10 Famous Singers from South Carolina

South Carolina, a state rich in history and culture, has produced a plethora of talented individuals who have captivated the world with their melodious voices. From soulful crooners to powerhouse divas, the Palmetto State has gifted us with an array of famous singers who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. In this article, we will explore the top 10 famous singers from South Carolina, celebrating their unique contributions and enduring legacies.

This vibrant southern state has been a breeding ground for extraordinary talent, producing artists across various genres. Whether it’s the soul-stirring tunes of gospel, the foot-tapping rhythms of jazz, the heart-wrenching ballads of country, or the infectious beats of pop and hip-hop, South Carolina has served as a launching pad for artists who have risen to global prominence.

Each singer on this list has not only achieved remarkable success but has also left an indelible mark on the music landscape. From the timeless classics of the past to the contemporary hits of the present, these artists have touched the hearts and souls of millions with their impeccable vocal prowess, lyrical storytelling, and magnetic stage presence. Their journeys from humble beginnings to worldwide stardom inspire aspiring artists and stand as a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and unwavering passion.

Join us on this musical journey as we explore the lives and careers of the top 10 famous singers who proudly call South Carolina their home. From the captivating melodies of gospel to the chart-topping hits of mainstream music, prepare to be enthralled by the extraordinary talents that have emerged from this remarkable state.

1. Lee Brice

With roots tracing back to Sumter, South Carolina, this country music singer-songwriter is known for his chart-topping hits and soulful ballads. Lee Brice's career began as a songwriter with well-known hits that led him to sign with Curb Records. His debut album "Love Like Crazy" featured an impressive six Top 40 singles on the US Billboard charts. Brice continues to sell out arenas nationwide and was even inducted into the South Carolina Music Association's Hall of Fame.

Throughout his career, Lee Brice has collaborated with fellow singers such as Jerrod Niemann and Tyler Farr. In addition to his musical talent, he also gives back by hosting annual charitable events that have raised over $150,000 for Folds of Honor Foundation – an organization that provides scholarships to families of fallen or injured soldiers.

Pro Tip: Interested in seeing Lee Brice perform live? Check out his tour schedule on his official website and purchase tickets early – they often sell out fast!

Angie Stone proves that good things come in small packages, with a voice that can pack a punch like a heavyweight champ.

2. Angie Stone

This famous American singer and songwriter hails from the state of South Carolina. Angie Stone, a gifted artist, started her music career in the 1970s and has since released several hit tracks, albums, and collaborations with other famous musicians. With a voice that blends soul, hip-hop, R&B, and funk music genres effortlessly, Angie's music continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Her unique style and authentic sound have helped set her apart as one of the most influential singers of our time.

Angie Stone's passion for music began at an early age when she would often perform in gospel choirs. Reflecting this background, Angie's performances are often powerful and emotional. She has worked alongside various artists such as Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Stevie Wonder and D'Angelo to name a few. Angie Stone has won several awards throughout her illustrious career; including three Grammy nominations for "Brotha,""U-Haul," and "Wish I Didn't Miss You." These awards bear testimony to her unparalleled contributions to the world of music.

Additionally, Angie Stone is also known for her philanthropic work focused on social issues related to poverty reduction and education reform particularly in underprivileged communities. Her heart for giving back can be seen in both her artistry as well as documented actions outside of it.

Pro Tip: Listen carefully to Angie Stones Music – It reflects the soul of America that gives exposure to you into the complexities within our nation's history while oozing with authenticity that leaves an everlasting impact on people worldwide!

Move over Dolly Parton, Linda Martell is the queen of country music from South Carolina.

3. Linda Martell

A notable musician hailing from the state of South Carolina is Linda Martell, a country singer who gained fame during the late 1960s. Martell was one of very few African-American women to achieve success in the predominantly white world of country music. She signed to Plantation Records and released several singles, including "Color Him Father," which became a Top 25 hit on the US Country charts. Despite her promising career, she retired from music in the early 1970s due to racism and sexism that she faced in the industry.

