New York, a vibrant cultural hub, has been a breeding ground for iconic singers who have left an indelible mark on the global music landscape. One notable artist from the Empire State emerged with a soulful voice that transcended genres, blending jazz, pop, and R&B. Their ballads, often set against the backdrop of the city that never sleeps, capture the rhythm and energy of urban life.
Another celebrated singer from New York pioneered a distinct fusion of hip-hop and soul, using their lyrics to tell stories of life in the boroughs. Their music not only serves as a sonic portrait of the city but also resonates with a universal audience, elevating the cultural richness of New York.
These singers from New York, though diverse in style, share a common thread in their ability to channel the city’s dynamic energy and cultural diversity into their music. Through their artistry, they become not only voices of the state but also ambassadors of the eclectic and influential musical heritage that thrives within the heartbeat of New York.
1. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga, born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta on March 28, 1986, in New York City, is a globally acclaimed singer, songwriter, and actress. Known for her eclectic style, powerful vocals, and avant-garde approach to music and fashion, Lady Gaga has become a cultural icon and one of the most influential figures in contemporary pop music.
Gaga rose to prominence with her debut album, “The Fame” (2008), which featured chart-topping hits like “Just Dance” and “Poker Face.” Her unique blend of pop, electronic, and dance music, coupled with her theatrical stage presence, captivated audiences and set her apart in the music industry.
Beyond her musical achievements, Lady Gaga has been recognized for her bold and boundary-pushing fashion choices, making her a trendsetter and fashion icon. Her impact extends to activism, where she advocates for various social and political causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness.
Lady Gaga’s versatility as an artist is evident in her forays into acting. Her role in the film “A Star is Born” (2018) earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Shallow.”
Lady Gaga’s influence on the pop culture landscape, marked by her musical innovation, fearlessness, and commitment to social causes, solidifies her status as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
2. Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand, born on April 24, 1942, is an iconic American singer, actress, filmmaker, and producer. Widely recognized as one of the most successful and versatile entertainers in the industry, Streisand has left an indelible mark on music, film, and stage.
Streisand’s singing career took off in the 1960s, and she quickly gained acclaim for her powerful and emotive voice. Her debut album, “The Barbra Streisand Album” (1963), earned her two Grammy Awards, and she became the best-selling female vocalist in the United States during that era. Streisand’s repertoire spans various genres, including pop, Broadway, and jazz, and her hits like “People,” “Evergreen,” and “The Way We Were” have become classics.
In addition to her musical success, Streisand has achieved remarkable accomplishments in acting. She received critical acclaim and won an Academy Award for her debut film role in “Funny Girl” (1968). Her film career continued with successful performances in movies like “A Star Is Born” (1976) and “Yentl” (1983), the latter of which she also directed.
Streisand’s influence extends beyond entertainment; she has been an advocate for various social and political causes. Over her career, she has received numerous awards, including multiple Oscars, Grammys, Emmys, and a Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Barbra Streisand remains an enduring and beloved figure in the entertainment industry, celebrated for her exceptional talent, versatility, and contributions to both music and film.
3. Simon & Garfunkel
Simon & Garfunkel, comprised of the duo Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, is one of the most iconic and influential folk rock duos in the history of music. The duo emerged in the 1960s, capturing the spirit of the era with their harmonious vocals, poignant lyrics, and timeless melodies.
Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel first gained attention as teenagers in Queens, New York, forming a duo known as Tom & Jerry. Their initial success came with the single “Hey Schoolgirl” in 1957. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that they achieved widespread acclaim under the name Simon & Garfunkel.
The duo’s breakthrough came with the release of their album “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.” in 1964, featuring the acoustic ballad “The Sound of Silence.” The song’s success prompted a re-release with electric instrumentation, and it became a chart-topping hit. Subsequent albums, including “Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme” (1966) and “Bookends” (1968), solidified their status as leading figures in the folk rock movement.
One of their most iconic works is the soundtrack for the film “The Graduate” (1967), featuring the timeless hit “Mrs. Robinson.” Other classics in their repertoire include “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Scarborough Fair/Canticle,” and “Homeward Bound.”
