North Carolina might be best known for its sweet tea, scenic mountains, and basketball legends—but it’s also a powerhouse breeding ground for musical greatness. From the soulful streets of Charlotte to the quiet towns of the Piedmont, the Tar Heel State has given rise to some of the most iconic and influential voices in music history. Whether it’s gritty hip-hop, heartfelt country, or timeless jazz, North Carolina’s artists have left an indelible mark on the global stage.
This state doesn’t just produce talent—it produces legends. We’re talking Grammy winners, chart-toppers, cultural trailblazers, and genre-defining performers who’ve shaped the soundtracks of our lives. Some grew up singing in church choirs, others rose through talent shows or underground scenes, but all of them share a deep connection to the spirit and soul of North Carolina.
In this list, we’re celebrating the top 10 most popular and beloved singers from NC—artists who not only made it big but brought their roots with them. So whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering these musical gems, prepare to be inspired by the voices that prove North Carolina doesn’t just sing—it soars.
Let’s turn up the volume and dive into the sounds of the South!
1. J. Cole
J. Cole is one of modern hip-hop’s most respected voices, blending sharp intellect with soul-baring vulnerability. Born in Germany and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Cole’s upbringing in a military household and a modest Southern town shaped his grounded perspective and relentless drive. After earning his degree magna cum laude from St. John’s University, he became the first artist signed to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation label—a pivotal moment that launched a meteoric career. Cole’s lyricism is thoughtful and often deeply personal, addressing everything from systemic racism to self-doubt, fatherhood, and fame’s complexities. Albums like 2014 Forest Hills Drive, KOD, and The Off-Season have solidified his reputation as a master storyteller and cultural commentator. But J. Cole isn’t just a rapper—he’s a builder. Through Dreamville Records, he’s cultivated a new wave of talent, and his work in the Fayetteville community demonstrates a deep commitment to upliftment. Whether tackling societal issues or exploring inner battles, J. Cole crafts music that resonates on a profoundly human level. He’s not chasing trends—he’s setting a standard for what it means to be an artist with purpose, passion, and principles.
2. Nina Simone
Nina Simone was more than a musician—she was a revolutionary force wrapped in elegance, fury, and unmatched talent. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in Tryon, North Carolina, Simone began her journey as a prodigious classical pianist. Though denied a scholarship to a conservatory due to racial discrimination, she transformed that pain into purpose. Her music defied boundaries, fusing classical precision with the soul of gospel, the honesty of blues, the improvisation of jazz, and the urgency of protest. Songs like “Mississippi Goddam” and “Four Women” weren’t just compositions—they were calls to action, raw with truth and defiance. Simone became a fierce voice of the civil rights movement, using her platform to amplify the struggles and strength of Black America. Her live performances were emotional and unfiltered, commanding audiences with a mix of virtuosity and visceral passion. Despite facing personal demons and industry pushback, Simone’s legacy remains profound. She inspired generations of artists—from Lauryn Hill to John Legend—not just musically, but ideologically. Nina Simone didn’t seek approval; she sought justice, dignity, and truth. Her legacy still reverberates today, reminding us of music’s power to challenge, heal, and awaken.
3. Fantasia Barrino
Fantasia Barrino’s rise from adversity to acclaim is a testament to raw talent, faith, and fierce determination. Hailing from High Point, North Carolina, Fantasia grew up in a musical, churchgoing family, but faced significant hardships as a teen mother trying to find her voice. Her breakthrough came in 2004 when she captivated millions with her powerhouse vocals and heartfelt performances on American Idol, ultimately winning the competition. Her debut single, “I Believe,” debuted at No. 1 and set the tone for a career rooted in soul-stirring emotion. Fantasia’s blend of gospel, R&B, and classic soul speaks to her journey—painful, triumphant, and deeply human. She’s never shied away from sharing her struggles, whether through her memoir, film, or raw stage presence. Her resilience and openness have endeared her to fans who see her not just as a singer, but as a survivor. With a Grammy win and a celebrated role in The Color Purple on Broadway, Fantasia has proven she’s not a fleeting reality star but a formidable artist. Through every note, she reaffirms that beauty can rise from struggle, and that the truest voices are forged in fire.
4. Rapsody
Rapsody is a lyrical powerhouse whose verses carry the weight of culture, history, and fierce pride. Born Marlanna Evans in Snow Hill, North Carolina, she emerged as a voice of substance in a genre often distracted by flash. Backed by 9th Wonder’s Jamla Records and later signed to Roc Nation, Rapsody has built a discography that prioritizes craft and conscience. Her albums, particularly Laila’s Wisdom and Eve, are poetic love letters to Black womanhood—highlighting historical figures, personal influences, and everyday heroines through intricate, emotionally rich storytelling. Rapsody doesn’t rap for fame—she raps for truth. Her style is fluid and intelligent, weaving complex metaphors with searing observations, delivered with cool confidence and razor focus. In a male-dominated industry, she’s carved her place not by compromising, but by doubling down on authenticity. She’s earned Grammy nominations, critical acclaim, and the respect of legends like Kendrick Lamar and Jay-Z. More than just a rapper, Rapsody is an educator and cultural archivist, proving with every bar that hip-hop can still uplift, inform, and inspire. Her voice is not just heard—it’s felt, and it’s here to stay.
