The Best Musical Artists From New York

Ranker Music

Updated May 15, 2024 56.0K views 50 items

Ranked By

16.3K votes

1.5K voters

1 reranks

Voting Rules

Only artists born or raised in New York or bands formed in New York.

Here are the best artists and bands from New York. A mecca of great music, New York City has produced some of the most influential and famous bands and singers of all time. The city has fostered talents of artists in every genre conceivable. The city is the birthplace of disco, hip hop, doo wop, new wave, punk rock, and so much more. The city has given so much to the industry, and in the years to come, even more artists will join the ranks of the most famous musical artists from New York.

If you browse through your playlists, then chances are very good you will come across some artists who got their start in the Empire State. Lady Gaga, the Beastie Boys, Alicia Keys, Neil Diamond, Vampire Weekend, and numerous other artists grew up in New York. On this list, you will find artists who were either born or raised in the state. Other popular New York artists include 50 Cent, The Strokes, and the Wu-Tang Clan.

New York City is on the same level as Los Angeles, Detroit, San Francisco, and Nashville as far as cities that have produced a great deal of the talent you hear on the radio today. This list of New York musical artists is just a sampling of the talent coming out of the state, so vote for your favorites now.

1
Billy Joel
Blue-eyed soul, Pop music, Rock music
381 votes
Hailing from Long Island, this piano-playing troubadour has become one of the most successful singer-songwriters in history. With a career spanning five decades, his heartfelt storytelling and timeless melodies have endeared him to generations of fans across the globe. As one of New York's favorite sons, he continues to be a vital presence in the city's music scene.
More Billy Joel
- Dig Deeper...The Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...335+ Famous Taurus Historical Figures
- #31 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
2
Simon and Garfunkel
Pop music, Worldbeat, Rock music
276 votes
This iconic folk duo, consisting of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, first met while growing up in Queens, New York. Their intricate harmonies and poetic lyrics captured the spirit of the 1960s counterculture movement, resonating with listeners around the world. Their lasting influence on both popular music and the folk scene is a testament to their enduring appeal.
More Simon and Garfunkel
- Dig Deeper...The Best Simon And Garfunkel Songs
- #46 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #203 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
3
JAY-Z
Hip hop
393 votes
Born and raised in Brooklyn's Marcy Projects, this legendary rapper turned entrepreneur has become synonymous with New York City hip-hop. His intricate wordplay and ability to paint vivid pictures through his lyrics have cemented his status as one of the greatest MCs of all time. As both an artist and a business mogul, he continues to shape the city's cultural landscape.
More JAY-Z
- Dig Deeper...Every Athlete Signed To Jay-Z's Roc Nation Sports, Ranked
- And Deeper...The Best Jay-Z Songs of All Time
- #1045 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
4
Beastie Boys
Hip hop music, Pop punk, Alternative hip hop
282 votes
This trailblazing trio from NYC combined punk rock attitude with innovative hip-hop production techniques to create their own unique sound. Bursting onto the scene in the mid-1980s with brash lyrics and irreverent humor, they would go on to achieve massive success and critical acclaim throughout their career. Their groundbreaking work has had a lasting impact on both hip-hop and alternative rock scenes across New York and beyond.
More Beastie Boys
- Dig Deeper...The Best Beastie Boys Songs
- #8 of 69 onThe Best Musical Trios Of All-Time
- #507 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
5
Blondie
Hip hop music, Pop punk, New Wave
