When most people think of musical hotspots in the U.S., places like Nashville, Los Angeles, or New York City come to mind. But tucked away in the scenic beauty of New England lies New Hampshire—a state better known for its mountains and maple syrup than its music scene. Yet, the Granite State has quietly produced some of the most compelling voices and influential talents across genres. From powerhouse pop vocalists and folk legends to heavy metal icons and family-friendly performers, New Hampshire has made its mark on the musical map in a big way. This list celebrates the top 10 most popular and impactful singers and bands who hail from or have deep roots in this unassuming state. Whether they’ve topped Billboard charts, rocked global stages, or won over hearts with grassroots charm, these artists prove that great music can come from anywhere—even a quiet corner of New England. Get ready to discover (or rediscover) the voices that put New Hampshire on the musical radar. From indie gems to world-renowned icons, these are the Granite State’s finest—and their stories might just surprise you. Let’s dive into the rhythm, soul, and sound of New Hampshire’s most famous musical exports!

1. Ray LaMontagne

Ray LaMontagne is one of those rare artists whose voice feels like it’s lived a thousand lives. Born in Nashua, New Hampshire, Ray’s path to music wasn’t paved with industry connections or formal training. He was working in a shoe factory when a Stephen Stills song playing on the radio jolted something deep inside him, sparking a creative awakening. His 2004 debut album Trouble introduced listeners to a singer-songwriter whose raspy, emotive voice could simultaneously soothe and shatter. Songs like “Shelter” and the title track resonated with a quiet intensity that made him an instant critical favorite. Though often compared to greats like Van Morrison and Otis Redding, LaMontagne’s artistry is undeniably his own—marked by poetic introspection and sonic experimentation. Albums like Gossip in the Grain and Ouroboros reveal his willingness to stretch genre boundaries, blending folk, rock, blues, and psychedelia. Despite his reluctance to court fame or media attention, his authenticity keeps fans coming back. He’s not one for flashy headlines or social media antics—he lets the music speak. And it speaks volumes. For New Hampshire and the wider world, Ray LaMontagne stands as a soulful reminder of the power of following your own path.

2. JoJo (Joanna Levesque)

JoJo’s story is one of early stardom, unwavering talent, and fierce determination. Born in Vermont and raised in Keene, New Hampshire, she burst onto the pop scene at just 13 years old with the smash hit “Leave (Get Out),” making her the youngest solo artist to top the Billboard Pop Songs chart. But JoJo wasn’t just another teen sensation—her voice carried a depth and soul far beyond her years. Her early albums, JoJo and The High Road, showcased a powerhouse vocalist with an ear for infectious pop and emotional ballads. Behind the scenes, though, JoJo faced years of legal battles with her record label that kept her music off shelves and streaming services. Rather than give up, she fought for her voice and independence. Her triumphant return with 2016’s Mad Love proved she hadn’t lost her edge—in fact, she’d grown stronger. Her newer work blends R&B, pop, and soul with lyrical maturity and vulnerability. Now an advocate for artists’ rights and creative freedom, JoJo has re-recorded her early albums to reclaim her legacy. Through it all, her New Hampshire upbringing remains a quiet constant—a grounding influence in a career marked by resilience and reinvention.

3. Mandy Moore

Though many know Mandy Moore for her Emmy-nominated role as Rebecca Pearson on This Is Us, her artistic roots are firmly planted in music—and they trace back to Nashua, New Hampshire, where she was born. Rising to fame in the early 2000s with bubblegum pop hits like “Candy” and “I Wanna Be with You,” Moore was often grouped with the teen pop stars of the era. But from the beginning, she showed signs of a deeper musical instinct. As she matured, so did her sound. Her 2007 album Wild Hope marked a dramatic shift—trading glossy pop for introspective folk-pop reminiscent of Joni Mitchell or Carole King. It was a bold move, and it paid off with critical praise. After stepping away from music to focus on acting, she returned in 2020 with Silver Landings, an album full of breezy melodies and heartfelt reflections. Moore’s voice, always warm and expressive, now carries the weight of life experience. Her lyrics are thoughtful, personal, and often disarmingly honest. Though her time in New Hampshire was brief, it remains an essential part of her story. Mandy Moore is proof that pop stars can grow, evolve, and still keep their heart at the center of it all.

4. Ronnie James Dio

Ronnie James Dio was nothing short of a heavy metal legend, and his journey began in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Known for his thunderous voice and theatrical stage presence, Dio helped define the genre across several iconic bands—most notably Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and his self-titled project, Dio. His vocal style was operatic yet fierce, and his lyrical themes often leaned into fantasy, mythology, and introspection. When he replaced Ozzy Osbourne in Black Sabbath, skeptics were quickly silenced by the sheer power of Heaven and Hell and Mob Rules. With Rainbow, he crafted epic songs like “Stargazer,” and as a solo artist, he gave us anthems like “Holy Diver” and “Rainbow in the Dark.” Beyond the music, Dio became a symbol of the genre—literally. He popularized the “devil horns” hand gesture, now synonymous with metal culture. Yet for all his grandeur on stage, he was known offstage for his humility and kindness. Though he spent much of his career in New York and California, his New Hampshire origins are a source of pride for fans in the Granite State. Ronnie James Dio wasn’t just a metal singer—he was the voice of a movement, and his influence still roars today.

