and Norah Jones, Wright brings a sultry, soulful energy to every performance. Her band, known for their tight musicianship and lush arrangements, provides the perfect backdrop for Wright’s rich, emotive vocals. Songs like “Come Dance” and “By My Side” showcase her ability to move effortlessly between tender ballads and upbeat, danceable tracks. Wright’s live performances are nothing short of mesmerizing, with her commanding stage presence and undeniable charisma drawing in audiences from the first note. In a state known for its folk traditions, Kat Wright’s blend of soul and rock ‘n’ roll stands out, making her one of the most exciting and unique voices to come out of Vermont’s music scene.
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.
