20 Famous Singers from Georgia

Georgia is known for producing some of the most iconic and influential singers in music history. From soulful R&B to country and rock, Georgia has given birth to some of the most celebrated musical artists of our time. These talented artists have left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring generations of musicians to follow in their footsteps.

Their unique voices, creative vision, and dedication to their craft have earned them numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, Billboard chart-toppers, and millions of devoted fans around the world. Whether you’re a fan of soulful ballads, catchy pop tunes, or rock and roll anthems, there’s something for everyone on this list of 20 famous singers from Georgia.

1. Ray Charles

Ray Charles was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who was a pioneer in the genre of soul music. Born in Georgia in 1930, Charles began playing music at a young age and quickly developed a talent for the piano. He drew inspiration from a variety of musical styles, including blues, jazz, gospel, and country.

Charles rose to fame in the 1950s and 60s with a string of hits that showcased his powerful vocals and innovative approach to music. His blend of gospel and R&B influences helped to define the emerging genre of soul music, and his songs like “Georgia on My Mind,” “What’d I Say,” and “Hit the Road Jack” became enduring classics.

In addition to his music career, Charles was also a civil rights activist and used his platform to advocate for social change. He performed at benefit concerts and fundraisers for various causes, and his songs often dealt with themes of love, loss, and social justice.

Overall, Ray Charles’ contribution to music and culture cannot be overstated. His innovative style, powerful vocals, and enduring legacy have made him one of the most iconic and beloved figures in American music history.

2. Luke Bryan

Luke Bryan is an American country music singer and songwriter who has become one of the biggest names in the genre since his debut in 2007. Born in Georgia in 1976, Bryan grew up on a farm and was involved in music from a young age, playing guitar and writing songs.

Bryan’s music is characterized by its upbeat, catchy melodies and relatable lyrics that often touch on themes of love, family, and rural life. He has released numerous chart-topping hits, including “Country Girl (Shake It for Me),” “Drunk on You,” and “Crash My Party.”

In addition to his successful music career, Bryan is also known for his energetic live performances and charismatic personality. He has won numerous awards, including Entertainer of the Year at the Country Music Association Awards in 2014 and 2015.

Bryan has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including his annual Farm Tour that raises money for scholarships for students in rural communities. His dedication to his fans, his music, and his community has made him one of the most beloved and respected figures in country music today.

3. Otis Redding

Otis Redding was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who was one of the most influential artists in soul music. Born in Georgia in 1941, Redding began his music career at a young age, singing in church and performing in talent shows.

Redding’s powerful, raw vocals and heartfelt lyrics quickly caught the attention of the music industry, and he became a star in the 1960s with hits like “These Arms of Mine,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” and “Respect.”

Despite his tragically short career – Redding died in a plane crash in 1967 at the age of just 26 – his impact on music and culture cannot be overstated. He was known for his ability to convey deep emotion in his songs, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who followed in his footsteps.

In addition to his music career, Redding was also a trailblazer in the civil rights movement, using his platform to advocate for social change. He performed at benefit concerts and fundraisers for various causes, and his songs often dealt with themes of love, loss, and social justice.

Overall, Otis Redding’s legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time continues to be celebrated and remembered by fans and musicians around the world.

4. Ma Rainey

Ma Rainey, also known as the “Mother of the Blues,” was an American singer, songwriter, and actress who was one of the earliest and most influential artists in the blues genre. Born in Georgia in 1886, Rainey began performing in vaudeville shows and traveling tent shows at a young age.

Rainey’s music was characterized by its powerful vocals, innovative use of improvisation, and honest depictions of African American life and culture. She recorded over 100 songs during her career, including “See See Rider,” “C.C. Rider,” and “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.”

In addition to her music career, Rainey was also a trailblazer in the fight for civil rights and equality for Black artists. She advocated for fair pay and treatment for musicians and frequently included political and social commentary in her songs.

Rainey’s impact on the blues genre and music as a whole cannot be overstated. She paved the way for future generations of African American artists and continues to be celebrated and remembered as a legend of the blues. Her story and legacy were brought to life in the 2020 biopic “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” further cementing her place in music history.

5. James Brown

James Brown, also known as the “Godfather of Soul,” was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists in the history of popular music. Born in South Carolina in 1933, Brown began his music career at a young age, performing in gospel groups and eventually forming his own band.

Brown’s music was characterized by its energetic rhythms, powerful vocals, and innovative use of funk and soul. He recorded numerous hits over the course of his career, including “I Got You (I Feel Good),” “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag,” and “Sex Machine.”

In addition to his music career, Brown was also a trailblazer in the fight for civil rights and equality for Black Americans. He used his platform to advocate for social change and performed at benefit concerts and rallies for various causes.

