Delaware, a small but culturally vibrant state, has also been home to talented singers who have made their mark in the music industry. From R&B and soul to rock and country, Delaware has nurtured a diverse range of vocal talents that have captivated audiences with their exceptional voices and musical artistry.
One notable Delaware singer is George Thorogood, known for his energetic performances and gritty blues rock sound. Hailing from Wilmington, Thorogood and his band, The Destroyers, have been rocking audiences for decades with hits like “Bad to the Bone” and “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer.” His distinctive voice and guitar skills have made him a celebrated figure in the world of rock music.
Delaware has also produced talented R&B and soul singers like Clifford Brown, a renowned jazz trumpeter known for his soulful performances and virtuosic skills. Brown, born in Wilmington, is considered one of the most influential figures in jazz music, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.
Additionally, Delaware has been home to country singer and songwriter Jimmie Allen. Hailing from Milton, Allen’s smooth vocals and heartfelt storytelling have garnered critical acclaim. With hits like “Best Shot” and “Make Me Want To,” Allen has become a rising star in the country music scene.
These Delaware singers, among others, have showcased the talent and creativity that emerges from the state. Their exceptional voices, combined with their passion for music, have resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry. Delaware continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of American music through the remarkable singers it has produced.
1. Stephen Marley
Stephen Marley, the accomplished musician and singer-songwriter from the state of Delaware, has made a name for himself in the music industry with his unique blend of reggae, hip-hop, and R&B. He is known for his powerful lyrics that often delve into political and social issues. Stephen's musical talents were nurtured at a young age as he grew up in a household surrounded by iconic musicians like his father Bob Marley.
Stephen Marley's contributions to the music industry are unparalleled. His debut solo album "Mind Control" won him a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 2008. Apart from that, he has also collaborated with several artists like Lauryn Hill, Mos Def, and Damian Marley. His latest album release "One Take: Acoustic Jams" showcases his versatility as an artist.
In addition to being a talented musician, Stephen is also involved in philanthropy work through the charity organization Ghetto Youths Foundation. The foundation aims to empower and support disadvantaged youth through music education programs.
Stephen Marley is truly an inspiration for aspiring musicians everywhere with his talent and dedication towards creating meaningful music that resonates with people.
As they say in Delaware, Cisco Houston may not be a household name, but his voice could raise the roof off any house.
2. Cisco Houston
This singer, born in Delaware, made a significant contribution to the American folk music scene. Cisco Houston is known for his deep and rich voice that perfectly complemented the protest songs of the 1940s and 50s. His interpretation of traditional ballads garnered immense popularity among audiences worldwide.
Houston was a vital part of the Almanac Singers, along with Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie. This group emerged as one of the most prominent musical forces during the labor protests in America. Some of his famous songs include "Dark as a Dungeon," "Hard Ain't it Hard," and "500 Miles." He also appeared in several movies including, "Bound for Glory" and sang on the soundtrack of John Steinbeck's documentary, "The Forgotten Village".
Cisco Houston's struggles with lung disease cut short his life at a young age, but his music continues to inspire aspiring singers today. His ability to combine raw emotions with insightful lyrics touched countless souls over half a century ago.
If you're looking to indulge in some quality folk music or want to appreciate an artist from Delaware, give Cisco Houston's tracks a listen. His powerful vocals combined with meaningful lyrics have stood the test of time and still resonates with listeners today.
George Thorogood may be from Delaware, but with his iconic songs like "Bad to the Bone," he's the kind of artist you don't mess with… unless you want to get "Moved Outta Town."
3. George Thorogood
He is a legendary blues-rock musician born in Wilmington and raised in Naamans Gardens, Delaware. George Thorogood has sold over 15 million albums worldwide and is known for his hit songs like "Bad to the Bone" and "Move It On Over". With his powerful voice and electrifying guitar riffs, Thorogood has become a cult figure among rock enthusiasts.
Being an accomplished blues artist, Thorogood has released numerous successful albums in his career spanning over four decades. His first album with his band 'The Destroyers', titled 'George Thorogood & The Destroyers' was released in 1977 and received critical acclaim. Over the years, he has given several hits like "Who Do You Love", "One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer" and "Gear Jammer".
