New York isn’t just the city that never sleeps—it’s the city that sings. From the gritty streets of Brooklyn to the glowing lights of Manhattan, the Empire State has birthed some of the most iconic voices in music history. These artists didn’t just emerge from New York—they embody its pulse, passion, and unrelenting energy. Whether it’s the raw storytelling of hip-hop, the glamorous rebellion of pop, or the soul-stirring power of ballads, New York’s music scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular and influential singers who call New York home. These legends and trailblazers have not only dominated the charts but have shaped the sound of generations. They’ve performed on the biggest stages, broken records, and redefined what it means to be an artist. From subway corners to sold-out arenas, their rise to fame is as inspiring as their music is unforgettable.
So whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering these voices for the first time, get ready to explore the talent, grit, and star power that make New York the ultimate musical melting pot. Let’s hit play on greatness—Big Apple style.
1. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is the voice of New York. From his Bronx beginnings to his Long Island upbringing, the man known as the “Piano Man” has spent decades crafting the soundtrack to urban life. Joel’s music blends pop, rock, and jazz into storytelling masterpieces that resonate with blue-collar grit, heartache, and hope. Songs like “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant,” “New York State of Mind,” and “Only the Good Die Young” feel like cinematic snapshots of American life—raw, honest, and unforgettable. His lyrics tell the stories of everyday people, their dreams and disappointments set against the backdrop of city streets and smoky bars. A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Joel is a master songwriter with a knack for melody and character-driven songs. And decades into his career, his live performances remain a hot ticket—his long-running monthly residency at Madison Square Garden regularly sells out, a testament to the timeless appeal of his music. Billy Joel doesn’t just write songs—he tells stories that stick with you long after the piano fades.
2. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga, born Stefani Germanotta, is a pop provocateur whose artistic boldness redefined what it means to be a global superstar. Emerging from the gritty New York underground music scene, she exploded into pop culture with 2008’s The Fame, delivering infectious anthems like “Just Dance” and “Poker Face.” But Gaga proved she was far more than a flash in the pan. Her music spans genres—from electropop to jazz—showcasing her remarkable vocal range and emotional depth. She stunned audiences with her stripped-back performances in A Star Is Born, winning an Oscar for “Shallow,” and proved equally powerful on jazz collaborations with Tony Bennett. Gaga’s fearless style—whether she’s in a meat dress or a tuxedo—has always served a deeper message about identity, artistry, and authenticity. She’s not just a performer; she’s a cultural chameleon, activist, and icon of empowerment. Whether belting at the piano or commanding the Super Bowl stage, Lady Gaga continues to push boundaries while staying true to her artistic core.
3. Jay-Z
Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter in Brooklyn’s Marcy Projects, rose from hustler to hip-hop mogul through pure talent, tenacity, and visionary ambition. His debut album Reasonable Doubt set the tone: slick rhymes, sharp insights, and a street-smart wisdom that resonated deeply. Over the decades, Jay-Z has built one of the most impressive careers in music, with landmark albums like The Blueprint and The Black Album earning critical and commercial acclaim. Beyond the music, he’s a shrewd entrepreneur, building Roc Nation, streaming service Tidal, and a stake in everything from sports teams to luxury champagne. Yet he never strayed from his roots—songs like “Empire State of Mind” are love letters to New York, while others dissect race, wealth, and legacy. Jay-Z’s evolution from MC to cultural titan is a blueprint in itself, inspiring generations to dream bigger. Whether behind the mic or boardroom table, he continues to shape the future of hip-hop and beyond.
4. Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand is a once-in-a-century talent—a singer, actress, director, and cultural trailblazer whose voice is as instantly recognizable as her name. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Streisand began her career in nightclubs and Broadway stages before soaring to superstardom with her 1963 debut album. Her vocal range, emotional expressiveness, and flawless phrasing made classics like “People,” “Evergreen,” and “The Way We Were” timeless standards. Streisand defied industry conventions from the start, refusing to conform to traditional beauty standards and instead carving out her own lane of authenticity. She became one of the few entertainers to win an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony), and blazed trails for women in film by directing and producing at a time when few dared. Her influence extends beyond music and film into politics and philanthropy, yet it’s her artistry—elegant, powerful, and deeply human—that remains her greatest legacy. Barbra Streisand is more than a legend—she’s an institution.
5. Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys brought soul back to the mainstream with unmatched class, talent, and authenticity. Born in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, and classically trained in piano from a young age, Keys burst onto the scene with her debut album Songs in A Minor in 2001. The hit single “Fallin’” introduced a fresh voice—one that could be both raw and refined, vulnerable yet powerful. With a blend of R&B, soul, and classical elements, she quickly earned respect as a true musician and songwriter. Over the years, Alicia’s sound has evolved, but her message remains consistent: truth, empowerment, and resilience. She’s won multiple Grammy Awards, performed on global stages, and used her platform to advocate for justice and unity. Beyond music, she’s co-founded initiatives like Keep a Child Alive and spoken out on issues from racial equality to self-acceptance. Whether at the keys or behind the mic, Alicia Keys brings grace and strength to everything she touches.
6. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey’s voice is a marvel—spanning five octaves and capable of soaring whistle notes that have become her signature. But beyond the technical brilliance lies a songwriter with deep emotional intelligence and a knack for crafting hits that stand the test of time. Born in Huntington, Long Island, Carey burst onto the scene in 1990 with “Vision of Love,” instantly establishing herself as a once-in-a-generation vocalist. Her blend of pop, R&B, and soul led to smash albums like Music Box, Butterfly, and The Emancipation of Mimi. She has penned nearly all of her biggest hits, making her not just a vocal powerhouse, but a true artist. Of course, her holiday anthem “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is a cultural staple, earning her seasonal dominance every year. Mariah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges, but she’s consistently emerged stronger, reinventing herself while staying true to her sound. With record-breaking chart success and an indelible influence, Mariah Carey reigns as one of modern music’s most iconic figures.
7. Jennifer Lopez (J.Lo)
Jennifer Lopez is the definition of a modern superstar—a dancer, singer, actress, and businesswoman who’s built an empire with sheer grit and endless charisma. Raised in the Bronx, J.Lo began as a Fly Girl on In Living Color before making her breakout film performance as Selena. But it was her music career that truly launched her into global stardom, starting with the chart-topping “If You Had My Love.” Known for her infectious dance tracks like “Waiting for Tonight” and “On the Floor,” Lopez brought her Latin heritage to the pop stage with pride and flair. Over time, she’s proven herself a savvy entrepreneur, fashion icon, and master of reinvention. Her Super Bowl halftime show with Shakira was a celebration of culture, rhythm, and womanhood. Whether in a rom-com or releasing new hits, J.Lo brings an energy that captivates across generations. She’s not just a performer—she’s a cultural force who continues to inspire with resilience, versatility, and undeniable star power.
8. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj changed the game. Hailing from Queens by way of Trinidad, she broke through the male-dominated rap scene with a fierce presence, lightning-fast flow, and unapologetic swagger. Her 2010 debut Pink Friday unleashed a new era of rap stardom, anchored by hits like “Super Bass” and “Moment 4 Life.” Nicki didn’t just rap—she performed, using alter egos, theatrical flair, and punchline-packed verses to create a larger-than-life persona. But beneath the wigs and high-octane visuals is a lyricist with razor-sharp wit and emotional depth. She’s mastered the balance between commercial appeal and street credibility, collaborating with everyone from Beyoncé to Drake while still dominating solo. As a trailblazer for women in hip-hop, she’s opened doors and set records—redefining what’s possible for female MCs. With a decade-plus career, Minaj remains a magnetic and influential presence in music, culture, and beyond.
9. Tony Bennett
Tony Bennett was the gentleman of American music—a crooner whose voice exuded warmth, class, and timeless charm. Born and raised in Astoria, Queens, Bennett first made his mark in the 1950s with hits like “Because of You” and “Rags to Riches,” but it was “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” that became his eternal signature. Known for his velvet voice and impeccable phrasing, Bennett elevated every lyric with emotional sincerity and musical finesse. He championed the Great American Songbook while never losing touch with younger audiences, thanks to collaborations with artists like Lady Gaga. In fact, their duet albums brought him back to the top of the charts well into his 80s and 90s. More than a singer, Bennett was a painter, a civil rights advocate, and a beacon of humility in an often ego-driven industry. His legacy isn’t just in the awards he won—it’s in the joy, sophistication, and heart he brought to every note. He remained a class act until the very end.
10. Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey is a mood, a movement, and a mystery all her own. Born in Manhattan and raised in upstate New York, she emerged with a voice like a faded photograph—aching, dreamy, and full of longing. Her breakout hit “Video Games” introduced a sound that felt out of time, marrying vintage Americana with cinematic melancholy. Lana’s music is saturated with references to doomed romance, retro glamour, and California sadness, drawing comparisons to torch singers and Beat poets alike. Albums like Born to Die, Ultraviolence, and Norman F**king Rockwell! have garnered critical acclaim for their lyrical depth and haunting beauty. She’s a storyteller of emotional extremes, unafraid to explore vulnerability, obsession, and nostalgia with poetic finesse. Despite early skepticism from critics, Lana has earned her place as one of the most original voices in modern music. She doesn’t follow trends—she creates entire worlds, inviting listeners to step inside her smoky, vintage dreamscape.
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.
