North Carolina is famous for its scenery and history, but it also produced some of the most important musicians. From soulful crooners to chart-topping rappers, North Carolina has produced a broad variety of performers that have left memorable marks on music.
North Carolina has continually produced revolutionary talent across genres, thus this article explores the top 10 most recognized vocalists from the state. The ageless jazz of Nina Simone, the contemplative lyricism of J. Cole, and the country-western charm of Randy Travis have inspired generations of fans and performers.
These North Carolinians demonstrate the state’s vast musical diversity. Explore the lives of these legendary artists and learn how North Carolina has become a musical hotspot. Bring your headphones and turn up the volume—this musical trip is not to be missed!
1. Nina Simone
Nina Simone, from Tryon, North Carolina, was a revolutionary and singer. Simone’s soulful voice and genre-defying compositions make her a true original. Her songs reflected her inner turmoil, passion, and resistance. Legendary songs like “Feeling Good” and “I Put a Spell on You” transcend generations.
Nina was a talented musician and a vocal civil rights activist who used her platform to fight for racial equality in America. From crooning over a piano to singing a blazing anthem, Nina Simone never compromised and always revealed the truth.
2. J. Cole
J. Cole, born Jermaine Lamarr Cole, is a revered hip-hop lyricist from Fayetteville, North Carolina. Known for his contemplative storytelling and keen social commentary, J. Cole has topped the rap game without following trends. His 2014 Forest Hills Drive and KOD albums, which address personal hardships and social themes, established him as a genre thought leader.
Beyond music, Cole is known for his humility and profound connection to fans, often rejecting the spotlight to stay loyal to his roots. J. Cole, Dreamville Records founder and Grammy winner, proves you can be real and still rule hip-hop.
3. James Taylor
The archetypal singer-songwriter, Chapel Hill native James Taylor, has comforted generations with his soothing voice and beautiful guitar skills. With songs like “Fire and Rain” and “Carolina in My Mind,” Taylor creates deeply personal yet widely recognizable tunes.
His introspective, melancholy lyrics and folk-rock approach defined the 1970s singer-songwriter movement. Taylor, a five-time Grammy winner, has played for almost 50 years and remains current. He is a storyteller and musician who can bring listeners to a world of introspection and comfort with each note.
4. Randy Travis
Randy Travis, from Marshville, North Carolina, shaped modern country music. Travis revived country music in the 1980s with his silky baritone voice and respect to tradition. His first album, Storms of Life, was a hit with songs like “On the Other Hand” and “Diggin’ Up Bones.”
Travis’ gospel and ballads conveyed deep sadness and unshakeable faith. He inspired future country stars. His legacy as a popular country music performer survives his later health issues.
5. Charlie Daniels
Southern rock and country artist Charlie Daniels was powerful. Daniels, from Wilmington, North Carolina, is famous for his fiery fiddle and his single “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” an American music classic. But Daniels’ contributions go beyond that classic song.
He was a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and bandleader who fused country, rock, bluegrass, and blues. Daniels personified Southern soul with his powerful voice and stage presence. Rebellious and nationalistic, his music still influences Southern rock.
6. Fantasia Barrino
Fantasia Barrino became famous in lightning speed. Fantasia, from High Point, North Carolina, won American Idol season three and enthralled the nation. Her soul-stirring performances and powerful voice have made her an R&B and gospel legend.
Her debut single, “I Believe,” topped the charts, and subsequent hits like “When I See U” cemented her vocal prowess. Fantasia draws from her personal challenges and accomplishments to create real, emotional songs. She amazes audiences with her fire and passion on stage and in the studio.
7. Ronnie Milsap
Born in Robbinsville, North Carolina, Ronnie Milsap overcame the obstacles to become a legendary country performer. Blind since infancy, Milsap used music to express himself, and his country, pop, and R&B style marked him distinct.
Milsap topped the charts in the 1970s and 1980s with “Smoky Mountain Rain” and “It Was Almost Like a Song.” He won followers across genres with his soft vocals and amazing piano skills. Milsap’s career is a testament to overcoming adversity and pushing country music forward.
8. Anthony Hamilton
Soul music superstar Anthony Hamilton is from Charlotte, North Carolina, and has gritty, passionate vocals. His breakout album, Comin’ from Where I’m From, established his unique Southern soul, R&B, and gospel blend. Hamilton stands out in a genre that relies on sleek production with songs like “Charlene” and “Can’t Let Go” that convey real passion.
Hamilton’s music captures life’s ups and downs, and his voice is rich and textured. Anthony Hamilton is a modern soul music icon with multiple Grammy nominations and a win.
9. Clay Aiken
After his memorable second season on American Idol, Raleigh native Clay Aiken became famous. Despite finishing second, Aiken’s soaring vocals and friendly personality won him a loyal fans and a great music career. His multi-platinum debut album, Measure of a Man, had classics like “Invisible” and “This Is the Night” and showed his tremendous voice.
His genuineness and emotion in uplifting melodies make Aiken appealing. Aiken has worked in politics and activism as well as music, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to change.
10. Petey Pablo
With his hit single “Raise Up,” Petey Pablo put North Carolina on the hip-hop map. It became an anthem for Carolinians. Pablo, from Greenville, North Carolina, stood out in early 2000s rap with his gritty, Southern style and dynamic delivery.
His first album, Diary of a Sinner: 1st Entry, was well-received and popular. Petey Pablo popularized Southern rap with his personality and good hooks. Despite a recent decline in output, his influence on Southern hip-hop and state pride is evident.