Brown’s influence on popular music and culture cannot be overstated. He was known for his electrifying stage presence and groundbreaking performances, and his impact can be heard in the work of countless artists who followed in his footsteps. Despite his passing in 2006, his music continues to be celebrated and remembered as a testament to his enduring legacy.

6. André 3000

André 3000, born André Benjamin, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor who is best known for his work as part of the hip-hop duo Outkast. Born in Georgia in 1975, Benjamin formed Outkast with fellow rapper Big Boi in the early 1990s, and the duo quickly rose to fame with their unique blend of funk, soul, and southern hip-hop.

Benjamin’s music is characterized by its clever wordplay, smooth delivery, and eclectic mix of genres. He is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential artists in hip-hop, and has collaborated with a wide range of musicians across various genres throughout his career.

In addition to his music career, Benjamin is also an accomplished actor, having appeared in a number of films and television shows, including “Four Brothers” and “American Crime.” He is known for his dynamic and nuanced performances, and has received critical acclaim for his work onscreen.

Benjamin’s impact on hip-hop and popular culture is undeniable, and he continues to be celebrated and remembered as a pioneer and innovator in the genre. His work with Outkast and his solo projects have inspired countless musicians and fans alike, and his legacy is sure to endure for generations to come.

7. R.E.M.

R.E.M. was an American rock band formed in Athens, Georgia in 1980. The band consisted of lead vocalist Michael Stipe, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and drummer Bill Berry (who left the band in 1997). Over the course of their career, R.E.M. became one of the most successful and influential alternative rock bands of all time.

R.E.M.’s music was characterized by its jangly guitars, introspective lyrics, and melodic hooks. The band’s early albums, such as “Murmur” and “Reckoning,” are considered classics of the genre, and helped to establish R.E.M. as one of the leading voices in alternative rock.

In addition to their musical success, R.E.M. were also known for their activism and social consciousness. They were vocal advocates for causes such as environmentalism, LGBT rights, and voter registration, and frequently used their platform to promote these issues.

After more than three decades together, R.E.M. announced their breakup in 2011. Despite their absence from the music scene, the band’s influence continues to be felt today, and their impact on the alternative rock genre cannot be overstated. R.E.M.’s legacy remains as one of the most important bands in rock history, with their music inspiring countless artists and fans alike.

8. Cee Lo Green

Cee Lo Green is an American singer, rapper, songwriter, and actor best known for his distinctive voice and eclectic musical style. Born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1974, Green first rose to fame as a member of the hip-hop group Goodie Mob in the mid-1990s. He later achieved even greater success as a solo artist, releasing a number of critically acclaimed albums and hit singles throughout the 2000s and 2010s.

Green’s music is characterized by its soulful vocals, clever lyrics, and genre-bending sound. He is known for blending elements of R&B, funk, rock, and hip-hop into his music, creating a unique and instantly recognizable style. Some of his most popular songs include “Crazy” (with Gnarls Barkley), “Forget You,” and “Bright Lights Bigger City.”

In addition to his music career, Green has also dabbled in acting, appearing in a number of films and television shows over the years. He is known for his dynamic and charismatic performances, and has received critical acclaim for his work onscreen.

Green’s influence on the music industry is undeniable, and he continues to be celebrated and remembered as one of the most innovative and exciting artists of his generation. His music has inspired countless musicians and fans alike, and his legacy is sure to endure for many years to come.

9. Little Richard

Little Richard, born Richard Wayne Penniman in 1932, was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who played a pivotal role in the early development of rock and roll music. Known for his flamboyant stage presence, high-pitched voice, and energetic performances, Little Richard became one of the most influential and important musicians of the 20th century.

With hits such as “Tutti Frutti,” “Long Tall Sally,” and “Good Golly, Miss Molly,” Little Richard helped to define the sound and style of rock and roll in its early years. His music was characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and wild energy, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who followed in his footsteps.

In addition to his music career, Little Richard was also known for his flamboyant style and larger-than-life personality. He was a trailblazer for African American musicians in the 1950s and 60s, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of artists.

Little Richard passed away in 2020 at the age of 87, but his music and legacy continue to live on, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans around the world.

10. Zac Brown

Zac Brown is an American singer, songwriter, and bandleader who rose to fame in the late 2000s with his band, the Zac Brown Band. Born in 1978 in Atlanta, Georgia, Brown grew up in a family of musicians and began playing guitar at a young age.

In 2002, Brown formed the Zac Brown Band, which quickly gained a following in the Southeast with its mix of country, rock, and jam band influences. The band’s breakthrough came with their 2008 album, “The Foundation,” which included the hit singles “Chicken Fried” and “Toes.” Since then, the band has released several more successful albums and won multiple Grammy Awards.

