New York City isn’t just the birthplace of skyscrapers and subways—it’s the stage where legends are made. From the smoky jazz clubs of Harlem to the bustling streets of Brooklyn, the Big Apple has been the backdrop for some of the most iconic voices in music history. Whether it’s hip-hop that echoes from the boroughs, pop anthems that take over the airwaves, or soulful ballads that bring audiences to tears, New York has a rhythm all its own—and its singers are the heartbeat. In this cultural melting pot, talent doesn’t just rise—it explodes.
In this countdown of the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from New York, we spotlight the artists who not only dominated charts but also reshaped music itself. These are the voices that defined decades, broke boundaries, and turned personal stories into universal anthems. From the lyrical genius of Jay-Z to the theatrical brilliance of Lady Gaga, each artist brings a unique flavor that could only be born in New York. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these icons for the first time, this list is a celebration of musical greatness forged in the city that never sleeps. Get ready to be inspired, amazed, and maybe even a little starstruck.
1. Jay-Z
Jay-Z’s journey from the tough streets of Brooklyn’s Marcy Projects to the pinnacle of global music and business is one of modern culture’s greatest success stories. Born Shawn Carter, he used his lyrical gift to carve out a place in hip-hop, starting with his debut Reasonable Doubt—a raw, reflective portrait of ambition and street hustle. Over the years, with landmark albums like The Blueprint and 4:44, Jay-Z evolved from a rap superstar into a deeply introspective storyteller. But music was only the beginning. He co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records, created Roc Nation, and launched Tidal, always staying a step ahead in the game of ownership and influence. His lyrics feel like chess moves—strategic, deliberate, and always a few steps ahead. More than a rapper, Jay-Z became a symbol of transformation, proving that brilliance, when paired with hustle and vision, can change everything. Whether he’s performing, investing, or advocating for social justice, Jay-Z stands as a living blueprint of how far ambition and artistry can take you.
2. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga burst onto the music scene like a supernova—bold, unapologetic, and unlike anything we’d seen before. Born Stefani Germanotta and raised in Manhattan, she was classically trained but destined for pop revolution. Her 2008 debut The Fame was a whirlwind of infectious beats and wild visuals, making hits like “Just Dance” and “Poker Face” cultural touchstones. But Gaga was never content with surface-level spectacle. Her voice—powerful and rich—shone brightest in stripped-down performances and emotional ballads like “Shallow.” Constantly evolving, she’s explored every corner of her artistry, from the outrageous fashion statements to intimate jazz duets with Tony Bennett. Whether she’s wearing a meat dress or standing at a piano, Lady Gaga turns vulnerability into power and performance into purpose. She’s a fearless shape-shifter who blends pop, theater, and raw emotion into something uniquely hers. Gaga’s not just a pop star—she’s an artist, an activist, and a generational voice who continues to surprise and inspire.
3. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is New York through and through—a master storyteller with a piano and a heart full of tales. Hailing from Long Island, he rose to fame in the 1970s with songs that spoke to the everyday lives of ordinary people. Whether it’s the nostalgic narrative of “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” or the rapid-fire history lesson of “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” Joel’s music captures the rhythms and realities of American life. His blend of rock, jazz, blues, and classical elements creates a timeless sound, while his honest, everyman lyrics strike a universal chord. Known for his passionate vocals and unforgettable melodies, Joel has earned a place in music history that’s as solid as the keys he plays. His long-standing residency at Madison Square Garden is a testament to his enduring appeal. With warmth, wit, and incredible musicianship, Billy Joel has spent decades making music that feels personal and universal all at once.
4. Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand’s voice doesn’t just sing—it soars, aches, commands, and comforts. Raised in Brooklyn, she emerged in the early ’60s as a powerhouse talent, blending theatrical flair with a voice of rare emotional range. With her Broadway roots, Streisand brought dramatic intensity and storytelling to every song, turning standards and ballads into deeply personal experiences. Her career spans more than six decades, encompassing chart-topping albums, award-winning films, and iconic performances. She broke barriers in entertainment, becoming one of the first women to achieve success as a singer, actress, director, and producer. Yet through it all, it’s her voice—rich, expressive, and unmistakably hers—that remains at the heart of her legacy. Songs like “The Way We Were” and “Evergreen” have become cultural treasures, and her influence on generations of performers is immeasurable. Streisand didn’t just chase stardom—she defined it, on her own terms, with brilliance, grace, and a refusal to ever be anyone but herself.
5. Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys emerged onto the music scene with a sound that felt both brand new and deeply rooted in soul tradition. Born and raised in Hell’s Kitchen, New York, she was a classically trained pianist whose debut album, Songs in A Minor, announced her arrival with authority. Tracks like “Fallin’” and “A Woman’s Worth” showcased her ability to weave classical elegance with R&B grit, offering emotional honesty in every note. Alicia’s music has always been more than just beautiful melodies—it’s a message, a movement, a mission. Her voice carries strength and vulnerability, often at the same time, and her songwriting reflects a rare depth and poetic spirit. Over the years, she’s used her platform to advocate for social justice, equality, and mental wellness. Whether onstage, in activism, or behind the piano, Alicia Keys stands as a symbol of empowerment, authenticity, and soulful artistry that never tries to be anything other than real.
6. The Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G.—born Christopher Wallace—was more than just a rapper; he was a storyteller with unmatched lyrical precision and charisma. Hailing from Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood, Biggie turned personal struggle and street realities into vivid poetry. His debut Ready to Die delivered a masterclass in raw emotion, street wisdom, and lyrical bravado. With his deep voice and smooth flow, Biggie could make even the harshest truths sound hypnotic. Tracks like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa” became anthems, blending vulnerability with swagger in a way few have matched. Despite his life being cut tragically short, his influence on hip-hop is immeasurable. His words still echo through generations of artists who see him not just as a legend, but as the standard. Biggie wasn’t just rhyming—he was painting pictures, building worlds, and giving voice to the voiceless. In just a few years, he changed the game forever, and his legacy still looms large over the culture he helped define.
7. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey isn’t just a singer—she’s a vocal phenomenon. Born in Huntington, Long Island, she arrived in the early ’90s with a debut album that felt like lightning in a bottle. Her voice, with its five-octave range and effortless whistle notes, stunned the world. But beyond the vocal fireworks, Mariah is a gifted songwriter whose lyrics often draw from deep emotional wells. Songs like “Vision of Love,” “Hero,” and “We Belong Together” balance vulnerability with strength, earning her a spot at the top of the pop and R&B pantheon. She’s one of the best-selling female artists of all time, with more than 19 #1 singles—and counting. Of course, she also wrote one of the most beloved modern holiday classics, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” a song that continues to dominate each December. With glam, humor, heart, and undeniable talent, Mariah Carey is a cultural force who never stops evolving—and never stops reminding us what vocal brilliance sounds like.
8. Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez—J.Lo to the world—has spent decades proving that boundaries were made to be broken. Born in the Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, she started as a dancer, gained fame as an actress, and then conquered the music world with her 1999 debut On the 6. Her fusion of Latin rhythms, pop hooks, and infectious energy made her an instant star. Songs like “If You Had My Love” and “Let’s Get Loud” weren’t just hits—they were statements of identity and joy. Lopez is the definition of a triple threat: singer, actress, dancer, and fashion icon, all rolled into one. She’s headlined Super Bowl halftime shows, starred in blockbusters, and redefined what it means to be a global pop star. But beyond the spotlight, J.Lo represents resilience, pride, and cultural heritage. She’s built a legacy on talent, hustle, and an unwavering sense of self, making her one of the most enduring entertainers of her generation.
9. Lou Reed
Lou Reed was the voice of the outsider, the poet laureate of New York’s underground. As the frontman of The Velvet Underground, he broke every rule in the book, creating music that was raw, experimental, and brutally honest. Songs like “Heroin” and “I’m Waiting for the Man” tackled taboo subjects with unflinching clarity. After going solo, he found broader acclaim with the hauntingly cool “Walk on the Wild Side,” a track that captured the soul of a city in flux. Reed’s delivery was dry, his lyrics cutting, and his music defiantly uncommercial—yet he influenced generations of punk, alt-rock, and indie artists. He didn’t just chronicle New York’s fringe—he became its patron saint. Whether writing about love, addiction, or identity, Reed made art that was messy, beautiful, and true. He wasn’t interested in being liked. He was interested in being real. And in doing so, he carved out a place as one of music’s most uncompromising and iconic voices.
10. Tony Bennett
Tony Bennett’s voice is timeless—a silky baritone that aged like fine wine. Born in Astoria, Queens, he began his career in the post-war era and went on to become one of the greatest interpreters of the Great American Songbook. Songs like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” made him a household name, but Bennett’s charm wasn’t just in his voice—it was in his grace, warmth, and passion for the craft. Over the decades, he never chased trends. Instead, he stayed true to the music he loved, letting the songs speak through him. In his later years, collaborations with contemporary artists like Lady Gaga introduced his talent to new generations without ever compromising his style. Through changing eras and tastes, Bennett remained a class act—dedicated to music, art, and making people feel something real. His legacy is not only his recordings, but his example: that elegance, humility, and excellence never go out of style.
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.