233 votes
Fronted by the enchanting Debbie Harry, this pioneering new wave band emerged from New York City's punk scene in the late 1970s. They expertly blended punk rock energy with infectious pop melodies and dance beats, helping establish the city as a hub for cutting-edge music. Their distinctive sound and style have left an indelible mark on countless bands that followed in their footsteps.
More Blondie
- #4 of 115 onThe Greatest Chick Rock Bands Ever
- #66 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #68 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
6
Neil Diamond
Pop music, Rock music, Folk music
149 votes
This Brooklyn-born singer-songwriter has enjoyed a career spanning over five decades, becoming one of the best-selling musicians of all time with his infectious pop melodies and heartfelt lyrics. His enduring appeal can be attributed to his ability to connect with audiences across generations while remaining rooted in his hometown's rich musical tradition. His influence on popular music is undeniable, as he continues to captivate fans around the world.
More Neil Diamond
- #46 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #18 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters
- #43 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
7
Ella Fitzgerald
Ballad, Swing music, Traditional pop music
216 votes
Known as the "First Lady of Song," this iconic jazz singer possessed a dazzling vocal range and impeccable sense of swing, which helped her become one of the most influential vocalists in history. Born in Newport News, Virginia, she moved to Yonkers, New York at a young age, where she later rose to fame after winning an amateur talent contest at Harlem's Apollo Theater. Her impact on the New York jazz scene and beyond is immeasurable, inspiring countless artists and leaving a remarkable legacy.
More Ella Fitzgerald
- Dig Deeper...How Marilyn Monroe And Ella Fitzgerald's Friendship Gave Them Both Their Careers
- And Deeper...335+ Famous Taurus Historical Figures
- #12 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
8
Ramones
Pop punk, Rock music, Classic Punk
295 votes
Often credited with inventing punk rock, this legendary band from Forest Hills, Queens, burst onto the scene in the mid-1970s with their blistering speed and stripped-down sound. They were a fixture at New York City's famed CBGB club, where they helped ignite a musical revolution that would change the face of rock 'n' roll. Their raw energy and uncompromising attitude continue to inspire musicians around the world.
9
The Notorious B.I.G.
Hip hop music, Hardcore hip hop, East Coast hip hop
388 votes
Hailing from Brooklyn, this legendary rapper brought storytelling prowess and an unforgettable flow to the world of hip-hop. Often credited with revitalizing East Coast rap in the 1990s, his lyrical skills and larger-than-life persona made him a focal point of pop culture during his tragically short career. His influence on New York City's hip-hop scene is undeniable, paving the way for future generations of rappers looking to make their mark.
More The Notorious B.I.G.
- Dig Deeper...A Timeline Of How Biggie And Tupac's Friendship Turned Into An Infamous Feud
- And Deeper...The Best Notorious B.I.G Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...The 365+ Most Famous Geminis
10
Lou Reed
Noise rock, Blue-eyed soul, Spoken word
196 votes
After leaving The Velvet Underground in 1970, this enigmatic singer-songwriter embarked on a solo career that would further solidify his status as a pioneering force in rock music. With his poetic lyrics and willingness to explore dark subject matter, he pushed boundaries while remaining true to his New York roots. His lasting influence on countless artists ensures that his legacy will live on for years to come.
More Lou Reed
- Dig Deeper...Wild Stories About The Insane Life Of Music Pioneer Lou Reed
- #438 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #211 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked

