North Carolina might be known for its smoky mountains, sandy shores, and Southern hospitality—but it’s also a powerhouse when it comes to producing incredible musical talent. From soulful crooners and country legends to hip-hop trailblazers and pop chart-toppers, the Tar Heel State has given rise to some of the most iconic voices in the music industry.
Rooted in rich musical traditions like gospel, bluegrass, and blues, North Carolina artists blend authenticity with innovation, creating sounds that resonate across generations. These singers don’t just perform—they tell stories, stir emotions, and bring people together with every note. Whether they started out in church choirs, local clubs, or small-town talent shows, their voices have soared far beyond state lines and into the hearts of millions.
In this article, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from North Carolina, celebrating the stars who have turned their Carolina roots into global success. These artists prove that greatness grows in the South—and North Carolina continues to be a wellspring of musical magic. Get ready to be inspired, surprised, and proud as we spotlight the voices that make North Carolina a true music-making powerhouse from the mountains to the coast.
1. James Taylor
James Taylor’s music is like a warm blanket on a cold day—soothing, sincere, and timeless. Though born in Massachusetts, Taylor was raised in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and it’s there that his folk-rock sensibility found its soul. He burst onto the scene in the late 1960s with his self-titled debut, but it was the release of Sweet Baby James that truly made him a household name. His songs, like “Fire and Rain” and “Carolina in My Mind,” are gentle reflections on love, loss, and longing, with acoustic melodies and introspective lyrics that resonate across generations. Taylor’s voice is unmistakable—soft yet commanding, full of wisdom and warmth. Over the decades, he’s won multiple Grammy Awards, been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and remained a beloved figure in American music. His live performances are intimate and heartfelt, often peppered with stories and quiet humor. Taylor’s deep connection to North Carolina is woven into his music, adding an unmistakable Southern charm to his legacy. More than just a singer-songwriter, James Taylor is a pillar of Americana whose influence continues to echo through the hearts of listeners everywhere.
2. Scotty McCreery
Scotty McCreery is living proof that small-town dreams can lead to big-time success. Born and raised in Garner, North Carolina, he became a household name after winning American Idol at just 17 years old. With his deep, old-school baritone and charming demeanor, McCreery stood out in a field of flashy performers by staying true to himself and to country tradition. His post-Idol career has been anything but fleeting—he’s built a steady and respected presence in the country music scene. Hits like “Five More Minutes,” a heartfelt tribute to his late grandfather, and “This Is It,” inspired by his wedding day, show his gift for capturing life’s simple, emotional moments. His music resonates with fans for its honesty, relatability, and warmth. Scotty’s grounded nature and strong work ethic have helped him maintain a loyal fanbase and consistent chart success. He’s the kind of artist who doesn’t need to chase trends because his authenticity shines through in every song. Whether he’s playing on a big stage or singing to a hometown crowd, McCreery brings a down-to-earth sincerity that reflects his North Carolina roots—and proves he’s here to stay.
3. J. Cole
Hailing from Fayetteville, North Carolina, J. Cole is more than just a rapper—he’s a storyteller whose music speaks directly to the heart of a generation. His rise from a modest upbringing to international stardom is a testament to relentless drive, raw talent, and powerful vision. After building buzz with a string of mixtapes, Cole made waves with his debut album Cole World: The Sideline Story, but it was 2014 Forest Hills Drive—named after his childhood home—that truly marked his arrival as one of hip-hop’s elite. That album, released with no features, became iconic for its personal depth and lyrical brilliance. Cole’s music is thoughtful and often reflective, diving into themes like systemic racism, mental health, personal evolution, and the complexities of success. He’s a rare artist who balances massive commercial success with profound artistic integrity. As the founder of Dreamville Records, he’s also nurtured new talent while keeping his roots in North Carolina close to his heart. Whether he’s dropping introspective verses or electrifying fans at his live shows, J. Cole stands as one of the most authentic and impactful voices in modern music—a true trailblazer who’s reshaped what it means to be a rapper in the 21st century.
4. Fantasia Barrino
Fantasia Barrino’s voice is an emotional powerhouse—capable of shaking walls and touching hearts in equal measure. Born and raised in High Point, North Carolina, Fantasia first rose to fame after winning Season 3 of American Idol, wowing audiences with her gospel-soaked vocals and undeniable stage presence. Her debut single, “I Believe,” rocketed to number one, and she hasn’t looked back since. With each release, from Free Yourself to Back to Me and Side Effects of You, Fantasia has poured her soul into her music, delivering performances that feel like testimony. Her life hasn’t been easy, and those trials—both personal and professional—infuse her work with a raw, unfiltered honesty. Beyond the recording studio, she has also shined on Broadway, starring in The Color Purple, where her voice and acting chops drew critical acclaim. Fantasia is more than a singer—she’s a survivor, a woman of resilience and passion whose artistry reflects her journey. Whether singing about heartbreak, faith, or empowerment, she connects deeply with listeners. With roots in gospel and R&B and a style all her own, Fantasia proudly represents North Carolina as one of its most powerful and passionate musical voices.
