The Best Musical Artists From Illinois
Here are the best artists and bands from Illinois. Illinois has a vast musical heritage, and much of it centers around Chicago. The most important contribution the city has made to the music industry is the development of electric blues music. This is affectionately referred to as Chicago-style blues. The city also played a vital role in the formation of jazz and house music. Modern R&B and hip hop would not be where they are today if it wasn't for the artists who came out of the state. It can be tough narrowing down the best musical artists from Illinois because there are so many to choose from.
Hip hop fans know Chicago is where Kanye West grew up. It is the home of classic rock acts, such as REO Speedwagon, Styx, and Cheap Trick. It is also home to more modern rock. Fall Out Boy and Disturbed both came out of the Prairie State. From heavy metal to sunshine pop, there are plenty of venues around Illinois where acts can hone their craft and develop the skills necessary to tour around the globe. Which singers and bands are from Illinois? Other popular Illinois artists include Juice WRLD, Chance the Rapper, The Smashing Pumpkins, and of course, the rock band Chicago.
Vote for your favorites on this list of famous Illinois musicians. It will not be difficult to find an artist you listen to all the time.
- 1
Born in Alton and raised in East St. Louis, Miles Davis was a groundbreaking jazz musician who forever changed the face of music. As one of the most respected figures in jazz history, Davis was known for his remarkable ability to creatively evolve throughout his career continually. Notable works such as Kind of Blue and Bitches Brew showcase his immense talent and impact on the genre, solidifying him as a true Illinois luminary.
- Albums: Bitches Brew, Kind of Blue, Agharta, Birth of the Cool, Sketches of Spain
- 2
Hailing from Chicago, The Smashing Pumpkins have been a force in the alternative rock scene since their formation in 1988. Fronted by the enigmatic Billy Corgan, the band's distinctive sound, characterized by layers of guitars and introspective lyrics, garnered significant attention both critically and commercially. With iconic tracks like "Tonight, Tonight," "Bullet with Butterfly Wings," and "1979," The Smashing Pumpkins have etched their name in rock history as one of Illinois' finest musical exports.
- Albums: Siamese Dream, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, Oceania, Gish, Adore
The Best Smashing Pumpkins Albums, RankedSee all
- 1Siamese Dream230 Votes
- 2Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness229 Votes
- 3Gish164 Votes
- 3
Formed in 1972, Styx has solidified its place as one of the best musical artists from Illinois. With their unique blend of progressive rock, hard rock, and pop elements, this Chicago-based band has captured the hearts and ears of generations of fans. Their extensive arsenal of hit songs, such as "Come Sail Away," "Renegade," and "Mr. Roboto," showcases their diverse musical prowess and enduring appeal. Styx's enduring legacy is evident in their continued success as they continue to tour and release new music.
- Albums: The Grand Illusion, Paradise Theatre, Pieces of Eight, Kilroy Was Here, Cyclorama
- 4
Raised in Chicago, Sam Cooke is known as one of the most influential singers and songwriters in popular music history. Considered the king of soul with an indelible impact on R&B, gospel, and pop music, Cooke's smooth vocals and captivating performances continue to captivate audiences today. Timeless hits such as "You Send Me" and "A Change Is Gonna Come" are testaments to his incredible talent and significance as a musical artist from Illinois.
- Albums: Night Beat, Shake, Touch the Hem of His Garment: 23 Gospel Gems, Live at the Harlem Square Club, 1963
- 5
Rockford's Cheap Trick has been entertaining audiences with their flawless blend of power pop and hard rock since 1974. Known for their catchy melodies and energetic live performances, the band continues to display an unwavering commitment to their craft. Hits such as "Surrender," "Dream Police," and "I Want You to Want Me" exemplify their unique sound and have made Cheap Trick a staple in the world of rock music.
- Albums: Cheap Trick at Budokan, In Color, Dream Police, Cheap Trick, The Doctor
- 6
Since forming in 1967 as Chicago Transit Authority, this legendary group has become synonymous with classic American rock music infused with jazz elements. Known for creating some of the most memorable songs in popular music history, such as "Saturday in the Park" and "25 or 6 to 4," Chicago's dynamic sound and world-class musicianship have earned them a well-deserved place among Illinois' elite artists.
