20 Famous Musicians From New York

New York City has been a hub of musical talent and creativity for decades. From jazz to hip-hop, from rock to pop, the city has produced some of the most influential and iconic musicians of all time. 

In this article, we will highlight 20 of the most famous musicians from New York, showcasing the diversity and richness of the city’s musical heritage. These artists have each made their mark on the world, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry and influencing generations of musicians to come.

1. Ella Fitzgerald 

Born in Virginia but raised in New York, Ella Fitzgerald rose to prominence as the “First Lady of Song”. Her unique voice and scat singing abilities made her a leading figure in the world of jazz music.

2. Alicia Keys 

Growing up in New York, Alicia Keys established herself as a successful singer-songwriter, pianist, and actress. She has received numerous awards, including 15 Grammy Awards, for her soulful voice and powerful songwriting.

3. Blondie 

Blondie, a punk rock band, was formed in New York in the mid-1970s. Their fusion of punk, new wave, and pop music earned them a reputation as one of the pioneers of the new wave movement. Their hit songs include “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” and “Rapture.”

4. Jay-Z 

Jay-Z, born and raised in Brooklyn, has become a prominent rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur. He has won multiple awards, including 24 Grammy Awards, for his intricate lyrics and innovative beats.

5. Beastie Boys 

The Beastie Boys, a hip-hop group from New York, rose to fame in the late 1970s with their unique sound and humorous lyrics. They helped popularize hip-hop music in the 1980s.

6. Billy Joel  

Born and raised in New York, Billy Joel is a singer-songwriter and pianist who has gained worldwide popularity. He is known for his signature blend of rock, pop, and classical music and has sold over 150 million records.

7. The Velvet Underground 

The Velvet Underground, an influential rock band from New York, was formed in the mid-1960s. They are recognized for their experimental sound and avant-garde lyrics, which established them as one of the most influential bands of the 20th century.

8. Lady Gaga 

Born and raised in New York, Lady Gaga has become a renowned singer, songwriter, and actress. Her unique style and eclectic sound have earned her numerous awards, including a Golden Globe for her role in “American Horror Story.”

9. The Notorious B.I.G. 

Raised in New York, The Notorious B.I.G. rose to prominence in the 1990s as a rapper known for his powerful lyrics and charismatic stage presence. He is considered one of the greatest rappers of all time.

10. 50 Cent 

Born and raised in New York, 50 Cent is a successful rapper and entrepreneur. He is known for his catchy hooks and street-smart lyrics, and has sold over 30 million records worldwide.

11. Sean Combs 

Sean Combs, also known as P. Diddy, has become a dominant figure in the music industry as a rapper, producer, and entrepreneur. He has won multiple awards for his innovative beats and electrifying stage presence.

12. Marc Anthony 

Born and raised in New York, Marc Anthony is a singer, songwriter, and actor known for his smooth voice and captivating stage presence. He has won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards, and is considered one of the greatest salsa singers of all time.

13. Cyndi Lauper 

Born and raised in New York, Cyndi Lauper rose to fame in the 1980s with her unique style and quirky sound. She is known for her powerful voice and catchy hits, such as “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “True Colors.”

14. Sonic Youth 

Sonic Youth, an alternative rock band from New York, was formed in the early 1980s. They are recognized for their experimental sound and innovative style, and are considered one of the most influential bands of the genre.

15. Kiss 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9o–0G4kxFY

Kiss, a rock band from New York, was formed in the 1970s. Known for their flamboyant stage presence and catchy tunes, they have sold over 100 million records worldwide and are considered one of the most successful rock bands of all time.

16. Tupac Shakur 

Tupac Shakur, a rapper from New York, rose to prominence in the 1990s with his powerful lyrics and charismatic stage presence. He is considered one of the greatest rappers of all time and his impact on the genre continues to be felt today.

17. Ramones 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ez4yjw5Y94s

Ramones, a punk rock band from New York, was formed in the 1970s. They are recognized for their simple, catchy tunes and high-energy stage performances, and are considered one of the pioneers of punk rock.

18. Ashanti 

Born and raised in New York, Ashanti is a singer, songwriter, and actress known for her soulful voice and powerful lyrics. She has won multiple awards, including a Grammy Award for  Best Contemporary R&B Album.

19. Luther Vandross 

Born and raised in New York, Luther Vandross was a singer, songwriter, and producer known for his powerful voice and smooth sound. He won multiple awards, including eight Grammy Awards, and is considered one of the greatest R&B singers of all time.

20. Lenny Kravitz 

Born and raised in New York, Lenny Kravitz is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his eclectic sound and innovative style. He has won multiple awards, including four Grammy Awards, for his contributions to rock and roll music.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, New York City has produced some of the most influential and iconic musicians of all time. From Ella Fitzgerald to Lenny Kravitz, these artists have each left their mark on the music industry, influencing generations of musicians to come.

Alicia Keys Featured Image by: jerone2, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons