The Best Country Singers From Michigan
Here are the best country artists and country bands from Michigan. Michigan is not necessarily known for its country music scene. The state, and Detroit in particular, have been incredibly important for various other musical genres, such as Motown, punk rock and techno. However, that is not to say a lot of famous country artists did not come from the Great Lakes State. In fact, some of the biggest country stars of all time were either born or raised here. There are plenty of country singers from Michigan, and some of the names on this list may surprise you.
Kid Rock may have started in rock and hip hop, but he later found a voice in the country music scene. His first real country success came when he collaborated on the ballad "Picture" with Sheryl Crow. He was introduced to a wider audience and has come out with numerous other country singles in the years since. Some other popular artists in the country scene that came out of the state include Uncle Kraker, Frankie Ballard, and Josh Gracin.
Have you ever asked yourself, "Which country singers are from Michigan?" You no longer have to wonder because the best ones are on this list. Vote for the artists you listen to all the time.
Uncle Kracker, a multifaceted talent from Mount Clemens, Michigan, has effortlessly sewn the fabric of his home state's diverse musical influences into his own brand of country, rock, and hip-hop. His soulful voice and poignant lyrics have struck a chord with listeners, earning him a loyal following that thrives on his heartfelt songwriting. Dipping into Michigan's rich history of blues, rock, and Motown, Uncle Kracker has woven these threads into a tapestry that has expanded the state's country music scene since the early 2000s. With hits like "Smile" and "Follow Me," this down-to-earth artist has successfully put Michigan on the country music map.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Uncle Kracker
- "Follow Me"
- "Drift Away"
- "Smile"Dive Into Uncle Kracker's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "I Don't Know"
- "No Stranger to Shame"Originally from Rochester Hills, Michigan, Jana Kramer's dynamic career as both an actress and country singer demonstrates her undeniable talent and versatility. Drawing upon her Michigan roots, Kramer produces heartfelt country melodies that resonate deeply with her Midwest fanbase, creating a unique blend of authenticity and relatability that sets her apart. From her debut album in 2012 to her hit single "I Got the Boy" in 2015, Jana Kramer's meteoric rise to fame has helped showcase Michigan's rich pool of musical talent and endeared her to fans across the country. Her honest storytelling, paired with an unyielding work ethic, embodies the spirit of Michigan, amplifying its presence in the national country music scene.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Jana Kramer
- "Why Ya Wanna"
- "I Got the Boy"
- "Circles"Dive Into Jana Kramer's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Don't Touch My Radio"
- "Twenty -One"Hailing from Flint, Michigan, Whitey Morgan and the 78's have brought a distinctive brand of honky-tonk country to the Great Lakes State, combining their blue-collar upbringing with a die-hard love for classic country sounds. Their gritty, authentic music captures the struggles and triumphs of everyday life and reflects the resilience of their hometown. With albums like Sonic Ranch and Hard Times and White Lines, this band has not only carved out a niche for themselves in Michigan's country scene but also bolstered its reputation as a hotbed for innovative, heartfelt music. Whitey Morgan and the 78's stand as a shining example of Michigan's diverse and talented country artists.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Whitey Morgan and the 78's
- "Bad News"
- "Ain't Gonna Take It Anymore"
- "Honky Tonk Hell"Dive Into Whitey Morgan and the 78's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Turn Up the Bottle"
- "Prove It All to You"Hailing from the gritty streets of Detroit, Kid Rock is a shining example of how an artist can seamlessly blend different genres to create a sound that's quintessentially Michigan. His raucous blend of country, rock, and hip-hop embodies the essence of blue-collar America and showcases the resilience, determination, and heart of his home state. Kid Rock's extensive catalog, including hits like "Cowboy" and "Picture," spotlight his chameleonic prowess, allowing him to not only bridge the gap between musical styles but also catapult the Michigan music scene forward into the national spotlight. As a staunch advocate for Michigan's cultural identity, Kid Rock has undoubtedly earned his place among the pantheon of Michigan's best country singers.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Kid Rock
- "Bawitdaba"
- "Cowboy"