- Albums: Chicago Transit Authority, Chicago II, Chicago Christmas: What's It Gonna Be, Santa?, Chicago IX: Chicago's Greatest Hits
- 7
Hailing from Champaign, REO Speedwagon rose to fame in the 1970s with their powerful blend of rock and pop ballads. Their classic hits, including "Take It on the Run," "Keep On Loving You," and "Can't Fight This Feeling," have stood the test of time and remain fan favorites today. With decades of success under their belt, REO Speedwagon is undoubtedly one of Illinois' most cherished musical treasures.
- Albums: Live: You Get What You Play For, Good Trouble, Can't Fight This Feeling, The Earth, a Small Man
- 8
One of the most influential blues musicians of all time, Muddy Waters emerged from the vibrant Chicago blues scene in the late 1940s. Born in Mississippi, Waters moved to Chicago to pursue his musical career, ultimately revolutionizing the blues with his pioneering electric guitar sound. His legend lives on through iconic recordings like "Rollin' Stone," "Mannish Boy," and "Hoochie Coochie Man."
- Albums: Anthology, Super Blues, Fathers and Sons, The Father of Chicago Blues, Muddy 'Mississippi' Waters Live
- 9
As a prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, Buddy Guy is a living legend whose influence on blues and rock music is undeniable. Hailing from Lettsworth, Louisiana, Guy moved to Chicago in the 1950s and quickly became known for his emotive guitar playing and dynamic live performances. Collaborating with some of the most prominent musicians of his time, including Muddy Waters and Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy's contributions to blues music have earned him well-deserved recognition as one of Illinois' best musical artists.
- Albums: Damn Right, I've Got the Blues, A Man & the Blues, Sweet Tea, Bring 'Em In
- 10
Few artists have had as profound an impact on contemporary music as Chicago native Kanye West. Since bursting onto the scene with his debut album The College Dropout in 2004, West has consistently pushed boundaries both musically and artistically. His groundbreaking production style and penchant for genre-blending have marked him as one of Illinois' most iconic musical artists with hit songs like "Gold Digger," "Stronger," and "Jesus Walks."
- Albums: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Late Registration, The College Dropout, Watch the Throne, Graduation
The Best Kanye West Albums of All TimeSee all- 1My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy2,877 Votes
- 2The College Dropout2,389 Votes
- 3Late Registration2,071 Votes
- 11
Formed in Wilmette, a suburb of Chicago, pop-punk powerhouse Fall Out Boy exploded onto the scene with their infectious hooks and anthemic songwriting. Since their early beginnings in 2001, the band has continued to produce hit after hit, including fan favorites like "Sugar, We're Goin Down," "Thnks fr th Mmrs," and "Centuries." Fall Out Boy's enduring success cements their position among Illinois' best musical artists.
- Albums: Infinity on High, Save Rock and Roll, From Under the Cork Tree, Take This to Your Grave, Project Rocket / Fall Out Boy
Best Fall Out Boy Albums, RankedSee all- 1Infinity on High170 Votes
- 2From Under the Cork Tree173 Votes
- 3Folie à Deux205 Votes
- 12
Formed in Chicago in 1992, alternative rock band Veruca Salt gained popularity in the mid-'90s with their hard-hitting debut album American Thighs. Their combination of grungy guitars, driving rhythms, and memorable lyrics led to hit songs like "Seether" and "Volcano Girls." Veruca Salt's contributions to the '90s rock scene make them a standout in Illinois' rich musical landscape.
- Albums: Eight Arms to Hold You, American Thighs, Blow It out Your Ass It's Veruca Salt, Tonight and the Rest of My Life, Resolver
- 13
Born and raised in Chicago, Curtis Mayfield was a multifaceted artist known for his soulful voice, innovative guitar playing, and poignant songwriting. As a driving force behind the Impressions, as well as through his successful solo career, Mayfield's impact on soul music and social activism is undeniable. His influential body of work includes such revered classics as "Move On Up," "People Get Ready," and "Superfly."
- Albums: Superfly, Curtis, The Anthology: 1961-1977, Curtis/Live!, Roots
Born in Jasper County, Illinois, Burl Ives was a prolific folk singer and actor known for his warm, distinctive voice and memorable storytelling. Ives' vast catalog of music included both traditional folk tunes and original compositions. His enduring legacy can be heard in classic recordings such as "Blue Tail Fly" and "Big Rock Candy Mountain."
