Notable Singers from West Virginia
From soulful music to heavy metal, West Virginia has produced a diverse range of talented musicians who have left their mark on the music industry. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable singers from this state.
Bill Withers: Soulful Music and Honesty
Bill Withers is one of West Virginia’s most famous singers, known for his soulful music and honest lyrics. Born in Slab Fork, West Virginia in 1938, Withers moved to Los Angeles in 1967 to pursue a career in music.
His debut album, “Just As I Am,” was released in 1971 and included the hit song “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Withers went on to release a string of successful albums and worked with notable artists such as Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson. Withers’ musical style is rooted in soul, folk, and blues, with a focus on storytelling and authenticity.
His songs often touch on themes of love, heartache, and perseverance, using simple yet effective lyrics to convey his message. Withers’ honesty and rawness have made his music stand the test of time, with hits like “Lean On Me” and “Lovely Day” still being played and loved today.
In 2015, Withers was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further cementing his status as a music icon. His influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary artists, including John Legend and Ed Sheeran.
The Lilly Brothers: Bluegrass and Harmonies
Another notable singer from West Virginia is the Lilly Brothers, known for their contributions to bluegrass and folk music. They were born in Boston, Massachusetts, but spent much of their childhood summers in Bluefield, West Virginia, where they were exposed to the sounds of traditional Appalachian music.
The Lilly Brothers went on to form a band and record several albums. Their signature sound is characterized by intricate harmonies and skilled musicianship, with a focus on traditional bluegrass themes such as hard work and family.
The Lilly Brothers played a significant role in popularizing bluegrass music outside of its Appalachian roots, and their legacy can still be heard today in the work of contemporary bluegrass artists. Brad Paisley: Country Music and Philanthropy
Brad Paisley is a country music superstar and virtuosic guitar player from Glen Dale, West Virginia.
He has released over ten albums and won numerous awards for his work, including three Grammy Awards. Paisley is also known for his philanthropy, donating to various charities and organizations that support veterans and their families.
Paisley’s musical style ranges from traditional country themes such as love and heartache to more lighthearted and humorous songs. His guitar playing is often praised for its technicality and ability to infuse different genres and styles into his music.
Paisley’s contributions to the country music scene have earned him a place in the Grand Ole Opry and induction into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame. Hazel Dickens: Bluegrass and Social Justice
Hazel Dickens was a bluegrass singer and songwriter known for her powerful vocals and socially conscious themes.
Born in Mercer County, West Virginia in 1935, Dickens drew inspiration from her experiences growing up in a working-class family. Her songs often touch on themes of poverty, inequality, and injustice, highlighting the struggles of the working class.
Dickens’ contributions to bluegrass and folk music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including induction into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. Her legacy can be heard in the work of many contemporary bluegrass artists who continue to use the genre to address social and political issues.
Honorable Mentions
West Virginia has also produced a number of other notable singers, including country singer Johnny Paycheck, rock musician Steve Whiteman of the band Kix, and virtuosic mandolin player Johnny Staats. Additionally, Little Jimmy Dickens was a beloved figure in country music known for his humorous lyrics and energetic performances, while Hasil Adkins was an underground music legend known for his unconventional songwriting style.
More contemporary artists include indie rockers Rozwell Kid and heavy metal band Byzantine.
Conclusion
West Virginia has a rich musical heritage, producing a diverse range of notable singers who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. From the soulful music of Bill Withers to the socially conscious themes of Hazel Dickens and the virtuosic guitar playing of Brad Paisley, these singers have influenced generations and inspired countless artists.
Their legacy continues to live on through their timeless music and inspiring stories.
3) The Lilly Brothers
The Lilly Brothers, also known as Bea Lilly and Everett Lilly, Jr., are renowned for their contributions to bluegrass and folk music. Born in Clear Creek, West Virginia, in 1918 and 1924, respectively, the brothers grew up surrounded by the rich musical traditions of their native Appalachia.