11
The Strokes
Garage rock, Power pop, Alternative rock
252 votes
Emerging from Manhattan's Lower East Side in the early 2000s, this indie rock band revitalized the city's music scene with their raw, garage-rock sound. Their debut album received widespread critical acclaim and helped usher in a new wave of guitar-based bands inspired by their stripped-down approach. To this day, they remain a vital force in New York City's vibrant musical landscape.
More The Strokes
- Dig Deeper...The Best Strokes Songs of All Time
- #301 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #731 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
12
Lady Gaga
Pop, Dance, Electronic
337 votes
Born Stefani Germanotta in Manhattan's Upper West Side, this pop icon has become synonymous with theatricality and artistic expression since her meteoric rise to stardom in 2008. Known for her powerful vocals and genre-defying style, she has consistently pushed boundaries while remaining rooted in her hometown's vibrant creative community. Her ongoing dedication to philanthropy and activism further cements her status as a beloved figure within New York City's cultural landscape.
More Lady Gaga
- Dig Deeper...The Best Lady Gaga Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...250+ Famous Aries Celebrities
- #160 of 227 onThe Most Trustworthy Celebrities In The World
13
Alicia Keys
Hip hop music, Pop music, Neo soul
271 votes
This classically trained pianist from Hell's Kitchen burst onto the scene at just 20 years old with her soulful blend of R&B, hip-hop, and jazz. With her powerful voice and emotive songwriting, she has become one of the most successful artists of her generation while remaining true to her New York City roots. Her influence on contemporary R&B is undeniable, as she continues to inspire a new generation of musicians.
More Alicia Keys
- Dig Deeper...The Best Songs Feat. Alicia Keys
- And Deeper...The Best Alicia Keys Songs of All Time
- #10 of 83 onThe Greatest Female Vocalists of the Past 10 Years
14
The Velvet Underground
Noise rock, Blues-rock, Rock music
237 votes
Led by the enigmatic Lou Reed, this influential band emerged from New York City's avant-garde art scene in the late 1960s. Though never achieving mainstream success during their time together, their fusion of rock 'n' roll with experimental sounds and provocative subject matter has left an indelible mark on countless artists who followed in their wake. Today, they are regarded as one of the most important bands in rock history.
More The Velvet Underground
- Dig Deeper...The Best Velvet Underground Songs
- #187 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #607 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
15
Nas
Hip hop music, Alternative hip hop, East Coast hip hop
242 votes
Born and raised in the Queensbridge Houses, this revered rapper is often hailed as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop history. His debut album, released in 1994, was a landmark moment for East Coast rap, showcasing his vivid storytelling abilities and intricate rhyme schemes. As a proud ambassador for New York City, he continues to inspire new generations of artists looking to follow in his footsteps.
More Nas
- Dig Deeper...The Best Nas Songs
- And Deeper...All 19 Nas Albums, Ranked By Fans
- #936 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
16
Talking Heads
New Wave, Rock music, Punk funk
289 votes
Formed in the mid-1970s at the Rhode Island School of Design, this innovative band quickly became a fixture within New York City's burgeoning punk and new wave scenes. Their eclectic sound, which incorporated elements of funk, world music, and art rock, helped define the city's musical identity during a time of immense creativity. Their enduring influence can be heard in countless bands that have emerged from NYC's vibrant music scene over the past four decades.
More Talking Heads
- Dig Deeper...The Best Talking Heads Songs of All Time
- #77 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #215 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
17
Run–DMC
Hip hop music, Alternative hip hop, Hardcore hip hop
175 votes
Hailing from Hollis, Queens, this groundbreaking hip-hop group broke down barriers between rap and rock with their innovative fusion of styles. Their pioneering work helped bring hip-hop into the mainstream, making them one of the most important groups in the genre's history. Their influence on both the New York City music scene and popular culture is immeasurable.
More Run–DMC
- #894 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #7 of 111 onThe Best Hip Hop Groups of All Time
- #123 of 238 onThe Greatest American Rock Bands
18
Sonic Youth
Noise rock, Rock music, No wave
153 votes
Formed in New York City in 1981, this influential alternative rock band pushed the boundaries of guitar-based music with their innovative use of unconventional tunings and experimental noise. They were a major force within the city's underground music scene throughout the 1980s and '90s, helping pave the way for countless bands that followed. Their impact on indie rock and experimental music remains unparalleled, as they continue to be celebrated for their fearless creativity.
More Sonic Youth
- Dig Deeper...The Best Sonic Youth Songs of All Time
- #31 of 115 onThe Greatest Chick Rock Bands Ever
- #609 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
19
50 Cent
Hip hop music, Gangsta rap
182 votes
Born in South Jamaica, Queens, this rapper-turned-entrepreneur rose to prominence in the early 2000s with his gritty tales of street life and unapologetic swagger. His meteoric rise to fame solidified his status as one of the most significant figures in hip-hop history while helping to reestablish New York City as a powerhouse within the genre. As both an artist and a businessman, he continues to shape the city's cultural landscape.
More 50 Cent
- Dig Deeper...The Best 50 Cent Songs
- And Deeper...Musicians You May Not Know Are Republican
- #979 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
20
Lana Del Rey
Baroque pop, Dream pop, Folk
168 votes
Born Elizabeth Woolridge Grant in New York City, this enigmatic singer-songwriter has captivated audiences around the world with her haunting vocals and cinematic soundscapes since her breakthrough in 2011. Drawing inspiration from her hometown's rich cultural history, she has created a unique persona that embodies both classic glamour and modern grittiness. Her ongoing success is a testament to her ability to resonate with listeners across genres and generations.
More Lana Del Rey
- Dig Deeper...The Best Lana Del Rey Albums
- And Deeper...The Best Songs on Lana Del Rey's Album 'Norman F*cking Rockwell'
- And Deeper...345 Famous Cancer Celebrities

