Rhode Island
10 Famous Singers from Rhode Island – Singersroom.com
Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States, has cultivated a musical tradition that reflects its coastal charm, historic significance, and vibrant cultural scene. Famous singers from Rhode Island draw inspiration from the state’s diverse influences, contributing to a musical legacy that mirrors its eclectic character.
Providence, the capital and largest city, serves as a hub for Rhode Island’s music scene. Famous singers often reflect the city’s creative spirit and cultural diversity, contributing to genres like indie rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. The city’s small size fosters a close-knit community of artists and musicians who collaborate and experiment with various sounds.
Rhode Island’s maritime heritage influences the state’s music, with folk and sea shanties celebrating the coastal landscapes and seafaring traditions. Famous singers draw inspiration from the state’s beaches, historic lighthouses, and maritime history, creating a sound that resonates with Rhode Island’s nautical identity.
While not as widely recognized as some musical hubs, Rhode Island’s musicians contribute to a range of genres, reflecting the state’s artsy and alternative vibe. Artists often use their music to explore themes of community, identity, and the unique blend of historical and contemporary influences that define Rhode Island.
Through their music, famous singers from Rhode Island become storytellers, capturing the essence of a state that values creativity, diversity, and a sense of community. Whether through the indie beats of Providence or the maritime melodies inspired by Narragansett Bay, they embody the spirit of a small state with a big musical heart.
1. Pauly D
Pauly D, an iconic singer from Rhode Island, has made a huge impact in the music industry. His unique style and vibrant character have earned him a massive fan base. Let’s take a closer peek at the achievements and talents of this incredible artist.
To give you a brief glimpse of Pauly D’s accomplishments, let’s delve into some facts with a visually appealing table:
| Name | Genre | Albums | Awards |
| Pauly D | Electronic Dance Music (EDM) | 4 | MTV Europe Music Award for Best DJ (2012) |
Besides his achievements above, he’s also known for his exceptional talent in mixing songs and creating exhilarating beats. As an influential DJ in the EDM scene, he transformed how people experience and enjoy music.
Behind the fame, lies an intriguing story of Pauly D’s journey to success. Growing up in Providence, Rhode Island, he discovered his love for music in his early years. Despite facing multiple obstacles, Pauly D was persistent and followed his dreams relentlessly. This commitment and determination set him apart and boosted him to stardom.
Pauly D’s story is a motivation to aspiring artists who come across difficulties on their path to success. It reminds us that with diligence and hard work, anything is achievable. His unique style and magnetic personality still captivate audiences globally, making him one of Rhode Island’s most celebrated musical exports. Move over Taylor Swift, Billy Gilman is here to show you how it’s done… from Rhode Island… where we’re sure he didn’t get any inspiration from cows.
2. Billy Gilman
Billy Gilman, a renowned singer from Rhode Island, has made his mark in the music biz. He’s renowned for his powerful vocals and impressive range, and has won the hearts of fans all over the world! Let’s get to know this talented artist.
Name: Billy Gilman
Birthplace: West Greenwich, Rhode Island
Genre: Country, Pop
Famous Songs: “One Voice,” “There’s a Hero,” “She’s My Girl,” “Say You Will”
Billy’s not just a talented singer, but his dedication and commitment are truly unique. He started singing at a young age and has earned numerous awards and accolades since then. He even proved himself on a reality singing show, defying the odds and winning everyone over with a standout performance.
Billy Gilman is an icon in the Rhode Island music scene, and fans are always antsy for new releases from this incredible artist. His story is a reminder to all aspiring singers that hard work and talent can take them far.
3. Dicky Barrett
John Cowsill, the renowned singer hailing from Rhode Island, is making his mark in the music industry. His talent and contribution to the field have solidified his place among famous singers from the state. Here’s what you need to know about Cowsill:
- Lead Singer of The Mighty Mighty Bosstones: John Cowsill achieved fame as the lead vocalist of The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, a popular American ska punk band formed in 1983.
- Distinctive Baritone Voice: His powerful and distinctive baritone voice sets him apart from other singers, captivating audiences with its raw energy and unique timbre.