Their father was a skilled musician who taught them to play the guitar, banjo, and mandolin, and they quickly became proficient in these instruments. In the late 1940s, the Lilly Brothers moved to Boston, Massachusetts, where they joined forces with other musicians to form a band and play the city’s thriving folk music scene.
Their authentic approach to traditional Appalachian music quickly made them stand out, as did their tight harmonies and instrumental skills. Over the years, the Lilly Brothers continued to record and perform, releasing dozens of albums and playing countless shows.
Their influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary bluegrass and folk musicians, who have continued to carry on the tradition of Appalachian music and its unique blend of storytelling, mournful ballads, and virtuosic instrumentalism. The Lilly Brothers’ pioneering status has inspired generations of musicians who have followed in their footsteps.
4) Brad Paisley
Brad Paisley is one of the most successful country musicians of his generation, known for his clever lyrics, virtuosic guitar playing, and dynamic stage presence. Born in Glen Dale, West Virginia, in 1972, Paisley grew up listening to classic country artists like Buck Owens and George Strait.
He began playing guitar as a child and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. In 1999, Paisley released his debut album, “Who Needs Pictures,” which featured hits like “He Didn’t Have to Be” and “We Danced.” The album was a critical and commercial success, propelling Paisley to stardom and paving the way for a string of successful albums and singles over the next two decades.
Paisley’s musical style is characterized by his clever and often humorous lyrics, which tackle everything from love and heartache to the joys of Southern living. His guitar playing is also a major part of his appeal, with his virtuosic skills on the instrument earning him accolades from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Over the course of his career, Paisley has won three Grammy Awards, 15 Academy of Country Music Awards, 14 Country Music Association Awards, and numerous other honors and distinctions. He has also been active in philanthropy, donating to causes such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Alzheimer’s Association.
In addition to his musical achievements, Paisley is known for his dynamic stage presence and engaging performances, which have won him fans around the world. His influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary country artists, who have been inspired by his innovative style and approach to music.
Conclusion
The Lilly Brothers and Brad Paisley are two of West Virginia’s most renowned musicians, known for their contributions to bluegrass, folk, and country music. Their authentic approaches to their respective genres, combined with their exceptional musicianship, clever lyrics, and dynamic stage presence, have made them icons of the music industry.
Their influence can still be heard in the work of many contemporary artists, who continue to carry on their legacies and build on their groundbreaking contributions to the world of music.
5) Hazel Dickens
Hazel Dickens was a singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and her contributions to the fields of bluegrass and folk music. Born in Mercer County, West Virginia, in 1935, Dickens was deeply influenced by the traditional Appalachian music of her childhood.
She began singing and playing guitar and mandolin as a teenager, often performing with her siblings in local venues. In the 1950s, Dickens moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where she began to play in venues around the city’s thriving folk music scene.
Her music quickly gained a following due to her powerful and emotive vocals, as well as her focus on the struggles of working-class people, particularly coal miners and factory workers. Throughout her career, Dickens wrote and performed numerous songs that addressed social justice issues, often using themes related to class, race, and gender.
Her lyrics were often characterized by their rawness and honesty, and her music was a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Dickens’ contributions to bluegrass and folk music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including induction into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Honor in 2017.
Her music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians who use their art to speak to the issues of their time.
6) Steve Whiteman
Steve Whiteman is a rock musician known for his high-energy performances and his contributions to the field of classic rock music. Born in Maryland in 1956, Whiteman grew up playing in various local bands before moving to Los Angeles to seek his fortune in the music industry.
In 1981, Whiteman became the lead singer of the band Kix, which quickly gained a following due to their catchy hooks and hard-edged sound. Kix went on to record numerous albums and achieve a top 20 hit with the song “Don’t Close Your Eyes.” After Kix disbanded in the 1990s, Whiteman formed the band Funny Money, which continued to produce hit songs and play to sold-out crowds.
Throughout his career, Whiteman’s contributions to rock music have made him an important and influential figure in the genre’s history. His dynamic stage presence and energetic performances have earned him a devoted fan base, and his collaborations with other musicians have further cemented his place in rock music history.
