Idaho’s dynamic music scene shines with bands like Built to Spill, Josh Ritter, and Eilen Jewell. Their range, from indie rock to folk and Americana, mirrors Idaho’s diverse landscapes, marking the state as a notable player in the music industry.
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1. Paul Revere & the Raiders
Paul Revere & the Raiders, hailing from the Pacific Northwest, were pioneers in the garage rock scene during the early ’60s. They carved out a legacy with classic hits that propelled them as one of Idaho’s first rock bands to capture national fame.
2. Built to Spill
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Boise-based Built to Spill emerged as indie rock icons, earning critical acclaim through their influential music and the distinctive vision of frontman Doug Martsch. Their sound continues to resonate within the indie music community, showcasing the depth of Idaho’s musical talent.
3. Josh Ritter
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Josh Ritter, with roots in Moscow, Idaho, is celebrated for his distinct Americana style and compelling storytelling abilities. As a singer-songwriter, his narrative lyrics and contributions to folk music have solidified his status as a pivotal figure in the genre.
4. Curtis Stigers
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Curtis Stigers stands out as a versatile jazz musician from Boise, adept in both the realms of jazz and pop music. His talents as a saxophonist and vocalist have made significant waves in the music industry, showcasing Idaho’s diverse musical spectrum.
5. Eilen Jewell
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Eilen Jewell is recognized as a leading figure in the Americana genre, seamlessly blending elements of country, blues, and folk in her music. This Americana singer’s contributions have not only defined her as a unique artist but have also reflected the rich tapestry of Idaho’s musical landscape.
6. Treepeople
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Treepeople made a lasting impact on the Northwest’s music with their influential role in the alternative and post-hardcore scenes of the late ’80s and early ’90s. Emerging from Boise, they helped shape the soundscape of the local music scene with their dynamic approach to rock.
7. Caustic Resin
Caustic Resin carved a niche in Boise’s underground music scene with their heavy, psychedelic rock sound. As one of the noted Boise bands, they have left an indelible mark on the local music community with their intense and immersive performances.
8. The Ongoing Concept
The Ongoing Concept distinguishes themselves with an experimental twist on the metalcore and post-hardcore genres. Their innovative take breathes new life into metal, affirming Idaho’s place in the evolution of modern rock music.
9. Shook Twins
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The Shook Twins, Katelyn and Laurie, are an identical twin folk-pop duo renowned for their harmonious vocals and diverse instrumental abilities. As multi-instrumentalists, they infuse a unique blend into the folk-pop genre, standing out in Idaho’s eclectic musical landscape.
10. Rosalie Sorrels
Rosalie Sorrels, a celebrated folk musician and storyteller, has left a profound legacy within the folk music community. As a Grammy nominee, her captivating narrative style and heartfelt performances have deeply resonated with audiences far beyond Idaho’s borders.
