Vermont is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, exhilarating outdoor activities, and mouthwatering maple syrup. However, not many people know that this charming state is also a hub for a thriving and multifarious music culture. Some of the most talented musicians in the world have their roots in Vermont, making it a top destination for music lovers.
Vermont has given birth to a diverse range of gifted musicians, songwriters, and playwrights, from the infectious pop beats of JoJo to the soulful, folk-inspired melodies of Anaïs Mitchell.
Delving into the world of music, we can examine the achievements of 20 renowned musicians who originate from Vermont. These individuals have left an indelible mark on the industry, and we’ll take a closer look at how they’ve contributed to its landscape.
1. Phishing
Based out of Burlington, Vermont, Phish is a renowned rock band that has made a name for itself in the music industry. The band is widely recognized for their exceptional live performances that are characterized by improvisation and extended sets. Their music is a unique blend of funk, jazz, and psychedelia, which has earned them a devoted fan base. Phish’s concerts are famous for their impressive live shows and one-of-a-kind setlists that keep their fans hooked.
The popularity of Phish’s concerts was so immense that fans would exchange live recordings online. This led the band to feature these recordings on their website, and subsequently, they created a streaming service known as ‘LivePhish+’ to cater to their fans’ demand.
2. JoJo
JoJo, an accomplished singer, songwriter, and actress, gained immense popularity in the early 2000s with her chart-topping single “Leave (Get Out).” At just 13 years old, she became the youngest artist to top the charts, solidifying her place in the music industry.
Throughout her career, JoJo has established herself as a prominent musician, having released four studio albums and collaborated with top-tier artists such as Demi Lovato and Charlie Puth. Her talents have extended beyond just music, as she has also graced both the big and small screens with her appearances in notable productions including “Aquamarine” and “Hawaii Five-0.”
3. Prydein
Prydein stands out as a Celtic rock group, renowned for their exceptional blend of contemporary rock and roll with traditional Scottish and Irish music. Their music is a perfect combination of modern and traditional, creating a lively and upbeat sound that is sure to get people dancing.
With their unique blend of Celtic music and rock, the band has gained a considerable following among fans of both genres. Their dynamic and lively performances have captured the hearts of many, making them a favorite among music enthusiasts. The band’s popularity continues to soar, thanks to their passionate and energetic approach to their craft.
4. Anaïs Mitchell
Anaïs Mitchell is an accomplished singer-songwriter and playwright, having won a Tony Award for her exceptional talent. She has gained immense popularity for her unique blend of folk, rock, and Americana music, which is further enhanced by her remarkable storytelling abilities and poetic lyrics.
The Broadway musical “Hadestown,” adapted from Mitchell’s album, went on to win a Tony award, which she co-wrote. Adding to her accolades, she also earned a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album.
5. Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan is an artist in the indie-pop genre who made a name for himself with his first released single, “Young Blood.”
Kahan’s musical style is a unique blend of folk, pop, and indie rock, which has drawn comparisons to the likes of Vance Joy and Ed Sheeran. He has had the opportunity to open for other renowned artists and has even been a part of James Bay’s North American Tour in 2019.
6. RAQ
RAQ is a renowned jam band that has gained recognition for their exceptional live performances that feature a blend of rock, funk, and jazz genres. They have been on numerous tours and have performed at various music festivals, which has earned them a loyal following within the jam band community.
7. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals is a dynamic rock band renowned for their electrifying live shows, blending rock, blues, and soul genres seamlessly. Leading the band is the talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Grace Potter.
One of the band’s favorite gigs is performing at music festivals, especially the Bonnaroo Festival. They have also been fortunate enough to collaborate with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Kenny Chesney and The Rolling Stones.
8. The Static Age
The Static Age, a post-punk band, has garnered a loyal fan base within the punk and alternative music communities due to their extensive touring across America and Europe. The band has also graced numerous music festivals with their electrifying performances. Their album, “Neon Night Electric Lives,” is a major release that has further solidified their position as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
9. Strangefolk
Strangefolk is a renowned jam band known for delivering captivating performances across the United States. Despite undergoing several lineup changes over the years, the group has successfully maintained a strong fan base due to their exceptional musical abilities.
It’s amazing how devoted the followers of this band are. So much so, that some of them have gone as far as creating a charity named “Strangers Helping Strangers” to show their support. The band is well-known for incorporating jazz, rock, and folk elements into their jam music, making them a unique and popular choice among music enthusiasts.