Whiteman’s ability to write and perform classic hits has been recognized with multiple gold and platinum records, and he continues to inspire and influence musicians who strive to capture the essence of rock and roll in their own work.
Conclusion
Hazel Dickens and Steve Whiteman are two of West Virginia’s most important and influential musicians, known for their contributions to bluegrass, folk, and rock music. Their powerful lyrics, emotive vocals, and high-energy performances have earned them a devoted following, and their legacy is felt in the work of countless musicians who continue to be inspired by their artistry.
Their music speaks to the struggles and joys of the human experience, and their enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless quality of their work.
7) Johnny Staats
Johnny Staats is a West Virginia native and virtuosic mandolin player known for his contributions to the field of bluegrass music. Born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, in 1971, Staats began playing the mandolin at the age of 10.
He was quickly recognized for his natural talent and was soon performing in local venues alongside his band, The Delivery Boys. Staats’ music is influenced by both traditional bluegrass sounds and contemporary genres such as rock and blues.
His unique blending of styles and techniques has earned him a reputation as a musician who is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of bluegrass music while maintaining its timeless qualities. Over the years, Staats has released several notable albums, including “Wires and Wood” and “Time Moves On.” He has also collaborated with a number of well-known musicians, including Tim O’Brien, Alison Krauss, and Earl Scruggs.
Staats’ contributions to bluegrass music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including induction into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame in 2019. His music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians who strive to create new and innovative sounds while honoring the timeless traditions of bluegrass music.
In addition to his mandolin playing, Staats is also known for his virtuosic guitar work and his dynamic performances on stage. His ability to blend traditional bluegrass sounds with contemporary influences has made him an important and influential figure in the world of music, earning him a devoted following among fans and fellow musicians alike.
Conclusion
Johnny Staats is a West Virginia musician who has made significant contributions to the field of bluegrass music. His unique blending of styles and techniques has earned him a reputation as a musician who is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of traditional bluegrass sounds while remaining true to the music’s timeless qualities.
His virtuosic mandolin playing and dynamic stage presence have earned him a devoted following, and his collaborations with other well-known musicians have further solidified his place in the history of bluegrass music. Staats’ legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians who strive to create new and innovative sounds while honoring the traditions of bluegrass music.
The article covers some of the most notable singers from West Virginia, including Bill Withers, The Lilly Brothers, Brad Paisley, Hazel Dickens, Steve Whiteman, and Johnny Staats. These musicians have left indelible marks on various genres of music, ranging from soulful music and country to bluegrass and heavy metal.
They have contributed to the music industry, both with their natural talents and authenticity and have touched lives with their memorable and timeless songs. While their styles may differ, they all share a commitment to musical creativity and authenticity that have earned them the respect of fans and fellow musicians alike.
Music lovers will continue to be inspired and influenced by their contributions, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry. Jeff Stevens: His Successful Career as a Songwriter and Producer and His Contribution to Country Music Industry
When we talk about successful careers in the music industry, Jeff Stevens’ name is one that always comes to mind.
He has worked his way up as a songwriter and producer and has contributed to the country music industry in multiple ways. Stevens started his music career in the 1980s, working as a songwriter for Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
He wrote songs for popular artists like Tim McGraw, Mark Chesnutt, and John Anderson. As a songwriter, he has had twenty-four number one hits, including “Don’t Take the Girl” for Tim McGraw, “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive” for Travis Tritt, and “The Shake” for Neal McCoy.
Not only did he excel as a songwriter, but Stevens also ventured into producing. He worked as a producer for artists such as Michael Peterson, Bryan White, and Mark Wills.
However, his most significant contribution to the music industry came in 2001 when he produced Tim McGraw’s album “Set This Circus Down.” The album spawned four number one hits, including “Grown Men Don’t Cry,” which won the CMA award for Single of the Year. Stevens’ impressive career doesn’t stop there- he also co-wrote and produced a charity single, “Words Are Medicine,” which was released in July 2020.
