Vermont may be known for its breathtaking landscapes, maple syrup, and peaceful countryside, but it has also given rise to some truly incredible musical talent. From folk storytellers to rock legends and pop powerhouses, the Green Mountain State has nurtured artists who have made waves on both national and international stages.
Whether it’s the electrifying energy of Grace Potter, the improvisational brilliance of Phish, or the heartfelt folk-pop of Noah Kahan, Vermont’s music scene is as diverse as its seasons. This small but mighty state has been home to Grammy winners, Broadway visionaries, and chart-topping artists who have left a lasting impact on their genres. Some of these musicians were born and raised in Vermont, while others found inspiration in its quiet beauty, shaping their sound and storytelling in ways that resonate with listeners around the world.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular singers and musicians from Vermont, celebrating their achievements, signature styles, and the lasting influence they’ve had on the industry. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these artists for the first time, get ready to explore the best of Vermont’s musical legacy! 🎶🔥
1. Grace Potter
Grace Potter is a powerhouse of rock, blues, and soul, captivating audiences with her electrifying stage presence and raw, emotionally charged vocals. Born in Vermont, she first gained recognition as the lead singer of Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, a band that fused rock, folk, and blues into a sound that felt both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Hits like Paris (Ooh La La) showcased her gritty, high-energy style, while Stars revealed her ability to craft deeply moving ballads. As a solo artist, Potter has continued to push boundaries, blending elements of pop, country, and rock in albums like Daylight, which earned critical acclaim for its fearless songwriting and powerhouse vocals. Her dynamic voice, often compared to legends like Janis Joplin and Bonnie Raitt, brings an authenticity that resonates across genres. Whether she’s belting out a bluesy anthem or delivering an intimate acoustic performance, Potter’s passion and intensity make her one of Vermont’s most celebrated musical exports. With a career that continues to evolve, she remains a force in modern music, proving that raw talent and fearless creativity never go out of style.
2. Phish (Trey Anastasio, Mike Gordon, Jon Fishman, Page McConnell)
Phish isn’t just a band—it’s a movement. Formed in the 1980s at the University of Vermont, this genre-defying jam band has built a devoted following with their improvisational live shows, technical musicianship, and free-spirited energy. Led by the virtuoso guitarist Trey Anastasio, alongside Mike Gordon (bass), Jon Fishman (drums), and Page McConnell (keyboards), Phish is known for its extended jams, unexpected covers, and ever-changing setlists that ensure no two concerts are ever the same. Their albums, including Junta, Billy Breathes, and Farmhouse, showcase their ability to blend rock, jazz, funk, bluegrass, and psychedelia into a sound that is entirely their own. Often compared to the Grateful Dead, Phish has cultivated a passionate community of fans who embrace their experimental spirit and live-show culture. From sold-out multi-night runs at Madison Square Garden to their legendary self-produced festivals, Phish remains one of the most successful touring acts in history, proving that their music is more than just a performance—it’s an experience.
3. JoJo (Joanna Levesque)
JoJo’s rise to fame was nothing short of meteoric. Born in Vermont and raised in Massachusetts, she became a pop sensation at just 13 years old with her breakout hit Leave (Get Out), making history as the youngest solo artist to top the Billboard Pop chart. With a voice mature beyond her years, JoJo continued her early 2000s success with hits like Too Little Too Late, solidifying her status as a teenage pop powerhouse. However, her journey wasn’t without obstacles—battling record label disputes that stalled her career for years, she fought for artistic freedom and eventually made a triumphant return with critically acclaimed albums like Mad Love and Good to Know. Now a champion of independent artistry, JoJo blends R&B, soul, and pop with a level of honesty and depth that resonates deeply with fans. Her powerful vocals, combined with her resilience and raw storytelling, have earned her respect as one of pop music’s most underrated talents. Whether belting out radio anthems or crafting intimate, confessional ballads, JoJo continues to prove that true artistry stands the test of time.