5. Randy Travis
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgJXbIP83A8&list=RDsgJXbIP83A8&start_radio=1
Randy Travis is a pillar of country music whose deep voice and heartfelt storytelling helped usher in a new era for the genre. Born in Marshville, North Carolina, Travis brought traditional country back to the mainstream during the 1980s with his neotraditional sound—simple, sincere, and steeped in Southern values. With timeless hits like “Forever and Ever, Amen,” “Deeper Than the Holler,” and “On the Other Hand,” he captured the emotional depth of everyday life, love, and faith. Travis’s distinctive baritone and gentle demeanor made him a beloved figure both on and off the stage. Over the years, he collected a treasure trove of accolades, including Grammy Awards, Country Music Association honors, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His gospel recordings further showcased his spiritual depth and musical versatility. Despite suffering a devastating stroke in 2013 that limited his ability to perform, his influence hasn’t waned. Travis remains an enduring symbol of authenticity in country music, a reminder that sometimes the most powerful songs are the ones that speak from the heart—and straight to it.
6. James Taylor
James Taylor’s music is a balm for the soul—gentle, honest, and deeply resonant. Though born in Boston, Massachusetts, Taylor spent much of his youth in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where the landscape and Southern pace of life seeped into his art. A pioneer of the 1970s singer-songwriter movement, Taylor crafted introspective ballads that gave voice to vulnerability in a way few others dared. Songs like “Fire and Rain,” “Sweet Baby James,” and “Carolina in My Mind” remain cornerstones of American folk-rock, each one a quiet meditation on love, loss, and self-discovery. His soft-spoken demeanor and warm tenor made his performances feel intimate, even on the grandest stages. Taylor’s longevity is a rare feat in the music industry—his career has spanned more than five decades, earning multiple Grammy Awards and the affection of generations of listeners. He’s weathered personal battles with addiction and mental health, all while maintaining a humility that’s reflected in both his lyrics and life. Taylor’s legacy isn’t just in his chart-topping hits, but in the calm strength and emotional honesty he brings to every note.
7. Anthony Hamilton
Anthony Hamilton is the embodiment of Southern soul, bringing gritty emotion and gospel-rooted authenticity to modern R&B. Born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, Hamilton’s sound is steeped in tradition, yet unmistakably current. He first turned heads with his platinum-selling 2003 album Comin’ from Where I’m From, and its standout single “Charlene” introduced the world to a voice that aches and uplifts in equal measure. His music draws from the church pews of his youth and the streets of real life—balancing spiritual conviction with worldly understanding. Over the years, Hamilton has built a career defined by sincerity and soul, earning multiple Grammy nominations and one win. He’s collaborated with artists across genres—from Jill Scott to Nas to Buddy Guy—proving his versatility while remaining rooted in his signature sound. Whether he’s singing about heartbreak, resilience, or redemption, Hamilton delivers every lyric with depth and grit. His live performances are electric yet intimate, often accompanied by his dynamic background vocalists, The HamilTones. In an age of digital perfection, Anthony Hamilton keeps things raw, real, and deeply human—making him one of soul music’s most treasured voices.
8. Scotty McCreery
Scotty McCreery is a modern country star with old-school charm and deep Southern roots. Hailing from Garner, North Carolina, McCreery stole hearts nationwide in 2011 when he became the youngest male winner of American Idol at just 17. His warm baritone voice and humble demeanor immediately set him apart, and his debut album Clear as Day soared to platinum status. But McCreery didn’t rest on reality TV fame—he worked hard to build a lasting career, releasing a string of albums that showcase both artistic growth and unwavering authenticity. His hits like “Five More Minutes,” “This Is It,” and “Damn Strait” speak to themes of love, loss, and small-town life, resonating deeply with fans across generations. Proud of his North Carolina upbringing, McCreery often pays tribute to his roots, whether through lyrics, performances, or community outreach. His blend of traditional country sound with modern polish has earned him accolades, including ACM and CMT Awards. Through it all, he’s remained grounded, approachable, and committed to making music that matters. Scotty McCreery isn’t just a former Idol—he’s a country artist who’s here for the long haul.
9. Petey Pablo
Petey Pablo brought unfiltered North Carolina pride to the national rap scene with his high-energy anthems and unmistakable Southern swagger. Born in Greenville, Pablo rose to fame in the early 2000s with his breakout hit “Raise Up,” an adrenaline-pumping tribute to his home state that became a cultural moment, thanks to its unforgettable chorus and pulsating beat. His debut album, Diary of a Sinner: 1st Entry, earned a Grammy nomination, and his follow-up, Still Writing in My Diary: 2nd Entry, spawned another major hit, “Freek-a-Leek.” Pablo’s music was a mix of crunk energy and street realism, blending party anthems with gritty narratives. While his mainstream spotlight dimmed after a few years, his impact on Southern hip-hop endured. He helped shine a light on North Carolina as a legitimate player in the rap world, paving the way for artists like J. Cole and Rapsody. Though his catalog is relatively brief, his influence remains part of the state’s musical DNA. Petey Pablo’s legacy isn’t just in the charts—it’s in the pride he instilled in a generation of North Carolinians who finally saw their voice represented on a national stage.
10. Luke Combs
Luke Combs is the everyman of country music—a humble powerhouse whose songs feel like they were written for your own life. Raised in Asheville, North Carolina, Combs grew up singing in church and playing guitar in small bars before social media launched him into the spotlight. His rise from DIY artist to chart-topping sensation is the stuff of country music dreams. His debut album, This One’s for You, spent over 50 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Country chart, and follow-ups like What You See Is What You Get have only cemented his superstar status. With a voice that’s both gritty and warm, Combs writes about real-life struggles, everyday joys, and timeless love with refreshing honesty. Songs like “Hurricane,” “Beer Never Broke My Heart,” and “Forever After All” showcase his knack for melody and emotional resonance. Despite his rapid success, Combs remains grounded, known for his loyalty to fans and his refusal to stray from who he is. He’s a modern torchbearer for traditional country values with a 21st-century twist—and one of the genre’s most authentic voices.
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.
