South Dakota might be better known for its sweeping prairies, towering Black Hills, and iconic Mount Rushmore, but nestled within this picturesque landscape is a rich, often overlooked musical heritage. From soulful storytellers to powerhouse vocalists, the Mount Rushmore State has quietly given rise to a diverse array of talented artists who’ve made waves far beyond its borders. These singers bring more than just vocal talent—they carry the spirit of South Dakota in every note, chord, and lyric. Whether rooted in the traditions of folk, blues, country, or contemporary pop, each artist on this list has carved out a unique space in the music world while staying true to their roots. Some are Grammy-winning legends, others are rising stars or cultural icons, but all of them share one thing in common: a deep connection to the land and people that shaped them. So, get ready to discover the voices that have emerged from the heart of the Great Plains. Here are the top 10 most popular and influential singers from South Dakota—artists who prove that even in the quietest corners of America, music can rise up and resonate across the world.
1. Shawn Colvin
Shawn Colvin’s voice carries a warm, genuine feeling that feels rooted in the heartland, reflecting her South Dakota origins even as her music has reached far beyond. Born in Vermillion, Colvin’s songwriting shines with heartfelt honesty and emotional depth. She broke into the national spotlight with the unforgettable hit “Sunny Came Home,” a song so compelling it earned her two Grammy Awards in 1998. Her sound is a rich blend of folk, pop, and a hint of country, wrapped in lyrics that tell stories you don’t just hear but feel deeply. Whether performing alone or alongside legends like Emmylou Harris and Mary Chapin Carpenter, Colvin’s music always feels intimate and authentic—like she’s sharing a piece of her soul. Across a career spanning decades, she’s remained true to the art of introspective songwriting, inviting listeners into moments of vulnerability and reflection. Shawn Colvin isn’t just a singer-songwriter; she’s a storyteller who connects across generations, proving that some voices grow only more timeless with age.
2. Jewel (Kilcher)
While Jewel is most closely associated with Alaska, her ties to South Dakota run just as deep. Her father was raised in the state, and Jewel spent time there growing up, grounding her in the rugged beauty and resilience of rural life. She burst onto the music scene in 1995 with her debut album Pieces of You, quickly becoming a defining voice of ’90s folk-pop. Hits like “Who Will Save Your Soul” and “You Were Meant for Me” captured listeners with their raw honesty and poetic lyricism. Jewel’s voice is striking—delicate yet powerful—and her songwriting strikes a rare balance of vulnerability and strength. Though she has explored country, children’s music, and even yodeling over the years, at her core she remains a storyteller with a guitar and a voice that can captivate any room. Her music is a journey through personal discovery and emotional truth, with South Dakota quietly weaving through her story as part of the foundation that shaped her artistry.
3. Judith Hill
Judith Hill is a powerhouse vocalist known for her electrifying performances with music legends like Michael Jackson and Prince, but she is a singular talent all on her own. With roots connecting her to South Dakota, Hill’s voice channels deep emotion, effortlessly blending gospel, R&B, and funk into something uniquely her own. She gained wider recognition as a finalist on The Voice and as a featured artist in the Oscar-winning documentary 20 Feet from Stardom, proving she’s much more than a background singer—she’s a star. Her debut album, co-produced by Prince, showcases her ability to move from soul-stirring ballads to fiery, upbeat anthems, all delivered with undeniable passion and authenticity. Whether she’s at the piano or commanding the stage with her band, Hill’s performances carry a raw energy and emotional power that resonates deeply with audiences. Her music isn’t simply to be heard—it’s to be felt, a true reflection of her heart and spirit.
4. Floyd Red Crow Westerman
Floyd Red Crow Westerman was far more than a singer; he was a storyteller, activist, and bridge between Native American traditions and modern culture. Born on the Lake Traverse Indian Reservation in South Dakota, Westerman used his music as a powerful voice for education and resistance. His 1970 album Custer Died for Your Sins was more than just a collection of songs—it was a bold statement that fused folk and country sounds with lyrics confronting injustice and celebrating Native identity. His deep, resonant voice carried the weight of his experiences as a Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota and became a symbol of pride and perseverance for Indigenous people nationwide. Beyond his music, Westerman had a successful acting career with roles in shows like The X-Files and Walker, Texas Ranger, but it’s his songs that left the most lasting mark. Even today, his legacy inspires activists and artists, proving that music can be a powerful tool for social change and cultural pride.