- Albums: Have a Holly Jolly Christmas, Christmas at the White House, Christmas by the Bay, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Christmas Day in the Morning
Every Burl Ives Movie, RankedSee all- 1The Big Country47 Votes
- 2Cat on a Hot Tin Roof39 Votes
- 3The New Adventures of Heidi6 Votes
- 15
Founded in 1977 in Chicago, Survivor is best known for their iconic 1982 hit "Eye of the Tiger," which became synonymous with the Rocky film series. The band's powerful mix of hard rock and melodic pop anthems has made them a staple in classic rock history. With additional hits like "Burning Heart" and "Is This Love," Survivor deserves recognition as one of the top musical artists from Illinois.
- Albums: Eye of the Tiger, Reach, Survivor, Vital Signs, When Seconds Count
- 16
Born in Chicago in 1909, Benny Goodman is remembered as one of the most prominent figures in jazz history. Known as the "King of Swing," Goodman's innovative approach to music and his extraordinary clarinet playing helped popularize big band and swing music throughout the 1930s and 1940s. His memorable recordings, including "Sing, Sing, Sing" and "Stompin' at the Savoy," continue to captivate audiences today.
- Albums: The Famous Carnegie Hall Jazz Concert 1938, 1938 Carnegie Hall Jazz Concert, B.G. in Hi-Fi, Part One, Giants of Jazz
- 17
Hailing from Lombard, a suburb of Chicago, Plain White T's achieved widespread popularity with their infectious blend of pop-punk and emo-rock. Their 2006 smash hit "Hey There Delilah" received critical acclaim and garnered multiple award nominations, securing their place among the best musical artists from Illinois.
- Albums: Stop, All That We Needed, Every Second Counts, Come On Over, Hey There Delilah
The Best Plain White T's Albums, RankedSee all- 1Every Second Counts12 Votes
- 2Wonders of the Younger10 Votes
- 3All That We Needed10 Votes
- 18
Chicago-born Herbie Hancock has long been regarded as one of the most inventive jazz musicians of all time. With a career spanning over five decades, Hancock's diverse contributions to music have transcended genres and influenced countless artists. In addition to his innovative work in jazz-funk fusion with groundbreaking albums like Head Hunters and Thrust, Hancock's unforgettable hit "Rockit" has cemented him as an integral part of Illinois' rich musical heritage.
- Albums: Maiden Voyage, Jazz Africa, Tempest in the Colosseum, Inventions & Dimensions, Dedication
- 19
Chicago-based sisters Sheila, Wanda, and Jeanette Hutchinson formed The Emotions in the 1960s and quickly made their mark in the world of R&B and soul music. Their powerful harmonies delivered unforgettable hits such as "Best of My Love" and "Don't Ask My Neighbors," solidifying their place among Illinois' most influential musical artists.
- Albums: So I Can Love You, Flowers, Rejoice, Best of My Love: The Best of the Emotions, Untouched
- 20
Champaign native Alison Krauss is a virtuoso bluegrass fiddler and singer who has become one of the most highly regarded artists in her genre. With numerous accolades to her name, including 27 Grammy Awards, Krauss' angelic voice and flawless musicianship have captivated audiences worldwide. Her collaborations with Robert Plant and Union Station showcase her immense talent and versatility within the world of bluegrass and roots music.
- Albums: Raising Sand, So Long So Wrong, Paper Airplane, Every Time You Say Goodbye, I've Got That Old Feeling
- 21
Hailing from Chicago, Ray Manzarek was a founding member and keyboardist of the influential rock band The Doors. His unique and innovative playing style helped create the band's unmistakable sound, as heard on classics like "Light My Fire" and "Riders on the Storm." Manzarek's distinct keyboard work solidifies his status as one of Illinois' most significant musical figures.
- Albums: The Golden Scarab, Carmina Burana (Ray Manzarek), The Whole Thing Started With Rock & Roll Now It's Out of Control, The Doors Myth And Reality, Bleeding Paradise
- 22
Hailing from Calumet Park, a suburb of Chicago, Juice WRLD took the rap world by storm with his emo-infused hip-hop and introspective lyrics. Though his life was tragically cut short at just 21 years old, Juice WRLD left an indelible mark on the music industry with hits like "Lucid Dreams" and "All Girls Are The Same." His emotive storytelling and genre-blurring style continue to resonate with fans, making him one of Illinois' most notable musical talents.
