When you think of music meccas, places like Nashville, Los Angeles, or New York might spring to mind — but don’t overlook the wide-open plains and rugged soul of South Dakota. This unassuming state has quietly produced a rich tapestry of talent, from Grammy-winning singer-songwriters to genre-defying jazz innovators and comedic country duos who have rocked stages across America. While South Dakota may not be the first stop on the typical music lover’s map, it has given rise to artists whose voices echo far beyond its borders. Whether born in small towns or shaped by the state’s unique spirit, these musicians carry a raw authenticity and creative grit that’s as powerful as a prairie storm. In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular and influential singers and musicians from South Dakota — artists who’ve made a mark on everything from folk and country to classical and rock. Some are household names, others are hidden gems, but all share a connection to the Mount Rushmore State that helped shape their sound and story. Get ready to be surprised, inspired, and maybe even discover your next favorite artist. South Dakota’s music scene is more alive than you think — and it starts right here.
1. Shawn Colvin
Shawn Colvin is a shining example of what happens when raw emotion meets refined musical talent. Born in Vermillion, South Dakota, Colvin grew up to become a defining voice in the folk-pop scene. Emerging in the 1980s, her music carries an emotional honesty that’s rare and resonant. With her warm, expressive voice and poetic songwriting, she creates songs that feel deeply personal, like pages from a diary shared with the world. Her breakout hit, the Grammy-winning “Sunny Came Home,” cemented her as a storyteller capable of turning intimate reflections into universal anthems. Colvin’s work frequently explores themes of heartache, recovery, and the quiet strength that comes with life’s hard lessons. Her stripped-down performances, often featuring just her voice and guitar, are known to leave lasting impressions. Beyond the accolades, what makes Colvin truly special is her ability to forge a deep, almost conversational connection with her listeners. She represents the soul of the singer-songwriter tradition — unvarnished, poetic, and profoundly human. For fans of thoughtful music, Shawn Colvin remains a touchstone, and her South Dakota upbringing adds a genuine sense of groundedness to her extraordinary body of work.
2. Judd Hoos
Judd Hoos is the embodiment of rock-and-roll grit with a Midwestern heart. Hailing from Sturgis, South Dakota — a town more often associated with Harley-Davidson rallies than hit songs — the band has carved out a name for themselves with electrifying live shows and a relentless touring schedule. Blending classic heartland rock with a modern, radio-friendly edge, Judd Hoos delivers music that’s perfect for road trips, summer nights, and everything in between. Songs like “Billboard” and “Breathe In” combine catchy melodies with honest, emotionally grounded lyrics, earning them a loyal fan base across the region and beyond. Their big national moment came when they represented South Dakota on NBC’s American Song Contest, showcasing their talent on a national stage and turning heads in the process. What sets Judd Hoos apart is their hard-working spirit and dedication to their roots — they’ve built their career from the ground up, one show and one fan at a time. In many ways, they represent the best of South Dakota’s music scene: passionate, authentic, and deeply connected to the communities they play for. Judd Hoos isn’t just a band — they’re a rock-and-roll success story still in the making.
3. Floyd Red Crow Westerman
Floyd Red Crow Westerman wasn’t just an artist — he was a movement in human form. Born on the Lake Traverse Indian Reservation in South Dakota, Westerman became a powerful voice for Native American identity through both his music and activism. His debut album, Custer Died for Your Sins, didn’t just turn heads — it broke down barriers. Through a poignant blend of folk and country, he brought Indigenous issues to the forefront of a music world that often ignored them. With a deep, resonant voice and a gift for storytelling, Westerman sang about history, injustice, resilience, and hope. But his impact didn’t stop at the edge of a stage. As an actor, he appeared in films like Dances with Wolves and on television in The X-Files, always bringing dignity and authenticity to his roles. His life’s work — in song, in speech, in cinema — was rooted in a deep sense of purpose. Westerman used his platform to educate, to inspire, and to bridge cultures. His legacy lives on through the many Native artists he influenced and the causes he championed. Floyd Red Crow Westerman remains a beacon of strength, truth, and cultural pride.
4. Clarence Loomis
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqDDn_jUBNE
Clarence Loomis may not be a name you’ll find in every American history book, but he deserves a place in the story of our country’s classical music evolution. Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Loomis became a trailblazing composer and pianist during a time when few from the Midwest made it onto the national stage. His musical talents took him to the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago, where he refined his style — a blend of European romanticism and distinctly American themes. His most celebrated work, the opera Yolanda of Cyprus, was performed at the Metropolitan Opera, an extraordinary achievement for someone from rural roots. Loomis’s compositions ranged from symphonies to chamber music, and his ability to infuse classical structure with emotional richness set his work apart. He also made a significant impact as an educator, inspiring future generations of musicians with both his knowledge and passion. Though his legacy has faded in mainstream recognition, his contributions remain vital. Clarence Loomis is a reminder that some of America’s finest artistic minds came from its quietest corners — and that the heartland has always had something important to say through music.