- "All Summer Long"Dive Into Kid Rock's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Black Bob"
- "Lonely Road of Faith"Born and raised in Battle Creek, Michigan, Frankie Ballard's affinity for blending his hometown's diverse musical influences with classic country elements has solidified his status as one of Michigan's most celebrated artists. With his powerhouse vocals and electrifying guitar skills, Ballard effectively captures the essence of what it means to be a proud Michigander. His chart-topping songs, such as "Sunshine & Whiskey" and "Young & Crazy," have left an indelible mark on both the country music landscape and Michigan's own flourishing scene. Frankie Ballard's ability to fuse different genres with an innate sense of heart and soul stands as a testament to Michigan's rich musical heritage, garnering him respect and admiration from fans and critics alike.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Frankie Ballard
- "Sunshine & Whiskey"
- "Young & Crazy"
- "Helluva Life"Dive Into Frankie Ballard's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Rescue Me"
- "Cigarette"Born in Detroit, Michigan, J.D. Souther's remarkable career as a singer-songwriter has spanned over four decades, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend rock, pop, and country into his own unique sound. Drawing on his roots in Motown and the midwestern work ethic, Souther has amassed an impressive catalog of songs that speak to the heart of the American experience. His collaborations with artists like Linda Ronstadt and the Eagles demonstrate the impact Michigan's music has had on the broader country landscape. As a true representation of homegrown talent from the Wolverine State, J.D. Souther's enduring influence on contemporary country music remains undiminished.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From J. D. Souther
- "You're Only Lonely"
- "Her Town Too"
- "The Sad Café"Dive Into J. D. Souther's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Silver Blue"
- "Simple Man, Simple Dream"Detroit's own Paul Franklin is a world-renowned pedal steel guitarist whose immense talent has placed him in high demand as a session musician, producer, and writer in the country music industry. His innovative playing techniques and deep understanding of various musical genres reflect the diverse influences of his home state. As a member of the acclaimed “Nashville A-Team,” Franklin, a two-time CMA Musician of the Year, has made significant contributions to shaping the modern sound of country music. By pushing the boundaries of the pedal steel guitar and showcasing Michigan's musical depth, Paul Franklin has reinforced his state's reputation as a wellspring of extraordinary talent.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Paul Franklin
- "Rose Colored Glasses"
- "The Visit"
- "The End of the World"Dive Into Paul Franklin's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "King of the Road"
- "Cry Me a River"Westland, Michigan native Josh Gracin rose to fame as a finalist on American Idol, introducing the nation to a new brand of country that combines pop sensibilities with Michigan's rich musical heritage. His powerful vocals and energetic performances have endeared him to fans all over the world, revitalizing interest in Michigan's country music scene. With chart-topping singles like "Nothin' to Lose" and "Stay with Me (Brass Bed)," Gracin has proven that he's a force to be reckoned with, elevating Michigan's status as a breeding ground for exceptional country talent. Josh Gracin's unwavering passion for music and commitment to his home state make him an undeniable part of Michigan's country legacy.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Josh Gracin
- "Nothin' to Lose"
- "Stay with Me (Brass Bed)"
- "We Weren't Crazy"Dive Into Josh Gracin's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Favorite State of Mind"
- "Edge of Desire"Ann Arbor native Bill Kirchen is a master of the Telecaster guitar, seamlessly blending elements of country, rock, and blues to create his own innovative sound. Known as the "Titan of the Telecaster," Kirchen's expert musicianship and engaging stage presence have earned him a dedicated following spanning across genres. As a founding member of the seminal band Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen, Kirchen has contributed to the evolution of country music while proudly representing Michigan's diverse musical landscape. His unyielding passion for and dedication to his craft make him an invaluable ambassador for the Wolverine State's rich musical history.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Bill Kirchen
- "Hot Rod Lincoln"
- "Hammer of the Honky Tonk Gods"
- "Rockabilly Funeral"Dive Into Bill Kirchen's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Seeds and Stems (Again)"
