When you think of music hotspots in America, your mind might jump to Nashville, Los Angeles, or New York—but don’t underestimate the heartland. Tucked between cornfields and quiet towns, Iowa has produced some of the most iconic, groundbreaking, and unforgettable voices in music history. From smooth pop crooners and big band legends to masked metal gods and soul-stirring folk singers, the Hawkeye State’s contributions to the global music scene run deep and wide. These artists didn’t just entertain—they shaped genres, broke barriers, and inspired millions. Whether it’s the haunting wail of a Slipknot anthem, the timeless elegance of Moon River, or the powerful operatic resonance of Simon Estes, Iowa’s finest have left an indelible imprint on the world stage. This list isn’t just a celebration of fame—it’s a tribute to talent, grit, and the unique magic that can only come from the Midwest. So crank up the volume and get ready to discover (or rediscover) the top 10 most popular and influential singers and bands born or bred in Iowa. You might be surprised at just how many legends hail from this unassuming musical powerhouse. Let’s dive into the voices that put Iowa on the map!
1. Andy Williams
Born in the small town of Wall Lake, Iowa, Andy Williams became one of America’s most beloved pop vocalists. With a voice as smooth as silk, he captured hearts in the 1960s with timeless hits like “Moon River” and “Can’t Get Used to Losing You.” Williams wasn’t just a singer—he was a television icon, hosting The Andy Williams Show for nearly a decade and introducing audiences to future stars like the Osmonds. Known for his calm charisma and effortless delivery, he made singing seem like second nature. His annual Christmas specials became holiday staples, and his legacy is cemented with the Moon River Theatre in Branson, Missouri, a testament to his enduring influence. Williams brought a touch of class and warmth to American pop, all while staying true to his Midwestern roots.
2. Glenn Miller
Clarinda, Iowa, gave the world one of the most iconic names in big band history: Glenn Miller. A trombonist, arranger, and bandleader, Miller’s sound defined the Swing Era of the 1930s and ’40s. His arrangements—tight, melodic, and irresistibly danceable—made tracks like “In the Mood” and “Chattanooga Choo Choo” instant hits. With an uncanny knack for melody and orchestration, Miller’s music lifted the spirits of a generation during World War II. Tragically, his life ended mysteriously when his plane disappeared over the English Channel in 1944, but his legacy has never faded. Miller’s contribution to jazz and swing remains unparalleled, and his Iowa beginnings are a proud part of that story.
3. Corey Taylor
When it comes to raw energy and vocal ferocity, few can rival Corey Taylor. Born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, Taylor rose from the underground metal scene to become the face of not one, but two major rock bands—Slipknot and Stone Sour. With Slipknot, he delivered guttural screams and emotionally charged lyrics that resonated with a generation of disaffected youth. In Stone Sour, he showed his melodic side, proving his versatility as a frontman. Taylor’s stage presence is electric, his lyrics brutally honest, and his influence undeniable. He’s not just a singer—he’s a force of nature, and his connection to Iowa runs deep. From the heartland to the global stage, Corey Taylor embodies the spirit of modern metal.
4. Trent Reznor (Iowa-connected)
Though born in Pennsylvania, Trent Reznor spent formative time in Iowa, shaping the early creative vision that would become Nine Inch Nails. A pioneer of industrial rock, Reznor’s music is a visceral blend of machine-like intensity and aching vulnerability. Albums like “The Downward Spiral” and “Pretty Hate Machine” redefined what rock could be in the digital age. Beyond NIN, Reznor is an Oscar-winning composer, creating haunting scores for films like The Social Network and Gone Girl. His music transcends genre, blending technology, emotion, and rebellion into something entirely new. His brush with Iowa may have been brief, but it left a mark, much like the way his music sears itself into the listener’s psyche.
5. Slipknot
Born from the shadows of Des Moines, Slipknot emerged in the late 1990s like a sonic explosion. With their terrifying masks, aggressive sound, and unrelenting stage shows, they redefined what it meant to be a metal band. Tracks like “Wait and Bleed” and “Duality” became anthems for outsiders and sparked a global movement. Each member, known by a number rather than a name, contributed to an overwhelming wall of sound and emotion. Slipknot didn’t just make music—they created a culture. Their Iowa roots are central to their identity, often referencing the isolation and grit of Midwestern life. Despite lineup changes and personal tragedies, the band continues to evolve, pushing metal into new territory while staying true to the chaos they were born from.
6. Simon Estes
From a modest upbringing in Centerville, Iowa, Simon Estes rose to international acclaim as one of the first African-American opera singers to break the color barrier on the world’s biggest stages. With a voice that commands attention—deep, resonant, and rich with emotion—Estes performed with the Metropolitan Opera, the Vienna State Opera, and beyond. His interpretations of classic roles like Porgy in Porgy and Bess or the title role in The Flying Dutchman earned critical acclaim and opened doors for generations of artists. Beyond his vocal brilliance, Estes is a humanitarian and educator, dedicated to using music as a tool for change. His story is one of perseverance, talent, and the enduring power of the human voice.
7. Don Everly (The Everly Brothers)
While Don Everly was born in Kentucky, it was in Shenandoah, Iowa, that the Everly Brothers found their musical footing—singing on their family’s radio show and developing the harmonies that would change rock ‘n’ roll. With hits like “All I Have to Do Is Dream” and “Bye Bye Love,” the Everly Brothers pioneered the blend of country, rock, and pop that would later influence The Beatles and Simon & Garfunkel. Don’s smooth tenor and rhythmic guitar laid the foundation for their timeless sound. Their music remains a cornerstone of American harmony, and Shenandoah proudly claims a piece of that legacy. Don’s artistry was a beautiful balance of simplicity and depth—a voice that made the world listen.
8. Madison Ray
Madison Ray brings a burst of color and charisma to the Des Moines music scene. A singer, songwriter, and performance artist, Ray blends pop, soul, and theatrical flair into something wholly unique. With an unapologetic sense of self and a voice that moves from silky smooth to powerfully bold, Ray’s music explores identity, love, and liberation. Beyond the stage, Ray is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and creative freedom, using his platform to uplift marginalized voices. Tracks like “Shine” exude confidence and swagger, while his live shows are immersive spectacles. Ray represents a new wave of Iowa music—fearless, genre-defiant, and deeply personal.
9. Jason Brown
Rooted in the traditions of country and gospel, Jason Brown hails from Des Moines and brings heartfelt storytelling to every note. Known for his rich baritone and down-to-earth lyrics, Brown’s songs resonate with themes of faith, family, and the American heartland. With regional hits and a loyal fan base, he has carved a space for himself in the Midwest music scene. Brown’s performances are genuine and emotionally resonant, often leaving audiences feeling like they’ve just heard a friend share their life’s story. While he may not be a household name nationwide, his influence in Iowa is strong and growing—proof that authenticity still has a powerful place in country music.
10. William Elliott Whitmore
From a farm in Lee County, Iowa, William Elliott Whitmore crafts songs that feel like they’ve been passed down through generations. With only a banjo, guitar, and his gravelly, soul-stirring voice, Whitmore blends folk, blues, and punk ethos into something raw and unforgettable. His lyrics often touch on themes of mortality, labor, and rural life, echoing the struggles and resilience of the working class. Albums like “Animals in the Dark” and “Field Songs” have earned critical acclaim for their haunting beauty and unflinching honesty. Whitmore doesn’t just sing about the land—he lives it. His music is a testament to Iowa’s unsung poetry, delivered with grit and grace.
Samuel Moore 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.
