Virginia is a state that has produced some of the most iconic singers of all time. From jazz legends to pop sensations, Virginia has been the birthplace of numerous influential musicians who have left an indelible mark on the world of music. These singers not only represent the rich cultural heritage of the state, but also showcase the diversity and depth of talent that Virginia has to offer. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 famous singers from Virginia, examining their lives, careers, and contributions to the world of music. These singers have not only achieved great commercial success, but have also influenced the sound and style of popular music, paving the way for future generations of artists. We will delve into the stories behind their rise to fame, their musical inspirations, and the legacy they have left behind. Whether you’re a fan of blues, soul, or country music, there’s sure to be a Virginia-born singer on this list that will inspire and captivate you. So, without further ado, let’s explore the top 10 famous singers from Virginia and discover what makes their music so special.
1. Trey Songz
This Virginian icon has made a name for himself in the R&B music industry. His real name being Tremaine Aldon Neverson, Trey Songz is one of the most sought-after singers of this generation. He has released several chart-topping albums and won numerous awards for his outstanding performances. Being born and raised in Virginia, Trey has openly shared his pride in his hometown and how it influenced his artistry.
Trey Songz began his career as a songwriter before making it big as a solo artist. With hits like "Can't Help But Wait" and "Say Aah," he quickly rose to fame and became a household name. Known for his smooth vocals and seductive lyrics, he continues to be a favorite among music enthusiasts across the world.
Despite achieving worldwide recognition, Trey still remains true to his roots. He actively participates in community events back home, showing support for local causes close to his heart. The musician's success has inspired many young people from Virginia to pursue their passion while representing their heritage proudly.
For those who aspire to follow in Trey's footsteps, one can take inspiration from how he honed his skills through hard work and perseverance. Through dedication and commitment to his craft, he was able to make it big despite humble beginnings.
When it comes to Lamb of God, Virginia may be for lovers, but it's definitely not for the faint of heart.
2. Lamb Of God
With over 20 years of music-making experience, they have become an iconic staple of the metal genre. In addition to their impressive discography, the band has also won numerous awards for their work, including a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance in 2016. Despite some controversy surrounding their name early on in their career, 'Lamb Of God' has continued to thrive and connect with audiences around the globe through their passion for music and undeniable talent. It's important to note that 'Lamb Of God' is not just a heavy metal band – they have also ventured into other genres such as thrash and groove metal, making them versatile performers with something for everyone. Moreover, each member of the band brings their unique style and influences to the table, which contributes to their dynamic on stage and in the studio. Fans of this Virginia-based group appreciate not only their powerful instrumentals but also the meaningful lyrics that often touch on social issues. For those who haven't yet experienced the might of 'Lamb Of God', listening to tracks like "Redneck" or "Laid To Rest" can provide a taste of what they bring to the table. Attending one of their electrifying concerts is another way to truly capture the raw energy that they exude on stage. Overall, 'Lamb Of God' has established themselves as one of Virginia's most well-known musical acts, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to influence rock & roll for generations to come. With a voice smoother than Virginia bourbon, Kali Uchis proves that good things do come from the East Coast.
3. Kali Uchis
Kali Uchis is a musician hailing from Virginia, USA. With her Colombian roots, she brings a unique flavor to her music that blends soul, R&B, and Latin genres. Her debut album 'Isolation' earned critical acclaim and nominations for prestigious awards. Kali's collaboration with Tyler the Creator in the song "See You Again" topped charts worldwide.
As a rising star, Kali Uchis has worked with other artists such as Gorillaz, Jorja Smith, Juanes and more. Her creative presence goes beyond just singing; she is known for her distinct fashion style and visual language.
Kali Uchis's rise to fame hasn't stopped her from giving back to the community. In 2020, she donated proceeds from ticket sales of one of her virtual concerts to organizations fighting racial injustice.
One memorable story includes Kali praising fellow Virginian artist Pharrell Williams on social media for his work on uplifting the Virginia music scene and making it diverse. This exchange sparked rumors of possible future collaborations between them.