5. Boyd Bristow
Boyd Bristow is a cherished figure in South Dakota’s music community, known for his masterful guitar playing and deep dedication to Americana and folk music. His career is built on collaboration, mentorship, and a true love of the craft. Bristow has worked with many regional musicians, contributing as a performer, producer, and guide for up-and-coming artists. His playing style is both smooth and intricate, blending blues, country, and folk in a way that honors tradition while feeling fresh and alive. Whether he’s on stage solo or performing with a group, his music speaks with quiet confidence and heartfelt emotion. Boyd is a mainstay at folk festivals, intimate venues, and studios across the Midwest, helping to nurture a vibrant local music scene. More than just a guitarist, he’s a storyteller, using his instrument to express the complexities of life, love, and the natural landscape of his home state.
6. Clarence Loomis
Clarence Loomis might not be a household name today, but his contributions to American classical music were both significant and enduring. Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Loomis was a gifted composer and pianist whose work spanned opera, symphonies, and chamber music throughout the early and mid-20th century. He brought a distinctly American flavor to classical music by incorporating folk elements and regional themes into his compositions, helping to shape a uniquely American sound. Loomis was also a passionate educator, dedicating much of his life to mentoring young musicians and advocating for music’s essential role in culture. His opera Yolanda of Cyprus received notable acclaim, and his compositions were performed by orchestras nationwide. Though time has dimmed his public recognition, Loomis remains a proud part of South Dakota’s musical heritage—a testament to how innovation and artistic excellence can flourish far from traditional cultural centers.
7. Gary Mule Deer
Gary Mule Deer is a one-of-a-kind entertainer whose blend of country music and sharp comedy has made him a beloved figure across multiple decades. Born in Deadwood, South Dakota, Mule Deer’s career spans appearances on The Tonight Show, Hee Haw, and countless performances at the Grand Ole Opry. Touring with legends like Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, his guitar skills and rich country voice are top-notch, but it’s his dry humor and storytelling that truly set him apart. With a deadpan delivery and a knack for hilarious anecdotes, Mule Deer’s shows feel like sitting front and center at a lively honky-tonk comedy club. He embodies an era of entertainment where music and laughter went hand in hand, and he continues to charm audiences with his unique style and unmistakable South Dakota roots. His enduring appeal lies in his ability to keep folks smiling while honoring the traditions of country music.
8. Layli Long Soldier (The Shapeshifter)
Layli Long Soldier is best known as a poet, but her voice extends far beyond the page. An Oglala Lakota from South Dakota, Long Soldier channels her fierce intellect and deep emotional insight through powerful spoken word performances that blur the lines between poetry and music. Performing as “The Shapeshifter,” she explores themes of identity, history, and resilience against ambient or minimalistic soundscapes that enhance her words’ impact. Her acclaimed poetry collection Whereas earned her the National Book Critics Circle Award, marking her as one of the most important Indigenous voices today. But it’s in live performance that her work truly comes alive—transforming words into rhythm, song, and sound that linger long after the final line. Long Soldier’s art is not just creative expression; it’s a reclamation of narrative, a challenge to silence, and a celebration of Indigenous strength and survival in the modern world.
9. Indigenous (Mato Nanji)
Indigenous, led by the blistering guitarist and vocalist Mato Nanji, is a blues rock force rooted in the Yankton Sioux Reservation of South Dakota. Bursting onto the national scene in the late ’90s with their critically acclaimed album Things We Do, the band earned comparisons to legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jimi Hendrix. What makes Indigenous stand out is not only Nanji’s extraordinary guitar skills but also the deep soul and cultural pride infused into every song. Their sound blends blues, rock, and Native rhythms to create music that feels timeless and deeply personal. Mato Nanji has carried the band’s legacy through changing lineups, performing on major stages and blues festivals worldwide. Indigenous isn’t simply a band; it’s a movement that proves blues music thrives on the Great Plains and that Native voices hold a vital place in American rock history.
10. Toby Kane
Toby Kane is a rising star from Mitchell, South Dakota, making waves with his catchy pop-rock sound and honest, relatable lyrics. Known for writing songs that feel like instant sing-alongs, Kane combines infectious hooks with heartfelt themes about youth, longing, and the search for meaning—universal feelings told through the lens of small-town life. Whether he’s performing solo with an acoustic guitar or leading a full band, his energy and sincerity create a strong connection with audiences. Toby’s music has gained traction on regional radio and streaming platforms, helped by his DIY approach and hard work, qualities that echo the authentic spirit of many South Dakota artists. Though still building his national profile, Kane’s talent and drive suggest he’s just beginning a promising journey in the music world, with plenty more songs and stories yet to come.
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.