21
Wu-Tang Clan
Hip hop music, Hardcore hip hop, East Coast hip hop
239 votes
This groundbreaking collective of rappers hailing from Staten Island brought a gritty, streetwise sensibility to hip-hop in the early 1990s. Combining razor-sharp lyricism with innovative production techniques inspired by kung-fu movies, they created a unique aesthetic that has influenced countless artists since. Their impact on New York City's hip-hop scene is immeasurable, as they remain an enduring symbol of the city's gritty, creative spirit.
More Wu-Tang Clan
- Dig Deeper...Every Member of Wu-Tang Clan, Ranked Best to Worst
- And Deeper...The Best Songs Feat. Method Man
- #904 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
22
Kiss
Glam metal, Rock music, Heavy metal
243 votes
This larger-than-life rock band formed in New York City in 1973, quickly gaining attention for their elaborate stage shows and distinctive makeup. Combining hard-rock anthems with pop sensibilities, they became one of the most successful bands of their era and an enduring symbol of glam rock excess. Their influence on both the music industry and popular culture is undeniable, as they remain a beloved institution within the world of rock 'n' roll.
More Kiss
- Dig Deeper...The Best KISS Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...Wild Stories About The Debauched Life Of KISS Guitarist Ace Frehley
- #76 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
23
Pat Benatar
New Wave, Rock music, Heavy metal
114 votes
Raised in Lindenhurst, Long Island, this trailblazing rock singer broke down barriers for women in the male-dominated world of hard rock with her powerful vocals and fierce stage presence. Her string of hits in the 1980s helped define the sound of the decade while inspiring countless female artists to follow in her footsteps. Today, she remains a beloved figure within New York's music community and an enduring symbol of empowerment.
More Pat Benatar
- #60 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #33 of 341 onThe 340+ Best Female Vocalists Ever, Ranked
- #68 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters
24
Patti Smith
Blues-rock, Rock music, Protopunk
114 votes
Often referred to as the "Godmother of Punk," this influential singer-songwriter and poet emerged from New York City's vibrant art scene in the mid-1970s. With her raw, uncompromising sound and fearless exploration of taboo subjects, she became an icon for generations of artists looking to challenge societal norms through their work. Her lasting impact on both the music and literary worlds is a testament to her unique talent and unwavering artistic vision.
More Patti Smith
- Dig Deeper...The Best Patti Smith Songs of All Time
- #409 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #157 of 341 onThe 340+ Best Female Vocalists Ever, Ranked
25
Mariah Carey
Pop, Contemporary R&B
147 votes
Born in Huntington, Long Island, this powerhouse vocalist has become one of the most successful artists of all time thanks to her incredible five-octave range and catchy pop melodies. Throughout her career, she has consistently pushed boundaries while maintaining strong ties to her New York roots, making her an enduring symbol of the city's vibrant musical landscape. Her ongoing influence on pop culture and the music industry is undeniable.
More Mariah Carey
- Dig Deeper...The Best Mariah Carey Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...250+ Famous Aries Celebrities
- #20 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
26
Cyndi Lauper
Adult contemporary music, New Wave, Pop music
139 votes
Raised in Ozone Park, Queens, this iconic singer-songwriter captured the spirit of the 1980s with her colorful style and infectious pop hits. Her groundbreaking fusion of punk attitude with mainstream appeal helped redefine what it meant to be a female artist during a time when gender roles were being challenged. Today, she remains a beloved figure within New York City's music community and an inspiration to countless artists around the world.
More Cyndi Lauper
- Dig Deeper...The Best Cyndi Lauper Songs
- And Deeper...345 Famous Cancer Celebrities
- #104 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
27
A Tribe Called Quest
Hip hop music, Jazz rap, Alternative hip hop
126 votes
Hailing from Queens, this influential hip-hop group brought a fresh, jazzy sound to the genre in the late 1980s and early '90s. With their socially conscious lyrics and infectious beats, they helped pave the way for a new generation of artists looking to push boundaries within hip-hop. Their lasting impact on both New York City's music scene and the wider world of rap is undeniable.
More A Tribe Called Quest
- #850 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #982 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #168 of 307 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of the '90s
28
Steely Dan
Rock music, Jazz fusion, Rhythm and blues
100 votes
Founded by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen in 1972, this sophisticated jazz-rock band rose to prominence during the golden age of album-oriented rock radio. Although both members were originally from New Jersey, they met while attending Bard College in upstate New York and later found success in the city's thriving music scene. Their intricate compositions and innovative production techniques have left an indelible mark on countless artists over the years.
More Steely Dan
- #83 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #445 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #42 of 238 onThe Greatest American Rock Bands
29
Foreigner
Rock music, Heavy metal, Pop rock
107 votes
Founded by British musician Mick Jones and American vocalist Lou Gramm in 1976, this popular rock band quickly rose to fame with their catchy hooks and powerful ballads. Although not native New Yorkers themselves, they found success in the city's thriving music scene and became synonymous with its larger-than-life energy. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their ability to connect with audiences across generations.
More Foreigner
- #72 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #254 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #87 of 307 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of the '90s
30
Carole King
Adult contemporary music, Blue-eyed soul, Pop music
133 votes
Born in Manhattan and raised in Brooklyn, this acclaimed singer-songwriter began her career as a teenage songwriter before achieving massive success as a solo artist with her landmark 1971 album. Her heartfelt lyrics and timeless melodies have endeared her to generations of fans across the globe, making her one of the most successful female songwriters in history. Her ongoing influence on popular music and the singer-songwriter tradition is immeasurable.
More Carole King
- #80 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #37 of 341 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #7 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters