When it comes to great musicians, South Dakota may not be the first state that springs to mind. However, it has actually been the birthplace of some of the most talented and influential musicians of the past century.
South Dakota has produced a plethora of talented musicians across various genres, ranging from the country music of Buddy Red Bow to the soulful singing of Myron Lee. These legendary singers, songwriters, and multi-instrumentalists have left an indelible mark on the music industry, cementing the state’s status as a breeding ground for musical talent. Join me as we take a closer look at some of the best musicians to emerge from South Dakota and the lasting impact they have had on the world of music.
1. Haley Bonar
With a career spanning over 20 years, Haley Bonar has made a name for herself as an indie folk singer-songwriter. Her music has garnered critical acclaim, and she has released several albums that have resonated with audiences worldwide.
Bonar’s distinct sound and artistic vision have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Her introspective lyrics and haunting vocals are just some of the reasons why she’s gained such a devoted following. One of her most beloved albums is ‘Last War’, which she released to great acclaim.
2. The Spill Canvas
The Spill Canvas, an alternative rock band that originally hails from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has managed to amass a loyal following thanks to their thought-provoking lyrics and infectious tunes. Some of their most popular tracks, including “All Over You” and “Staplegunned,” have helped solidify their place in the music industry. Despite their success, the band remains active with tours and live shows that never fail to energize and captivate their fans.
3. Jerry Burke
For more than 40 years, Jerry Burke was an iconic figure in the jazz community. He had the privilege of playing alongside legendary jazz musicians such as Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker. Jerry’s exceptional piano skills were instrumental in establishing South Dakota as a central jazz hub in the Midwest.
4. The Kickback
The Kickback is a band that is renowned for their lively performances, captivating melodies, and deep bass tones. Their first album, “Sorry All Over the Place,” which was released in 2015, was met with rave reviews and helped establish their status as an up-and-coming indie rock powerhouse.
5. Judd Hoos
Based in Sturgis, South Dakota, Judd Hoos is a well-known rock band that has been captivating audiences since 2004. With their impressive performances, they have managed to develop a loyal fan base throughout the Midwest.
With their unique blend of rock and country, this band has become a fan favorite at music festivals and events throughout the region. They have even released multiple albums, featuring their own renditions of classic hits from legendary bands like Led Zeppelin and Aerosmith. It’s no wonder why they continue to gain popularity and captivate audiences with their one-of-a-kind sound.
6. Paradise Fears
Paradise Fears is a pop rock band that rose to fame through social media. They had the opportunity to be an opening act for All Time Low, which further boosted their popularity. Additionally, the band released their debut album titled “Yours Truly,” which was highly anticipated by their fans.
The band has gone on to release numerous albums and have embarked on countless tours throughout the United States. Their music has resonated deeply with pop rock enthusiasts thanks to their honest and touching lyrics, as well as their catchy and memorable hooks. It’s no surprise that they’ve garnered a dedicated following over the years.
7. Shawn Colvin
Shawn Colvin, a celebrated country singer-songwriter, has earned a Grammy Award for her exceptional work. Her music truly resonates with fans, thanks to its folk-inspired style and deeply moving lyrics that touch on the essence of the human experience.
In 1997, Colvin shot to fame with her chart-topping single “Sunny Came Home”. This song not only became a fan favorite but also won two Grammy Awards, propelling her to the forefront of the music industry. Even after such a successful start, Colvin has continued to produce exceptional music and collaborate with other artists, consistently earning critical acclaim for her work.
8. Scatter Their Own
Scotti Clifford and Juliana Brown Eyes-Clifford make up the dynamic musical duo, Scatter Their Own. Both individuals hail from the Oglala Lakota Nation and their music is a beautiful fusion of rock, blues, and Native American elements. Their lyrics are often centered around important topics such as social justice and environmentalism, making their music both thought-provoking and captivating.
9. The Indigenous Community
The blues-rock band, Indigenous, has crafted a distinctive sound that blends traditional Native American melodies with the raw, edgy riffs of classic rock. Their hit track, “Now That You’re Gone,” soared to number 22 on the Billboard charts and has been prominently featured in various broadcast shows.