Martell paved the way for other black female country artists and is celebrated as a trailblazer in the genre. Her impact has been recognized by various institutions, such as being inducted into South Carolina's Music Hall of Fame in 2019. Martell's unique voice, which blended traditional country with gospel influences, contributed to her success during her short-lived career.

Listeners can explore Martell's singular sound by listening to her music on platforms like Spotify or YouTube. Additionally, fans of classic country can appreciate her role as a pioneer for musicians who have faced similar adversity based on their race or gender.

To honor Linda Martell's contributions and legacy in spreading awareness about racial barriers in country music and paving ways for generations to come, listeners can help share her story far and wide through social media channels or through word-of-mouth conversations with other fans of country music. Sharing her struggles and victories would inspire more people across races around America towards taking action against inequality while celebrating heroines like Linda Martell who served bravely under difficult circumstances filled with obstacles but surged ahead courageously driven by their passion for their craft.

Toro y Moi proves that even if you're not from the big city, you can still make big waves in the music industry.

4. Toro y Moi

This talented musician from South Carolina, Toro y Moi, has gained international recognition for his unique blend of electronic and indie sounds. His music is deeply influenced by a wide range of genres, including 80s R&B, funk, and hip-hop. Toro y Moi's real name is Chazwick Bundick, and he began his musical journey by experimenting with home recordings before making his breakthrough in 2010 with the release of his first album "Causers of This".

His music often explores themes related to identity and personal growth, making him an important voice for a generation of young artists who are looking to break free from the constraints of traditional labels and genres. Despite his success, Toro y Moi remains grounded and committed to his fans. He continues to tour extensively around the world, performing at festivals and venues large and small.

One unique aspect of Toro y Moi's work is the way he incorporates elements of visual art into his music. He has collaborated with numerous designers and illustrators on album covers and merchandise designs. Many fans appreciate this attention to detail as it adds an extra layer of meaning to their listening experience.

If you want to explore more about Toro y Moi's music, we suggest checking out some of his most popular tracks like "Blessa" or "Say That". You could also look into attending one of his live shows for a truly unforgettable experience. With Chazwick Bundick's talent and innovative spirit driving the project forward, there are sure to be many more exciting developments on the horizon for Toro y Moi in the years to come.

Move over major labels, the Independents from South Carolina are the real stars shining bright.

5. The Independents

For the next set of noteworthy singers from South Carolina, we have a group that is known for their independent spirit and unique sound.

Below is a table showcasing 5 famous independent singers from South Carolina with details about their musical accomplishments:

While these artists may not be as well-known as some of their mainstream counterparts, they have paved their own way in the music industry by staying true to their unique style and sound.

Interestingly, some of these independent singers started out in other genres before finding success in their current musical path.

For example, Darius Rucker was previously the lead singer for Hootie & the Blowfish, a popular rock band. Peabo Bryson started out as a jazz musician before transitioning to R&B and pop. Chubby Checker initially sang country music before becoming a pioneer of rock and roll dance tunes.

Despite facing obstacles along the way, these independent singers have left an indelible mark on the music world and continue to inspire up-and-coming artists today.

Ruston Kelly may have a name that sounds like a rusted tool in your grandpa's shed, but his smooth country vocals are anything but old and dusty.

6. Ruston Kelly

This talented musician hails from the Palmetto State, South Carolina. Ruston Kelly's distinct sound blends traditional country with indie rock, drawing inspiration from his own life experiences. He has gained a strong following with his emotionally charged lyrics and raw vocals. Kelly has released two studio albums since his debut in 2017, earning critical acclaim and accolades in the music industry.

One of Kelly's most notable accomplishments was co-writing "Nashville Without You" for Tim McGraw, which went on to become a hit on country radio. He has also collaborated with several other artists, including Kacey Musgraves and Chris Stapleton. His unique approach to songwriting has made him one of the most exciting newcomers in the music scene today.

Despite his relatively short career so far, Kelly has already garnered multiple nominations and awards, showcasing his immense talent and potential for continued success in the industry.