Move over, Beach Boys, Virginia's got its own harmony group with The Statler Brothers.
4. The Statler Brothers
The Statler Brothers, a world-renowned singing group from Staunton, Virginia, formed in 1955 and disbanded in 2002. They are best known for their country music recordings and their gospel interpretations. The band members were Harold Reid, Don Reid, Phil Balsley, and Lew DeWitt, with Jimmy Fortune joining the group after DeWitt's departure in 1982.
The Statler Brothers had numerous hits on the Billboard charts throughout their career. They won several Country Music Association awards and Grammys for their recordings. Their signature song was "Flowers on the Wall," which became an international hit in the mid-1960s. The band was also known for its comedic sketches during concerts and on television shows.
Interestingly, the name of the band came from a box of tissues that member Harold Reid saw while traveling through Virginia. The tissues were called "Statler" and since they liked the sound of it, they used it as their band name.
It is no surprise that The Statler Brothers are one of Virginia's most famous musical acts with such a prestigious career spanning over four decades.
Ruth Brown may have been the queen of R&B, but in Virginia, she was just another girl trying to make it in a state filled with more cows than record labels.
5. Ruth Brown
One singer who hails from Virginia is the iconic Ruth Brown, whose soulful voice earned her the nickname "Miss Rhythm". With a career that spanned over five decades, Brown was one of the first female artists to top the R&B charts, and she paved the way for many others who followed in her footsteps. Throughout her life, she also worked as an activist, using her platform to advocate for better treatment of musicians in the industry.
Brown's music was characterized by its infectious rhythms and heartfelt lyrics, which reflected her own experiences growing up in poverty and overcoming adversity. She recorded hits like "Teardrops from My Eyes" and "Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean", which continue to be beloved classics among fans of R&B and soul music. Even after facing setbacks in her career due to changing musical trends, Brown bounced back with renewed determination, continuing to perform and record until her death in 2006.
One unique aspect of Brown's musical legacy is that she not only sang popular songs but also wrote many of them herself, showcasing her talents as both a performer and a songwriter. Additionally, Brown's work as an activist highlighted important issues facing musicians during her time and created lasting change within the industry. In one famous example of Brown's activism, she successfully sued Atlantic Records for back royalties owed to her and other musicians under deceptive contract practices. Her efforts were instrumental in establishing new regulations around recording contracts that protected musicians' rights for years to come.
Overall, Ruth Brown remains an inspiration to many artists who have followed in her footsteps – a testament to both her undeniable talent as a musician and her tireless dedication towards creating positive change within the music industry.
Old Crow Medicine Show: the only medicine that won't leave you with a hangover, but might make you want to pick up a banjo.
6. Old Crow Medicine Show
This iconic band is one of the most famous musical acts founded in Virginia. Old Crow Medicine Show has been instrumental in reviving the traditional American folk music scene since their formation in Harrisonburg in 1998. With dynamic performances and unique instruments, including a resonator guitar, the group's sound draws from Appalachian mountain traditions and bluesy country melodies. Many of their hit songs have gained popularity through movies and television shows, such as "Wagon Wheel." Their distinct combination of old-time music with a modern twist has earned them a devoted fan base worldwide.
In addition to their revival of early American musical styles, Old Crow Medicine Show has performed at some significant venues, including Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall. The group has received several accolades throughout their career, including a Grammy award for "Best Long Form Music Video" for their collaboration with various artists on "Big Easy Express." Furthermore, the band's reputation for unique musical improvisations during live performances guarantees that fans are always guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
As one of the key players in keeping traditional American music alive, finding similar artists will not be difficult for fans of Old Crow Medicine Show. Listening to bands like Gillian Welch or Carolina Chocolate Drops can provide listeners with equally captivating music that draws heavily on historic influences while still creating a sound that is both fresh and contemporary. Additionally, attending old-time music festivals like the Appalachian String Band Music Festival could offer up-and-coming acts who continue to innovate and push this beloved genre forward.
Steve Earle's music is like a shot of whiskey – rough, powerful, and leaves you with a good kind of pain.