Despite creative differences that led to their separation in 1970, Simon & Garfunkel’s music has endured as a cultural touchstone, appreciated for its poetic lyricism and melodic beauty. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, and their legacy continues to influence generations of musicians.
4. Liza Minnelli
Liza Minnelli, born on March 12, 1946, in Los Angeles, California, grew up to become an iconic American actress and singer. While not born in New York, she is often associated with the city due to her deep connections to its cultural scene. As the daughter of legendary actress and singer Judy Garland, Liza Minnelli inherited a rich musical legacy.
Minnelli’s career took off in the 1960s when she gained acclaim for her Broadway performances, particularly in the musical “Flora the Red Menace” (1965), which earned her a Tony Award. Her versatile voice and magnetic stage presence made her a Broadway sensation.
Liza Minnelli’s breakthrough in Hollywood came with her role in the film “Cabaret” (1972), for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film showcased her exceptional singing and acting abilities, establishing her as a leading talent in the entertainment industry.
Known for her dynamic performances in musicals, concerts, and films, Liza Minnelli has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Her contributions to the arts, coupled with her charismatic persona, have earned her numerous accolades, making her a respected figure in both Broadway and Hollywood history.
5. Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong, often referred to as “Satchmo” or “Pops,” was an iconic American jazz trumpeter, composer, and vocalist. Born on August 4, 1901, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Armstrong is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz.
Armstrong’s career spanned five decades, and his impact on the development of jazz and popular music is immeasurable. He was a pioneering figure in the transition from early jazz to swing, and his innovative approach to improvisation and virtuosic trumpet playing set new standards for the genre.
In the 1920s, Armstrong gained prominence as a member of King Oliver’s Creole Jazz Band and later with his Hot Five and Hot Seven ensembles. His recordings from this period, including “West End Blues” and “Potato Head Blues,” are considered masterpieces and showcase his groundbreaking contributions to jazz.
Louis Armstrong’s distinctive gravelly voice and charismatic stage presence also made him a renowned vocalist. His renditions of songs like “What a Wonderful World” and “Hello, Dolly!” became enduring classics.
Beyond his musical achievements, Armstrong broke racial barriers and played a crucial role in the desegregation of jazz and popular entertainment. He toured extensively around the world, earning international acclaim and leaving an indelible mark on global music.
Louis Armstrong’s legacy endures not only through his vast catalog of recordings but also through the profound influence he had on subsequent generations of musicians. He remains a symbol of innovation, joy, and the enduring power of jazz.
6. Roberta Flack
Roberta Flack, born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, is an esteemed American singer, songwriter, and musician. While not a native New Yorker, Flack’s impact on the music scene, particularly in New York City, has been profound.
Roberta Flack’s career took off in the 1970s when she achieved widespread acclaim for her soulful and emotive performances. Her timeless hits, including “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” showcased her remarkable vocal range and musical artistry.
Flack’s influence extended beyond traditional soul and R&B genres, as she effortlessly incorporated elements of jazz and folk into her music. Her ability to convey deep emotions through her soul-stirring voice made her a standout artist of her generation.
In addition to her solo success, Roberta Flack collaborated with other acclaimed musicians and made significant contributions to the soundtrack of the 1973 film “Killing Me Softly.” Her enduring impact on the New York music scene and the broader landscape of soul and R&B has solidified her status as a legendary artist, celebrated for her timeless and evocative contributions to American music.
7. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey, born on March 27, 1969, in Huntington, New York, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and producer. Recognized for her five-octave vocal range, melismatic singing style, and powerful voice, Carey has achieved unprecedented success in the music industry.
Carey’s career took off in the early 1990s with the release of her self-titled debut album, “Mariah Carey” (1990), which spawned four consecutive number-one singles, including “Vision of Love” and “Love Takes Time.” Her follow-up albums, such as “Emotions” (1991) and “Music Box” (1993), continued her chart-topping success and established her as a pop and R&B powerhouse.
