You Never Knew These Famous Singers Are From The Midwest!
π€ You’re in for a shock! We bet you didn’t know all of these famous singers are from the Midwest. Read now to see your Heartland faves! πΆ #MidwestMelodies #MusicIcons
Minneapolis, Minnesota – The American Midwest has long been a cradle for musical talent, giving rise to some of the most iconic voices in the history of popular music. From the soulful sounds of Detroit to the folk-rock vibes of Minnesota, each state in the Midwest has produced its fair share of legendary singers. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the heartland and discover the most famous singers born in every Midwest state.
Illinois
Known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities, Illinois is a state that offers something for everyone. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the tranquil beauty of Starved Rock State Park, visitors can immerse themselves in a wide range of experiences. The state is famous for its deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and iconic architecture, such as the Willis Tower and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes. Illinois also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with world-class museums, theaters, and music venues scattered throughout the state.
These are the most famous musicians from Illinois…
- Chance the Rapper
- Cheap Trick
- Chicago
- Fall Out Boy
- Ludacris
- Miles Davis
- Plain White T’s
- Reo Speedwagon
- Sam Cooke
- Styx
- The Emotions
- The Smashing Pumpkins
Indiana
Indiana, the Hoosier State, is a land of rolling hills, lush forests, and charming small towns. Known for its love of basketball, the state is home to the iconic Indianapolis 500 race and the NCAA Hall of Champions. Visitors can explore the stunning Indiana Dunes National Park, which stretches along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, or take a step back in time at Conner Prairie, an interactive history park. Indiana is also famous for its delicious culinary offerings, including breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches and sugar cream pie.
These are the most famous musicians from Indiana…
- Axl Rose (Guns and Roses)
- Babyface
- Bill Monroe
- Burl Ives
- David Lee Roth (Van Halen)
- Jeremy Camp
- John Hiatt
- John Mellencamp
- Michael Jackson
- Mick Mars (Motley Crue)
- The Jackson 5
- Wes Montgomery
Iowa
Iowa, often referred to as the Hawkeye State, is a hidden gem in the heart of the Midwest. With its endless fields of corn and soybeans, the state is a testament to the power of agriculture. Visitors can explore the vibrant cities of Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, which offer a mix of cultural attractions, excellent dining, and friendly Midwestern hospitality. Iowa is also home to the iconic Iowa State Fair, which features live music, carnival rides, and countless food vendors serving up classic fair favorites like corn dogs and funnel cakes.
These are the most famous musicians from Iowa…
- Corey Taylor
- Glenn Miller
- Maddie Poppe
- Owl City
- Slipknot
- Tionne Watkins
Kansas
Kansas, the Sunflower State, is a land of wide-open spaces, stunning prairies, and rich history. Visitors can explore the iconic Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, which offers a glimpse into the state’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The state is also home to several fascinating museums, including the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene and the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center in Hutchinson. Kansas is famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, particularly in Kansas City, where visitors can indulge in slow-smoked meats and tangy sauces.
These are the most famous musicians from Kansas…
- Charlie Parker
- Chris Mann
- Jenelle Monae
- Kansas
- Kendall Schmidt (Big Time Rush)
- Martina McBride
Michigan
Michigan, known as the Great Lakes State, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning coastline along four of the five Great Lakes, the state offers endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and beach-going. Visitors can explore the rugged beauty of the Upper Peninsula, which features waterfalls, forests, and the iconic Mackinac Island, where cars are banned and horse-drawn carriages rule the streets. Michigan is also known for its thriving craft beer scene, with countless breweries and taprooms scattered throughout the state.
These are the most famous musicians from Michigan…
- Alice Cooper
- Bob Seger
- Borns
- Greta Van Fleet
- Iggy Pop
- Kid Rock
- Lizzo
- Stevie Wonder
- Ted Nugent
- The Four Tops
- The Supremes
- The White Stripes
Minnesota
Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, is a state that truly lives up to its nickname. With its countless lakes, rivers, and streams, the state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. Visitors can explore the vibrant cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, which offer a mix of cultural attractions, excellent dining, and friendly Midwestern hospitality. Minnesota is also known for its iconic State Fair, which features live music, carnival rides, and countless food vendors serving up classic fair favorites like cheese curds and mini donuts.
These are the most famous musicians from Minnesota…
- Bob Dylan
- Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers)
- Eddie Cochran
- Hippo Campus
- Judy Garland
- Prince (you should visit Paisley Park, his home and studio)
- Semisonic
- Soul Asylum
- The Replacements
- Yung Gravy
Hehe. As I was writing this my hubby Jack just yelled across the room, “be sure to add Jack and Kitty to the list for Minnesota!” Well, truth is, we are musicians and have toured the world for two decades now, but I don’t think we’ve had quite the impact that Bob Dylan and Prince have had! LOL. But, seriously, if you wanna read about our musical (and life) journey click here.
