Nestled in the idyllic embrace of the verdant Green Mountains, Vermont is a state renowned for its picturesque landscapes, captivating charm, and a rich cultural heritage that extends far beyond its borders. Beyond the maple syrup and scenic vistas, Vermont has also gifted the world with an exceptional lineup of talented vocalists who have made their mark in the realm of music. From haunting folk ballads to soaring rock anthems and mesmerizing jazz harmonies, the voices that hail from this small New England state possess a unique ability to captivate audiences and stir emotions.
In this article, we embark on a melodic journey through the top 10 famous singers from Vermont, celebrating their remarkable achievements and the indelible impact they have made on the global music stage. These artists, born and bred in the Green Mountain State, have transcended geographical boundaries to earn accolades, amass dedicated fan bases, and leave an indelible mark on the annals of music history.
As we delve into their stories, we’ll explore the diverse musical genres that these Vermont singers have conquered, witnessing their rise to prominence through determination, talent, and an unwavering passion for their craft. Whether they have become chart-topping sensations, Grammy award winners, or influential figures in their respective genres, these gifted artists showcase the extraordinary talent and creativity that thrives within Vermont’s borders.
So, join us as we unravel the harmonious tapestry woven by the top 10 famous singers from Vermont, highlighting their musical prowess and the unique essence they bring to the world of music. Prepare to be enchanted by the extraordinary melodies that have blossomed amidst Vermont’s breathtaking natural beauty.
1. Nothing,Nowhere
This multi-talented artist emerged from the lush landscapes of Vermont, captivating listeners with his genre-bending approach to music. Known as 'Nothing,Nowhere', he seamlessly blends elements of emo and hip-hop into a unique sound that has resonated with fans worldwide. With thought-provoking lyrics and an emotional delivery, his music offers a raw glimpse into his personal struggles and experiences. While hailed for his innovative sound, 'Nothing,Nowhere' also impresses with his artistic vision – often creating visuals that perfectly complement his tracks.
Even though The Static Age is from Vermont, their music is anything but static and will have you jumping like a live wire.
2. The Static Age
The Static Age is a notable band from Vermont. Their alternative rock sound is influenced by punk and post-punk genres. Their lyrics explore themes such as social justice and personal struggles, making them a popular choice among fans who appreciate music that goes beyond mere entertainment.
Their passionate live performances continue to attract crowds both within the state and further afield. The Static Age's sound has been described as energetic, cathartic and emotional, with powerful vocals and driving guitar riffs dominating their music.
It's worth noting that The Static Age released a self-titled album in 2007 that received critical acclaim for its raw energy and catchy hooks. They have continued to release new music over the years while touring extensively around North America.
To fully appreciate The Static Age's unique sound, it's suggested to grab some good quality headphones or speakers and immerse yourself in their dynamic and heartfelt music. Turning up the volume also helps to experience their energy live without leaving your own home.
Why settle for rock when you can RAQ?
3. RAQ
RAQ is a renowned band from Vermont that creates captivating and lively music. The group comprises of four members who showcase their talents in creating unique blends of Rock, Jazz, and Funk music.
| Name | Role |
| Jay Burwick | Guitarist/Vocals |
| Greg Stukey | Keyboardist/vocals |
| Jordan Simms | Bassist/vocals |
| Paddy McNulty | Dummer/percussionist/vocals |
RAQ has performed at various festivals including Wakarusa and All Good Music Festival, earning them a reputation for their electrifying performances.
The band formed in Burlington, Vermont in the early 2000s and gained popularity with their debut album 'Shapeshifters' released in 2006.
Interestingly, RAQ has had two hiatuses during their career. The first was from 2008 to 2011, after which they reunited for a series of shows before taking another break from performing in 2013.
RAQ's unique sound and high-energy performances have earned them a dedicated fan base. They continue to create music that showcases their talents and keeps fans coming back for more.
Anaïs Mitchell proves that Vermont's not just known for maple syrup, it's also a breeding ground for folk singers with pipes as sweet as their state's famous export.
4. Anaïs Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell, a Vermont native, is an accomplished singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of folk, rock, and Americana music. Her most notable work is the acclaimed album "Hadestown" which has been adapted into a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical. Mitchell has also collaborated with fellow Vermonter Michael Chorney on several projects.
Mitchell's rise to fame began when she started performing in small clubs and festivals in Vermont before eventually touring nationwide. Her music often incorporates literary themes and mythology, drawing upon her background in theater. In addition to her successful music career, Mitchell has also acted in various productions.
One true fact regarding Anaïs Mitchell is that she grew up on a farm in Addison County, Vermont, where she first sparked her love for music by singing with her family around the campfire.
Jojo may be from Vermont, but her voice could take her to infinity and beyond.
5. JoJo
With a powerhouse voice that belies her youth, JoJo gained critical acclaim and commercial success at a young age. Hailing from Vermont as one of the state's most successful musicians, she is known for hits like "Leave (Get Out)" and "Too Little Too Late". Her soulful R&B sound has continued to captivate audiences throughout the years, cementing her place in music history.
JoJo's debut album was released when she was just 13 years old, making her the youngest solo artist to have a number-one single in the United States. After a hiatus due to label disputes, she made an impressive comeback with her album "Mad Love" in 2016 and has since been consistently dropping hits. She is not only an adept vocalist but also a skilled songwriter.
