The 10 biggest Wisconsin musicians of all time (& their biggest hit)

Like us, the writers at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel must’ve spent a lot of time taking long walks and listening to music during the early days of the pandemic. Because, during that time, they compiled this list of 50 Wisconsin musicians who’ve made the greatest impact over the past 100 years.

“Surrounded by Illinois, Michigan, and Minnesota — states that are home to scores of legendary artists — Wisconsin’s musical contributions are often overshadowed,” they wrote. “But the influence Wisconsin natives have made on popular music is far greater than even people from the Dairy State might realize.”

You can view the full list here, but we’re showcasing the top 10 Badger-born artists – and included their top-selling songs, too, if you feel inclined to start an all-Wisconsin playlist!

10- Jerry Harrison, Milwaukee: “Life During Wartime”

9- Woody Herman, Milwaukee: “Woodchopper’s Ball”

8- Butch Vig, Viroqua: “Lithium”

7- Liberace, West Allis: “I’ll Be Seeing You”

6- Felice Bryant, Milwaukee: “Bye Bye Love”

5- Bon Iver, Eau Claire: “Holocene”

4- Al Jarreau, Milwaukee: “We’re In This Love Together”

3- Violent Femmes, Milwaukee: “Blister in the Sun”

2- Steve Miller, Milwaukee: “The Joker”

1- Les Paul, Waukesha: “Lover”

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