Don’t miss: Famous Musicians from Minnesota: The Ultimate Guide
Missouri
Missouri, the Show-Me State, is a land of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, which offers stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. The state is also home to the beautiful Ozark Mountains, which offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and scenic drives. Missouri is famous for its delicious barbecue, particularly in Kansas City, where visitors can indulge in slow-smoked meats and tangy sauces.
These are the most famous musicians from Missouri…
- Angel Olson
- Daredevils
- Eminem
- Metro Boomin
- Ozark Mountain
- Pee Wee Russell
- Puddle of Mudd
- Sara Evans
- The Rain Makers
Nebraska
Nebraska, the Cornhusker State, is a land of wide-open spaces, rolling hills, and friendly small towns. Visitors can explore the iconic Chimney Rock National Historic Site, which served as a landmark for pioneers traveling along the Oregon Trail. The state is also home to the stunning Scotts Bluff National Monument, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding prairie. Nebraska is known for its delicious beef, particularly in Omaha, where visitors can indulge in classic steakhouse favorites like prime rib and filet mignon.
These are the most famous musicians from Nebraska…
- Buddy Miles
- Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes)
- Fred Astaire
- James Valentine
- Jojo Siwa
- Julie Wilson
North Dakota
North Dakota, the Peace Garden State, is a land of rugged beauty, rich history, and friendly small towns. Visitors can explore the stunning Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which offers breathtaking views of the badlands and diverse wildlife. The state is also home to the iconic Enchanted Highway, a 32-mile stretch of road featuring giant metal sculptures created by local artist Gary Greff. North Dakota is known for its delicious comfort food, including knoephla soup and fleischkuechle, a type of meat-filled pastry.
These are the most famous musicians from North Dakota…
- Johnny Lang
- Peggy Lee
- Wiz Khalifa
Ohio
Ohio, the Buckeye State, is a land of diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the stunning Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, forests, and rolling hills. The state is also home to several world-class museums, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton. Ohio is known for its delicious comfort food, including Cincinnati-style chili and Buckeye candies, which feature a creamy peanut butter center dipped in chocolate.
These are the most famous musicians from Ohio…
- 9 Inch Nails
- Dazz Band
- Dean Martin
- Devo
- Doris Day
- John Legend
- Kid Cudi
- Marylin Manson
- The Isley Brothers
- The O’Jays
- Traci Chapman
- Twenty-One Pilots
South Dakota
South Dakota, the Mount Rushmore State, is a land of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which features the carved faces of four U.S. presidents. The state is also home to the stunning Badlands National Park, which offers breathtaking views of layered rock formations and diverse wildlife. South Dakota is known for its delicious comfort food, including chislic, a type of deep-fried meat served on a skewer, and kuchen, a type of sweet custard pie.
These are the most famous musicians from South Dakota…
- Blacklite District
- Shawn Colvin
- Sherwin Linton
- The Kickback
Wisconsin
Wisconsin, the Badger State, is a land of stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the stunning Door County peninsula, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and charming small towns. The state is also home to several world-class museums, including the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum. Wisconsin is known for its delicious dairy products, particularly its cheese, which is celebrated at countless festivals and events throughout the state. Visitors can also indulge in classic Wisconsin favorites like bratwurst, beer cheese soup, and frozen custard.
These are the most famous musicians from Wisconsin…
- Al Jarreau
- Ava Max
- Bobby Hatfield (Righteous Brothers)
- Bon Iver
- Eric Benet
- Skylar Gray
- Steve Miller
- Violent Femmes
Conclusion
Don’t miss: These Are Best Country Singers From Every State in the Midwest
From the powerhouse vocals of Michael Jackson to the folksy charm of John Mellencamp, the Midwest has given us an incredible array of musical talents. These singers have not only left an indelible mark on the music industry but have also become cultural icons, representing the spirit and soul of their home states. As we celebrate the musical heritage of the Midwest, let us remember the voices that have shaped our collective soundtrack and continue to inspire generations of aspiring artists.
π£ Who are your fave Midwest singers? Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments section below! β¬οΈ
Nice post! I would add Conner Oberst (Bright Eyes) from Nebraska, and the great Sherwin Linton from South Dakota, though he now lives in Minnesota.
Hi Roger! Uff da, I can’t believe we forgot those two! Thanks for the suggestions. I just added them π Have a super day! – Kitty
Eminem may have been born in Missouri, but heβs from Detroit
Hey Gino! Love Eminem (was just listening to his first album yesterday, actually)! You’re so right – good catch! Have a great day! – Kitty