- Albums: Goodbye & Good Riddance
- 23
Emerging from Chicago's thriving alternative music scene in the late 1980s, The Jesus Lizard made a name for themselves as a formidable noise rock band with a chaotic and captivating live presence. Their raw and abrasive sound, as heard on tracks like "Mouth Breather" and "Monkey Trick," helped to define an era in underground rock music and land them a top spot among Illinois' musical artists.
- Albums: Liar, Goat, Pure, Puss/Oh, the Guilt
- 24
One of the most successful heavy metal bands hailing from Illinois, Disturbed was formed in Chicago in 1994. Known for their aggressive sound and powerful vocals by lead singer David Draiman, the band has released multiple chart-topping albums and singles throughout their career. Hits like "Down With The Sickness" and their haunting cover of Simon & Garfunkel's "The Sound Of Silence" have made Disturbed a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy metal.
- Albums: Ten Thousand Fists, Believe, The Sickness, Indestructible, Music as a Weapon II
- 25
Formed in Chicago in 1984, alternative rock band Urge Overkill made waves throughout the 1990s with their eclectic blend of grunge, glam, and punk influences. Their cover of Neil Diamond's "Girl, You'll Be A Woman Soon," which featured prominently on the Pulp Fiction soundtrack, helped catapult them into mainstream success.
- Albums: Saturation, Exit the Dragon, The Supersonic Storybook, Americruiser, Rock & Roll Submarine
- 26
Born Chancelor Bennett in Chicago, Chance The Rapper has become a revolutionary figure in the world of hip-hop. With his unique blend of conscious rap, gospel influences, and soulful production, Chance has made a significant impact on the music industry while maintaining his independence as an artist. His groundbreaking mixtape Coloring Book earned him accolades and solidified his status as one of Illinois' most influential artists.
- Albums: Acid Rap, Confident, Songs from Scratch: Paranoia
- 27
Hailing from Chicago, The Buckinghams were a popular rock group in the mid to late 1960s. Known for their infectious pop-rock sound and tight vocal harmonies, they produced chart-topping hits like "Kind of A Drag" and "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy." The Buckinghams' lasting impact on the music scene cements their status as one of the best musical talents from Illinois.
- Albums: Made in Chicago, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy (A Collection), In One Ear and Gone Tomorrow
- 28
Naked Raygun emerged from Chicago's punk rock scene in the early 1980s as a driving force behind its development and growth. Known for their melodic approach to punk and distinctive vocals by frontman Jeff Pezzati, Naked Raygun left an indelible mark on both punk music and Chicago's musical history.
- Albums: Jettison, All Rise, Throb Throb, Basement Screams, Last of the Demohicans
- 29
Formed in Chicago in 1994 after the breakup of alternative country band Uncle Tupelo, Wilco has gone on to become one of the most respected groups in modern American rock music. Their experimental approach to songwriting and recording has resulted in several highly acclaimed albums such as Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, further securing their position as one of the best musical artists from Illinois.
- Albums: Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, Summerteeth, Being There, A Ghost Is Born, Mermaid Avenue
- 30
The Staple Singers, a gospel and soul group from Chicago, was active from the 1950s to the 1990s, impacting generations of listeners with their distinctive harmonies and messages of hope and activism. Led by patriarch Roebuck "Pops" Staples, the family group recorded classics like "I'll Take You There" and "Respect Yourself," helping to define an era in American music history. Their inspiring influence makes them one of the best musical artists from Illinois.
- Albums: The Staple Swingers, Be What You Are, Be Altitude: Respect Yourself, The Ultimate Staple Singers: A Family Affair 1955-1984, Let's Do It Again
- 31
Head East
Hard melodic rock with progressive rock tendenciesFormed in Champaign, Illinois, in 1969, rock band Head East is best known for their hit single "Never Been Any Reason," which remains a classic rock staple today. Their energetic live performances and memorable songwriting have earned them a loyal fan base within the world of classic rock.