The single features some of Nashville’s most prominent artists, including Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, and Lauren Alaina. The proceeds from the song were donated to the Music Health Alliance, a non-profit organization that provides healthcare services to musicians.
It is impossible to talk about Jeff Stevens’ career without acknowledging the significant contributions he’s made to the country music industry. In 2009, he co-founded the production company 1608, alongside fellow producer Scott Hendricks.
The company quickly became a huge success, working with celebrated artists such as Blake Shelton, Faith Hill, and Joe Nichols. Stevens’ successes in the country music industry are a testament to his talent and hard work.
He has made an indelible mark on the music industry, and his music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world. Asleep at the Wheel: Their Blend of Western Swing, Country, and Jazz, and Preservation of Traditional Music
Western swing is a significant part of country music, and one band that has played a significant role in its preservation is Asleep at the Wheel.
The band, which formed in 1970, is known for its unique blend of country, western swing, and jazz. Asleep at the Wheel’s current lineup consists of band leader Ray Benson, Eddie Rivers, David Earl Miller, Austin Texas, and Katie Shore.
The band has had many members in its over 50-year history, but they have always stayed true to their roots. One of the essential aspects of Asleep at the Wheel’s music is their commitment to preserving traditional country music.
The band has paid homage to some of the genre’s most significant artists, adding their own twist to classic songs. For example, on their 1993 album, “Tribute to the Music of Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys,” they honored the iconic western swing band by putting their own spin on some of their most famous songs.
Asleep at the Wheel’s music is also known for its unique blend of country, western swing, and jazz. The band’s sound is characterized by driving rhythms and upbeat melodies, which have made them popular among country music fans and jazz enthusiasts alike.
In addition to their music, Asleep at the Wheel has also contributed significantly to the preservation of traditional western swing. In 1997, the band founded the Western Swing Society, an organization that promotes and preserves western swing music.
The society holds an annual event, the Western Swing Music Festival, which features live performances and workshops on the history of western swing music. Asleep at the Wheel’s blend of traditional country, western swing, and jazz has made them a beloved band among music fans for over five decades.
Their commitment to preserving traditional music has ensured that future generations can continue to enjoy the sounds that define American music. Hazel Dickens: Her Life, Career, and Influence on Bluegrass and Folk Music
Hazel Dickens was a legendary musician known for her soulful voice and songs that spoke to the working-class struggles of Appalachia.
Born in West Virginia in 1935, she faced many hardships as a child, including poverty and the loss of her mother at a young age. However, these struggles helped shape her music and inspired her to speak truthfully about the challenges that working-class people faced in the coal-mining industry.
Dickens began her music career in the 1950s, performing with her brother in bars and honky-tonks in Baltimore. Eventually, she started writing her own songs and became involved in the emerging folk and bluegrass music scenes.
She gained national visibility when she performed on the soundtrack of the 1976 film “Harlan County USA,” which chronicled the struggles of the UMWA coal miners’ strike in Harlan County, Kentucky. Throughout her career, Dickens was known for her powerful voice and her ability to connect with her audience on a deep, emotional level.
Her songs spoke to the struggles of working-class people and often featured themes of poverty, love, and loss. Some of her most well-known tracks include “Mannington Mine Disaster,” “West Virginia Mine Disaster,” and “Working Girl Blues.”
Dickens’ influence on bluegrass and folk music cannot be overstated.
She was one of the few women in these traditionally male-dominated genres, and her music helped pave the way for other women to enter the industry. Her songs also helped bring attention to the issues facing working-class people in rural America, making her an influential figure in the political and social movements of the time.
Sadly, Hazel Dickens passed away in 2011, but her legacy lives on. Her music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans, and her contributions to the bluegrass and folk music scenes will always be remembered.
The Carpenter Ants: Formation, Evolution, and Contributions to West Virginia Music Scene
The Carpenter Ants are a West Virginia-based band known for their unique blend of blues, rock, and country music. The band formed in the late 1980s, and since then, they have become a fixture in the West Virginia music scene.
