Wisconsin may be best known for its cheese, beer, and die-hard sports fans, but did you know it has also produced some of the most legendary voices in music history? From rock and jazz to indie folk and pop, the Badger State has been home to trailblazing artists who have shaped the sound of generations.
Imagine a world without the electrifying guitar innovations of Les Paul or the timeless rock anthems of Steve Miller. Picture indie music without the haunting falsetto of Bon Iver or jazz without the smooth, genre-defying vocals of Al Jarreau. These Wisconsin-born artists—and many more—have left an undeniable mark on the music industry, proving that great talent can come from even the most unexpected places.
Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, soulful jazz, or modern pop, this list of Wisconsin’s most famous singers will take you on a journey through musical history. Some of these artists changed the industry with their innovations, while others have created songs that continue to be beloved across generations. So get ready to turn up the volume and celebrate the top 10 most popular singers from Wisconsin—because this state’s musical legacy is nothing short of legendary! 🎶
1. Les Paul (Waukesha, WI)
Les Paul wasn’t just a musician—he was a pioneer who forever changed the course of music history. Born in Waukesha, Wisconsin, he revolutionized the industry by inventing the solid-body electric guitar, paving the way for the rise of rock and roll. But his innovations didn’t stop there. Paul also played a crucial role in developing multitrack recording, a breakthrough that allowed artists to layer sounds and create richer, more dynamic music. Without him, legends like The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and countless others might never have shaped the sound of modern rock. Beyond his technical genius, Les Paul was a phenomenal guitarist in his own right. His lightning-fast fingerwork and jazz-infused style made hits like “How High the Moon” unforgettable. His influence stretches far beyond his lifetime, living on in every electric guitar riff and studio recording today.
2. Steve Miller (Milwaukee, WI)
Few musicians have mastered the art of crafting timeless rock anthems quite like Steve Miller. Born in Milwaukee, he grew up surrounded by blues and jazz influences, which later infused his signature sound. In the late 1960s, he formed the Steve Miller Band, blending blues, psychedelic rock, and pop to create some of the most enduring hits of the era. Songs like “The Joker,” “Fly Like an Eagle,” and “Take the Money and Run” remain staples of classic rock radio, thanks to their infectious melodies and laid-back charm. His smooth vocals, breezy guitar riffs, and knack for storytelling make his music feel both nostalgic and fresh, even decades later. Whether played at a summer barbecue or blasting from a car radio on a road trip, Steve Miller’s songs have an undeniable feel-good quality that continues to captivate listeners across generations.
3. Bon Iver (Justin Vernon) (Eau Claire, WI)
Justin Vernon, the creative force behind Bon Iver, transformed heartache and solitude into something breathtaking. After a painful breakup, he retreated to a remote cabin in Wisconsin, where he wrote and recorded For Emma, Forever Ago—a raw, deeply personal album that became an instant indie folk classic. With his ethereal falsetto, layered harmonies, and haunting melodies, Vernon created music that felt intimate yet otherworldly. As Bon Iver evolved, so did his sound. Albums like 22, A Million and i,i pushed the boundaries of folk, incorporating electronic elements and experimental production. His music captures the beauty of isolation, the chill of winter, and the bittersweet pull of nostalgia, making him one of the most innovative and influential artists of his generation.
4. Al Jarreau (Milwaukee, WI)
Al Jarreau had a voice like no other—silky smooth yet endlessly versatile. Born in Milwaukee, he became one of the rare artists to win Grammy Awards in multiple genres, effortlessly blending jazz, pop, and R&B. Whether scatting through complex jazz improvisations or delivering heartfelt ballads, he made every note feel alive. Hits like “We’re in This Love Together” and “After All” showcase his warm, expressive style, while his ability to bend and shape his voice made him a standout performer. More than just a singer, Jarreau was a storyteller, bringing emotion and soul to every performance. His music radiates sophistication, joy, and deep musicality, solidifying his place as one of the most beloved jazz vocalists of all time.
