New Hampshire may be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but when it comes to musical talent, it punches far above its weight. Nestled between mountains, forests, and charming small towns, the Granite State has quietly produced some of the most dynamic and beloved voices in music. From chart-topping pop stars to genre-blending innovators, New Hampshire’s singers prove that big talent can come from even the most unassuming places.
What makes New Hampshire’s music scene so special? It’s the authenticity, the heart, and the deep connection to storytelling. These artists bring a unique blend of small-town grit and world-stage ambition, capturing the spirit of New England while pushing boundaries on a national and global level. Whether they’re lighting up arenas, climbing the Billboard charts, or gaining loyal followings online, these singers have made their mark—and they all trace their roots back to this beautifully rugged corner of the country.
In this article, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from New Hampshire—a celebration of the voices that have turned quiet beginnings into musical legacies. Get ready to be surprised, inspired, and impressed by the stars who prove that New Hampshire has a sound all its own.
1. Ronnie James Dio
Ronnie James Dio, born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, was nothing short of a titan in the world of rock and heavy metal. Known for his commanding, operatic voice and larger-than-life stage presence, Dio wasn’t just a frontman — he was a storyteller. His career spanned legendary stints with Rainbow, Black Sabbath (following Ozzy Osbourne’s departure), and his own band, Dio. Songs like “Holy Diver,” “Heaven and Hell,” and “Rainbow in the Dark” are etched into the metal canon, pulsing with raw power and fantastical lyricism. Dio brought a sense of drama and myth to heavy metal, painting vivid pictures of heroism, struggle, and darkness. He also famously popularized the “devil horns” hand gesture, now an enduring symbol of the genre. Beyond the theatrics, Dio was a thoughtful lyricist and a generous spirit, known for his humility and connection with fans. His influence can be felt across generations of metal musicians who cite him as a defining inspiration. Though he passed away in 2010, Dio’s legacy lives on — in the music, in the memories, and in every fan throwing horns in the air during a guitar solo. He didn’t just sing metal; he was metal.
2. Tom Rush
Tom Rush, born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a cornerstone of the American folk revival, blending thoughtful songwriting with a deep reverence for tradition. With a rich baritone voice and a masterful fingerpicking guitar style, Rush emerged in the 1960s as a vital interpreter of new songwriting talent. He was instrumental in bringing the early work of legends like Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, and James Taylor to wider audiences before they became household names. But Rush isn’t just a conduit — he’s a gifted songwriter in his own right. Tracks like “No Regrets” and “Merrimack County” showcase his knack for lyrical depth, quiet wisdom, and understated wit. Over the years, Rush has continued to evolve while remaining true to his roots, blending elements of blues and country into his folk foundation. His live shows are intimate, often infused with warm humor and personal anecdotes, creating a rare kind of connection with his audience. He’s not flashy, but that’s the point — Tom Rush’s music is about storytelling, craftsmanship, and authenticity. Decades into his career, he’s still out there performing, proving that genuine folk music — and genuine artists — never go out of style.
3. Dan Zanes
Dan Zanes, a New Hampshire native who first found fame as the frontman of 1980s rock band The Del Fuegos, took a creative turn that few saw coming — and redefined an entire genre along the way. After becoming a father, Zanes began writing music for children, but this wasn’t your typical kiddie fare. His songs were joyful, multicultural, and created with the whole family in mind. Albums like Catch That Train! — which won a Grammy — blend folk, rock, and global rhythms into something truly inclusive and joyful. Zanes’ music feels like a backyard jam session where everyone’s invited, regardless of age or background. With his signature streaked hair and bright wardrobe, he’s a pied piper of musical togetherness, encouraging participation and community through every note. But beyond the fun, there’s a deeper mission: connection. Zanes’ work promotes unity, empathy, and the idea that music can bridge divides. His live shows are part concert, part celebration, and 100% heart. He’s even launched educational initiatives to support young musicians and diverse voices. Dan Zanes proves that children’s music can be artful, meaningful, and wildly fun — and he’s made a legacy of turning joy into a movement.
4. Ray LaMontagne
Ray LaMontagne has the kind of voice that feels like it comes from another era — smoky, gravelly, and packed with emotion. Born in Nashua, New Hampshire, LaMontagne has always let his music do the talking. He famously shuns the spotlight, rarely gives interviews, and avoids the typical trappings of fame, yet his songs have a way of finding people when they need them most. His breakthrough came in 2004 with Trouble, an album that introduced the world to his tender, soulful songwriting — a mix of folk, Americana, and old-school soul. Songs like “Shelter” and “Jolene” don’t just play; they linger. LaMontagne’s music feels lived-in, like a conversation you have with yourself during a long drive. He’s won a Grammy and built a loyal following, not by chasing trends but by staying true to his raw, introspective sound. Tracks like “You Are the Best Thing” show his sunnier side, while albums like God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise dive deep into melancholy and solitude. Ray LaMontagne’s work feels carved from the same rugged terrain that raised him — earthy, unpolished, and hauntingly human.
5. JoJo (Joanna Levesque)
JoJo, born Joanna Levesque, was barely a teenager when she skyrocketed to fame, but her journey from child star to grown-up R&B powerhouse is one of grit and grace. Born in Vermont and raised in Keene, New Hampshire, JoJo brought a small-town tenacity to the big stage. At just 13, she made history with her breakout hit “Leave (Get Out),” becoming one of the youngest solo artists to top the Billboard charts. But behind the success was a turbulent road. Legal issues with her former label kept her music on hold for years, sidelining one of pop’s most promising voices. Still, JoJo never gave up. Her 2016 album Mad Love. marked a fierce comeback, blending pop, soul, and vulnerability in a sound that was all her own. Follow-ups like Good to Know proved she wasn’t just back — she was better than ever. JoJo sings with conviction, balancing powerhouse vocals with personal, soul-baring lyrics. Her story is one of reinvention and resilience. From teenage sensation to fully realized artist, JoJo has weathered the storm and come out shining, reminding the world that real talent doesn’t fade — it evolves.