Known for his soulful voice and masterful guitar playing, Brown is also recognized for his philanthropy and social activism. In 2009, he founded the Camp Southern Ground, a camp for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and other special needs.

Throughout his career, Brown has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Dave Grohl, Chris Cornell, and Jimmy Buffett. His music combines elements of country, rock, blues, and folk, and his songs often touch on themes of love, family, and the beauty of the natural world.

11. Alan Jackson

Alan Jackson is an American country music singer, songwriter, and musician who is known for his traditional country sound and heartfelt lyrics. Born in Newnan, Georgia in 1958, Jackson grew up in a family of musicians and began playing guitar at a young age.

After moving to Nashville in the 1980s, Jackson worked as a songwriter and signed a recording contract with Arista Records in 1989. His debut album, “Here in the Real World,” was released the following year and produced several hit singles, including the title track and “Wanted.”

Over the course of his career, Jackson has released over 20 albums and sold over 75 million records worldwide. He has won multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards, and Academy of Country Music Awards, and has been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Known for his distinctive voice and traditional country style, Jackson’s songs often touch on themes of love, family, and life in small towns. Some of his most popular hits include “Chattahoochee,” “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” and “Remember When.” In addition to his music career, Jackson is also an accomplished businessman and philanthropist.

12. Gladys Knight

Gladys Knight is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman who is known as the “Empress of Soul”. Born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1944, Knight began singing gospel music with her siblings at a young age. In the 1960s, she formed the group Gladys Knight & the Pips, which went on to achieve great success.

With her powerful, soulful voice and dynamic stage presence, Knight quickly became one of the most iconic figures in soul and R&B music. Some of her most popular hits with the Pips include “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “If I Were Your Woman,” and “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye).”

Throughout her career, Knight has won seven Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. She has also acted in several films and television shows, including “Pipe Dreams” and “The Jeffersons.”

In addition to her music and acting career, Knight is also a successful businesswoman, with ventures in real estate, food products, and more. She is also a committed philanthropist, and has worked to support a number of charitable causes, including children’s health and education initiatives.

13. Kanye West

Kanye West is an American rapper, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer. Born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1977, West moved to Chicago, Illinois in his childhood and started making beats at a young age. He rose to fame in the early 2000s with his critically acclaimed debut album “The College Dropout,” which showcased his unique style of soul-infused hip-hop.

West is known for his innovative and boundary-pushing music, as well as his bold and controversial statements and actions. He has released numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums throughout his career, including “Late Registration,” “Graduation,” and “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.”

In addition to his music career, West has also been involved in various fashion ventures, launching his own clothing line and collaborating with major brands. He is known for his bold and often eccentric fashion choices, and has been named one of the most influential fashion icons of his generation.

Despite his success, West has also been the subject of controversy throughout his career, often making headlines for his outspoken views and public feuds with other celebrities. He has been praised for his creative vision and willingness to take risks, but also criticized for his erratic behavior and controversial comments on various social and political issues.

14. Sam Hunt

Sam Hunt is an American country music singer and songwriter. Born in Cedartown, Georgia in 1984, Hunt initially pursued a career in football, playing college football at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. However, he eventually turned his attention to music and moved to Nashville to pursue a career as a country artist.

Hunt’s music blends traditional country elements with pop and R&B influences, resulting in a unique sound that has garnered him widespread popularity. His debut album, “Montevallo,” released in 2014, was a critical and commercial success, featuring hit singles such as “Take Your Time” and “House Party.”

In addition to his solo career, Hunt has also written songs for other country artists, including Keith Urban and Kenny Chesney. He has won numerous awards for his music, including the American Music Award for New Artist of the Year in 2015.

Despite his success, Hunt has faced some controversy in his career, particularly regarding his use of hip-hop elements in his music and his choice to collaborate with non-country artists. However, he has also been praised for his unique sound and ability to blend genres in a way that appeals to a wide range of listeners.

15. Big Boi

Big Boi, born Antwan André Patton in Savannah, Georgia in 1975, is an American rapper, songwriter, and producer. He is best known for his work as one half of the hip hop duo Outkast, along with André 3000.

With Outkast, Big Boi helped shape the sound of Southern hip hop, blending funk, soul, and electronic music to create a unique sound that earned the duo numerous awards and critical acclaim. Outkast’s album “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below,” released in 2003, featured Big Boi’s solo work on the first disc, showcasing his distinct style and skill as a rapper.

In addition to his work with Outkast, Big Boi has released several solo albums, including “Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty” in 2010 and “Boomiverse” in 2017. He has also collaborated with other artists, such as Sleepy Brown and Killer Mike, and worked as a producer for other musicians.

