South Carolina may be known for its palmetto trees, historic charm, and Southern hospitality—but it’s also a hotbed for musical greatness. From the smoky soul of James Brown to the genre-blending brilliance of Toro y Moi, the Palmetto State has birthed some of the most iconic and influential voices in music history. Whether it’s country, funk, R&B, jazz, or indie pop, South Carolina artists have shaped the soundtracks of our lives with bold authenticity and unforgettable talent. This isn’t just a list—it’s a celebration of voices that rose from small towns and city streets to captivate the world stage. These singers didn’t follow trends—they created them. Each artist featured here carries a deep connection to their roots, channeling stories of love, resilience, and rhythm that echo far beyond the Carolina borders. So buckle up for a musical journey through the heart of the South as we spotlight the top 10 most popular famous singers from South Carolina. Whether you’re rediscovering legends or finding new favorites, one thing’s for sure: these voices prove that the soul of South Carolina sings loud, proud, and powerfully. Let’s turn up the volume on greatness born in the Palmetto State.
1. James Brown
Born in Barnwell, South Carolina, James Brown didn’t just change the sound of American music—he revolutionized it. With his explosive energy, commanding stage presence, and rhythmic innovations, Brown earned the title “The Godfather of Soul,” and rightfully so. From the gritty grooves of “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” to the infectious horns of “I Got You (I Feel Good),” Brown laid the foundation for funk, influenced the rise of hip-hop, and injected soul into every genre he touched. A tireless performer and perfectionist, he demanded excellence from his band and himself, turning every show into an electrifying experience. His influence ripples through generations—from Michael Jackson to Kendrick Lamar. More than just a musician, Brown became a symbol of Black pride during the Civil Rights era, delivering anthems like “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud.” Few artists wielded such cultural power through music, and even fewer left behind a legacy as monumental.
2. Darius Rucker
From fronting the Grammy-winning rock band Hootie & the Blowfish to becoming a trailblazer in country music, Darius Rucker has carved out a career defined by reinvention and authenticity. Born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Rucker first captured hearts in the ’90s with his warm, raspy vocals on hits like “Only Wanna Be With You.” But it was his leap into country that truly shifted the narrative. With “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It,” he became the first Black artist in decades to top the country charts. His crossover success opened doors and shattered stereotypes in Nashville, proving that storytelling and heart transcend genre. His rendition of “Wagon Wheel” became a modern classic, loved by fans across all musical walks. Through it all, Rucker remains grounded in his Southern roots, often giving back to his community and championing causes close to his heart. His voice—soulful, sincere, and unmistakably his—continues to resonate deeply with audiences.
3. Josh Turner
Josh Turner’s voice is the kind that stops you in your tracks—deep, resonant, and steeped in tradition. Hailing from the small town of Hannah, South Carolina, Turner grew up immersed in gospel and country music, influences that shine through in every note he sings. With his breakout hit “Long Black Train,” Turner announced himself as a modern torchbearer of classic country values. Songs like “Your Man” and “Would You Go with Me” further showcased his rich baritone and heartfelt delivery, earning him both critical acclaim and commercial success. What sets Turner apart isn’t just his vocal chops—it’s his unwavering commitment to authenticity. He doesn’t chase trends; instead, he honors the genre’s roots while bringing his own spiritual and emotional depth. Turner’s music feels timeless, whether he’s singing about faith, love, or the simple joys of Southern living. A true gentleman of country music, he remains a beloved figure both on and off the stage.
4. Peabo Bryson
Peabo Bryson is the voice of romance, and his silky tenor has serenaded fans across decades. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Bryson rose to fame in the late ’70s and ’80s with a string of R&B hits that showcased his velvety tone and emotional expressiveness. But it was his iconic Disney duets—”A Whole New World” with Regina Belle and “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion—that catapulted him to global fame and earned him two Grammys. Bryson’s artistry lies in his ability to infuse every lyric with warmth and sincerity, creating songs that feel both intimate and grand. His music spans smooth R&B, soul ballads, and cinematic pop, always anchored by his impeccable vocal control. Even today, Bryson continues to perform with the same elegance and passion, his voice undiminished by time. He’s not just a singer—he’s a storyteller, a romantic, and a timeless force in American music.
