Birmingham has long been a city with deep musical roots, giving rise to some truly remarkable vocal talents. From soul-stirring R&B singers to powerhouse rock vocalists, the city’s influence on American music is undeniable. In this post, we spotlight Six of the best vocalists to emerge from or be based in Birmingham. These artists have not only showcased incredible vocal ability but have also made lasting contributions to their genres. Let’s dive into the voices that helped shape the city’s rich musical legacy. Here are Six of the most talented vocalists in Birmingham ready to elevate your next event.
Sherri Brown
Sherri Brown, representing Birmingham, Alabama and by the end of this conversation, we’re gonna be besties. LOL. I’m an artist, a singer ( really a SANGER), an aspiring actress, a confident entertainer, and a God fearing woman with BIG DREAMS.
I began singing at a very young age, however, I vividly remember rocking a crowd at church at the age of 9. We were in PA at the time, and I knew I could sing after that one church service. To make this shorter, I began singing professionally when I graduated from the University of Alabama in 2006. I auditioned, and became a background vocalist for American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard. What a time to be alive! What’s up Ruben?! I was on tour with him for 4 years, and man, it was a jam packed four years! I sang background vocals on shows such as Tyra Banks, Jimmy Kimmel, Good Morning America, and so much more! Even an Oscar’s party in LA.
Elaine Hudson
Elaine is unique in her style of singing with her height of 4’9” small and a 3½ shoe size; she is known as the Tiny Lady with the Big Voice who brings power when she sings the Blues or R&B. She can calm the savage beast with her smooth soulfully jazzy vocals. Elaine started her musical career with a local family band at the age of 12 years old which started her on her musical journey and adventure of singing and learning from the best. Elaine joined the Army as a Telecommunications Operator; went to Kaiserslautern West Germany on her first tour of course taking no time to find the recreation center on post searching for musicians who are looking for a female vocalist. After finding some musicians to work with Elaine opened up for USO shows that came to the Army Post. Elaine auditioned and was accepted in the US States Europe Army Band and Chorus in Heidelberg Germany for 3 years after re-enlisting for a second tour of duty in the US Army Europe. Elaine also won 1st place all Europe Army Star Search 1986. After getting out of the Army 1987; Elaine returned to Germany 3 months later to continue working with Klangk recording original music and later worked with Crypton a dance/disco band. During that time Elaine signed a 3 year contract with RCA Record Company in London England releasing one album in 1990. Elaine moved to the Netherlands working with a Dutch band before returning to the USA in 1992. Elaine has performed with several wedding bands in Birmingham, AL since returning home in 1994; sang background vocals on “The Green Trac Jingle” recorded at the Sounds of Birmingham owned by Don Mosley. Elaine was inducted into the Alabama Blues Hall of Fame as a Master Blues Artist in July 2019. Starting 2020 out with a brand new attitude focusing mainly on original music. Being back in contact with Klangk is really the best thing that could happen to me musically. I was recently sent some of the live videos and all of the studio recording we did from 1986 to 1987. Hope you enjoy me in my younger days. I also have music I’ve done while being back in the USA.
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Kimberly Nicholson
Kimberly Nicholson is a vocalist and songwriter based in Birmingham, Alabama, who works as a recording artist, worship leader, and conference teacher. She can be hired for events as a Psalmist and performs gospel music, with her music available on platforms like UnitedMasters.
Sam Pointer
Sam Pointer is a singer/songwriter, a virtuoso on multiple stringed instruments, an entertainer and a teacher. His music blends many traditions – rock, bluegrass, blues, ragtime, reggae, folk, New Orleans, Celtic, and more – into a rich gumbo of Americana. It sounds familiar but fresh, featuring catchy new songs spiced with tasty guitar licks.
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Rick Carter
Rick Carter now calls Birmingham, Alabama home. As a military brat, he lived on bases around the world, finally settling in Selma, Alabama for much of his youth. Rick began playing music professionally at the age of 12, resulting in numerous trios and quartets along the way. In 1977 he was a founding member of his first nationally recognized band, Telluride. Telluride ruled the bar-band circuit for years, consistently drawing the largest crowds & playing an unprecedented number of gigs each year, resulting in being voted Birmingham’s Best Band 6 years in a row.
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Steve Rayborn
Steve Rayborn won a full music scholarship to Shelton State in 1994. He was awarded Band Member of the Year in jazz band the following year. He continued pursuing music as a career and soon began opening for signed recording artists in the country and gospel music world. Such artists as Little Texas, Billy Ray Cyrus, Kenny Chesney, Tracy Lawrence, Jason Crabb, The Kingsmen, The Mckameys, Casting Crowns, Mercy Me, and more. Steve also traveled and worked with a signed gospel music group for 8 years along with recording studio work.
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Final Thoughts
From powerhouse soul singers to country legends and refined jazz stylists, Phoenix’s vocalists bring depth, range, and personality to every stage. Whether your vision includes soaring ballads or laid-back acoustic vibes, the talented artists above are ready to bring your event to life.
📩 Need help finding the perfect Birmingham-based vocalist for your private event? Reach out anytime at dreamteam@booklive.com — we’d love to help make your celebration unforgettable.