New Hampshire may be known for its scenic mountains, charming small towns, and hearty Yankee spirit — but tucked between the pine trees and granite hills is a surprising legacy of musical talent. From world-famous rock legends to soulful singer-songwriters and rising pop icons, the Granite State has quietly produced some of the most compelling voices in modern music. Whether they were born here, raised here, or launched their careers in its tight-knit music scene, these artists have left their mark on stages around the world. In this countdown of the Top 10 Most Popular Famous Singers from New Hampshire, we spotlight the voices that have shaped genres, inspired millions, and brought pride to their home state. You’ll find Grammy winners, folk legends, metal gods, and even a few unexpected surprises — each with a unique story and unmistakable sound. Some have graced the covers of Rolling Stone; others have built grassroots followings with grit and passion. But all of them share one thing: a deep connection to New Hampshire. So turn the volume up and dive into the rich musical roots of the Granite State — you might just discover your next favorite artist lives closer to home than you think.
1. Ray LaMontagne
Ray LaMontagne is one of New Hampshire’s most soulful musical treasures, a singer-songwriter whose voice carries the grit of lived experience and the warmth of a weathered old record. Born in Nashua, he emerged from working-class roots and long hours in a Maine shoe factory to release his breakout debut Trouble in 2004 — a haunting, hushed record that introduced the world to his gravel-and-gold voice and timeless songwriting. Often likened to icons like Otis Redding and Van Morrison, LaMontagne doesn’t just sing — he pours emotion into every line, crafting songs that ache with longing, love, and introspection. Fiercely private and averse to fame, he shuns the limelight, preferring the solitude of rural life, which only deepens the mystique surrounding him. Over the years, he’s evolved musically, moving from stripped-down folk to more textured, experimental rock — yet always with an authentic, soul-baring core. Albums like Gossip in the Grain and Ouroboros showcase his creative growth while maintaining his signature emotional resonance. Ray LaMontagne isn’t just an artist — he’s a craftsman of feeling, a quiet force whose music continues to stir the soul and stand the test of time.
2. JoJo (Joanna Levesque)
JoJo, born Joanna Levesque, stunned the music world when she burst onto the scene as a teenager with a voice well beyond her years. Though born in Vermont, she was raised in Keene, New Hampshire, where her vocal talents were evident from an early age. At just 13, she made history with the smash hit “Leave (Get Out),” becoming the youngest solo artist to top the Billboard charts. But JoJo’s journey was far from smooth — she endured a difficult legal battle with her first record label, which kept her in limbo for nearly a decade. Rather than give up, she fought back, independently releasing music and connecting directly with fans. Her perseverance paid off with her long-awaited comeback albums Mad Love (2016) and Good to Know (2020), both showcasing a more mature, confident artist with raw emotional power. JoJo’s voice — still rich, agile, and packed with soul — reflects the wisdom of someone who has lived through industry turmoil and come out stronger. Her story is one of resilience and rebirth, inspiring fans who’ve grown alongside her. Today, JoJo stands not only as a vocal powerhouse but as a symbol of creative freedom and strength.
3. Ronnie James Dio
Ronnie James Dio remains one of the most towering figures in rock and heavy metal history. Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Dio rose from humble beginnings to become the definitive voice of epic, theatrical metal. With a soaring, operatic range and a lyrical imagination steeped in mythology and fantasy, he helped shape the genre through stints with Rainbow, Black Sabbath (replacing Ozzy Osbourne), and his own band, Dio. His 1983 solo debut Holy Diver is considered a cornerstone of metal, packed with anthems that still shake arenas. But Dio’s impact wasn’t just musical — he brought a sense of narrative grandeur to rock, and his signature “devil horns” hand gesture has become a global symbol of metal culture. Despite his commanding stage presence, he was known for his humility, kindness, and fierce loyalty to fans. Albums like Heaven and Hell and The Last in Line showcase both his vocal brilliance and enduring artistic vision. Though he passed away in 2010, his voice — thunderous, emotional, and immortal — still resonates with generations of headbangers. Ronnie James Dio wasn’t just a singer; he was a legend, a storyteller, and the heart of heavy metal itself.
4. Tom Rush
Tom Rush is a foundational figure in the American folk movement, with deep roots in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. With a career stretching over half a century, Rush has earned a reputation not only as a gifted singer-songwriter but also as a tastemaker who helped usher in some of music’s most iconic voices. In the 1960s, he was among the first to spotlight emerging talents like Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Jackson Browne, performing their songs before they were widely known. But his own music is just as enduring. Songs like “No Regrets” are marked by emotional honesty, lyrical elegance, and his warm, resonant baritone. His style is an inviting mix of folk, blues, and country — accessible yet refined, timeless but fresh. Onstage, he charms audiences with dry wit, heartfelt stories, and a deep respect for the folk tradition. More than just a performer, Tom Rush is a bridge between generations, carrying the spirit of American songwriting forward while honoring its past. His influence, both direct and indirect, has helped shape the contours of modern folk music. For New Hampshire and beyond, he remains a living legend and a masterful storyteller.