- Albums: Flat as a Pancake, Get Yourself Up, Gettin' Lucky, Head East, Live!
- 32
Formed in Zion, Illinois in 1990, Local H gained notoriety for their unique grunge-infused alt-rock sound and innovative two-member lineup featuring both guitar and drums. Best known for their hit single "Bound For The Floor," Local H's distinctive arrangements have earned them both critical acclaim and a devoted fan base within the rock community.
- Albums: Pack Up the Cats, The '92 Demos, Half-Life EP, Twelve Angry Months, As Good as Dead
- 33
Chicago native Jennifer Hudson first gained fame as a contestant on American Idol in 2004. Since then, her powerful vocals and acting talents have earned her numerous awards and critical praise, including an Academy Award for her role in Dreamgirls and a Grammy for her debut album. Hudson's undeniable talent places her among Illinois' top musical artists.
- Albums: Jennifer Hudson, I Remember Me, Think Like a Man, No One Gonna Love You, I Remember Me
- 34
Born in Chicago in 1945, Donny Hathaway was a soul and R&B singer-songwriter known for his emotive vocals and skillful piano playing. His memorable duets with Roberta Flack, including "Where Is The Love" and "The Closer I Get To You," as well as his moving rendition of "A Song For You," showcase Hathaway's immense talent and make him one of Illinois' most cherished artists.
- Albums: Extension of a Man, Donny Hathaway, Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway, Roberta Flack Featuring Donny Hathaway, Everything Is Everything
- 35
Chicago-born Minnie Riperton was an R&B and soul singer with a remarkable five-octave vocal range. Best known for her 1975 hit "Lovin' You," Riperton's angelic voice continues to inspire generations of singers. Her influence on the world of soul music earns her a place among the best musical artists from Illinois.
- Albums: Adventures in Paradise, Come to My Garden, Her Chess Years (feat. The Gems & Rotary Connection), Stay in Love, Minnie
- 36
Chicago native Common has been an influential figure in hip-hop since the release of his debut album Can I Borrow a Dollar? in 1992. With a conscious lyrical style and a unique sense of storytelling, Common has released numerous critically acclaimed albums throughout his career and collaborated with other industry giants like Kanye West and John Legend.
- Albums: Resurrection, Be, Like Water for Chocolate, One Day It'll All Make Sense, Electric Circus
The Best Common Albums of All TimeSee all- 1Be85 Votes
- 2Like Water for Chocolate64 Votes
- 3Resurrection47 Votes
- 37
Born and raised in Chicago, Peter Cetera is best known as a founding member and lead vocalist of the iconic rock band Chicago. His smooth, powerful voice can be heard on beloved tracks such as "If You Leave Me Now" and "Hard To Say I'm Sorry." In addition to his work with Chicago, Cetera has also enjoyed a successful solo career, further solidifying his place among Illinois' top musical artists.
- Albums: You Just Gotta Love Christmas, World Falling Down, One More Story, Another Perfect World, Solitude/Solitaire
- 38
Guitarist Tom Morello, originally from Harlem, moved to the Chicago suburb of Libertyville at a young age. He later co-founded the groundbreaking rock band Rage Against The Machine, where his innovative guitar playing helped define the band's unique sound. Morello's contributions to rock music and social activism make him one of Illinois' most influential musicians.
- Albums: One Man Revolution, World Wide Rebel Songs, Live at Lime with Tom Morello: The Nightwatchman, Union Town, The Fabled City
- 39
Fronted by Al Jourgensen, Ministry is an influential industrial metal band that first emerged from the Chicago music scene in 1981. Known for their aggressive sound and controversial lyrics, Ministry's groundbreaking records such as The Land of Rape and Honey and Psalm 69 have left a lasting impact on the heavy metal landscape.
- Albums: Psalm 69: The Way to Succeed and the Way to Suck Eggs, The Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Taste, The Land of Rape and Honey, Animositisomina, Houses of the Molé
- 40
Didjits
Punk rockFormed in Mattoon, Illinois, in 1983, punk rock band Didjits gained a cult following with their intense live shows and unique blend of punk, garage rock, and surf elements. Known for their often irreverent lyrics and in-your-face attitude, Didjits made a lasting impression on the punk music scene both in Illinois and beyond.