The Carpenter Ants originally formed as a four-piece band, featuring guitarist Michael Lipton, bassist Ted Harrison, drummer Stan Swinton, and vocalist T. Paige Dalporto.
Their early music was heavily influenced by blues and rock music from the 1960s and 1970s, but they soon began incorporating elements of country and other genres into their sound. Throughout the 1990s, The Carpenter Ants continued to evolve, adding new members and experimenting with different styles of music.
Their live shows became known for their energy and spontaneity, often featuring extended guitar solos and improvisation. One of The Carpenter Ants’ most significant contributions to the West Virginia music scene is their work as cultural ambassadors for the state.
The band has performed at many events and festivals throughout West Virginia, spreading their love of music throughout the state and beyond. In addition, The Carpenter Ants have collaborated with many West Virginia-based musicians over the years, including Dugan Carter, Bill Kirchen, and Charlie McCoy.
These collaborations have helped to forge strong connections between West Virginia musicians and the larger music community. Overall, The Carpenter Ants’ unique sound and contributions to the West Virginia music scene make them a beloved band among music fans in the region and beyond.
Their willingness to experiment with different styles of music and their commitment to spreading the joy of music throughout their community has helped make them a true West Virginia treasure. Bill Withers: His Life, Early Career, and Music Legacy and Impact
Bill Withers was a legendary musician known for his soulful voice and masterful songwriting.
He was born in 1938 in West Virginia and grew up in a small coal-mining town. Despite facing many challenges throughout his life, Withers’ music remains an influential part of American music history.
Withers began his music career in the 1960s, after serving in the Navy and working a variety of odd jobs. In 1971, he released his debut album, “Just As I Am,” which featured the hit songs “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Grandma’s Hands.” The album was a massive success, and Withers’ unique voice and songwriting style quickly became celebrated by fans and critics alike.
Throughout his career, Withers’ music remained firmly rooted in the experiences of working-class people. His songs often explored themes of love, loss, and struggle, and his lyrics were deeply personal.
Some of his most well-known tracks include “Lean On Me,” “Use Me,” and “Lovely Day.”
Despite Withers’ impact on the music industry, he was always somewhat of an outsider. He was known for his reluctance to attend industry events and his refusal to conform to industry expectations.
This only added to his mystique and helped to cement his legacy as an influential and innovative musician. Sadly, Bill Withers passed away in 2020, but his music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans.
His contributions to American music history are immeasurable, and his influence can still be heard in the music of contemporary artists. Melvin Goins: His Early Life, Career, and Influence on Bluegrass Music
Melvin Goins was a bluegrass musician known for his powerful voice and dedication to the genre.
He was born in 1933 in Kentucky and grew up in a family of musicians. His older brother, Ray Goins, was also a bluegrass musician and played a significant role in Melvin’s early career.
Melvin began his music career in the 1950s, working as a sideman for several bluegrass bands, including Jim and Jesse and the Virginia Boys. Over time, he developed his own unique voice and style, which helped him stand out in a crowded field.
Melvin’s influence on bluegrass music is evidenced by his longevity in the industry. He continued to perform and record music well into his seventies, playing with his band, The Lonesome Pine Fiddlers, and later with his brother Ray in a duo called the Goins Brothers.
Melvin’s commitment to the bluegrass genre helped to keep the music alive and thriving for generations. He was known for his powerful voice and ability to connect with his audience on a deep emotional level.
Some of his best-known tracks include “Kentucky Hills,” “Black Lung Blues,” and “He Took Your Place.”
Melvin Goins passed away in 2015, but his legacy as a bluegrass icon lives on. He helped define the genre and influenced countless musicians, making him one of the most influential bluegrass musicians of his time.
Farnsworth House: Its History, Significance, and Relationship to the Music Scene in West Virginia
The Farnsworth House is a historic building located in Beverly, West Virginia. Built in 1818, it is considered one of the best examples of Federal architecture in the state.
The house has a rich history and has played a significant role in the cultural and musical traditions of West Virginia. The Farnsworth House was originally built by Thomas Jonathan Farnsworth, a prominent businessman and politician in the early 19th century.