One of Carey’s signature achievements is her holiday classic, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” released in 1994. The song has become one of the best-selling singles of all time and is a perennial favorite during the holiday season.
Beyond her vocal talents, Carey has co-written many of her hit songs and is known for her involvement in the production process. Her influence extends to various genres, including pop, R&B, and hip-hop, and she has collaborated with numerous artists.
Mariah Carey’s list of accomplishments includes multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, and Billboard Music Awards. She holds the record for the most number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart by a solo artist, surpassing legends like Elvis Presley.
Throughout her career, Mariah Carey has maintained her status as one of the best-selling female artists in the world, known for her vocal prowess, chart-topping hits, and enduring impact on contemporary pop and R&B music.
8. Billy Joel
Billy Joel, born on May 9, 1949, in The Bronx, New York City, is an iconic American singer-songwriter and pianist. With a career spanning several decades, Billy Joel has become one of the best-selling music artists in the world, known for his timeless hits and enduring influence on the landscape of rock and pop music.
Joel’s breakthrough came in the 1970s with albums like “Piano Man” (1973) and “The Stranger” (1977), which featured hits such as “Piano Man,” “Just the Way You Are,” and “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song).” His distinctive voice, songwriting prowess, and ability to craft melodic and relatable songs endeared him to a diverse audience.
Throughout his career, Billy Joel has explored various musical styles, from rock and pop to classical and doo-wop. His storytelling abilities, often rooted in his experiences growing up on Long Island, have resonated with fans and contributed to the enduring appeal of his music.
Billy Joel’s impact extends beyond his chart-topping hits; his record-breaking residency at Madison Square Garden and his numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, reflect his status as a musical legend. Joel’s contributions to the American songbook have left an indelible mark, making him a beloved figure in the annals of popular music.
9. Jay-Z
Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter on December 4, 1969, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American rapper, songwriter, record executive, businessman, and philanthropist. Widely regarded as one of the greatest and most successful hip-hop artists of all time, Jay-Z has had a profound impact on the music industry and popular culture.
Jay-Z’s journey in hip-hop began in the 1990s when he released his debut album, “Reasonable Doubt,” in 1996. He quickly rose to prominence with his distinctive flow, lyrical prowess, and insightful storytelling. Over the years, Jay-Z has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including “The Blueprint,” “The Black Album,” and “4:44.”
Beyond his musical achievements, Jay-Z has played a pivotal role in the business side of the music industry. He co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records, Rocawear clothing line, and Roc Nation entertainment agency. In 2004, he became the president and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, showcasing his prowess as a savvy entrepreneur.
Jay-Z’s impact extends beyond music and business into social and cultural realms. His marriage to Beyoncé, one of the most influential couples in the entertainment industry, has added to their collective impact. Jay-Z is known for addressing social issues in his music, with tracks like “99 Problems” and “The Story of O.J.”
10. Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra, born on December 12, 1915, in Hoboken, New Jersey, was one of the most influential and iconic American singers of the 20th century. Known as “Ol’ Blue Eyes” and “The Chairman of the Board,” Sinatra’s career spanned over six decades, and his impact on the music industry is immeasurable.
Sinatra’s smooth voice, impeccable phrasing, and emotional delivery made him a musical legend. His journey to stardom began in the swing era as a crooner with the Harry James and Tommy Dorsey orchestras. In the 1940s, Sinatra’s solo career skyrocketed, and he became a teen idol, attracting a massive following known as the “bobbysoxers.”
The 1950s marked a period of decline in his popularity, but Sinatra made a triumphant comeback in the 1960s, known as the “Rat Pack” era, alongside friends Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. His albums “Songs for Swingin’ Lovers!” (1956) and “In the Wee Small Hours” (1955) are considered classics.
Sinatra’s influence expanded beyond music into film and television, earning him Academy Awards and Golden Globes for his acting. His signature songs include “My Way,” “Strangers in the Night,” and “New York, New York.”
Frank Sinatra’s cultural impact, timeless recordings, and enduring legacy as a symbol of American music excellence have solidified his place as one of the greatest entertainers in history.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
