Jazz, an enduring art form born on American soil, has captivated audiences with its syncopated rhythms, improvisation, and vibrant energy for decades. In this article, Impactful.news scours through data from national survey sites and Google search trends to compile a comprehensive overview of each state’s most popular jazz artists.
YouGovAmerica surveys people from all across the United States to find real opinions in real time. Impactful.news compiled this data with state-specific search-interest statistics to identify which jazz masters are most popular in each state.
From the smoky jazz clubs of New Orleans to the bustling streets of New York City, we celebrate the unparalleled talents and groundbreaking innovations of these legendary artists who have shaped the very essence of jazz. Whether you’re curious about the trends or just looking for your next jazz idol, the captivating melodies and swinging beats that have made these musicians true icons of American music are sure to win you over.
Most Popular in 7 States: Herb Alpert
- Arizona
- California
- Indiana
- Michigan
- Nebraska
- Ohio
- Wyoming
Herb Alpert, an acclaimed American trumpter, musician and composer, is widely recognized for his massive contributions to the music world. Alpert gained fame as the leader of the renowned band Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass by creating a distinct smooth sound. Being so versatile, he released numerous chart-topping hits, won multiple Grammy Awards and left an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary jazz and pop music.
Most Popular in 4 States: Bobby McFerrin
- Colorado
- Hawaii
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
Bobby McFerrin has mesmerized audiences with his extraordinary vocal range and innovative musical artistry for generations. Recognized for intricate rhythms and meticulous vocal harmonies McFerrin has pushed the boundaries of possibility in a cappella performance and his infectious enthusiasm and creativity have left a timeless mark on the music industry. For his timeless hit song "Don't Worry, Be Happy" he won multiple Grammy Awards and took his place among the great jazz geniuses of history.
Most Popular in 3 States: Dinah Washington
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Mississippi
Influential jazz singer Dinah Washington remains an unforgettable figure in the realm of jazz, blues and pop music. With her powerful voice, impeccable phrasing and wide vocal range, Washington brought a unique blend of passion and vulnerability to each of her performances. She crafted an extensive discography and released numerous chart-topping hits, including "What a Diff'rence a Day Makes" and "Unforgettable." Today her name is one of the biggest of the 20th century greats.
Most Popular in 3 States: The Manhattan Transfer
- Florida
- Missouri
- Wisconsin
Internationally acclaimed and enchanting fans worldwide to this day, The Manhattan Transfer is a popular vocal group that transformed the jazz world with their impeccable harmonies and eclectic musical style. Showcasing a seamless fusion of jazz, pop and swing, the group has won multiple Grammy Awards and achieved widespread success across the decades. Their hits "Birdland" and "Boy from New York City" continue to captivate listeners worldwide.
Most Popular in 3 States: Bing Crosby
- Idaho
- New Hampshire
- Utah
Bing Crosby, an iconic American singer and actor, left an indelible mark on the world of popular music and American culture as a whole. With his smooth baritone voice and effortless charm, Crosby became one of the best-selling recording artists of all time. Known for timeless classics like "White Christmas" and "Swinging on a Star," he remains a beloved figure to this day, admired for his distinctive vocal style and memorable contributions to the American entertainment industry.
Most Popular in 2 States: Tony Bennett
- Connecticut,
- Massachusetts
Tony Bennett, a legendary American singer and artist, has enchanted audiences for generations with his velvety voice and impeccable phrasing. With a career spanning over seven decades, Bennett has become an iconic figure in popular music, known for his renditions of timeless classics such as "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" and "The Way You Look Tonight." He is the recipient of numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. Overall, his artistry and enduring appeal have solidified his status as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
Most Popular in 2 States: Ella Fitzgerald
- District of Columbia
- Virginia
Ella Fitzgerald, often referred to as the "First Lady of Song," was an extraordinary American jazz vocalist renowned for her remarkable vocal range and improvisational skills. With her distinct and effortless style, Fitzgerald captivated audiences worldwide, effortlessly navigating swing, scat, and ballads with equal grace. Her timeless interpretations of standards like "Summertime" and "Mack the Knife" have solidified her as an enduring icon and one of the greatest jazz singers in history.
Most Popular in 2 States: Charlie Parker
- Kansas
- West Virginia
Charlie Parker, widely known as "Bird," was an American jazz saxophonist and composer and one of the most groundbreaking of his generation. His beat-to-beat improvisation, innovative phrasing and harmonic complexity revolutionized the genre, making him one of the most influential figures in jazz history. Parker's compositions "Ornithology" and "Confirmation" showcased his unparalleled mastery of bebop and left an indelible mark on the evolution of jazz music.
