The Best Country Singers From North Carolina
As a native of Asheville, North Carolina, Luke Combs has rapidly risen to fame in the country music world with his rich vocals and relatable lyrics. Bursting onto the scene with his 2017 debut album This One's For You, Combs established himself as both a talented singer and songwriter. He has received multiple awards, including CMA Male Vocalist of the Year and iHeartRadio Country Artist of the Year, thanks to hits like "Hurricane" and "Beautiful Crazy." Given his meteoric rise and seemingly endless well of talent, Luke Combs is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the world of country music.
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Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, Charlie Daniels was a true icon in the world of country music. Before his passing in 2020, Daniels displayed a unique fusion of Southern rock, country, and bluegrass in his work, known for his fiery fiddle playing. His legendary performance in "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" pushed him into superstardom and solidified his place in country music history. Though his legacy may be intertwined with his music, Charlie Daniels' commitment to philanthropy through his charity, The Journey Home Project, also earned him admiration and respect from fans and fellow musicians alike.
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Hailing from Granite Falls, North Carolina, Eric Church has undoubtedly carved out his unique place in country music. Known for his rebellious and unconventional style, he’s managed to create a devoted following of fans who appreciate his no-nonsense attitude and innovative music. With memorable hits like "Springsteen" and "Like Jesus Does," Church's emotive storytelling is a hallmark of his craft. The winner of three CMA awards and eight ACM awards, Eric Church continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a country artist in the 21st century.
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Randy Travis, hailing from Marshville, North Carolina, has had an undeniable impact on the country music genre, particularly as a key figure in the revitalization of traditional country sounds in the 1980s. With his distinctive baritone voice and authentic storytelling, Travis brought heartfelt emotion to every performance. Hit songs like "Forever and Ever, Amen" and "Three Wooden Crosses" showcased his incredible talent and resulted in significant recognition, including seven Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Although recent health issues have limited his performances, Randy Travis remains an inspiration to up-and-coming artists who appreciate his dedication to classic country style.
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Born and raised in Garner, North Carolina, Scotty McCreery captured the hearts of America when he won the tenth season of American Idol at age 17. Known for his deep voice and down-to-earth demeanor, he stayed true to his country roots as he navigated the world of fame. With three certified platinum albums to his name and hits like "I Love You This Big" and "Five More Minutes," McCreery showcases his talent as both a singer and songwriter. Despite his early success, this humble artist remains devoted to his hometown and fans, proving that he's a true North Carolina country crooner.
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Deep Gap, North Carolina, was home to the legendary guitarist and singer Doc Watson. His innovative flatpicking style, and ability to perform traditional mountain music and bluegrass with equal skill, left a lasting impression on the genre. Watson's renditions of songs like "Deep River Blues" and "Black Mountain Rag" showcased his extraordinary musicianship. Although he passed away in 2012, Doc Watson's contributions to the world of country and folk music remain highly influential and recognized.
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A native of rural North Carolina, Earl Scruggs rose to prominence as a driving force of bluegrass and country music with his revolutionary banjo playing technique. Known as the "Scruggs style," his three-fingered picking method introduced a new level of complexity and technicality to the genre. Scruggs' collaboration with Lester Flatt in the 1940s and 1950s–particularly their signature tune "Foggy Mountain Breakdown"–cemented his status as a pioneer of bluegrass. His contributions to the genre have influenced countless artists, ensuring his lasting legacy as a true North Carolina treasure.
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Born in Robbinsville, North Carolina, Ronnie Milsap faced adversity from the start, as he lost his sight at a young age. Despite this challenge, he rose to prominence in the world of country music, with his soulful voice and piano prowess captivating listeners. Milsap is known for hits such as "Smoky Mountain Rain" and "It Was Almost Like a Song," and his work has earned him six Grammy Awards and several CMA awards. With his unrivaled talent and perseverance, Ronnie Milsap truly embodies the spirit of North Carolina's country artists.
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Hailing from Kernersville, North Carolina, Chris Lane has been steadily climbing the country music ladder since his 2012 debut. Combining modern pop influences with classic country elements, Lane's distinctive sound sets him apart. With chart-topping singles like "Fix" and "I Don't Know About You," it's clear that Lane's knack for crafting catchy tunes hasn't waned. As he continues to evolve and refine his music, Chris Lane demonstrates the diversity and depth that North Carolina's country artists have to offer.