7. Steve Earle
This artist from Virginia has been celebrated for his exceptional musicianship and songwriting skills. Steve Earle has served as a role model for many aspiring musicians in the country genre with his unique take on traditionalism and modernity. His music is a reflection of the hardworking values that Virginia stands for, and his lyrics resonate deeply with listeners across generations. Earle's career has spanned more than four decades, earning him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammys.
Earle's influence extends beyond just the music industry – he is also an actor, author, playwright, and political activist. He uses his platforms to advocate for social justice causes that are close to his heart and continues to inspire listeners with his meaningful messages. His grit and determination have enabled him to overcome personal struggles with addiction while remaining steadfast in his commitment to artistic excellence.
One interesting fact about Earle is that he has collaborated with some of the most prominent artists in music history, including Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris, and Shawn Colvin. Another fun fact is that he once had a recurring role on the HBO series 'The Wire'. Despite facing setbacks over the years, Earle's artistry has never faltered—and it shows no sign of doing so anytime soon.
Steve Earle's musical journey is an inspiration to all those hoping to make their mark in this field. His unique sound draws from multiple genres—a true testament to Virginia's diverse cultural heritage—and has earned him a well-deserved place in the pantheon of American music legends. Move over, Pharrell, there's a new N.E.R.D in town – Virginia!
8. N.E.R.D
This Virginia-born musical group which stands for "No One Ever Really Dies" consist of Pharrell Williams, Chad Hugo, and Shay Haley. The trio is known for their fusion of various music genres such as funk, hip hop, and rock. Their unique sound has earned them a devoted fan base as well as collaborations with artists like Jay-Z and Rihanna.
N.E.R.D's debut album, In Search Of…, was released in 2001. The album was initially released in an electronic format but later re-recorded with a live band. The switch in formats led to a change in the group's sound and garnered critical acclaim. As they continued producing music throughout the early 2000s, N.E.R.D became known for their use of unconventional sounds and lyrics that tackled social issues.
Interestingly enough, Pharrell Williams never intended to be a member of N.E.R.D. In fact, he originally considered himself solely a producer and songwriter for the group. However, his talent was too great to ignore, leading him to join permanently as one-third of the trio we know today.
Wayne Newton may be Mr. Las Vegas, but did you know he's actually from Virginia? Looks like he's got both states covered in his career.
9. Wayne Newton
With a career spanning over six decades, the legendary American singer, songwriter and actor from Virginia is one of the most prominent figures in show business. Excelling in various genres including pop, country and rock, Wayne Newton has been dubbed as "Mr. Las Vegas" for his extensive performances in Sin City.
Maintaining popularity since the 1960s through hits like "Danke Schoen" and "Red Roses for a Blue Lady," Newton remains an active performer to date. He is also renowned for his acting skills that have seen him feature in television series such as "Roseanne."
In addition to being a singer and an actor, Wayne Newton has gained notoriety for his philanthropic contributions towards society. Since early 2000, he has been actively involved with non-profit organizations such as the USO and Make-A-Wish Foundation.
According to Biography.com, Wayne Newton's success can be credited to his hard work and dedication towards music from an early age of six.
Roy Clark may be from Virginia, but with his impressive guitar skills, he could give Nashville a run for its money.
10. Roy Clark
A prominent Virginia-born musician, known for his outstanding skills in different instruments, is celebrated worldwide. He was a master of genre blending and played country, pop and bluegrass music flawlessly. His talent saw him construct an extensive discography, appearing on numerous big stages globally. He left quite an impression with fans that still admire his unique style today.
Interestingly, this versatile artist dabbled in acting too. He was popularly associated with TV shows and movies as he frequently appeared on them. With more than six decades of an illustrious career, this Virginian singer remains unforgettable to those who followed him.
This remarkable star was born in 1933 in Meherrin, Virginia but later moved out the state to pursue his dreams. Despite leaving his hometown eventually, he never forgot his roots throughout his life journey. Today, Roy Clark's legacy is among the famous singers from Virginia that made their mark globally with their music talents.
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.