Thorogood's music is influenced by Bo Diddley, John Lee Hooker and Elmore James. Known for his energetic live performances, he remains one of the most celebrated American blues artists of our time.
Fun Fact: The song "Bad to the Bone" was featured in the hit movie Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
Jimmie Allen may be the only famous singer from Delaware that you've heard of, but hey, at least you can impress your friends with that fun fact.
4. Jimmie Allen
With his dynamic voice and well-crafted lyrics, this Wilmington native has garnered significant attention in the country music scene. Jimmie Allen's unique blend of country, pop, and R&B is evident in tracks like "Best Shot" and "Make Me Want To". His artistry has also earned him notable awards, such as the New Male Artist of the Year at the 2020 Academy of Country Music Awards.
Allen's passion for music dates back to his childhood when he began performing in church. Despite facing initial rejection from record labels, he continued to pursue his dream and eventually signed with BBR Music Group. He attributes his success to perseverance and staying true to his roots.
Interestingly, Allen is not only a talented musician but also an advocate for mental health awareness. He has been vocal about his struggles with anxiety and depression, using his platform to encourage others to seek help when needed. Overall, Jimmie Allen is a rising star worth keeping an eye on in the country music world.
Even if you've never heard of Cab Calloway before, after reading this article you'll know he's more famous than Delaware's actual state bird.
5. Cab Calloway
Cabell "Cab" Calloway III was a famous jazz singer from the state of Delaware. He gained worldwide recognition for his Hi-de-ho style and iconic zoot suit attire. Cab Calloway began his career as a bandleader in the 1920s and went on to become one of the most influential figures in jazz music. His signature scat singing and energetic performances earned him the title of the "King of Hi-De-Ho".
Calloway's unique vocal style mixed with his charismatic personality landed him several appearances in popular movies and TV shows, even after his prime era had passed. Despite being active in several social and political campaigns throughout his life, he remained dedicated to entertaining audiences till his last days.
A lesser-known fact about Cab Calloway is that he was heavily influenced by an African-American dancer named Josephine Baker, whom he met while performing in Paris during World War I. Baker inspired him to incorporate more theatrical elements into his shows, which eventually became a major part of Cab’s flamboyant performances.
One story that highlights Cab Calloway's dedication to music and perfectionism is when he continued performing after fracturing two ribs during a show! This incident represents the kind of passion and resilience Cab maintained throughout his career.
Starrah makes Delaware proud with her catchy tunes, proving that good things do come in small states.
6. Starrah
One of the famous singers from Delaware is Starrah. She is a renowned artist who has written songs for famous singers like Rihanna, Beyonce, and Travis Scott. Starrah's full name is Brittany Talia Hazzard, and she was born in New Castle, Delaware.
Starrah started her music career by releasing her first EP "Rush" in 2016. Her success continued as she released more hit songs such as "Swerve," which featured rapper Diplo and "Pick Up," which added to her growing fan base.
What sets Starrah apart from other famous singers is that she began her career through songwriting before dedicating her time to producing music for herself. Furthermore, she incorporates different sounds and styles into her genre-defying music, making it appealing to a diverse range of audiences.
If you want to learn more about Starrah's unique take on music or how she developed industry-respected techniques when writing lyrics, you can follow her social media pages or attend one of her live performances. These opportunities offer keen insights into the world of professional singing and songwriting.
Cori Yarckin puts the ‘del’ in Delaware with her powerhouse vocals and infectious pop beats.
7. Cori Yarckin
With numerous albums and hit songs in her repertoire, one cannot deny Cori Yarckin's immense contribution to the music industry. Her unique voice and riveting performances have made her a prominent figure not only in Delaware but also beyond its borders. While Yarckin’s work spans over many genres such as rock/pop and indie-folk, her music is infused with meaningful lyrics that unify people from different walks of life.