10. Nothing, Nowhere
Joe Mulherin is a well-known artist who goes by the stage name of Nothing, Nowhere. His unique music style blends together emo, punk, and hip-hop genres, making him a talented rapper, singer, and producer all in one.
In addition to his impressive solo work, he has also teamed up with some big names in the music industry. Collaborating with musicians like Travis Barker and Dashboard Confessional has only added to his already established reputation in the alternative music genre.
11. 99 Neighbors
In 2018, a hip-hop collective known as 99 Neighbors was born in Burlington, Vermont. This group has gained popularity for their exceptional fusion of hip-hop, jazz, and indie rock, resulting in a sound that resonates with a diverse audience.
Several of their tracks have gained immense popularity on Spotify, including “Ripstick,” “Fake Pods,” and a collaboration with Brasstracks titled “F**k No.”
12. Mountain Man
Mountain Man is a renowned female trio that is famous for their authentic Appalachian sound. Their music is characterized by intricate vocal harmonies and minimalist instrumentations, which create a unique and powerful sound that is both simple and intimate.
During their tours, they even took their performances to Europe where they had the chance to collaborate with The Decemberists on stage.
13. Jazz Mandolin
Jamie Masefield heads up The Jazz Mandolin Project, a highly acclaimed jazz fusion band. Their unique style of jazz incorporates elements of bluegrass and world music, resulting in an innovative and captivating sound.
Over the past few years, the band has also added Jon Fishman, the drummer from Phish, to their ensemble.
14. Sam Amidon
Hailing from Brattleboro, Vermont, Sam Amidon is a highly regarded folk singer and multi-instrumentalist. His music is characterized by his distinctive take on traditional folk songs, which incorporates elements of jazz, experimental music, and avant-garde.
Throughout his career, Amidon has showcased his musical prowess by releasing numerous albums and embarking on tours across the globe. He has also had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed musicians such as Kronos Quartet and even lent his vocals as a guest artist for Bon Iver.
15. Blues and Lasers
Hailing from Burlington, Vermont, Blues and Lasers is a band that is widely recognized for their dynamic blues-rock music. Their live performances are nothing short of electrifying, leaving audiences spellbound each time. The band has two albums to their credit – “After All We’re Only Human,” and “Blues and Lasers EP.”
16. Dispatch
Hailing from Vermont, Dispatch is a band that has made a name for itself in the world of roots rock. They are renowned for their high-energy live shows and their ability to craft up-tempo ballads that get the crowd moving.
During their rise to fame, they developed a devoted fan base, particularly among college students. In fact, they were among the pioneering independent bands to fill arenas to capacity. Their repertoire boasts numerous hits, including timeless classics like “The General,” “Bang Bang,” and “Two Coins.”
17. Justin Levinson
Justin Levinson is a talented singer-songwriter hailing from Vermont. His music is known for its infectious pop melodies and clever lyrics. Among his most popular tracks are “Together Forever,” “A Part of Me,” and “Megaphone.” With his unique sound and undeniable talent, Justin is making waves in the music industry and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
Throughout his career, Levinson has demonstrated his musical prowess by releasing several albums and singles. In addition to his solo work, he has collaborated with a range of talented musicians, such as Anna Nalick. Furthermore, Levinson has garnered experience performing live, having toured with the likes of Aaron Carter.
18. Doveman
Thomas Bartlett’s musical project, Doveman, has garnered acclaim for its distinct sound that seamlessly melds indie rock, folk, and classical music. As a singer-songwriter, Bartlett has established himself as a creative force in the music industry.
Throughout his career, Bartlett has been a prolific musician, having released numerous albums that showcase his unique style. He’s had the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of talented musicians, including Sufjan Stevens, Nico Muhly, Nora Jones, and St. Vincent. These collaborations have allowed him to expand his musical horizons and create truly exceptional pieces that captivate audiences around the world. Bartlett’s talent and dedication to his craft continue to make him a respected figure in the world of music.
19. J.D. Malone
With his soulful voice and introspective lyrics, J.D. Malone has established himself as a renowned singer-songwriter in the Vermont music scene.
As the headliner of Steamroller, a pop-rock band, Malone made a name for himself as its founder. He’s no stranger to performing at festivals either, having graced the stage at Musikfest in Pennsylvania.
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