- Albums: Hey Judester, Fizzjob, Full Nelson Reilly, Que Sirhan Sirhan, Hornet Pinata
- 41
Chicago-based OK Go first gained fame with their quirky and innovative music videos, which have garnered millions of views on YouTube. Their catchy blend of power pop and alternative rock has produced several memorable hits, such as "Here It Goes Again" and "This Too Shall Pass," making them one of the best musical artists from Illinois.
- Albums: Of the Blue Colour of the Sky, Oh No, OK Go, Twelve Days of OK Go, You're Not Alone
- 42
Hailing from Peoria, Illinois, Mudvayne formed in 1996 and quickly gained notoriety for their aggressive blend of metal, progressive rock, and experimental elements. With albums like L.D. 50 and The End of All Things to Come, Mudvayne helped shape the sound of heavy music in the early 2000s, making them one of Illinois' most essential metal bands.
- Albums: Kill, I Oughtta, L.D. 50, By the People, for the People
- 43
Formed in Chicago in 1953, doo-wop group The Flamingos are best known for their 1959 hit single "I Only Have Eyes For You." With their smooth harmonies and romantic melodies, The Flamingos continue to be celebrated as an essential part of Illinois' musical heritage.
- Albums: Rock, Rock, Rock, For Collectors Only, I Only Have Eyes for You: The Best of the End Years
- 44
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Buddy Miles moved to Chicago in his teenage years. As a drummer and vocalist, Miles contributed to both the rock and R&B scenes by collaborating with legends like Jimi Hendrix and Wilson Pickett. His influence as a musician earned him a place among the best musical artists from Illinois.
- Albums: Carlos Santana and Buddy Miles - Live! / Love Devotion Surrender, All the Faces of Buddy Miles, A Message to the People, Blues Berries, Sneak Attack
- 45
Formed in Chicago in the early 1990s, Tortoise is an instrumental rock band known for their eclectic blend of genres such as jazz, electronica, and minimalism. Their intricate compositions helped pioneer the experimental post-rock movement, making them a must-listen for any fan of innovative music from Illinois.
- Albums: Standards, Millions Now Living Will Never Die, The Brave and the Bold, Mosquito, TNT
- 46
Originating from Chicago, The Chi-Lites were a soulful vocal group active during the 1960s and '70s. Known for their sweet harmonies and memorable love songs, their hit singles "Oh Girl" and "Have You Seen Her" solidified their standing as one of Illinois' finest musical acts.
- Albums: The Complete The Chi-Lites on Brunswick, Volume 1, The Chi-Lites, A Lonely Man, A Letter to Myself
- 47
Born in Chicago, Richard Marx rose to prominence as a pop-rock singer-songwriter in the late 1980s and early 1990s. With hits like "Right Here Waiting," "Endless Summer Nights," and "Hold On To The Nights," Marx's catchy tunes and heartfelt lyrics have made him one of Illinois' most beloved musical artists.
- Albums: Richard Marx, My Own Best Enemy, Repeat Offender, Rush Street, Channel V at the Hard Rock Live
- 48The Squids were a Chicago-based punk band that was created by Chicago born singer/songwriter Joey Spatafora and William LaTour also known as LaTour. The Squids broke up in 2005. and toured and recorded from 1990 to 2002. They performed the 6th Annual Chicago FreeFest. Other band members included Bolander Davis on guitar, Judy Johnson on bass, and Jimmy Vass on drums. The band later featured Emery Joe Yost on bass in 1994, Dave Hunt on drums in 1996, and keyboard player Scot Bahry who would sit in for LaTour when the latter was on tour to promote his solo albums.
- 49Eugene Bertram Krupa (January 15, 1909 – October 16, 1973) was an American jazz drummer, band leader, actor, and composer known for his energetic style and showmanship. His drum solo on "Sing, Sing, Sing" (1937) elevated the role of the drummer from an accompanying line to an important solo voice in the band. In collaboration with the Slingerland drum and Zildjian cymbal manufacturers, he was a major force in defining the standard band drummer's kit. Krupa is considered "the founding father of the modern drumset" by Modern Drummer magazine.
- Albums: Big Bands: Gene Krupa, The Instrumental Mr. Krupa, The Chronological Classics: Gene Krupa 1952-1953, Giants of the Big Band Era, Bolero at The Savoy
- 50
Hailing from Chicago, psychedelic rock band Coven emerged in the late 1960s with their unique blend of occult-inspired themes and dark imagery. Their debut album Witchcraft Destroys Minds & Reaps Souls has since become a cult classic for fans of atmospheric rock music.
- Albums: Witchcraft Destroys Minds & Reaps Souls, Coven, Blood on the Snow, Metal Goth Queen - Out of the Vault
- 51
James JY Young, a native of Chicago, is best known as the guitarist, vocalist, and founding member of the rock band Styx. His powerful guitar riffs and distinctive vocals have played a significant role in shaping the band's iconic sound over the years. Young's contributions to Styx and the rock music landscape solidify his status as one of Illinois' top musical talents.
- Albums: City Slicker, Out on a Day Pass, Raised by Wolves
- 52Rise Against is an American punk rock band from Chicago. The group's current line-up comprises vocalist/rhythm guitarist Tim McIlrath, lead guitarist Zach Blair, bassist Joe Principe and drummer Brandon Barnes. Rooted in hardcore punk and melodic hardcore, Rise Against's music emphasizes melody, catchy hooks, aggression in both their sound and playing, and rapid tempos. Lyrically, the band is known for their outspoken social commentary, covering a wide range of topics such as animal rights, economic injustice, environmental disasters, forced displacement, homophobia, modern warfare, and political corruption. The band spent its first four years signed to the independent record label Fat Wreck Chords, on which they released two studio albums, The Unraveling (2001) and Revolutions per Minute (2003). Both the albums were met with underground success, and in 2003 the band signed with the major label Dreamworks, which was absorbed by Geffen. Rise Against's major label debut Siren Song of the Counter Culture (2004) brought the band mainstream success, largely in part to the popularity of the singles "Give It All" and "Swing Life Away". The band's next album, The Sufferer & the Witness (2006), peaked at number ten on the Billboard 200 in the United States, and was Rise Against's first album to chart in countries outside of North America. With the release of Appeal to Reason (2008), Rise Against's music shifted toward a more accessible and radio-friendly sound, with greater emphasis on production value. The album's third single, "Savior", broke the record for the most consecutive weeks spent on both the Hot Rock Songs and Modern Rock Tracks charts. Rise Against's popularity grew with the release of Endgame (2011), which peaked at number two on the Billboard 200, and charted highly worldwide. The band's two most recent albums, The Black Market (2014) and Wolves (2017) continued the trend of commercial success, and both peaked with the top ten on the Billboard 200. Rise Against is also known for their advocacy of progressivism, supporting organizations such as Amnesty International and the It Gets Better Project. The band actively promotes animal rights and most of the members are straight edge (excluding Barnes), PETA supporters and vegetarians.
- Albums: The Sufferer & the Witness, The Unraveling, Siren Song of the Counter Culture, Appeal to Reason, RPM10
- 53
Emerging from Evanston, Illinois, Big Black was a noise rock and post-hardcore band active from 1981 to 1987. Founded by Steve Albini, the group developed a fierce reputation for their aggressive sound and confrontational lyrics that tackled various social issues. As one of the bands that helped shape the underground noise rock movement in the 1980s, Big Black unquestionably ranks among Illinois' best musical artists.
- Albums: Songs About Fucking, Atomizer, Lungs, The Hammer Party, The Rich Man's Eight Track Tape
54The New Colony Six 60s pop band from Chicago
- 55Elizabeth Eden Harris (born May 31, 1997), known professionally as Cupcakke (often stylized as cupcakKe), is an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois. Harris began her career as a rapper by releasing material online in late 2012. In 2015, two of her songs went viral on video sharing websites such as YouTube and WorldStarHipHop. Following the release of her mixtapes, Harris debuted her album Audacious in 2016. Her second studio album Queen Elizab*tch was released in 2017. In 2018, it was followed by her third studio album Ephorize. Later in the year of 2018, Cupcakke released Eden on November 9, 2018. Harris is often noted for her hyper-sexualized, brazen, and often comical persona and music. Since her debut, Harris has developed a strong online fanbase, whom she nicknamed "slurpers". Harris has also used her songs as a platform to advocate for LGBT rights and encourage female empowerment.