Most Popular in 2 States: Wynton Marsalis
- Maine
- Texas
The acclaimed American trumpeter and composer Wynton Marsalis is renowned for his exceptional versatility and profound musical talent. As a leading figure in the world of jazz, Marsalis has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre by seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary influences. With his rich, soulful tone and dynamic performances he has not only revitalized jazz but also won numerous Grammy Awards and established himself as a prominent ambassador of the genre.
Most Popular in 2 States: Kurt Elling
- Minnesota
- New Mexico
Kurt Elling, a celebrated American jazz vocalist, has captivated audiences with his lush baritone voice and imaginative approach to storytelling through music. Known for his masterful scatting and improvisational skills, Elling seamlessly combines jazz, poetry, and spoken word in his performances, creating a truly unique and engaging experience. With his Grammy-winning albums and dynamic stage presence, Elling continues to push the boundaries of jazz singing, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
Most Popular in 2 States: The Andrews Sisters
- Montana
- South Dakota
The Andrews Sisters, a popular American vocal group, enchanted audiences during the swing era with their tight harmonies and infectious energy. Known for their charismatic performances and memorable hits like "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" and "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen," the sisters achieved great success both on record and in film. Their unique blend of swing, boogie-woogie, and close harmonies not only made them one of the best-selling female groups of all time but also solidified their place as icons of the World War II era.
Most Popular in 2 States: Dizzy Gillespie
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
Dizzy Gillespie was a pioneering American jazz trumpeter and composer that left an indelible mark on the genre with his innovative playing style and charismatic stage presence. As one of the principal architects of bebop, Gillespie's virtuosic trumpet skills and mastery of complex harmonies pushed the boundaries of jazz and inspired generations of musicians. With iconic compositions like "A Night in Tunisia" and his signature bent trumpet, Gillespie's impact on jazz and his role as a cultural ambassador cannot be overstated.
Most Popular in Alaska: Paul Anka
Paul Anka, a Canadian-American singer, songwriter, and actor, has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over six decades. Known for his suave charm and velvety voice, Anka achieved international fame with timeless hits like "Diana" and "Put Your Head on My Shoulder." As a prolific songwriter, he penned iconic songs such as "My Way," immortalized by Frank Sinatra, further cementing his status as a musical legend.
Most Popular in Delaware: Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole was an iconic American singer and pianist, and remains one of the most influential voices in the history of popular music. With his smooth, velvety tone and impeccable phrasing Cole enchanted audiences with timeless classics such as "Unforgettable" and "Mona Lisa." As a trailblazing African-American artist, he broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
Most Popular in Georgia: George Benson
George Benson was a celebrated American guitarist and vocalist that left an indelible mark on the world of jazz, R&B and pop. With exceptional guitar skills and his smooth voice Benson effortlessly bridged genres, creating a unique and captivating musical style. From his Grammy-winning hit "Give Me the Night" to masterful interpretations of jazz standards, Benson's talent and versatility have solidified his place among the true virtuosos and made him a beloved figure in the music industry.
Most Popular in Illinois: Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman was an iconic American jazz clarinetist and bandleader that played a pivotal role in popularizing swing music during the Big Band era. Known as the "King of Swing" Goodman's impeccable clarinet technique and innovative musical arrangements captivated audiences around the world. His groundbreaking performances, including the legendary Carnegie Hall concert in 1938, solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz.
Most Popular in Iowa: Glenn Miller
Glenn Miller, an influential American bandleader and trombonist, is celebrated for his distinctive sound and contributions to the swing era. Leading his renowned Glenn Miller Orchestra, Miller achieved great success with chart-topping hits like "In the Mood" and "Moonlight Serenade." His smooth, melodic arrangements and meticulous attention to detail set a new standard for big band music and made him one of the most popular bandleaders of his time.
Most Popular in Kentucky: Tommy Dorsey
Tommy Dorsey was an esteemed American trombonist, trumpeter, and bandleader, that made an indelible mark on the big band era with his impeccable musicianship and sophisticated arrangements. As the leader of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra he delivered a string of memorable hits like "I'll Never Smile Again" and "Opus One" captivating audiences with his smooth trombone playing and distinctive style. Dorsey's musical legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and remains an integral part of the golden age of swing.
Most Popular in Louisiana: Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong, a pioneering American jazz trumpeter and vocalist, is regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz music. With his charismatic stage presence, infectious smile, and unmistakable gravelly voice, Armstrong became an international ambassador for jazz, spreading its joy and vitality to audiences worldwide. From his groundbreaking recordings like "West End Blues" to his iconic rendition of "What a Wonderful World" Armstrong's immense talent and improvisational genius continue to resonate and inspire musicians to this day.
Most Popular in Maryland: Billie Holiday
The iconic American jazz singer and songwriter Billie Holiday possessed a rare ability to infuse each lyric with emotion and remarkable vulnerability. Her distinctive voice and unique phrasing made her a seminal figure in the history of jazz. Timeless performances of original songs like "Strange Fruit" and "God Bless the Child" continue to define the genre today. Her soulful interpretations and poignant storytelling resonate with audiences young and old, a testament to her place among the greatest jazz vocalists of all time.