- Genre-Defying Music: Cowsill’s versatility as an artist is evident through his ability to seamlessly navigate through various genres such as ska, punk, rock, and alternative music.
- Influence in the Third Wave Ska Revival: As a prominent figure in the third wave ska revival of the 1990s, John Cowsill played a crucial role in popularizing the genre and bringing it to mainstream attention.
- Newfound Success as a Television Personality: Apart from his musical endeavors, Cowsill has also extended his career into television as the announcer for Jimmy Kimmel Live!, showcasing his dynamic talents beyond singing.
In addition to these remarkable achievements, John Cowsill continues to inspire aspiring musicians with his unwavering passion for music. He’s a testament that success can be achieved through dedication and perseverance.
Pro Tip: To cultivate your own unique sound like John Cowsill, experiment with different genres and vocal techniques while staying true to your artistic vision. Your individuality will shine through your music.
4. John Cowsill
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWtbhd4bFMw&pp=ygUMSm9obiBDb3dzaWxs
John Cowsill, a renowned singer from Rhode Island, has made an immense contribution to the music industry. He has earned a special place among famous singers from this state.
Let’s have a look at John Cowsill’s musical journey:
| Born | March 2, 1956 |
| Genre | Pop, rock |
| Instruments | Vocals, drums, guitar |
| Notable Works | “The Rain, The Park & Other Things,” “Hair”, “Indian Lake” |
John Cowsill is also known for his outstanding instrumental skills. Apart from singing, he can play drums and guitar amazingly. This versatility adds depth to his performances and shows off his musical talent.
If you are an aspiring singer or musician aiming for success in the music industry, here are a few tips from John Cowsill:
- Showcase Versatility: Just like John Cowsill, explore different genres and demonstrate your versatility. This will make you stand out from the crowd and attract wider audiences.
- Collaborate: Collaborations with other musicians can bring fresh perspectives and create creative breakthroughs. Look for chances to collaborate with artists from various backgrounds and widen your horizons.
- Keep Learning: Never stop learning and improving your craft. Utilize workshops, classes, and online resources to enhance your skills as a singer or musician.
By following these tips, you can make a place for yourself in the music industry like John Cowsill. Keep pushing your boundaries, exploring new avenues, and nurturing your passion for music.
Warning: Wendy Carlos’s music may cause an abrupt urge to live in Rhode Island and start singing – take caution!
5. Wendy Carlos
Wendy Carlos is Rhode Island’s famous singer. Her talent and groundbreaking contributions to music make her a legend. Let’s look at some key details about her:
- Born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on November 14, 1939.
- Expertise in electronic music, using synthesizers.
- 1968 album “Switched-On Bach” was a hit.
- Showcased classical compositions on Moog synthesizers.
- Introduced synthesizers to a wider audience.
- Three Grammy Awards.
- Composed original music for “A Clockwork Orange” and “Tron.”
- Always pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities in electronic music.
Wendy Carlos is an extraordinary artist. Her pioneering spirit and dedication to sound have shaped modern music. Listen to her work and experience the mesmerizing melodies and unique musical vision! Don’t miss out!
Also, Jeffrey Osborne proves Rhode Island can create great singers who can hit higher notes than the state’s potholes!
6. Jeffrey Osborne
Jeffrey Linton Osborne, born on March 9th 1948 in Providence, Rhode Island, USA, is a renowned singer. His main genres are R&B, soul, quiet storm, and jazz. He was the lead vocalist for the band “L.T.D.” before pursuing his solo career. His talent has earned him recognition worldwide.
In addition to music, Jeffrey has also dabbled in acting and philanthropy. He was even nominated for a Grammy Award in 2012 for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance – a testament to his multifaceted abilities.
Like Rhode Island’s famous clam chowder, Jeffrey Osborne’s voice is smooth, soulful, and leaves you wanting more.