Born in Brattleboro, Vermont, JoJo grew up surrounded by music influences like Whitney Houston and Ella Fitzgerald thanks to her parents' love for music. She also possesses acting skills as seen in films like "Aquamarine" and TV shows like "Lip Sync Battle". Despite being an international superstar, JoJo stays close to her roots and gives back to the community through charities.
Don't miss out on listening to this Vermont-born musical sensation who has captivated millions across the world with her powerhouse vocals and soulful R&B beats!
Phish may be from Vermont, but their music is so trippy it's like they're living on an entirely different planet.
6. Phish
This iconic Vermont band may be known for their unique blend of rock, funk, and jazz but Phish's contributions to the state go beyond their music. With a long-standing commitment to environmentalism, this quartet made waves with its "phriendly" touring practices and helped raise funds for various charitable causes. Their music has garnered a loyal following and they continue to perform to sold-out crowds worldwide.
Phish was formed in Burlington in 1983 by Trey Anastasio, Jon Fishman, Mike Gordon, and Jeff Holdsworth while attending the University of Vermont. The band quickly gained popularity across the northeast before breaking out on a national level in the late '90s. Renowned for their improvisational skills and epic live shows that often last hours, Phish has released over 20 studio albums throughout their career.
Fun fact: In 2019, the State of Vermont declared August 14th "Phish Day" in recognition of the band's cultural and economic impact on the region.
Pro Tip: Catching a Phish show is a rite of passage for many music lovers – be sure to bring plenty of water and comfortable shoes!
Move over bagpipes, Prydein is bringing Vermont some much-needed Celtic rock.
7. Prydein
This section highlights the musical contributions made by a Vermont-based folk band. Prydein has gained recognition for its unique fusion of traditional Celtic tunes with contemporary rock and funk elements.
The band members, consisting of bagpipers, guitarists, percussionists, and bassists, blend their diverse skills to produce energetic and captivating performances. One of their distinctive features is the ability to appeal to a wide range of audiences, including youngsters who may not be accustomed to hearing bagpipes or Celtic music.
In addition to regular gigs at festivals and local clubs, Prydein has released several albums and collaborated with artists such as Irish fiddler Kevin Burke and British singer/songwriter Billy Bragg. Their music has been featured on national TV programs like NBC's "Today Show" and PBS's "Road Trip Nation."
Interestingly, Prydein got its name from an ancient region in Britain that was known for its fierce warriors and rich folklore. The band tries to embody this spirit by infusing passion into their music and staying true to their roots while exploring new frontiers.
Overall, Prydein's contribution to Vermont's musical landscape is significant, bringing a fresh twist on traditional genres while representing the state in national music circuits.
Can't decide if Noah Kahan's music is best for a romantic evening or an emotional breakdown.
8. Noah Kahan
This Vermont native has made waves in the music industry with his unique voice and heartfelt lyrics. Noah Kahan's debut single "Young Blood" hit the top of the Spotify charts, leading to a record deal with Republic Records. His music explores themes of love and self-discovery, often drawing on personal experiences. Kahan's success has landed him gigs at major festivals like Coachella and Bonnaroo, solidifying his place as an up-and-coming artist in the industry.
In addition to his musical talents, Kahan has been recognized for his activism efforts. He's used his platform to raise awareness about mental health and addiction recovery, even partnering with organizations like The Jed Foundation. Fans admire Kahan not only for his music but also for his dedication to making a positive impact on the world.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for Noah Kahan's upcoming releases – this rising star is sure to continue making a mark in the music industry.
If you're a night owl, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals are the perfect soundtrack for your nocturnal adventures in Vermont.
9. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Grace Potter and her band, The Nocturnals, are one of the most popular musical acts to originate from Vermont. Their unique style blends rock, blues, and soul that has captured the hearts of music lovers all over the world.
In the following table, we will delve into some fascinating details about Grace Potter and the Nocturnals:
| Origin | Genre | Years Active | Albums Released |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | Rock/Blues/Soul | 2002 – 2015 | 6 Studio Albums |
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals have been nominated for various awards, including multiple Grammys. They have also collaborated with many notable artists throughout their career such as Kenny Chesney, The Rolling Stones, and Gov't Mule.
For fans of Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, their live performances are a must-see experience. Their high-energy shows are known for capturing the essence of their music perfectly.
If you're looking to experience something unique musically, make sure to check out Grace Potter and The Nocturnals' show when they come to a town near you.
Strangefolk may sound like a band of misfits, but their music is anything but strange – it's just hard to find in a state known more for its maple syrup than its music scene.
10. Strangefolk
One of the top 10 singers from Vermont is Strangefolk, an American folk-rock band that formed in Burlington in 1989. Their music has been described as a blend of improvisational rock and acoustic folk, with influences including the Grateful Dead and Phish.
Strangefolk's popularity in the Northeastern United States led to their headlining appearances at major festivals such as Bonnaroo and High Sierra. The band disbanded in 2000 but reunited briefly in 2012 for a farewell tour.
Aside from their music, Strangefolk was also known for their commitment to environmentalism and social activism. They often performed benefit concerts for various causes and partnered with organizations such as Greenpeace and Amnesty International. In addition, the band had a loyal fan base known as "Strangers" who would follow them on tour and trade recordings of their live shows.
If you're a fan of Strangefolk's sound, you may also enjoy other Vermont-based bands such as Madaila or Grace Potter & The Nocturnals. Additionally, consider supporting local music venues such as Higher Ground in South Burlington or Nectar's in Burlington to help keep the local music scene alive.
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.