Throughout his career, Big Boi has been praised for his flow, wordplay, and ability to adapt to different styles and sounds. He is considered one of the most influential and innovative figures in hip hop, with a career spanning over two decades.

16. Quavo

Quavo, born Quavious Keyate Marshall in Athens, Georgia in 1991, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is best known as a member of the hip hop trio Migos, alongside Takeoff and Offset.

Quavo’s unique style and voice have become a signature of Migos’ music, characterized by their use of triplet flows, ad-libs, and trap beats. The group rose to prominence in the mid-2010s with hits such as “Versace,” “Bad and Boujee,” and “Stir Fry,” becoming one of the most successful and influential acts in modern hip hop.

In addition to his work with Migos, Quavo has collaborated with numerous other artists, including Post Malone, Drake, and Travis Scott. He has also released several solo projects, including the album “Quavo Huncho” in 2018.

Quavo’s success in the music industry has earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy nominations and a Billboard Music Award. He is widely recognized for his skill as a rapper and his ability to create infectious hooks and catchy melodies, contributing to the evolution of hip hop and pop music.

17. Travis Tritt

Travis Tritt is an American country music singer, songwriter, and actor. Born in Marietta, Georgia, in 1963, Tritt grew up listening to the country greats like Hank Williams Jr., George Jones, and Merle Haggard. He began playing guitar and writing songs in his teenage years and eventually moved to Nashville, Tennessee to pursue a career in country music.

Tritt’s distinctive voice and traditional country sound quickly gained attention in the early 1990s, leading to a string of hits such as “Country Club,” “Help Me Hold On,” and “Here’s a Quarter (Call Someone Who Cares).” His music often incorporated elements of rock and blues, setting him apart from many of his contemporaries in the genre.

Throughout his career, Tritt has been honored with multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards, and Academy of Country Music Awards. He has released more than a dozen studio albums and collaborated with a variety of other country music stars, including Marty Stuart, Vince Gill, and Charlie Daniels.

Tritt has also acted in a number of films and television shows, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer. He remains a beloved figure in the world of country music, known for his powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and dedication to preserving traditional country sounds.

18. Ray Stevens

Ray Stevens is an American country and pop singer, songwriter, and comedian who has had a career spanning more than six decades. Born in Clarksdale, Georgia, in 1939, Stevens began playing piano at a young age and was soon performing in local clubs and bars.

Stevens rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s with a string of novelty hits such as “Ahab the Arab,” “Gitarzan,” and “The Streak.” He also had success with more serious songs like “Everything is Beautiful,” which won a Grammy Award in 1970.

Throughout his career, Stevens has released more than 40 albums and written or co-written hundreds of songs. His music blends country, pop, rock, and comedy, making him a unique and entertaining performer.

In addition to his music career, Stevens has also acted in films and television shows, including a recurring role on the hit TV show “Designing Women.” He is known for his distinctive voice, sense of humor, and musical versatility, and remains a beloved figure in the world of country and pop music.

19. Jennifer Nettles

Jennifer Nettles is an American singer, songwriter, and actress best known as the lead vocalist for the country music duo Sugarland. Born in Georgia in 1974, Nettles began her music career as a solo artist, performing in local clubs and festivals before forming Sugarland with Kristian Bush in 2002.

Sugarland quickly became one of the most successful country music duos of the 2000s, releasing hit songs like “Baby Girl,” “Stay,” and “Stuck Like Glue.” Nettles’ powerful vocals and emotive performances helped make Sugarland a fan favorite and earned her numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and Country Music Association Awards.

In addition to her work with Sugarland, Nettles has also released several solo albums and collaborated with other artists on various projects. She has also appeared on television shows like “Duets,” “American Idol,” and “The Voice,” where she served as a mentor to contestants.

Nettles is known for her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and passionate performances, and has been praised for her contributions to country music and her efforts to support various social and humanitarian causes.

20. Trisha Yearwood

Trisha Yearwood is an American country music singer, author, and television personality. Born in Georgia in 1964, Yearwood began her music career in the late 1980s, and quickly gained popularity for her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. She has released numerous hit songs, including “She’s in Love with the Boy,” “Walkaway Joe,” and “How Do I Live,” which spent 69 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, a record for a female artist at the time.

In addition to her successful music career, Yearwood has also authored several cookbooks and hosted her own cooking show, “Trisha’s Southern Kitchen,” on the Food Network. She has been recognized for her contributions to music and cooking with multiple awards, including three Grammy Awards and an Emmy Award.

Yearwood is known for her warm personality, genuine approach to cooking, and powerful vocal performances. She has been praised for her ability to connect with audiences and inspire others through her music and cooking.

Simon Robinson 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.