10. Sam Outlaw
Sam Outlaw is a well-known country singer-songwriter who is renowned for his honky-tonk and Americana music. His music is a perfect mix of traditional country and Americana, featuring poignant lyrics and unforgettable melodies. Sam has gained a loyal fanbase over the years, thanks to his exceptional music and impressive live performances. He is considered to be a gifted and versatile artist who never fails to leave a lasting impression on his audience.
11. Dorothy Provine
Dorothy Provine, a renowned performer in the 1950s and 60s, was an accomplished actress, singer, and dancer. She was widely recognized for her remarkable comedic roles in movies and television shows. In addition to her acting career, Provine was a successful singer and produced some of the greatest hits of her time, including “Crazy Words, Crazy Tune” and “Don’t Bring Lulu.”
12. EMA
Erika M. Anderson, better known as EMA, is an indie rock artist hailing from South Dakota. Her unique musical style is defined by its unpolished and experimental sound, complemented by her introspective and thought-provoking lyrics.
EMA, renowned for her dynamic live performances, has garnered critical acclaim for her albums such as “The Future’s Void” and “Exile in the Outer Ring”. Additionally, she gained recognition as the driving force behind Gowns, an alternative rock band.
13. We All Have Hooks for Hands
A Sioux Falls-based indie rock band called We All Have Hooks for Hands made a name for themselves in the early 2000s with their distinct blend of indie, pop, and rock music. With a reputation for being lighthearted and imaginative, the band released several albums that attracted a devoted following.
14. Cris Williamson
Cris Williamson is a celebrated singer-songwriter who rose to prominence for her remarkable contributions to the feminist music movement during the 1970s. Her compositions highlighted a range of social and political issues, cementing her status as a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ music community.
Regarded as a timeless masterpiece in the women’s music category, Williamson’s renowned work, “The Changer and the Changed,” has garnered much attention and appreciation.
15. Brulé
The band known as Brulé has managed to successfully fuse together traditional Native American music with modern genres such as rock and pop. In fact, they have even incorporated AIRO (American Indian Rock Opera) into their band name, which has helped them gain even more recognition. Their unique style has resulted in the release of multiple albums, as well as their participation in many high-profile events. Over time, they have received several awards for their exceptional music.
One thing that sets Brulé apart is their unique incorporation of traditional instruments like the flute and drum into their music. Their live performances are truly breathtaking, often featuring incredible dance troupes that add an extra layer of visual appeal to their shows.
16. Bob Stewart
Bob Stewart was an exceptional jazz musician and educator with an outstanding reputation for his mastery of the tuba. Throughout his career, he had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most prominent jazz artists, including Dizzy Gillespie, Wynton Marsalis, and Don Cherry. His musical skills and talent were highly respected and admired by his peers and fans alike.
Stewart’s unique and innovative method of playing the tuba not only expanded the instrument’s role in jazz music but also established him as a legendary figure in the genre.
17. Myron Floren
Myron Floren, a South Dakota native, was a renowned accordionist and television personality who became a household name as a regular performer on “The Lawrence Welk Show.” He was widely celebrated for his exceptional mastery of the accordion, coupled with a charismatic demeanor, which won the hearts of viewers worldwide.
18. Boyd Raeburn
Boyd Raeburn was a talented jazz bandleader and saxophonist who gained fame for his unparalleled approach to music. Raeburn’s band was distinguished for its use of unique instruments and non-traditional arrangements, making him a trailblazer in the evolution of bebop and cool jazz.
19. Jess Thomas
Jess Thomas was a celebrated operatic tenor, whose performances were characterized by his commanding voice and emotive delivery. He enraptured audiences across the globe, having graced some of the most prestigious opera houses. Jess had the honor of collaborating with some of the most respected conductors and composers of his era, cementing his status as a highly regarded figure in the world of opera.
His singing was renowned for its ability to evoke profound emotions in the listener, and he was particularly skilled in his interpretation of Richard Wagner’s works.
20. Buddy Red Bow
Buddy Red Bow, a trailblazer in the world of Native American country music, is known for his unique style that fuses traditional Native American elements with mainstream country music. He was a gifted singer who sang in Lakota and used traditional instruments like the flute and drum to create his music. Red Bow’s legacy as a pioneer in developing Native American country music is still celebrated today.
The music he composed and sang was a powerful tool to raise awareness of the significant social challenges faced by Native Americans. Even today, his songs continue to be relevant and impactful, inspiring many people around the world.
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