Over time, the house passed through several owners, and during the Civil War, it was used as a hospital by both Union and Confederate forces. In the early 20th century, the Farnsworth House became home to a series of boarding houses and hotels.
These establishments provided a gathering place for local musicians and performers, and the house became associated with the thriving music scene in West Virginia. Today, the Farnsworth House is a popular tourist attraction, and it continues to play a significant role in the cultural and musical traditions of West Virginia.
The house is a testament to the state’s rich history and is a reminder of the importance of preserving the landmarks and traditions that make West Virginia such a special place. Hasil Adkins: His Life, Career, and Influence on Rockabilly and Country Music
Hasil Adkins was a singer, songwriter, and musician known for his raw and unpolished sound.
He was born in 1937 in West Virginia and grew up in a rural area where he developed a love for country and rockabilly music. Adkins started his music career in the 1950s, playing live shows and recording music independently.
His early recordings were often crude and featured Adkins playing multiple instruments and using unconventional recording techniques. Despite his unpolished sound, Adkins quickly gained a following among fans of country and rockabilly music.
His music was characterized by its unique sound, which blended elements of rock, blues, and country. Throughout his career, Adkins remained fiercely independent, making his own music and releasing it on his own terms.
His music was a reflection of his life, which was often chaotic and unpredictable. Adkins’ influence on rockabilly and country music cannot be overstated.
His sound helped to pave the way for other musicians in the genre, and his music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans. Some of his most well-known tracks include “Chicken Walk,” “She Said,” and “No More Hot Dogs.”
Sadly, Hasil Adkins passed away in 2005, but his legacy as a pioneer of rockabilly and country music lives on.
His unique sound and approach to music-making continue to inspire musicians around the world, making him one of the most influential musicians to come out of West Virginia. Bob Thompson: His Career and Contributions to the Jazz and Arts Community
Bob Thompson is a pianist, composer, and bandleader known for his contributions to the jazz and arts community in West Virginia.
He was born in 1943 in New York and later moved to West Virginia, where he began to make a name for himself in the local music scene. Thompson started playing piano at a young age and was drawn to jazz music.
He played in several bands during his early career, including the Token Entry Jazz Band and the Bob Thompson Trio. Over the years, Thompson has become known for his unique jazz style, which blends elements of swing, blues, and bebop.
He has released several albums and has performed with numerous jazz legends, including Milt Jackson, Stanley Turrentine, and Maynard Ferguson. In addition to his music career, Thompson has also made significant contributions to the arts community in West Virginia.
He is the host of a popular public radio show called “Joy to the World” and has worked as an arts administrator, helping to bring arts programs to schools and communities throughout the state. Thompson’s influence on the jazz and arts community in West Virginia is immeasurable.
His music and dedication to promoting the arts have inspired many, making him an influential figure in West Virginia culture. Diamond Teeth Mary: Her Life, Career, and Role in Blues and Jazz Music
Mary Smith McClain, better known as Diamond Teeth Mary, was a blues singer and musician who was known for her powerful voice and energetic performances.
She was born in 1902 in Virginia and grew up in a musical family. Diamond Teeth Mary began her career in the 1920s, playing in vaudeville shows and performing in traveling minstrel shows.
She gained national recognition in the 1950s when she was discovered by record producer Roy Baldridge. Her music was heavily influenced by blues and jazz, and she often performed with bands in these genres.
Her soaring voice and engaging personality made her a hit with audiences, and she quickly became known as one of the most exciting performers in the country. Despite her success, Diamond Teeth Mary faced many challenges throughout her career.
She struggled with addiction and faced racism and sexism, which were pervasive in the music industry at the time. Despite these challenges, she continued to perform and record music, inspiring generations of musicians.
Diamond Teeth Mary passed away in 2000, but her legacy as a pioneering blues and jazz musician lives on. Her powerful voice and contributions to the music industry continue to inspire musicians around the world, making her one of the most important figures in the history of blues and jazz music.