10 famous singers from New Hampshire

Nestled in the tranquil landscapes of New Hampshire, a state known for its rugged mountains and quaint small towns, lies a musical heritage that resonates far beyond its borders. While the Granite State is often celebrated for its natural beauty and scenic charm, it is also the birthplace and home of an impressive roster of musical talent. From the rolling hills of the White Mountains to the bustling streets of Manchester, New Hampshire has produced a diverse range of voices that have captivated audiences around the world.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the top 10 most famous singers to hail from this New England gem. Not only have these artists left their mark on the music industry, but they’ve brought a piece of New Hampshire’s spirit with them wherever they’ve performed. Whether topping the charts with pop hits, touching hearts with soulful ballads, or making history in rock and roll, these singers have proven that even a small state can produce great talent. So get ready to discover the voices that put New Hampshire on the musical map and continue to inspire fans far and wide.

1. Mandy Moore

Born in Nashua, New Hampshire, Mandy Moore is a multi-talented artist who has taken the entertainment industry by storm. Her career began as a teenage pop sensation with hits like “Candy,” and Moore quickly showed her versatility by becoming a successful actress and songwriter. Her role as Rebecca Pearson in the critically acclaimed TV series This Is Us cemented her status as a household name and earned her numerous awards. Beyond her acting, Moore’s music has evolved beautifully, and albums like Silver Landings showcase her evolution as a singer-songwriter. Her journey from pop star to respected artist is a testament to her enduring talent and appeal.

2. Ronnie James Dio

Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Ronnie James Dio is a legendary figure in the world of heavy metal. Known for his powerful, operatic voice and iconic “devil’s horns” hand gesture, Dio fronted some of the most influential rock bands in history, including Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and his own band, Dio. His epic songs like “Holy Diver” and “Heaven and Hell” remain anthems for metal fans around the world. Dio’s legacy is not only in his music, but also in his lasting influence on the genre, having inspired countless musicians with his dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess.

3. Ray LaMontagne

Ray LaMontagne hails from Nashua, New Hampshire and is known for his deeply soulful voice and introspective songwriting. His 2004 breakthrough hit “Trouble” introduced the world to his raw, soulful style that blends elements of folk, rock and soul. LaMontagne’s music is timeless and often draws comparisons to legends like Van Morrison and Otis Redding. His ability to express deep emotions with a rasping whisper or powerful vocals has earned him a loyal following and critical acclaim, including a Grammy Award for his album God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise.

4. GG Allin

Born in Lancaster, New Hampshire, GG Allin was one of punk rock’s most controversial and provocative figures. Known for his extreme stage antics and confrontational performances, Allin’s music was as raw and unfiltered as his personality. Often driven by themes of rebellion and social criticism, his songs pushed the boundaries of what was socially acceptable in the music scene. Despite his chaotic lifestyle and early death, GG Allin remains an influential figure in the underground music world, symbolizing the unbridled spirit of punk.

5. JoJo

Born Joanna Levesque in Brattleboro, Vermont and raised in Keene, New Hampshire, JoJo burst onto the music scene as a child prodigy at just 13 years old with her hit single “Leave (Get Out).” Her powerful voice and mature sound quickly set her apart from other teen pop stars of her time. As she grew older, JoJo faced challenges in the industry but emerged stronger and reclaimed her career with critically acclaimed albums like “Mad Love” and “Good to Know.” Her journey from teen sensation to respected R&B artist is a story of resilience and undeniable talent.

6. Adam Sandler

Although Adam Sandler, born in Brooklyn and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, is best known as a comedian and actor, he has also made a name for himself as a singer-songwriter. His comedic albums such as They’re All Gonna Laugh at You! and What the Hell Happened to Me? contain hilarious and often absurd songs that showcase his talent for combining humor with music. Sandler’s musical contributions, including the popular “Chanukah Song,” have become cultural classics, proving that his talent extends far beyond the silver screen.

7. Recycled Percussion

Recycled Percussion, founded in Goffstown, New Hampshire, is a unique musical group that has taken the world by storm with their high-energy performances. Recycled Percussion is known for making music using unconventional instruments such as trash cans, buckets, and power tools. Recycled Percussion’s shows are an exciting combination of drumming, acrobatics, and comedy. They rose to national fame after appearing on America’s Got Talent, and have since become a Las Vegas headliner, captivating audiences with their innovative and electrifying performances.

8. Steven Tyler

Steven Tyler, the legendary frontman of Aerosmith, was born in Yonkers, New York, but grew up mostly in Sunapee, New Hampshire. Tyler’s distinctive voice and flamboyant stage presence have made him one of the most recognizable figures in rock music. With Aerosmith, Tyler delivered countless hits such as “Dream On,” “Walk This Way,” and “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” cementing the band’s place in rock history. His influence on the genre is immeasurable, and his ability to connect with audiences through his music and personality remains as significant as ever.

9. Matt Nathanson

Matt Nathanson, a singer-songwriter from Lexington, Massachusetts, with strong ties to New Hampshire, has built a successful career with his soulful lyrics and catchy melodies. Nathanson is best known for his hit single “Come On Get Higher.” His music blends folk, rock, and pop, creating a sound that is both intimate and universally appealing. His live performances are known for their warmth and humor, making him a fan favorite. Nathanson’s ability to write songs that are both personal and relatable has earned him a loyal following and critical praise.

10. Mary Chapin Carpenter

Mary Chapin Carpenter was born in Princeton, New Jersey, but spent much of her youth in New Hampshire, which she often cites as an influence on her music. Carpenter is a respected singer-songwriter who has made a name for herself on the country and folk music scene with hits like “Passionate Kisses” and “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her.” Her thoughtful lyrics and soothing voice have earned her multiple Grammy Awards and a place in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Carpenter’s music continues to resonate with listeners, offering a blend of wisdom, comfort and introspection that has stood the test of time.