7. Bobby Hackett
Bobby Hackett is renowned as a singer from Rhode Island. His exceptional trumpet skills and smooth vocal style have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
His table of credentials include:
| Name | Bobby Hackett |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Providence, Rhode Island |
| Genre | jazz and big band |
| Instruments | trumpet and vocals |
His prowess in blending trumpet melodies with his voice mesmerizes people everywhere. His performances show his mastery over both instruments.
Hackett had a rich upbringing in Providence, Rhode Island. He was surrounded by music from a young age, inspiring his passion for jazz and honing his skills.
Hackett is a celebrated singer in Rhode Island. His musical talent and versatility have earned him a place in music history, motivating aspiring musicians and captivating listeners of all ages. It’s proof that even small states can make a big impact on the music industry – just like Bill Conti did with the Rocky theme!
8. Bill Conti
Jesse Leach, from Rhode Island, is a renowned musician. He’s left an unforgettable mark in music with his talent and creative compositions, which have thrilled audiences around the world. Let’s take a peek into Jesse’s illustrious career and look at the remarkable feats he has achieved.
To get a better understanding of his impact, here’s a table:
| Year | Accomplishment |
|---|---|
| 1981 | Composed the Oscar-winning score for “Rocky” |
| 1983 | Won Grammy for Best Instrumental Composition in “For Your Eyes Only” |
| 1984 | Conducted Academy Awards Orchestra |
| 1987 | Composed theme music for “Dynasty” |
Besides these great milestones, Jesse’s versatility is evident. From intensifying Rocky Balboa’s victorious moments to crafting catchy tunes for shows like Dynasty, his talent is limitless.
Pro Tip: When appreciating Jesse’s work, keep in mind how his music has become part of our culture. His compositions have motivated us to strive further and added soundtracks to our fond memories, standing the test of time.
9. Jesse Leach
Jesse Leach is a renowned singer from Rhode Island. Born and raised there, he’s made a huge impact in the music industry. His powerful vocals and intense stage presence have amazed audiences worldwide.
Birth Name: Jesse David Leach.
Date of Birth: July 3, 1978.
Genre: Metalcore, Hardcore Punk.
Associated Acts: Killswitch Engage, Times of Grace, The Empire Shall Fall.
Notable Songs: “My Last Serenade,” “The End of Heartache,” “In Due Time.”
Awards & Recognitions: Grammy nominations for Best Metal Performance (Killswitch Engage).
Jesse Leach’s career began in local bands as a teenager. But it was when he joined Killswitch Engage that he achieved fame. With their melodic metalcore sound, they gained a huge following with Jesse as the frontman.
He’s also collaborated with other respected artists and bands, such as Times of Grace and The Empire Shall Fall. His blend of aggressive screams and clean vocals make him stand out in the metalcore genre.
Jesse has many chart-topping hits, like “My Last Serenade,” “The End of Heartache,” and “In Due Time.” His talent has earned him Grammy nominations for Best Metal Performance.
Witnessing Jesse Leach’s electrifying performances is an incredible musical experience. Don’t miss out – grab your tickets and dive into the raw energy of this remarkable artist!
10. AraabMuzik
AraabMuzik is a singer from Rhode Island. He is well-known for his unique style and production/DJ skills. Let’s take a look at his accomplishments!
Name: AraabMuzik
Birthplace: Rhode Island
Profession: Singer, Producer, DJ
Awards: Multiple prestigious awards, including Grammy nominations
Genre: Hip Hop and Electronic Music
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
Rhode Island
Cafe Alma, a new Portuguese restaurant and café, is opening in East Providence – The Boston Globe
The restaurant occupies the former Silva’s Seafood Market space, which has been closed for years, and had later become a Brazilian takeout restaurant. The building was first constructed in 1920, and after a full renovation, the only original elements are the decades-old tin ceilings, which are now painted dark blue.
The owner, chef Kevin Matos, and his family have long owned Matos Bakery in Pawtucket and previously owned JC’s Butcher Shop in West Warwick, where he specialized in sausages that were hand cut, seasoned, and smoked in house. Matos Bakery, which has been in business for more than two decades, started after Matos’s parents immigrated to the US from Portugal. They worked in factories before opening the bakery. Matos remembers sleeping on bags of flour at the bakery at night as a kid while they worked.
Matos attended Johnson & Wales University and went on to work in other restaurants, including Nicks on Broadway for a short stint. He staged at Aldrea, a Michelin-starred Portuguese restaurant in New York City, and worked at a French fine dining establishment in Boston.
When Cafe Alma opens, it’ll be split between a café and the dining room with about 30 seats.
Music will be part of the experience, said Matos. Think: low-volume sets on the weekends – so diners can still have a conversation – with occasional piano or violin performances.
The menu won’t be strictly traditional. “This will be New England Portuguese,” said Matos, who said the menu reflects how Portuguese cooking has evolved in Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts, two hubs for Portuguese populations.
The opening menu will include smoked chourico wings; bacalhau, a Portuguese term for codfish that has been dried and salted; smoked piri piri quail; polvo a plancha (grilled octopus) with molho cru (a fish sauce) or cebolada com pimentos; and duck fat confit potatoes. He’s building out a bread program, and plans to serve pizzas with a Portuguese twist. They’ll be in the middle of a Neapolitan and New Haven style pie, cooking in 5 minutes, with a spicy tomato sauce.
Eventually, the restaurant will also double as a gallery space, featuring rotating work from local artists. Artists won’t be charged to show their work, said Matos, and customers will be able to purchase their work right at the restaurant.
Matos also has a series of long-term ideas to turn the Portuguese corridor and Warren Avenue into a cultural destination. He’s planning community events and block parties with neighboring businesses, quarterly wine clubs, ticketed chef collaborations that will be run by his general manager Billy Panzella (formerly of Dune Brothers), and a chef’s tasting menu booked weeks in advance, where each guest receives a one-of-a-kind experience. Expanding outside of East Providence isn’t off the table either.
“We’ve got to focus here and push this place to succeed,” said Matos. “And then I definitely want to open our own place in Boston or New York.”
The cafe will have an array of espresso drinks. The bar program is still being ironed out, but it will lean heavily into Portuguese wine, particularly the lesser-seen bottles, and feature smoked cocktails, and a Portuguese-influenced Old Fashioned using aged brandy.
One wine, which is aged in clay, reminds him of when he was a kid and his father would drink from clay cups.
“I remember tasting that clay, and then I drank that wine and I was literally just teleported back when I was a little kid,” said Matos. Both of his parents have moved back to Portugal, but have been in Rhode Island, anticipating his opening. “That’s what I love about food. It just transports you.”
This story first appeared in The Food Club, a free weekly email newsletter about Rhode Island food and dining. Already a member of the club? Check your inbox for more news, recipes, and features in the latest newsletter. Not a member yet? If you’d like to receive it via e-mail each Thursday, you can sign up here.
Alexa Gagosz can be reached at alexa.gagosz@globe.com. Follow her @alexagagosz and on Instagram @AlexaGagosz.
Rhode Island
How renters and landlords on the Providence City Council are grappling with the rent control plan – The Boston Globe
The two are among 15 city councilors who will have to decide whether to implement rent stabilization in Providence this year. An ordinance introduced last month would cap rent increases at 4 percent a year across the city, with many exceptions, including for newly constructed homes. More than half of the council’s members are either renters or landlords in the city. And their own experiences, and those of their neighbors, have helped shape their opinions.
Sanchez is in favor, and Vargas is opposed.
Nationwide, renters are underrepresented in government, according to a 2022 study by Boston University and the University of Georgia, which found the share of renters in local, state, and federal elected office ranges from 2 to 7 percent. The Providence City Council bucks the trend; 26 percent of its members are renters, including the council president. It’s still far below the estimated 60 percent of Providence residents who rent.
In January 2025, a Redfin report named Providence the least affordable city for renters, when comparing the median salary to average rents. Lawmakers across the country, from local officials to President Trump, have been grappling with the best way to making housing more affordable.
“I really have a hard time wrapping my head around how people are surviving out there right now,” said Sanchez, 27. Average salaries in Providence have not increased as much as rents. He said he makes around $50,000 a year, not nearly enough to afford the roughly $2,000 average monthly cost of a one-bedroom.