Born in Asheville, North Carolina, Chase Rice has made a name for himself in the country music scene with his catchy tunes and rugged charm. Rice co-wrote the massive hit "Cruise" for Florida Georgia Line before pursuing his solo career, and he has since released successful singles like "Ready Set Roll" and "Eyes on You." His fusion of contemporary pop and traditional country sounds has garnered him legions of fans, solidifying Chase Rice as another shining example of North Carolina's rich talent pool.
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Though born in Birmingham, Alabama, Emmylou Harris spent much of her early life in Northampton County, North Carolina, where her country roots took shape. A true legend in the industry, Harris is known for her innovative approach to country music and her ability to blend folk, rock, and pop influences effortlessly. With hits like "If I Could Only Win Your Love" and "Together Again," Harris has earned thirteen Grammy Awards and a well-deserved place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. As a versatile and pioneering artist, Emmylou Harris stands as a pillar of North Carolina's country music heritage.
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Don Gibson, a native of Shelby, North Carolina, left an indelible mark on the world of country music as both a singer and songwriter. Known for classic hits like "Oh Lonesome Me" and "I Can't Stop Loving You," Gibson's distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics earned him a place in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Don Gibson's contributions to the genre continue to carry on his legacy as one of North Carolina's finest country artists.
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Born in Tabor City, North Carolina, Stonewall Jackson rose up in the ranks of country music in the late 1950s and '60s. Known for his honky-tonk style and traditional country sound, Jackson became a mainstay at the Grand Ole Opry and was signed to Columbia Records. With a plethora of hits throughout his career, including "Waterloo" and "Don't Be Angry," Stonewall Jackson's contributions to the genre have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on country music.
Kellie Pickler, hailing from Albemarle, North Carolina, first caught the nation's attention on the sixth season of American Idol. Though she didn't take home the title, her bubbly personality and pure country vocals won over countless fans. With hits like "Best Days of Your Life" and "Red High Heels," Pickler proved that she was a force to be reckoned with in the industry. Her impact on country music goes beyond her singing, as she remains an active philanthropist and television personality, making her an all-around North Carolina darling.
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Hailing from Greensboro, North Carolina, Billy "Crash" Craddock made his mark on country music with his unique blend of rockabilly and traditional country. Known for chart-topping hits like "Rub It In" and "Broken Down in Tiny Pieces," Craddock's infectious style earned him the nickname "The King of Country Rock." With his energetic performances and crossover appeal, Billy "Crash" Craddock is a prime example of North Carolina's depth and diversity in the realm of country music.
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Del Reeves, born in Sparta, North Carolina, made a significant impact on the country music scene during the 1960s and '70s. Known for his energetic performances and lighthearted approach, Reeves scored hits like "Girl on the Billboard" and "Looking at the World Through a Windshield." In addition to his successful singing career, Del Reeves contributed as a songwriter and actor, making him a well-rounded talent that truly represented the spirited nature of North Carolina's country artists.
Rockingham, North Carolina's own Bucky Covington shot to fame as a finalist on American Idol in 2006. Covington's unique voice and Southern charm helped establish his place in the country music landscape, with hits like "A Different World" and "I'll Walk" earning him critical acclaim. Although his presence in the spotlight has diminished in recent years, Bucky Covington's passion and dedication to the genre make him a noteworthy contributor to the North Carolina country music community.
Born in Durham, North Carolina, Don Schlitz is a lauded songwriter responsible for penning some of country music's most iconic hits. With credits including Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler" and Randy Travis' "Forever and Ever, Amen," Schlitz has left an indelible mark on the genre. In recognition of his exceptional talent and contributions to country music, Schlitz was inducted into both the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Jason Michael Carroll, a native of Youngsville, North Carolina, took the country music world by storm with his 2006 debut album Waitin' in the Country. Carroll's rich baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with fans, earning him a top spot on the charts with hits like "Alyssa Lies" and "Livin' Our Love Song." Though his career has taken twists and turns in recent years, Jason Michael Carroll's undeniable talent makes him an essential part of North Carolina's country music scene.