- "Flip Flop"Renaissance man Pete Anderson, born in Detroit, Michigan, has left an indelible mark on the country music world as a guitarist, producer, and songwriter. Raised on the sounds of rock, blues, and Motown, Anderson's unique musical sensibility has allowed him to collaborate with legends like Dwight Yoakam and produce groundbreaking albums that have redefined the genre. His guitar prowess is matched only by his dedication to the craft, shining a light on his home state's vibrant music scene and bringing it to an international stage. Through his innovative approach to country music, Pete Anderson proudly represents Michigan's diverse and influential musical heritage.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Pete Anderson
- "Working Class"
- "Honky Tonk Girl"
- "Wes' Side Blues"Dive Into Pete Anderson's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "36 Hour Day"
- "Dogbone Shuffle"- 11
Blanche
Detroit-based band Blanche fuses elements of traditional country, folk, and indie rock to create a sound that is distinctively their own, channeling the rich tapestry of Michigan's musical past. The group's haunting melodies and evocative storytelling exemplify the raw, authentic spirit that Michigan is known for, offering listeners a fresh take on country music that defies classification. With critically acclaimed albums like If We Can't Trust the Doctors... and Little Amber Bottles, Blanche has contributed to the expansion of the local music scene while simultaneously garnering national attention. Their innovative approach to genre blending further cements Michigan's reputation as a hotbed for groundbreaking country artists.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Blanche
- "Do You Trust Me?"
- "Jack on Fire"
- "Who's to Say"Dive Into Blanche's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Superstition"
- "I'm Sure of It" Singer-songwriter Joy Williams, originally from Mount Hermon, Michigan, possesses a transcendent voice that effortlessly walks the line between country, folk, and pop. Her ability to channel the raw, emotional experiences of life into her music showcases the authenticity that embodies Michigan's musical culture. With albums like Venus and Front Porch, Williams has garnered critical acclaim and established herself as a major talent in the country music world. Her unique sound and evocative songwriting have expanded the reach of Michigan's vibrant music scene, solidifying her place among the state's best country singers.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Joy Williams
- "Don't Let Me Down"
- "Front Porch"
- "When Creation Was Young"Dive Into Joy Williams' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Ordinary World"
- "Speaking a Dead Language"A true testament to Michigan's versatile talent pool, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Anita Cochran hails from South Lyon and has been a force in the country music industry since the 1990s. Her heartfelt storytelling and skillful musicianship showcase the soulfulness that runs deep in Michigan's cultural roots. With hits like "What If I Said," a duet with Steve Wariner, Cochran has placed her home state firmly on the map of country music's most influential artists. Her passion for her craft and unwavering connection to her Michigan upbringing make her a worthy ambassador for the Great Lakes State.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Anita Cochran
- "What If I Said" (with Steve Wariner)
- "Daddy Can You See Me"
- "For Crying Out Loud"Dive Into Anita Cochran's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Every Time It Rains"
- "Last Kiss"- 14
Randy Barlow
The late Randy Barlow, a native of Detroit, Michigan, made his mark on the country music scene in the 1970s and '80s with his smooth vocals and soulful songwriting. Drawing upon the rich musical history of his hometown, Barlow crafted a sound that exemplified the fusion of Motown and country influences. His successful singles, such as "Slow and Easy" and "Sweet Melinda," earned him a loyal fan base and helped bring attention to Michigan's burgeoning country music scene. As a pioneering country artist from the Wolverine State, Randy Barlow played a crucial role in establishing Michigan as a breeding ground for talented musicians.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Randy Barlow
- "Slow and Easy"
- "Willow Run"
- "Twenty -Four Hours from Tulsa"Dive Into Randy Barlow's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "A Tear Fell"
- "Lay Back In The Arms Of Someone" Hailing from Nashville, Michigan, Stephen Cochran is a passionate country singer-songwriter who uses his experiences as a United States Marine to create authentic, poignant music. His dedication to sharing stories of military life and his undeniable talent have garnered him respect and admiration from fans and fellow musicians alike. With hits like "Friday Night Fireside" and "Thinkin' I'm Drinkin'," Cochran has successfully put his small-town Michigan roots on the country music radar. As an ambassador for the Wolverine State's music scene, Stephen Cochran proudly showcases the heart and soul that define Michigan's artistic identity.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Stephen Cochran
