Colorado is a state known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation, but it is also home to a thriving music scene. Some musicians showcase their unique skills as singers, songwriters, instrumentalists, or a combination of all three.
Whether you’re a fan of bluegrass, rock, or pop, Colorado is sure to have a talented musician that will catch your attention.
1. Ross Lynch
Ross Lynch is a multi-talented actor and musician who rose to prominence for his role in the Disney Channel movie “Teen Beach Movie.” He is also the lead singer of the popular pop rock band, R5.
In addition to his work with the band, he has launched a successful solo career with his album “A Billion Hits” reaching the top of the charts. Lynch has also recorded songs for the Disney series “Austin & Ally,” in which he starred as one of the lead characters.
2. The Lumineers
A band who blends contemporary and traditional music uniquely, The Lumineers is an American folk rock band known for their hit singles “Ho Hey,” “Ophelia,” and “Stubborn Love,” which became a worldwide phenomenon.
Their self-titled debut album became certified triple platinum, a proof that this folk rock band has reached commercial success.
3. Philip Bailey
Philip James Bailey, as one of the lead vocalists in Earth, Wind & Fire (EWF), is a renowned singer-songwriter and percussionist recognized for his strong, distinctive voice. He has a remarkable talent in singing genres such as R&B, funk, soul, and gospel.
Philip Bailey has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including seven Grammy Awards. The classic hits of Earth, Wind & Fire such as “September,” “Serpentine Fire,” and “Shining Star” continue to be beloved by fans of the band and are considered all-time favorites.
4. Trey Parker
Trey Parker is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and actor best known as the co-creator of the animated television series “South Park.” In addition to his work in animation, Parker is also a talented musician and has written several songs for the show, including its iconic theme song.
He has also written music for the Tony Award-winning musical “The Book of Mormon.” With his sharp wit, musical talent, and ability to lampoon popular culture, Trey Parker has become one of the most influential figures in contemporary entertainment and a household name among fans of animated comedy.
5. Nathaniel Rateliff
Nathaniel Rateliff is a singer and songwriter who creates music with a blend of Americana, folk rock, and blues. He continued making music in different sounds, which created “Nathaniel Ratecliff and the Nightsweats” and became popular with their hit song “You Worry Me.”
He and his band began playing in tour openings for other bands, played in music festivals, and became guests in television shows like the ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.’.
6. Jesse Carmichael
Jesse Carmichael is a multi-instrumentalist best known for his work as a keyboardist and guitarist for the pop rock band Maroon 5. He has contributed to the band’s success with his songwriting skills and musical abilities, and has helped Maroon 5 earn several Grammy awards and other accolades.
7. OneRepublic
OneRepublic is a pop rock band that has achieved worldwide success with their hit singles “Apologize” and “Counting Stars”. The band’s music has been featured in several films and television shows and they continue to tour and record new music.
They have earned numerous awards and nominations, including World Music Awards, Grammy Awards, and Billboard Music Awards, further solidifying their place as a successful and acclaimed band.
8. 3OH!3
3OH!3 is an electronic duo known for their high-energy, danceable beats and their unique brand of humor. Their popular singles “Don’t Trust Me” and “Starstrukk (featuring Katy Perry)” climbed the Billboard charts, making them a top name in the electro-pop genre.
9. The Fray
The Fray is a rock band known for their melancholic, introspective, and emotionally charged music. They rose to prominence with hit singles such as “How to Save a Life” and “Over My Head (Cable Car),” and have received a Grammy nomination.
Their self-titled album has been certified gold, further establishing their status as a well-regarded band.
10. Laura Veirs
Laura Veirs is a singer-songwriter known for her unique and evocative voice and her poetic, introspective lyrics.She creates alternative folk music and was awarded the Parent’s Choice Award in 2012 for her album “Tumble Bee: Laura Veirs Sings Folk Songs for Children.”
11. Ken Curtis
Ken Curtis was a talented American actor and musician who gained notoriety for his portrayal of Festus Haggen on the popular television series “Gunsmoke”.
In addition to his acting career, Curtis also performed as a singer with various bands and was well-known for his renditions of the Sons of The Pioneers songs “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky” and “Room Full of Roses.”
12. Gregory Alan Isakov
Gregory Alan Isakov is a singer-songwriter known for his folk and Americana music. His songs are characterized by his soulful voice, emotional lyrics, and intricate guitar playing. His popular songs are “Big Black Car”, “Words,” and “If I Go, I’m Goin.”
He has performed at numerous festivals and concerts and has collaborated with a number of other musicians in the folk and Americana genres, which has earned him a dedicated following.
13. Isaac Slade
As the co-founder of the rock band The Fray, Isaac Slade is a musician and singer widely known for his emotive piano and vocal skills in The Fray’s music. Despite leaving the group in 2022, he remains an iconic figure in the music industry.
14. Yonder Mountain String Band
A progressive bluegrass band that blends traditional bluegrass with a contemporary twist, Yonder Mountain String Band is known for their energetic live performances and their unique sound. Their live shows are a high-energy, rollicking good time that leave audiences dancing and singing along.
15. Sugarloaf
A classic rock band that formed in the 1960s, Sugarloaf is best known for their hit singles “Don’t Call Us, We’ll Call You” and “Green-Eyed Lady.” The band’s catchy, upbeat rock music is still popular today, and their songs are a staple of classic rock radio.
16. Ingrid Andress
Ingrid Andress is a country singer-songwriter. With her powerful voice and her captivating performances, Ingrid is quickly gaining a reputation for her hit single “More Hearts Than Mine” and writing songs for famous artists such as Charli XCX and Alicia Keys.
17. Firefall
A country rock band that started in the 1970s, Firefall is known for their hit single “You Are the Woman.” The band’s upbeat, melodic rock music mainly hit the music charts and they also toured Mick Fleetwood.
18. Zephyr
Zephyr is a hard rock band in the late 1960’s that consists of Tommy Bolin as the guitarist, John Farris on keyboard, Robbie Chamberlin on drums, and Candy Givens on vocals. Their self-titled album reached the 48th spot on the Billboard 100.
19. Flobots
A rap-rock band that formed in 2005, Flobots is known for their socially conscious lyrics and their unique blend of rap, rock, and indie music. Their debut album ‘Fight with Tools’ has gained attention and fans all over the state.
The band’s music is both entertaining and thought-provoking, as it focuses on artistic integrity and social consciousness.
20. The Astronauts
A surf rock band that formed in the early 1960s, The Astronauts (originally named ‘The Stormtroopers’) are known for their hit single “Baja.” They usually appeared in beach-themed movies such as “Wild on the Beach,” “Wild Wild WInter,” and “Surf Party.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Colorado is home to a diverse range of talented musicians. From the bluegrass sounds of Yonder Mountain String Band to the soulful voice of Philip Bailey, Colorado has produced a variety of artists who have captured the attention of audiences through their singing, songwriting, instrumental abilities, or a combination of all three. These musicians have proven that Colorado is a hotbed for musical talent.
Philip Bailey Featured Image by: Craig ONeal, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