Lenny Cooper, a native of Jacksonville, North Carolina, brings his unique style and energy to the country rap scene. Often referred to as the "Mud Digger King," Cooper's music reflects his love for the rural lifestyle and off-roading culture. With tracks like "Dirtified" and "Rodeo," Lenny Cooper showcases a bold and unapologetic approach to country music, reflecting the diverse range of talent hailing from North Carolina.
Born in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, Jimmy Wayne overcame a tumultuous childhood to achieve success in the country music industry. His heartfelt storytelling and genuine emotion resonate with fans, as showcased in hits like "Stay Gone" and "I Love You This Much." Wayne has also used his platform to raise awareness about foster children and homelessness, making him not only a talented artist but also a dedicated advocate for those in need.
Born in Bakersville, North Carolina, Del McCoury is a true legend in the bluegrass world. With his signature high-lonesome tenor voice and incredible musicianship, McCoury has been captivating audiences for over five decades. As the leader of The Del McCoury Band, he has won numerous awards, including an impressive nine International Bluegrass Music Association Entertainer of the Year awards. Del McCoury's lifelong dedication to bluegrass music solidifies his place as one of North Carolina's most influential and beloved artists.
Hailing from Asheville, North Carolina, Bryan Sutton is a masterful guitarist known for his unparalleled skills in bluegrass, country, and acoustic music. As a sought-after session musician and member of the Grammy-winning band Hot Rize, Sutton has collaborated with industry giants, including Ricky Skaggs, Dolly Parton, and Chris Thile. With his astounding technical skill and deep understanding of the genre, Bryan Sutton stands out as a premier country musician from North Carolina.
Donna Fargo, born in Mount Airy, North Carolina, is an accomplished singer and songwriter in the country music genre. With her sweet, soulful voice and cleverly crafted lyrics, Fargo scored a series of hits in the 1970s, including "The Happiest Girl in the Whole U.S.A." and "Funny Face." Her success garnered her multiple ACM and CMA awards, solidifying her status as a respected and influential artist. Donna Fargo's contributions to country music are a testament to the strength and talent of North Carolina's female country singers.
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Born in Valdosta, Georgia, but raised in Asheville, North Carolina, Billy Joe Royal became known for his smooth vocals and versatile repertoire. While he had initial success as a pop singer, Royal later found a home in the country music genre, with hits such as "Burned Like a Rocket" and "Love Has No Right." His ability to transition between musical styles showcased his exceptional talent and made him an integral part of North Carolina's rich country music heritage.
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Hailing from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, George Hamilton IV enjoyed a long and successful career in country music. Known as the "International Ambassador of Country Music," Hamilton achieved worldwide fame with hits like "Abilene" and "Before This Day Ends." His passion for sharing country music across the globe earned him a well-deserved place in the history of North Carolina's most celebrated country singers.
Dennis Robbins, a native of Hazelwood, North Carolina, has had an impressive career as both a singer and songwriter in the country music genre. Robbins achieved success as a member of The Rockets before embarking on a solo career, which resulted in hits like "Two of a Kind, Workin' on a Full House" and "Midnight Blue." As a dynamic and expressive artist, Dennis Robbins has certainly left his mark on the ever-evolving world of country music.
Sammy Johns, a native of Charlotte, North Carolina, gained prominence as both a singer and songwriter in the 1970s. With his distinctively laid-back style, Johns achieved his biggest success with the hit single "Chevy Van," which reached the top 5 on the Billboard charts. His easygoing charm and ability to craft memorable tunes make him a noteworthy contributor to North Carolina's country music scene.
Danielle Peck, born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, is an accomplished country singer and songwriter. Her self-titled debut album showcased her powerful voice and emotive lyrics, with singles like "I Don't" and "Findin' a Good Man" earning her critical acclaim. As a strong female voice in the country music genre, Danielle Peck continues to represent the talents of North Carolina's country singers.
Rockie Lynne, born in Statesville, North Carolina, brings his genuine storytelling and powerful vocal presence to the country music genre. His debut single "Lipstick" was a top 30 hit, showcasing his ability to captivate listeners with both upbeat and introspective tunes. Lynne's dedication to supporting military veterans and their families through his charity, Tribute to the Troops, further underscores his commitment to making a positive impact, both on and off the stage.