“We hear over and over about families that have called Providence home for decades being displaced,” he said. He blames large corporations that “look at our housing as just a profit margin.”
But the way Vargas sees it: “When government comes into your home, it’s a problem.” It’s expensive to manage a property, he said, and rent control would decimate what he sees as a path to prosperity in his community.
“We have an American dream — buy a house,” Vargas said. “We are shutting off this dream.”
Vargas, 55, may not be subject to rent control limits under the proposal, which would exempt owner-occupied properties of three units or less, and let those landlords exempt a second small home. But “what if I decide to buy another property?” he asked. “What if I decide to move? That house I live in now is going to fall into rent control.”
Hundreds of municipalities have rent control in the United States, though they are concentrated in relatively few states. Thirty states, including Massachusetts, ban the practice. Advocates in Massachusetts are seeking to put a question on November’s ballot to overturn the ban, which Governor Maura Healey opposes.
Over the next several months, a fierce debate will consume Providence City Hall over whether to pass the ordinance. Testimony from the public will be taken at a hearing on Feb. 18. A slim majority of eight councilors have said they support it so far, but leadership needs 10 to override an almost-certain veto from Mayor Brett Smiley. Of the other seven councilors, three are opposed and four have not yet taken a position.
There are four renters on the council — including Council President Rachel Miller, who spearheaded the proposal — and four landlords. The rest own single-family homes.
Smiley is also a landlord, in a three-family home on Hope Street where he lives in one unit with his husband, real estate agent Jim DeRentis, and rents out two units.
Smiley’s home would be exempt from rent control limits under the proposal. He argues the solution to bringing rents down is to build more housing, and has said he would veto the ordinance as it is written.
But not every landlord in City Hall is opposed. Councilors Juan Pichardo and Althea Graves each own two properties in the city, and are both sponsors of the ordinance.
“I am voting for this because I don’t want to lose another neighbor,” Graves said.
The carveouts written into the ordinance likely spare every landlord on the council from rent control except for Councilor Pedro Espinal, who owns five properties, too many to be exempt.
He told the Globe he charges very low rents to his longtime tenants — under $1,000 for two-bedroom units — based on their ability to pay. He said he hasn’t raised rents in years.
“But if this were going to be enacted, I would have to rethink that, because my base rents would be very low,” Espinal said. The proposal keeps the 4 percent limit in place even when the unit is vacated.
Espinal was the vice chair of the Housing Crisis Task Force, which last year recommended the city explore the possibility of rent stabilization. But he said he has “very serious concerns” about the legislation that was ultimately crafted.
“This really does not reduce rents,” Espinal said. “In my view, it guarantees that you will have a rent increase every year at 4 percent.”
Councilor Mary Kay Harris, who chaired that task force and is a longtime renter, said she supports the ordinance because something has to be done.
“Rent’s too damn high,” said Harris, who lives in South Providence. “It’s high for everybody. Everybody’s being priced out.”
Councilor John Goncalves, a renter in the Fox Point neighborhood, has not decided where he stands on rent control. He said he is studying how it works in other cities.
Councilors Jo-Ann Ryan, Shelley Peterson, and Ana Vargas, all homeowners, are also undecided.
Councilor James Taylor, another homeowner, is among those who oppose the ordinance.
Advocates on the council argue the carveouts in the ordinance address many of the opponents’ concerns. Newly constructed apartments would be exempt from rent control for 15 years, potentially addressing fears that housing production would slow down. Many small landlords who live in their properties will avoid rent control altogether. Plus, landlords would have an opportunity to ask a newly-created rent board for permission to raise rent above the cap, if they can prove that they need to do so to make a “fair return” on their property.
The sponsors said the goal is to target larger landlords most likely to hike rents.
“Providence used to be a city where everybody had a chance to thrive,” Graves said. “Now all we got to do is walk down any street and see that it’s no longer that.”
Steph Machado can be reached at steph.machado@globe.com. Follow her @StephMachado.
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