5. Raylynmor Opera Singers
Raylynmor Opera, based in the small town of Peterborough, is one of New Hampshire’s best-kept artistic secrets — a company that delivers big-city opera magic with small-town heart. Founded with a vision to bring high-caliber opera to the Monadnock region, Raylynmor has grown into a beloved cultural institution, known for its inventive productions and passionate performers. Rather than relying solely on grand venues or conventional programming, the company takes bold artistic risks, staging everything from classic Mozart and Verdi to contemporary American operas — often with a unique twist. What makes Raylynmor truly special is its commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Whether performing in historic theaters or creative pop-up locations, they bring opera to life in ways that feel fresh, intimate, and deeply moving. Many of their featured singers are classically trained professionals, rising stars who have found a platform for expression and growth through the company’s nurturing environment. For both seasoned opera fans and newcomers, Raylynmor offers an inspiring reminder that world-class artistry can flourish anywhere. It stands as a shining example of how local passion and talent can bring timeless stories to life — even in the hills of New Hampshire.
6. Recycled Percussion
Recycled Percussion is a musical phenomenon that defies categorization, blending rock, percussion, theater, and sheer adrenaline into an electrifying experience. Hailing from Goffstown, New Hampshire, the group exploded into the national spotlight after a standout run on America’s Got Talent in 2009. Their act is part concert, part spectacle — a high-energy fusion of beats made with power tools, ladders, trash cans, and just about anything you can imagine. But behind the spectacle is serious talent: these are skilled musicians and master showmen who push the boundaries of rhythm and creativity. Their Las Vegas residency and nationwide tours have made them a household name, and their performances are known for being wildly interactive, drawing the audience into the chaos. Offstage, the group is equally impactful through their “Chaos & Kindness” movement, using their platform to give back and spread positivity in communities across the country. Whether performing in arenas or on school stages, Recycled Percussion proves that music can be made from anything — and that passion and innovation can come from the most unexpected places. They’re not just a band — they’re a force of energy and goodwill born right in New Hampshire.
7. Juston McKinney
Juston McKinney might be best known for his sharp stand-up comedy, but he’s also a multi-talented performer who occasionally turns to music to land the punchline. Raised in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, McKinney has made a name for himself with his clean, clever humor and down-to-earth style that captures the quirks of small-town New England life. While not a traditional musician, McKinney’s comedic parodies and musical bits have become standout features of his act, offering catchy, laugh-out-loud moments that showcase his timing, wit, and surprising musical chops. His ability to turn everyday scenarios — from parenting to politics — into humorous songs adds another dimension to his already rich comedy. McKinney has appeared on Comedy Central, late-night talk shows, and has released several stand-up specials, but he continues to embrace his New Hampshire roots, often performing locally and drawing material from his own backyard. In a world where comedy and music often collide, Juston McKinney hits the sweet spot — using both to entertain and reflect life with charm and honesty. He’s more than a comic; he’s a storyteller with a rhythm all his own.
8. Adam Ezra (Adam Ezra Group)
Adam Ezra is the passionate frontman of the Adam Ezra Group, a Boston-based band with deep ties to New Hampshire’s vibrant live music scene. Known for their powerful blend of folk-rock and socially conscious songwriting, the group has built a grassroots following through relentless touring, heartfelt lyrics, and magnetic performances. Ezra, with his raspy voice and earnest stage presence, connects with audiences like an old friend — whether he’s playing a backyard gathering, a packed festival, or streaming live from his living room. His songs speak of resilience, community, and the beauty of shared experience, often written with a journal-like intimacy that resonates across generations. Though originally from Massachusetts, Ezra’s frequent shows in New Hampshire, collaborations with local artists, and commitment to the region’s creative culture have made him a beloved figure in the Granite State. Beyond the music, he’s also a community-builder — leading songwriting retreats, championing causes, and turning every show into an experience. For many fans, Adam Ezra is more than a musician — he’s a movement, one that celebrates human connection, uplifts local spirit, and proves that music has the power to bring people together, one powerful lyric at a time.
9. Brooke Moriber
Brooke Moriber is a multi-talented artist whose blend of powerhouse vocals, emotive songwriting, and Broadway-honed stage presence makes her a standout in today’s pop-rock scene. Although she’s based in New York, Moriber has found a welcoming audience in New Hampshire, frequently performing across the state and connecting deeply with its vibrant arts communities. With a background in theater — including early performances on Broadway — Brooke brings an element of dramatic flair and storytelling to her music, which spans heartfelt ballads, empowering anthems, and introspective tracks. Her voice is rich and expressive, capable of both soaring highs and intimate vulnerability, always carrying emotional weight. Her songs often explore themes of personal transformation, resilience, and self-discovery — a reflection of her own journey through the ups and downs of the entertainment world. Whether she’s playing a stripped-down acoustic set or rocking out with a full band, Moriber captivates with authenticity. Her growing presence in the Northeast music scene, and especially in New Hampshire, has made her a rising star to watch. She’s not just performing — she’s building a community through her art, one honest, empowering song at a time.
10. Dusty Gray
Dusty Gray is a standout figure in New Hampshire’s Americana and country music scene, known for his gritty voice, heartfelt songwriting, and unwavering authenticity. Raised in the Granite State, Gray’s music reflects the working-class spirit and emotional honesty of New England life. His songs — a blend of rock, country, and folk — dive deep into themes of love, loss, perseverance, and the winding roads of life. With every note, he channels personal experience into universal truths, making his music both deeply relatable and emotionally powerful. Dusty has earned his stripes through years of gigging across the region, building a loyal fan base with electric live shows that showcase not only his vocal prowess but his ability to connect with an audience. Whether he’s performing solo with an acoustic guitar or backed by a full band, he brings passion and soul to the stage. More than just a local favorite, Dusty Gray is a storyteller — a voice that speaks to the heart of New England and beyond. For fans of honest, roots-driven music, he represents everything great about homegrown talent and the enduring power of a well-crafted song.
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