- "Friday Night Fireside"
- "Thinking I'm Drinking"
- "Ain't No Sunshine"Dive Into Stephen Cochran's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Walgreens"
- "Breaking My Heart Again"- 16
Leroy Drumm
Leroy Drumm, a native of Three Rivers, Michigan, was a talented singer-songwriter who made significant contributions to the world of country and bluegrass music throughout his career. Drawing from his experiences growing up in rural Michigan, Drumm penned heartfelt, honest songs that resonated with fans across the country. His song "Tennessee Stud," famously recorded by Doc Watson, stands as a testament to his ability to capture the essence of country music in his writing. Leroy Drumm's enduring legacy as a skilled songwriter and proud Michigander continues to influence the current generation of musicians in his home state.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Leroy Drumm
- "Keepin' My Mind on My Job"
- "Takin' No Prisoners"
- "Heart Over Mind"Dive Into Leroy Drumm's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Honky Tonk Wine"
- "The Notorious Cherry Bombs" - 17
Johnny Powers
Johnny Powers, hailing from East Detroit, Michigan, has been a mainstay in the rockabilly and country music scene since the 1950s. His energetic performances and distinctive vocal style exemplify the heart and soul of Michigan's thriving music industry. With hits like "Long Blond Hair" and "Rock Rock," Powers has left an indelible mark on the world of rockabilly and country music, helping to shape and expand Michigan's musical influence. As a pioneering artist from the Great Lakes State, Johnny Powers holds a special place in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Johnny Powers
- "Long Blond Hair, Red Rose Lips"
- "Rockabilly Boogie"
- "With Your Love, With Your Kiss"Dive Into Johnny Powers' History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Mama Rock"
- "Honey Let's Go (To a Rock & Roll Show)" Born in Detroit, Amos Garrett is a gifted guitarist and songwriter who has left an indelible mark on the country, blues, and jazz music scenes. His unique guitar style, which combines fingerpicking and a masterful use of the slide, embodies the spirit and diversity of Michigan's musical heritage. As a former member of Ian & Sylvia's band, Great Speckled Bird, and a collaborator with artists like Maria Muldaur and Stevie Wonder, Amos Garrett has showcased Michigan's vibrant music culture on a global stage. His unparalleled talent and versatility serve as an inspiration to aspiring musicians across the Great Lakes State and beyond.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Amos Garrett
- "Midnight at the Oasis"
- "Buried Alive in the Blues"
- "Cockroach Named Partner"Dive Into Amos Garrett's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Too Much Whiskey"
- "Lost Love"- 19
Harlan Howard
Born in the small town of Detroit, Michigan, Harlan Howard is hailed as one of country music's most prolific songwriters, penning numerous chart-topping hits for legendary artists like Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash. With an innate ability to craft poignant lyrics that resonated deeply with listeners, Howard's Michigan roots provided a foundation for his authentic, heartfelt storytelling. Often referred to as the "Dean of Nashville Songwriters," Harlan Howard left an indelible mark on the country music landscape while proudly representing Michigan's rich musical heritage. His enduring influence continues to inspire a new generation of songwriters in the Great Lakes State and beyond.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Harlan Howard
- "Busted"
- "Heartaches by the Number"
- "I Fall to Pieces"Dive Into Harlan Howard's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Sunday Morning Christian"
- "Yours Love" While most widely known for his illustrious career in Hollywood, action star Steven Seagal boasts an impressive musical pedigree as well. Born in Lansing, Michigan, Seagal is a talented guitarist and singer who brings a bluesy, roots-infused sound to his country music repertoire. Drawing from his diverse background and his home state's rich musical tapestry, Seagal has crafted a unique sound that distinguishes him as a true multi-hyphenate artist. With his penchant for storytelling and his dedication to the art, Steven Seagal adds yet another layer to Michigan's deeply varied musical foundation.
Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Steven Seagal
- "Songs from the Crystal Cave"
- "Mojo Priest"
- "Alligator Ass"Dive Into Steven Seagal's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
- "Red Rooster"
- "Strut"