6. Samia Finnerty
Samia Finnerty is a rising star in the indie music world, blending vulnerability, theatrical flair, and poetic insight into songs that hit straight to the heart. Though born in Los Angeles, her family’s deep New Hampshire roots have informed her lyrical voice and introspective spirit. The daughter of comedian Kathy Najimy and musician/actor Dan Finnerty, Samia inherited a creative legacy, but she’s forging her own path with fearless honesty. Her debut album The Baby introduced a songwriter unafraid to wade into the messy waters of anxiety, heartbreak, and identity. Her lyrics often feel like journal entries — intimate and raw — while her vocal range swings from ethereal softness to passionate urgency. Samia’s follow-up work, including Honey, has shown even more artistic growth, combining tender storytelling with bold, experimental production. She’s carved out a unique space in modern indie rock — blending emotional intensity with wry humor and lush musical textures. For fans of artists like Phoebe Bridgers or Mitski, Samia offers a similarly compelling experience but with a voice and perspective all her own. She may be relatively new to the scene, but Samia Finnerty is already one of the most exciting young voices to emerge in recent years.
7. Sarah Silverman (Honorable Mention – Musical Comedy)
While Sarah Silverman is widely celebrated for her sharp wit and fearless comedy, she’s also an undeniably gifted musical performer — a fact often overlooked in discussions of her career. Born in Bedford, New Hampshire, Silverman has always used humor as a way to explore deeper truths, and music has become one of her most powerful tools for doing so. Whether delivering satirical showtunes in The Sarah Silverman Program or co-writing heartfelt songs for her stage musical The Bedwetter, Sarah blends comedy and melody with surprising nuance. Her singing voice is both expressive and technically strong, capable of carrying a Broadway ballad or a biting parody with equal skill. What makes her musical work so compelling is its ability to walk the fine line between hilarious and heartbreaking — often within the same verse. Silverman uses music not just for laughs, but for insight, turning songs into moments of emotional release. While she may not be topping music charts, her contributions to musical comedy are significant, reminding us that great performers can move us just as powerfully through humor as through song. In Sarah Silverman’s world, laughter and melody are two sides of the same coin.
8. Ray Scott Daigle (Ray Scott)
Ray Scott, born in North Carolina, found unexpected inspiration during his time in New Hampshire — a period that helped shape his straightforward, unvarnished songwriting style. With a voice as deep as a Southern well and a swagger rooted in classic country grit, Scott stands out in an era often dominated by polished, pop-country soundscapes. His breakout hit My Kind of Music became an anthem for traditionalists, a cheeky yet passionate defense of old-school country ideals. Drawing comparisons to outlaw legends like Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash, Scott’s songs are filled with humor, heartache, and raw, blue-collar wisdom. Though he’s never chased mainstream fame, he’s earned a loyal fanbase that appreciates his honesty and storytelling chops. His music feels like a conversation on a back porch with a beer in hand — real, rugged, and reflective. The time he spent in New Hampshire instilled a work ethic and a sense of grounded authenticity that continues to echo through his lyrics. Ray Scott may not be a household name, but for those who value country music with substance and soul, he’s a refreshing reminder that the genre’s roots are still alive and kicking.
9. Recycled Percussion (Justin Spencer and Band)
Born in Goffstown, New Hampshire, Recycled Percussion is far more than just a band — it’s a musical movement powered by innovation, adrenaline, and a lot of junk. Founded by drummer Justin Spencer, the group burst into national recognition as finalists on America’s Got Talent, but their roots go much deeper. Their concept is brilliantly simple: turn trash into music. Using everyday items like buckets, power tools, and scrap metal, they create pulse-pounding percussion performances that blur the line between concert and spectacle. Known for their explosive stage shows, Recycled Percussion combines drumming with acrobatics, audience interaction, and a touch of mayhem, making every performance unforgettable. Spencer, often called the “world’s fastest drummer,” leads the group with a contagious energy that’s hard to resist. Though they’ve gone on to headline a Las Vegas residency, they remain fiercely connected to New Hampshire, where they’re seen as hometown heroes. The band also gives back through community outreach and youth initiatives, inspiring kids to create music from whatever they can find. Recycled Percussion proves that rhythm is everywhere — all it takes is a little imagination, a few buckets, and a lot of heart.
10. Alan Wilson (of Canned Heat)
Alan “Blind Owl” Wilson may be best known as a founding member of the blues-rock band Canned Heat, but his legacy stretches far beyond one group or genre. Though raised in Massachusetts, Wilson had deep ties to New Hampshire, where his introspective nature and love for nature took root. A prodigious harmonica player and slide guitarist, Wilson was a gentle soul with an encyclopedic knowledge of Delta blues. His reedy, almost haunting vocals on tracks like Going Up the Country and On the Road Again helped define the psychedelic blues sound of the late 1960s. More than just a performer, Wilson was a scholar of the blues, credited with helping rediscover and revive the career of blues legend Son House. A passionate environmentalist, Wilson’s interests ranged from music to conservation, and he often wrote songs that reflected his concern for the planet. Tragically, he died at just 27, joining the infamous “27 Club,” but his influence has endured. Alan Wilson was more than a musician — he was a bridge between the past and future of the blues, and his quiet genius continues to echo in the music of those who followed.
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.