4. Neko Case
A singular force in alternative country and indie rock, Neko Case is known for her hauntingly powerful voice and poetic, deeply evocative songwriting. Though born in Virginia, she has spent time in Vermont and draws inspiration from its landscapes and solitude. With albums like Fox Confessor Brings the Flood and Hell-On, she has built a reputation for blending folk, rock, and Americana into something uniquely her own. Case’s storytelling is rich with imagery, often weaving surreal and deeply personal narratives that linger in the mind long after the song ends. Whether performing solo or as a member of The New Pornographers, she has cultivated a fiercely loyal following drawn to her uncompromising artistry and distinctive sound. Her music defies easy categorization—sometimes melancholic, sometimes fierce, always mesmerizing. With a career spanning decades and an influence that extends across genres, Neko Case remains one of the most original and compelling voices in modern music.
5. Noah Kahan
Hailing from the small town of Strafford, Vermont, Noah Kahan has quickly risen to prominence as one of today’s most compelling singer-songwriters. His music, a heartfelt blend of folk and pop, captures the raw beauty of rural life and the bittersweet emotions tied to home, change, and nostalgia. His breakout single Hurt Somebody introduced him to a global audience, but it was his 2022 album Stick Season that truly cemented his place in modern folk-pop. With lyrics that feel deeply personal yet universally relatable, Kahan’s songs paint vivid pictures of longing, self-discovery, and emotional growth. His voice, both tender and powerful, carries an authenticity that has resonated with fans worldwide. Whether delivering an intimate acoustic performance or leading a festival crowd in anthemic singalongs, Kahan has established himself as a defining artist of the folk-pop revival, proving that heartfelt storytelling and raw emotion never go out of style.
6. Anaïs Mitchell
A visionary in folk music and musical theater, Anaïs Mitchell has carved out a unique space in modern songwriting. Born in Vermont, she gained widespread recognition for her creation of Hadestown, the folk opera that transformed into a Tony Award-winning Broadway sensation. With a lyrical style that blends mythology, history, and deeply personal narratives, Mitchell’s music feels both timeless and urgent. Her albums, including Young Man in America, showcase her ability to craft poetic, emotionally rich songs that transport listeners into deeply immersive worlds. With a delicate yet commanding voice, she draws comparisons to artists like Joni Mitchell and Gillian Welch, captivating audiences with her storytelling prowess. Whether redefining musical theater or releasing deeply introspective folk albums, Anaïs Mitchell’s artistry is nothing short of extraordinary.
7. Chad Urmston (Dispatch)
As a founding member of Dispatch, Chad Urmston played a pivotal role in shaping the indie/roots rock scene. Originally from Massachusetts, Dispatch has strong ties to Vermont, where their grassroots following flourished. Songs like The General and Bang Bang became anthems for a generation, blending folk, reggae, and rock with socially conscious lyrics. Urmston’s passion for activism is woven into his music, addressing issues from environmental justice to social change. After Dispatch, he continued his mission through State Radio, further solidifying his reputation as an artist who uses music as a tool for awareness and action.
8. Guster (Ryan Miller, Adam Gardner, Brian Rosenworcel)
Known for their clever lyrics, tight harmonies, and infectious melodies, Guster has long been a favorite among indie rock fans. Though formed in Boston, Vermont has become a second home for the band, particularly for frontman Ryan Miller, who resides in the state and actively participates in its arts scene. Albums like Lost and Gone Forever and Keep It Together showcase their ability to balance humor, introspection, and musical experimentation. Their live performances are legendary for their playful energy and crowd engagement, making Guster one of the most beloved and enduring acts in indie rock.
9. Francesca Blanchard
Blending indie folk with French chanson influences, Francesca Blanchard brings a beautifully unique sound to Vermont’s music scene. Raised between France and Vermont, her bilingual background infuses her music with a worldly depth. Songs like Free and Rame highlight her ethereal vocals and introspective songwriting, exploring themes of identity, love, and self-discovery. Whether singing in English or French, she captivates listeners with her dreamy melodies and intimate storytelling, drawing comparisons to artists like Norah Jones and Feist.
10. Dan Tyminski
Dan Tyminski is a bluegrass legend with deep roots in Vermont. Best known for his Grammy-winning rendition of Man of Constant Sorrow from O Brother, Where Art Thou?, Tyminski has been a staple in the world of bluegrass and country music for decades. As a longtime member of Alison Krauss & Union Station, his rich, soulful voice and masterful guitar work have helped shape modern bluegrass. Whether delivering high-energy bluegrass anthems or heartfelt ballads, Tyminski’s contributions to the genre are undeniable. His music embodies the spirit of traditional American roots while continuing to evolve with each new project.
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.