5. Dan Zanes

Dan Zanes has a gift for making music that brings people together, regardless of age. Born in Exeter, New Hampshire, Zanes first made his mark as the frontman of The Del Fuegos, a critically acclaimed rock band in the 1980s known for their rootsy energy and raw authenticity. But it was his reinvention as a family musician in the 2000s that cemented his place in musical history. Inspired by fatherhood, Zanes started creating music for children and families that didn’t talk down to kids or bore adults. His songs are full of joy, cultural richness, and inclusivity. Albums like Catch That Train!—which won a Grammy—blend folk, rock, and global rhythms in ways that feel timeless and fresh. With his band Dan Zanes and Friends, he created community-focused performances that encourage sing-alongs and celebrate diversity. He’s also been a leader in making music accessible, performing in sensory-friendly venues and working with artists of all backgrounds. There’s a heartfelt sincerity in Zanes’ music that echoes his New Hampshire roots. Whether he’s leading a theater full of families in song or collaborating with fellow musicians, Dan Zanes proves that great music doesn’t need age limits—just open hearts.

6. Tom Rush

Tom Rush is one of folk music’s quiet giants—an artist whose influence echoes through decades of American songwriting. Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Rush emerged in the 1960s as a key figure in the folk revival scene. His warm baritone, deft guitar work, and sharp ear for songwriting made him a respected performer and, perhaps more importantly, a tastemaker. He was instrumental in introducing audiences to future legends like Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Jackson Browne by recording their songs before they were widely known. Albums like The Circle Game and Wrong End of the Rainbow capture the introspective spirit of the era, balancing poetic lyrics with understated melodies. Rush’s live shows are something special—part concert, part storytelling session, full of humor, humanity, and heart. He’s never chased fame, preferring substance over flash, and that authenticity has earned him a loyal fanbase that spans generations. Even into his later years, he continues to tour and release new music, proving that the soul of folk music still burns bright. His New England roots shine through in his songs—honest, thoughtful, and deeply human. Tom Rush may not be a household name, but he’s a legend where it truly counts.

7. Raylyn Moore

Raylyn Moore is a compelling voice rising from New Hampshire’s indie music scene, weaving together haunting melodies, introspective lyrics, and a sound that feels both fragile and bold. Hailing from a quiet town in the Granite State, Moore crafts songs that echo the region’s solitude and natural beauty. Her music blurs the lines between dream pop, ambient rock, and indie folk, with a vocal delivery that’s ethereal yet emotionally grounded. Her debut EP Where the Mountains Meet the Moon introduced her as a deeply introspective songwriter, unafraid to explore themes like identity, mental health, and emotional survival. Though she’s still building her audience, Moore has already earned recognition from indie blogs, college radio, and streaming playlists. What sets her apart is not just her talent, but her authenticity—she writes from the heart, and her performances often feel like open letters to anyone who’s ever felt unseen. Whether performing solo or with a minimalist backing band, Moore creates an intimate atmosphere that invites listeners into her inner world. As her following continues to grow, she stands as a testament to the rich musical potential brewing in New Hampshire—an artist to watch, with stories still to tell and songs that linger long after the last note fades.

8. Recycled Percussion

Recycled Percussion is one of the most electrifying and inventive acts to come out of New Hampshire. Founded by Justin Spencer in Goffstown, the band turned a simple idea—making music from everyday objects—into an internationally recognized spectacle. Their breakthrough came on America’s Got Talent, where their explosive performances using trash cans, ladders, and power tools wowed audiences. But their story began long before the national stage, rooted in New Hampshire’s community spirit and a high school talent show. What sets them apart isn’t just their unconventional instruments—it’s their unmatched energy and interactive performances that feel like part rock concert, part circus, and part comedy show. With a Las Vegas residency and worldwide tours under their belt, Recycled Percussion has become a global phenomenon. Yet they’ve never forgotten where they came from. Through their “Chaos & Kindness” movement, they spread positivity, performing acts of service and encouraging others to make a difference in their communities. Their shows are unforgettable, filled with rhythm, humor, and heart-pounding intensity. Recycled Percussion proves that creativity has no limits and that New Hampshire can be the launchpad for something truly original. They’re more than musicians—they’re performers with a purpose.

9. Matt Nathanson

Matt Nathanson is a singer-songwriter whose music feels like a late-night heart-to-heart with an old friend. Though born in Massachusetts, Nathanson spent much of his formative years in New Hampshire, and it’s clear those roots shaped the emotional landscape of his songs. His biggest hit, “Come On Get Higher,” became a radio staple, but there’s far more to his discography than one chart-topping single. Albums like Some Mad Hope and Modern Love reveal a songwriter who balances catchy melodies with deeply personal lyrics. Nathanson’s voice—smooth, expressive, and full of nuance—is perfectly suited to tales of love, vulnerability, and self-discovery. He’s also known for his engaging live performances, where he blends humor, storytelling, and raw emotion into an unforgettable experience. Whether he’s performing in front of thousands or at a small acoustic show, he makes every fan feel like part of the journey. His music carries the introspective honesty often found in New England artists—grounded, hopeful, and always searching. Matt Nathanson’s career proves that staying true to yourself and your roots can lead to longevity and deep connection with listeners. He’s not just a hitmaker—he’s a voice you can believe in.

10. Jared Nathan

Jared Nathan’s time on this earth was tragically short, but his light continues to shine in New Hampshire’s arts community. Born in Nashua, Jared captured hearts as a cast member on PBS’s beloved children’s show Zoom, where his charisma, kindness, and love for performing were instantly apparent. His passion for theater led him to the prestigious Walnut Hill School for the Arts and eventually to Juilliard, where he was honing his craft among the nation’s top young talents. Jared was more than just a gifted performer—he was a generous spirit, a friend to all, and someone who uplifted everyone around him. His life was cut short in a car accident in 2006, just as his future on stage and screen was beginning to unfold. But his legacy endures. The Jared Nathan Scholarship for the Arts was established in his honor, supporting young artists who share his dedication and passion. Every performance inspired by his memory is a tribute to the dreams he left behind. In Nashua and beyond, Jared is remembered not just for his talent, but for his heart. He remains a beloved figure whose influence continues to ripple through the Granite State’s creative community.