5. Lee Brice
Lee Brice is country music’s unsung powerhouse—a masterful songwriter with a voice that can move from gritty to tender in a heartbeat. Born in Sumter, South Carolina, Brice began his career writing hits for other artists, including Garth Brooks’ “More Than a Memory,” before stepping into the spotlight himself. His own catalog boasts platinum-selling singles like “Hard to Love,” “I Don’t Dance,” and “Love Like Crazy,” each one showcasing his knack for capturing real-life emotion in a few perfect lines. Brice’s music blends traditional country storytelling with rock and soul influences, creating a sound that feels both familiar and fresh. Whether he’s singing about heartbreak or devotion, there’s an authenticity that resonates deeply. Offstage, Brice is known for his humility and dedication to family—traits that shine through in his lyrics. He’s the kind of artist who doesn’t just sing to you—he sings for you.
6. Angie Stone
Angie Stone is a soul survivor in every sense of the word. Born in Columbia, South Carolina, her career spans decades, genres, and generations. She first made waves in the late ’70s with the hip-hop trio The Sequence—one of the first female rap groups signed to a major label—before evolving into a defining voice of neo-soul in the late ’90s and early 2000s. With her breakout solo albums like “Black Diamond” and “Mahogany Soul,” Stone reintroduced the world to the richness of classic soul, filtered through a modern lens. Her voice—earthy, emotive, and unmistakably real—brings depth to every track, from the aching “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” to the anthemic “Wish I Didn’t Miss You.” Stone’s music is a celebration of Black womanhood, resilience, and love’s complexities. Fiercely independent and endlessly creative, she remains a beacon for artists who dare to blend the past with the present.
7. Chaz Bundick (Toro y Moi)
Chaz Bundick, better known as Toro y Moi, is one of the most innovative minds to emerge from South Carolina’s music scene. Born in Columbia, Bundick became a key architect of the chillwave movement in the early 2010s, blending dreamy synths, lo-fi textures, and introspective lyrics into something wholly unique. But he didn’t stop there. Over the years, Toro y Moi’s sound has evolved with fearless experimentation—touching on funk, house, R&B, and psychedelia—all while maintaining a signature warmth and groove. Albums like “Underneath the Pine” and “Outer Peace” showcase a restless creativity that refuses to be boxed in. Bundick is a true bedroom producer turned global tastemaker, and his work has influenced an entire generation of indie and electronic artists. Whether he’s DJing, designing visuals, or dropping genre-blending records, Toro y Moi embodies the spirit of artistic freedom.
8. Candice Glover
Candice Glover’s rise to fame was nothing short of breathtaking. Hailing from Beaufort, South Carolina, she captured national attention as the winner of American Idol Season 12, dazzling audiences with her powerhouse vocals and emotional depth. Her voice—rich, soulful, and technically flawless—set her apart from the start. Glover brought old-school R&B flair to the Idol stage, evoking legends like Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston with every performance. Her debut album, “Music Speaks,” offered a glimpse into her artistry, blending classic soul with contemporary sounds. But what makes Glover truly special is her authenticity—every note she sings feels lived-in and deeply personal. Despite the challenges of post-Idol fame, she remains a symbol of perseverance and raw talent. With roots firmly planted in the Gullah culture of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Glover brings a unique heritage and voice to modern R&B.
9. Madeleine Peyroux
Madeleine Peyroux is a musical time traveler—her voice, reminiscent of Billie Holiday, transports listeners to smoky jazz clubs of the past, yet her songwriting feels timeless. Though born in Georgia, she spent part of her upbringing in South Carolina before moving to Paris, where she busked on the streets and honed her craft. Peyroux’s breakthrough came with “Careless Love,” an album that blended jazz standards with reimagined covers and originals, all delivered with a haunting intimacy. Her phrasing is meticulous, her tone effortlessly warm, and her interpretations deeply personal. Unlike many jazz vocalists, Peyroux doesn’t just perform songs—she inhabits them. With every album, she continues to explore the nuances of love, loss, and longing, all while maintaining an elegant restraint. She may not chase the spotlight, but her artistry speaks volumes to those who listen closely.
10. Chadwick Boseman (Honorable Mention)
Though known globally for his groundbreaking work onscreen, particularly as Black Panther, Chadwick Boseman also brought music to life in a powerful way. Born in Anderson, South Carolina, Boseman portrayed musical legends like James Brown in “Get On Up,” where he not only acted but performed many of Brown’s iconic dance moves and vocal cadences with uncanny precision. His portrayal wasn’t just mimicry—it was embodiment. He studied Brown’s essence and brought it roaring to life, earning critical acclaim for his physicality and emotional depth. While not a professional singer by trade, Boseman’s commitment to musical storytelling added a unique dimension to his legacy. His reverence for music and history, combined with his South Carolina roots, made him a cultural force who used every medium—film, voice, and movement—to inspire.
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.
