New York, the Empire State, has been a breeding ground for some of the most influential and iconic singers in the history of music. From the early days of jazz and blues to the modern era of pop and hip-hop, New York has consistently produced artists who have shaped the sound and culture of their respective genres. These singers have not only left an indelible mark on the music industry but have also become symbols of the city’s diverse and vibrant artistic scene. In this article, we will explore the top 10 famous singers from New York and delve into their remarkable careers and the impact they have had on the world of music.
1. Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra, born in Hoboken, New Jersey, but closely associated with New York City, is arguably one of the most influential singers of the 20th century. With a career spanning over five decades, Sinatra’s distinctive voice, impeccable phrasing, and charismatic stage presence made him a cultural icon. He began his career as a crooner in the swing era, but his versatility allowed him to adapt to changing musical trends, from pop and jazz to rock and roll. Sinatra’s recordings, such as “My Way,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” and “New York, New York,” have become timeless classics, cementing his status as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Beyond his musical achievements, Sinatra also made a significant impact on film and television, winning an Academy Award for his role in “From Here to Eternity.” His larger-than-life persona and his association with the Rat Pack further contributed to his enduring legacy. As a symbol of New York’s golden age of entertainment, Frank Sinatra’s influence on popular culture remains unparalleled, and his music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
2. Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand, born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, is a singer, actress, and filmmaker whose remarkable career has spanned over six decades. Known for her powerful, emotive voice and her unparalleled ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles, from Broadway standards to pop and jazz, Streisand has become one of the most successful and influential artists of her generation. Her numerous hit albums, including “People,” “The Way We Were,” and “Guilty,” have showcased her incredible vocal range and her talent for conveying complex emotions through her performances. Streisand’s success has also extended to film and television, where she has won multiple Academy Awards and Emmy Awards for her work as an actress and director. Throughout her career, she has used her platform to advocate for various social and political causes, including women’s rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and environmental conservation. As a native New Yorker and a trailblazing figure in the entertainment industry, Barbra Streisand’s impact on popular culture and her contributions to the arts have made her a beloved icon and a source of pride for the city and its residents.
3. Billy Joel
Billy Joel, born in the Bronx and raised on Long Island, New York, is a singer, songwriter, and pianist whose music has become synonymous with the New York experience. With a career spanning over five decades, Joel has released numerous hit albums and singles, earning him the nickname “The Piano Man” and cementing his status as one of the most successful recording artists of all time. His music, which often blends elements of rock, pop, and jazz, is known for its catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and its ability to capture the joys, struggles, and aspirations of everyday life. Songs like “New York State of Mind,” “Uptown Girl,” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire” have become anthems for generations of New Yorkers and music lovers around the world. Throughout his career, Joel has also been recognized for his live performances, which showcase his virtuosic piano playing, his dynamic stage presence, and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep, personal level. As a native New Yorker and a master storyteller, Billy Joel’s music has played a significant role in shaping the cultural identity of the city and has solidified his place as one of its most beloved and enduring artistic icons.
4. Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys, born and raised in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, New York, is a singer, songwriter, and pianist whose soulful, empowering music has made her one of the most influential artists of her generation. With a unique blend of R&B, soul, and hip-hop influences, Keys has created a sound that is both timeless and contemporary, showcasing her incredible vocal range and her talent for crafting deeply personal, socially conscious lyrics. Her debut album, “Songs in A Minor,” released in 2001, was a critical and commercial success, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Subsequent releases, such as “The Diary of Alicia Keys” and “As I Am,” have further demonstrated her growth as an artist and her commitment to using her music as a platform for positive change. Beyond her work as a recording artist, Keys has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including her work with Keep a Child Alive, an organization that supports children and families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India. As a proud New Yorker and a role model for young women around the world, Alicia Keys’ music and activism have made her a powerful voice for empowerment, resilience, and social justice.
5. Jay-Z
Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter in Brooklyn, New York, is a rapper, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur whose impact on hip-hop and popular culture cannot be overstated. With a career spanning over three decades, Jay-Z has released numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, showcasing his unparalleled lyrical prowess, his storytelling abilities, and his talent for crafting catchy, memorable hooks. His music, which often explores themes of hustling, success, and the African American experience, has become a soundtrack for a generation of hip-hop fans and has helped to redefine the genre’s boundaries. Beyond his work as a recording artist, Jay-Z has also made significant contributions to the music industry as a record executive and as the founder of Roc Nation, a full-service entertainment company. His business acumen and his ability to leverage his music career into successful ventures in fashion, sports, and real estate have made him one of the most influential and respected figures in the entertainment world. As a native New Yorker and a symbol of the city’s hustle and ambition, Jay-Z’s rise from the streets of Brooklyn to global superstardom has become a quintessential New York success story, inspiring countless aspiring artists and entrepreneurs around the world.