5. Rapsody
Rapsody is a lyrical force whose presence in hip-hop is both refreshing and necessary. Born in Snow Hill, North Carolina, she didn’t rise through the industry by chasing fame—she earned her place with razor-sharp rhymes, poetic depth, and unapologetic authenticity. Her breakout albums, Laila’s Wisdom and Eve, showcase not just technical brilliance but also cultural awareness, blending head-nodding beats with themes of empowerment, especially for Black women. Rapsody is a true craftsman of words, using her music to uplift, educate, and provoke thought. She has collaborated with the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Anderson .Paak, and Busta Rhymes, yet always stands out with a voice that’s as confident as it is contemplative. What sets her apart is her refusal to be boxed in—she raps with precision and heart, often channeling history, heritage, and personal growth through her verses. Off-stage, she speaks out with the same conviction she brings to her lyrics. In a genre often driven by flash, Rapsody offers substance. She’s a scholar of hip-hop culture and a North Carolina trailblazer whose work isn’t just heard—it’s felt.
6. Nina Simone
Nina Simone was a once-in-a-generation artist whose voice and vision changed the course of music and civil rights. Born in the small town of Tryon, North Carolina, Simone was a prodigious talent—classically trained on piano from a young age, with ambitions of becoming a concert pianist. But the racial barriers she faced redirected her path, leading her to the world of jazz, blues, and soul. Her sound defied genre, blending elements of classical music with raw emotion and unfiltered social commentary. Songs like “Mississippi Goddam,” “I Put a Spell on You,” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” weren’t just music—they were calls to action. Simone’s performances were unforgettable: fierce, vulnerable, and charged with purpose. She used her platform to speak truth to power, becoming a key voice of the Civil Rights Movement and a symbol of artistic integrity. Her impact continues to resonate today, influencing artists across genres and generations. Known as the “High Priestess of Soul,” Nina Simone’s artistry was inseparable from her activism, and her legacy is a powerful reminder of how music can shape the world. North Carolina gave us Nina Simone, and the world is forever changed because of it.
7. Ben Folds
Ben Folds is a musical chameleon with a knack for storytelling, sharp wit, and unforgettable piano melodies. Raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Folds found fame in the mid-1990s with his band Ben Folds Five—a trio that flipped expectations by putting piano front and center in rock music. With hits like “Brick,” “Army,” and “Battle of Who Could Care Less,” Folds earned a devoted following thanks to his blend of humor, pathos, and unconventional charm. His solo work expanded his palette, exploring everything from orchestral collaborations to introspective ballads and pop experiments. What sets Folds apart is his ability to be deeply emotional one moment and laugh-out-loud funny the next—all while maintaining a sharp sense of melody and lyrical intelligence. He’s a charismatic performer whose live shows are filled with spontaneity and connection, often involving the audience in sing-alongs or improvisations. Beyond music, Folds is a passionate advocate for arts education and a cultural ambassador for creativity. Whether performing with symphonies or rocking a small stage, Ben Folds represents the artistic spirit of North Carolina with originality, intelligence, and heart.
8. Anthony Hamilton
Anthony Hamilton is a soulful powerhouse whose voice feels like home—gritty, warm, and steeped in Southern gospel tradition. Born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, Hamilton’s music bridges the past and present, blending classic soul with modern R&B in a way that feels authentic and timeless. He broke out with his 2003 album Comin’ from Where I’m From, a deeply emotional record that introduced his signature raspy vocals and heartfelt storytelling. Hits like “Charlene” and “Can’t Let Go” are filled with raw feeling, turning everyday struggles and love stories into deeply resonant anthems. Hamilton’s sound reflects his roots—church choirs, Southern blues, and the lived experience of heartache and hope. Over the years, he’s collaborated with artists from Al Green to Nas, always staying true to his style. Whether on stage or in the studio, his performances feel more like spiritual experiences than concerts. He sings with conviction, carrying on the tradition of soul legends while carving out his own path. Proudly representing North Carolina, Anthony Hamilton continues to be a leading voice in soul music, reminding listeners that real feeling never goes out of style.
9. Randy Travis
Randy Travis is a true legend in country music—a voice of tradition in a time when the genre was shifting toward pop. Born in Marshville, North Carolina, Travis rose to fame in the mid-1980s with a sound that brought country back to its roots. His debut album, Storms of Life, was a game-changer, earning critical acclaim and introducing a string of hits that included “On the Other Hand” and “Diggin’ Up Bones.” But it was “Forever and Ever, Amen” that made him a household name and won him a Grammy. Travis’s deep, smooth baritone carried songs about faith, love, and heartbreak with sincerity and grace. He became one of the most influential figures in the neo-traditionalist movement, inspiring a new wave of country artists who followed his lead. Over his career, he collected numerous awards and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Though health issues have limited his ability to perform in recent years, his impact remains immense. Randy Travis helped shape the sound of modern country music, and his voice—steady, warm, and unmistakably Southern—still echoes across generations of fans.
10. Petey Pablo
Petey Pablo put North Carolina on the hip-hop map with a sound and swagger all his own. Hailing from Greenville, he burst onto the national scene in the early 2000s with his high-octane anthem “Raise Up,” famously shouting out his home state and giving fans an unforgettable hook: “Take your shirt off, twist it ‘round your head like a helicopter.” That single, produced by Timbaland, wasn’t just a hit—it was a cultural moment. Petey followed it up with the club smash “Freek-a-Leek,” cementing his place in the early 2000s rap landscape. His music was bold, Southern, and unapologetically raw, filled with energy and pride in his roots. While his mainstream visibility eventually faded, his influence hasn’t. He laid the groundwork for later North Carolina hip-hop stars like J. Cole and Rapsody, showing the world that the Tar Heel State had something to say. Petey Pablo’s legacy lies in his authenticity and his ability to turn regional pride into national recognition. He’s a hometown hero who brought a new sound to hip-hop and made North Carolina impossible to overlook in the genre’s evolution.
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.