5. Boyd Raeburn
Boyd Raeburn was a fearless innovator in the golden age of jazz, a South Dakota native who dared to reimagine what a big band could sound like. Born in Faith, South Dakota, Raeburn came of age in the 1940s, when swing ruled the airwaves. But instead of following the well-worn path, he ventured into uncharted territory. With the help of groundbreaking arrangers like George Handy, Raeburn infused his orchestra’s sound with bebop, classical influences, and avant-garde experimentation. His music wasn’t just catchy — it was complex, challenging, and ahead of its time. Songs featured odd time signatures and daring harmonic progressions that defied the norm. Though overshadowed by contemporaries like Duke Ellington and Count Basie, Raeburn’s contributions helped set the stage for jazz’s evolution in the decades to follow. He created a sound that was intellectual yet swinging, demanding yet accessible. Today, jazz aficionados regard Raeburn as a hidden gem — an artist who pushed boundaries long before it became fashionable. His story proves that musical genius can emerge from the most unexpected places, and his boldness continues to inspire musicians who believe jazz should always be evolving.
6. Gary Mule Deer
Gary Mule Deer is one of those rare entertainers who can make you laugh out loud and then leave you humming a tune all the way home. Hailing from Deadwood, South Dakota, he’s carved out a long and colorful career that spans music, comedy, and television. With his cowboy hat, guitar, and dry-as-the-desert humor, Mule Deer is an unmistakable presence. Over the decades, he’s appeared on more than 100 television shows, including The Tonight Show, Hee Haw, and The Late Show with David Letterman. He’s also opened for music legends like Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Merle Haggard — a testament to his versatility and appeal. What sets Mule Deer apart is his natural charm and ability to blend genuine musical talent with comedic timing. Whether he’s playing a honky-tonk tune or spinning a hilarious story, he does it with heart and authenticity. He’s not just an entertainer — he’s a storyteller who brings audiences together through laughter and song. A true South Dakota original, Gary Mule Deer is proof that humor, humility, and a good guitar can go a long way in show business.
7. Frankie Laine
Although Frankie Laine is most often linked with Chicago and Hollywood, there are scattered reports of early ties to South Dakota, possibly through family or formative experiences. Regardless of the depth of that connection, there’s no denying that Laine’s powerful voice left an indelible mark on American music. Known for hits like “Mule Train,” “Rawhide,” and “That Lucky Old Sun,” Laine brought a level of intensity and vocal athleticism that few could match. He could croon like a jazz singer, wail like a cowboy, or belt gospel with soul — often all in the same concert. His ability to transcend genres made him a true musical chameleon. Laine’s influence can be heard in the voices of artists who followed, and his cinematic vocal style helped define the sound of western TV and film during the mid-20th century. Even if his South Dakota connection is more anecdotal than concrete, it’s easy to imagine the state proudly claiming a singer with such passion and presence. Frankie Laine’s career was nothing short of legendary, and his music continues to resonate with those who appreciate drama, storytelling, and powerful vocal artistry.
8. Williams and Ree
Williams and Ree, affectionately billed as “The Indian and the White Guy,” are a South Dakota comedy duo with a fearless sense of humor and a ton of heart. Bruce Williams and Terry Ree have been entertaining audiences across the Midwest and beyond for over 40 years, using music and comedy to challenge stereotypes, spark laughter, and bring people together. With their mix of witty banter, parody songs, and sharp cultural commentary, they’ve built a loyal fanbase that spans generations. While some of their material pushes boundaries, it’s always grounded in a friendship and mutual respect that radiates from the stage. Their live shows are part concert, part stand-up, and always a party — whether they’re headlining a state fair or sharing a casino stage with country music legends. Williams and Ree don’t shy away from difficult topics; instead, they meet them with humor and honesty, encouraging audiences to laugh with, not at, one another. Based in South Dakota, they’ve remained proudly rooted in their community while achieving national recognition. Their legacy is more than just comedy — it’s about connection, understanding, and the healing power of a good laugh.
9. Rick Hilsabeck
Rick Hilsabeck is a name that resonates deeply with fans of musical theater, especially those who have seen his unforgettable portrayal of the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Hilsabeck has become a fixture on Broadway and national stages, known for his commanding presence, soaring vocals, and dramatic intensity. His performance as the Phantom earned widespread acclaim, capturing both the haunting darkness and tragic vulnerability of the character. But his talents extend far beyond one role. Over the course of his career, Hilsabeck has starred in numerous productions, from timeless classics to contemporary musicals, always bringing depth and charisma to his performances. A true triple threat — actor, singer, and dancer — he exemplifies the dedication and versatility required to succeed in the world of theater. Despite his success on major stages, Hilsabeck remains grounded in his roots, often returning to share his experience and passion with young performers in the Midwest. His journey from Sioux Falls to Broadway is a testament to perseverance, talent, and the belief that dreams can come true — no matter where you start.
10. Myron Floren
Myron Floren brought joy, rhythm, and lightning-fast fingers to households across America for decades as the beloved accordionist on The Lawrence Welk Show. Born in Roslyn, South Dakota, Floren grew up in a time and place where music was a family affair — something shared at barn dances, church gatherings, and small-town celebrations. That spirit stayed with him as he rose to national fame, transforming the often-overlooked accordion into a dazzling lead instrument. Floren’s infectious energy and technical brilliance made him a standout on the Welk show, where he performed everything from toe-tapping polkas to elegant waltzes and even classical pieces. Beyond his television fame, Floren recorded over 40 albums and became a passionate advocate for music education, encouraging young musicians to embrace traditional instruments. Despite his fame, he never lost his warm, approachable nature. He remained proud of his South Dakota roots and often credited his upbringing for his work ethic and musical values. Myron Floren’s legacy isn’t just about accordion solos — it’s about joy, tradition, and bringing a little extra sunshine into people’s lives through the power of music.
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.