Yackin’s passion for music began at a young age when she was inspired by her paternal grandmother who was an opera singer. Over the years, she has continued to grow and hone her skills, ultimately landing deals with reputable record labels such as Universal Music Group, Washington Square Records among others.
Today, Yarckin is highly regarded within Delaware's Music circles for engaging audiences in uniquely dynamic performances and spreading creativity through her artistry. Her international recognition continues to soar especially after the release of "I'm in Love" which racked up over 50 million streams on Spotify alone.
Who needs a diamond when you've got the gem that is Delaware's own Allen Stone?
8. Allen Stone
This talented musician from the Diamond State, recognized as a renowned soul and R&B singer, has captured the hearts of countless fans with his velvety vocal range and soothing melodies. Allen Stone's music is a perfect blend of retro soul, dance vibes with a touch of funk that has earned him critical acclaim in the industry. Stone's early-inspirations lied in Gospel music but he eventually found his niche by mixing classic rock bands like The Beatles with the gritty stares of Ray Charles. His immense passion for music began while singing in church, and it was at this place where he discovered his undeniably powerful voice.
With his infectious energy on stage coupled with deep-rooted emotions-driven lyrics, Allen Stone continues to impress audiences worldwide. Stone's career kickstarted back in 2010 when he released his debut album 'Last To Speak,' which was an instant hit that paved the way for more remarkable releases like "Sleep," "Love," and "American Privilege" which all received overwhelming critical reviews to push him into the spotlight. Over time, Allen has collaborated with icons such as Ed Sheeran and performed on numerous television shows like ‘Conan’ and ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ The artist not only brings joy to people through music but also actively supports social justice causes advocating against oppression faced by minority communities.
Aside from music-making, many do not know that Stone is also famous for volunteering at different animal shelters across America. He is an advocate for pet adoption and works hard to spread awareness about animal welfare issues plaguing many societies today.
Victoria De Mare may not have made the list of famous Delaware singers, but she'll always be number one in our hearts… or at least number nine.
9. Victoria De Mare
Victoria De Mare is a renowned singer hailing from Delaware. She has made her mark in the industry with her strong vocal prowess and captivating performances. With a career spanning over two decades, Victoria has released several hit songs that have resonated with millions of listeners globally. Her unique style and approach to music have earned her critical acclaim, and she remains an inspiration to many upcoming musicians.
Victoria's journey began in Wilmington, Delaware, where she grew up honing her craft as a singer. Over the years, she has worked tirelessly to become one of the most sought-after artists in the industry. Her talents have not been limited to music alone; Victoria has also acted in various films, demonstrating versatility in her artistry.
Apart from her musical talents, Victoria is passionate about raising awareness on various social issues, including mental health and animal rights. Through her music and advocacy work, she continues to make an impact on society.
Interestingly, Victoria was once featured on an episode of the popular reality show "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," further cementing her status as a household name in entertainment.
Betty Roché may not have been a household name, but her smooth jazz vocals could soothe even the most savage beast – or Delawarean.
10. Betty Roché
Betty Roché – The Talented Songstress from Delaware
Recognized for her exquisite musical style, Betty Roché was one of the most popular singers hailing from the state of Delaware. With her soulful voice and engaging stage presence, she enthralled audiences across the United States.
Born in Wilmington, Delaware, Betty Roché made a name for herself in the jazz music industry during the 1950s and 1960s. She was associated with well-known big bands like Duke Ellington Orchestra and Benny Carter's band. Her performances at popular venues like Apollo Theater and Carnegie Hall were widely acknowledged by critics and fans alike.
Notably, Betty Roché was also known for blending different genres of music such as blues and R&B into her performances. Her unique style set her apart from other artists of her time. Today, her contributions to African-American Music continue to inspire a new generation of musicians.
According to sources, Betty Roché initially pursued nursing but ultimately found joy in singing during her late teens. Her natural talent led her to perform with various local bands before she got noticed by renowned ones.
Betty Roché's legacy continues to live on through various recordings and renditions of her music. As one of the most talented singers from Delaware, she remains an inspiration for aspiring musicians around the globe.
Edward Tomlin 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.