5. BoDeans (Waukesha, WI)
Few bands capture the essence of heartland rock quite like the BoDeans. Formed in Waukesha by Kurt Neumann and Sam Llanas, the band blends rootsy Americana with anthemic rock to create music that feels both personal and universal. Their debut album, Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams, produced by T Bone Burnett, introduced their signature sound—gritty, passionate, and packed with soaring harmonies. While they earned critical acclaim early on, it was “Closer to Free”—the theme song for Party of Five—that turned them into a household name. Their songs tell stories of love, struggle, and resilience, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the push and pull of life in small-town America.
6. Geri X (Green Bay, WI)
Geri X is a fiercely independent force in the indie folk-rock scene. Originally from Bulgaria but raised in Green Bay, she pours raw emotion into every song she writes. Her smoky, hypnotic voice, combined with poetic lyrics, creates music that feels deeply personal yet universally relatable. Whether exploring themes of love, loss, or self-discovery, her songs are rich with storytelling and unfiltered honesty. Refusing to be boxed into one genre, she seamlessly blends folk, rock, and alternative influences, making each track uniquely her own. Fans are drawn to her authenticity, as well as the haunting beauty of her melodies. In a world of manufactured pop, Geri X stands out as a true artist, unafraid to be vulnerable and real.
7. Skylar Grey (Mazomanie, WI)
Skylar Grey may not always be in the spotlight, but her fingerprints are all over some of the biggest songs of the past decade. Born in Mazomanie, she co-wrote the megahit “Love the Way You Lie” for Eminem and Rihanna, a song that took the world by storm. But Grey isn’t just a behind-the-scenes songwriter—her own music, including tracks like “Coming Home” and “Wear Me Out,” showcases her unique blend of moody pop, haunting lyrics, and ethereal vocals. Whether working with hip-hop legends or crafting her own deeply personal songs, she brings an emotional intensity that sets her apart. Her haunting voice adds an unmistakable depth to every song she touches, making her one of the most sought-after songwriters and vocalists in the industry today.
8. Viola Smith (Mount Calvary, WI)
Long before women in rock became the norm, Viola Smith was proving that female drummers could hold their own—and then some. Born in Mount Calvary, Wisconsin, she was one of the first famous female drummers in jazz, smashing through gender norms in the 1930s and ‘40s. Known for her speed, precision, and commanding stage presence, she played with big bands, appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show, and even turned down an offer to join the all-female NBC Symphony Orchestra. Her signature 12-piece drum kit allowed her to perform jaw-dropping solos, earning her a place among the greatest drummers of her era. A true trailblazer, Viola Smith didn’t just play music—she changed the game for generations of female musicians to come.
9. Chris Farley (Madison, WI)
Chris Farley wasn’t a traditional musician, but his musical performances on Saturday Night Live were legendary. Born in Madison, he brought an unmatched energy and physical comedy to every role, whether dancing in the famous Chippendales sketch or belting out hilarious parodies of rock stars. His love for music was evident in his work, where he combined humor with a deep appreciation for rock and pop culture. Farley’s comedic timing, larger-than-life personality, and undeniable charisma made his musical moments unforgettable. Though best remembered for his comedy, his performances had a rhythm and musicality all their own, proving that sometimes, being a rock star is about attitude as much as it is about music.
10. Liberace (West Allis, WI)
No one did showmanship quite like Liberace. Born in West Allis, he became one of the most flamboyant entertainers of all time, dazzling audiences with his virtuosic piano skills and extravagant performances. With a mix of classical training and pop accessibility, he made complex piano pieces feel fun and approachable. But it wasn’t just his talent that made him a star—it was his larger-than-life personality, sequined outfits, and over-the-top stage productions. Whether performing Chopin, boogie-woogie, or a Hollywood-style spectacle, Liberace turned every show into an unforgettable experience. More than just a pianist, he was an entertainer in the purest sense, redefining what it meant to be a performer.
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.