PRO TIP: Take inspiration from Ruston Kelly's emotive songwriting by putting personal experiences front and center in your creative pursuits.

Teddy Pendergrass may have been born in Philadelphia, but South Carolina can still claim him as one of its own soulful sons.

7. Teddy Pendergrass

One of South Carolina's most famous singers is known for his smooth and soulful voice. He made a name for himself as the lead singer of Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes before embarking on a successful solo career. This talented artist, who was born in Philadelphia and raised in South Carolina, is none other than Teddy Pendergrass.

Pendergrass rose to fame in the '70s with hits like "Close The Door" and "Turn Off The Lights." His powerful vocals and romantic lyrics captured the hearts of many fans around the world. But his career was cut short when he suffered a tragic accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Despite this setback, Pendergrass continued to make music and inspire people until his death in 2010.

What sets Teddy Pendergrass apart from other artists is not only his talent but also his impact on the music industry. He paved the way for many R&B artists today and inspired a generation of singers to follow their dreams. His legacy will always be remembered as one of South Carolina's greatest musical exports.

Bill Anderson: Putting the 'country' in South Carolina since 1937.

8. Bill Anderson

Bill Anderson is a renowned singer-songwriter and television personality from South Carolina. He has written songs for many well-known singers, including Kenny Chesney and Brad Paisley. Anderson has also been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

As a prolific songwriter, Anderson has penned hits such as "Whiskey Lullaby" and "Give It Away", both of which were performed by country superstar George Strait. Anderson's career spans over six decades, during which he has released over 40 albums and had more than 50 Top 40 hits.

Apart from his musical achievements, Bill Anderson has also appeared on several television shows, including The Grand Ole Opry, Music City Tonight, and The Steve Allen Show. Additionally, he hosted the game show Fandango on The Nashville Network.

Known for his unique storytelling ability through music, Bill Anderson continues to inspire aspiring musicians around the world.

Pro Tip: Want to learn how to write compelling lyrics like Bill Anderson? Focus on telling a story through your words and use vivid descriptions to make your audience feel like they are part of the narrative.

They may not use actual shovels and ropes in their performances, but this duo from South Carolina definitely knows how to dig up some good music.

9. Shovels & Rope

This South Carolina duo, known as Shovels & Rope, brings a unique blend of folk and country to the music industry. Their distinct sound has caught the attention of fans worldwide and earned them critical acclaim in the form of numerous awards. They have also collaborated with other artists, such as Brandi Carlile, to create chart-topping hits.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Shovels & Rope's success is their ability to balance their individual identities while performing as a group. The husband-and-wife team brings a raw energy and emotional depth to their performances that leave listeners captivated. Their lyrics often tackle difficult subjects like heartbreak and addiction, making them relatable to fans across all ages.

Apart from their musical talent, Shovels & Rope maintains an active presence in philanthropy and community involvement. From raising funds for musicians affected by natural disasters to providing support for mental health resources, they use their platform for good causes.

For those unfamiliar with Shovels & Rope's music, we suggest starting with "The Devil Is All Around" or "Birmingham." These tracks showcase the duo's dynamic range and storytelling abilities. Dive into their discography for a true appreciation of this talented duo from South Carolina.

Reverend Gary Davis may have been blind, but his music opened the eyes of many.

10. Reverend Gary Davis

With his roots in South Carolina, Reverend Gary Davis is a renowned American blues and gospel singer who has made significant contributions to the field of music. His works have inspired generations of musicians, and he is regarded as one of the most influential performers of his time.

Reverend Davis was blind since childhood but did not let this hinder his passion for music. He learned to play the guitar at a young age and became an ordained minister later in life. His unique finger-picking style on the guitar has been studied and emulated by many aspiring musicians.

A true story about Reverend Davis involves a performance he gave at Carnegie Hall in the 1960s. During his set, his guitar string broke, but he didn't let it faze him. Instead, he retuned the remaining five strings and continued playing flawlessly to thunderous applause from the crowd. This resilience and determination are just some of the qualities that make Reverend Gary Davis an unforgettable figure in music history.

Samuel Moore

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.