6. Tony Bennett
Tony Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto in Astoria, Queens, New York, is a singer whose remarkable career has spanned over seven decades, making him one of the most enduring and beloved figures in American music. Known for his warm, expressive voice and his interpretations of classic American songs, Bennett has become a master of the pop standard, showcasing his ability to infuse timeless melodies with his own unique style and emotional depth. His numerous hit recordings, including “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “The Way You Look Tonight,” and “Rags to Riches,” have become an integral part of the American musical canon, earning him multiple Grammy Awards and a devoted following that spans multiple generations. Throughout his career, Bennett has also been recognized for his collaborations with a wide range of artists, from jazz greats like Count Basie and Bill Evans to contemporary pop stars like Lady Gaga, demonstrating his versatility and his enduring appeal. As a native New Yorker and a symbol of the city’s rich musical heritage, Tony Bennett’s contributions to American music and his tireless dedication to his craft have made him a true icon and a source of pride for the city he calls home.
7. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey, born in Huntington, Long Island, New York, is a singer, songwriter, and actress whose incredible vocal range, memorable melodies, and glamorous persona have made her one of the most successful and influential artists of her generation. With a career spanning over three decades, Carey has released numerous chart-topping albums and singles, showcasing her ability to seamlessly blend R&B, pop, and hip-hop influences into a sound that is uniquely her own. Her music, which often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and female empowerment, has resonated with millions of fans around the world, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and establishing her as one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Carey’s impact on popular culture extends beyond her music, as she has also made a name for herself as an actress, appearing in films such as “Glitter” and “Precious,” and as a philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes through her work with the Fresh Air Fund and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. As a native New Yorker and a trailblazing figure in the music industry, Mariah Carey’s contributions to the arts and her commitment to using her platform for good have made her a beloved icon and a role model for aspiring artists around the world.
8. Nas
Nas, born Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones in Brooklyn, New York, is a rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur whose lyrical prowess, storytelling abilities, and socially conscious message have made him one of the most influential and respected figures in hip-hop. With a career spanning over three decades, Nas has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including his groundbreaking debut “Illmatic,” which is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. His music, which often explores themes of urban life, social inequality, and personal growth, has earned him a devoted following and has solidified his status as a voice for his generation. Beyond his work as a recording artist, Nas has also made significant contributions to the music industry as a record executive and as the founder of Mass Appeal Records, a multi-platform media company that encompasses music, film, and publishing. His business acumen and his commitment to supporting and nurturing new talent have helped to shape the direction of hip-hop and have inspired countless aspiring artists and entrepreneurs. As a native New Yorker and a symbol of the city’s creativity, resilience, and social consciousness, Nas’ impact on music and popular culture remains unparalleled, cementing his place as one of the most important artistic voices of his generation.
9. Bette Midler
Bette Midler, born in Honolulu, Hawaii, but closely associated with New York City, is a singer, actress, and comedian whose dynamic personality, versatile talent, and bold, brassy style have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning over five decades, Midler has released numerous hit albums and singles, showcasing her powerful voice, her comedic timing, and her ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles, from pop and rock to jazz and show tunes. Her live performances, which often feature elaborate costumes, witty banter, and a mix of music and comedy, have become legendary, earning her the nickname “The Divine Miss M” and a devoted fanbase. Beyond her work as a recording artist, Midler has also achieved great success as an actress, appearing in films such as “The Rose,” “Beaches,” and “Hocus Pocus,” and winning multiple Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Awards for her performances on stage and screen. Throughout her career, she has been a vocal advocate for various social and political causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and environmental conservation. As a New York icon and a trailblazing figure in the entertainment industry, Bette Midler’s contributions to the arts and her commitment to using her platform for good have made her a beloved and enduring cultural figure.
10. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga, born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta in New York City, is a singer, songwriter, actress, and activist whose boundary-pushing artistry, electrifying performances, and commitment to self-expression have made her one of the most influential and iconic figures in contemporary pop culture. With a career that began in the underground clubs of New York City, Lady Gaga has released numerous chart-topping albums and singles, showcasing her powerful voice, her eclectic musical style, and her talent for crafting catchy, memorable hooks. Her music, which often explores themes of identity, sexuality, and empowerment, has resonated with millions of fans around the world, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and establishing her as one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Beyond her work as a recording artist, Lady Gaga has also made a name for herself as an actress, receiving critical acclaim for her performances in “A Star Is Born” and “American Horror Story,” and as an activist, using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, and other social justice causes. As a native New Yorker and a symbol of the city’s creativity, diversity, and resilience, Lady Gaga’s impact on music, fashion, and popular culture remains unparalleled, cementing her status as a true icon of her generation.
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.
