Surrounded by Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota — states that are home to scores of legendary artists — Wisconsin’s musical contributions are often overshadowed.
But the influence Wisconsin natives have made on popular music is far greater than even people from the Dairy State might realize.
Looking back at the last 100 years, these 25 Wisconsinites had the greatest impact on popular music.
The list, and its rankings, are up for debate. And note: It focuses exclusively on people and bands born in Wisconsin — leaving out, for instance, former Madison resident and “Funky Drummer” Clyde Stubblefield, or longtime Milwaukee soul man and “Disco Lady” writer Harvey Scales, who was born in Arkansas.
But their collective legacy shows the mark Wisconsin has made on the music we listened to, and still listen to. Check out the listening suggestions for refreshers on why they matter.
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