Most Popular in Nevada: Sammy Davis Jr.
Sammy Davis Jr. was an extraordinary American entertainer and a true triple threat with his talents in singing, dancing and acting. Cultivating a charismatic stage presence, smooth vocals, and captivating dance moves was the flavor of his ingenuity. Davis captivated audiences and became a beloved figure in show business. From his iconic performances in films like "Ocean's 11" to his memorable renditions of songs like "Mr. Bojangles," he left an enduring legacy as a multi-talented entertainer and a trailblazer for African-American artists.
Most Popular in New Jersey: Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra was an iconic American singer and actor that is still one of the most influential and beloved performers in the music industry. With his distinctively smooth voice, impeccable phrasing and unmatched charisma, Sinatra revolutionized popular music forever. He was even nicknamed "The Chairman of the Board." From timeless hits like "My Way" and "Fly Me to the Moon" to his acclaimed film roles in "From Here to Eternity" and "The Mancurian Candidate" Sinatra's artistry and enduring legacy continue to captivate audiences worldwide, cementing his status as a true legend.
Most Popular in New York: Andy Williams
Andy Williams was an acclaimed American singer and performer who enchanted audiences with his warm and soothing voice for decades. He earned himself the title of "The Emperor of Easy." Known for his smooth renditions of popular songs, Williams achieved numerous chart-topping hits throughout his career, including "Moon River" and "Can't Take My Eyes Off You." With his timeless appeal and charm, Williams left an indelible mark on the music industry, becoming a beloved figure in the realm of easy listening and traditional pop.
Most Popular in North Carolina: John Coltrane
The influential American jazz saxophonist and composer John Coltrane is hailed as one of the most innovative and groundbreaking figures in the history of jazz music. With his extraordinary technical skill and a completely exploratory approach to improvisation, Coltrane pushed the boundaries of the genre. Ultimately, he revolutionized jazz with avant-garde style and complex harmonic structures. His seminal albums, such as "A Love Supreme," continue to inspire and captivate listeners, solidifying Coltrane as a true visionary and one of the greatest saxophonists in history.
Most Popular in North Dakota: Peggy Lee
Peggy Lee was a renowned American jazz and popular music singer whose name echoes in the halls of music history. Her sultry voice and distinctive style combined with seamless sophisticated performances to captivate audiences across America. She created timeless classics like "Fever" and "Is That All There Is?" Her versatility in performance extended also to songwriting, and she wrote many of her own songs. Lee's influence as a singer and songwriter continues to be celebrated, solidifying her status as a revered icon in the world of music.
Most Popular in Oregon: Art Blakey
Art Blakey was a legendary American jazz drummer and bandleader renowned for his powerful and dynamic style, which defined the hard bop era. As leader of the Jazz Messengers, Blakey fostered a collaborative and innovative music environment. He served as a mentor, and showcased some of the most influential jazz musicians of his era. Propulsive rhythms and explosive drumming solos launched his name into the limelight. To this day Blakey's impact on jazz drumming and his transformative impact on the art form cannot be overstated.
Most Popular in Pennsylvania: The Dave Brubeck Quartet
The Dave Brubeck Quartet was a pioneering American jazz ensemble that revolutionized the genre. Their groundbreaking exploration of complex time signatures and innovative compositions propelled the group into massive success in their industry. Led by pianist and composer Dave Brubeck the quartet's iconic album "Time Out" introduced the world to the timeless hit "Take Five." This song showcased their distinctive blend of rhythm and melodic improvisation. With unparalleled musicianship and a unique approach to jazz, the Dave Brubeck Quartet left an enduring legacy, shaping the course of modern jazz music.
Most Popular in Vermont: The Glenn Miller Orchestra
The Glenn Miller Orchestra, named after its renowned bandleader Glenn Miller, continues to captivate audiences worldwide with their timeless sound and classic big band repertoire. Carrying on Miller's musical legacy, the orchestra faithfully recreates the iconic swing era sound that made the original Glenn Miller Orchestra famous. With their impeccable musicianship and energetic performances, the Glenn Miller Orchestra keeps the spirit of the swing era alive, delighting listeners with beloved hits like "In the Mood" and "Moonlight Serenade."
Most Popular in Washington: Kenny G
The celebrated American saxophonist known as Kenny G has captivated audiences for generations with his smooth, melodic playing and soulful sound. He boasts effortless ability to blend jazz, pop and R&B elements, and his signature style has made him one of the most recognizable and successful instrumental musicians of all time. With chart-topping hits like "Songbird" and "Forever in Love," his romantic and soothing music continues to resonate with listeners, establishing him as a prominent figure in contemporary instrumental music.
