Long Island has long been a breeding ground for musical talent, nurturing bands across various genres and catapulting them into the spotlight. From punk rock to pop, Long Island has birthed numerous iconic acts that have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Here are ten that got their start on Long Island and went on to achieve worldwide fame.
Public Enemy: One of the most influential hip hop groups ever was formed by Chuck D and Flavor Flav on Long Island in 1985. Flavor Flav was born in Roosevelt and grew up in Freeport. Chuck D attended W. Tresper Clarke High School and then went to Adelphi University to study graphic design, where he met William Drayton (aka Flavor Flav).
Blue Öyster Cult: Originating in Stony Brook, Long Island, Blue Öyster Cult gained fame in the 1970s with their hard rock sound and iconic hits like "Don't Fear the Reaper" and "Godzilla."
Twisted Sister: Based on Long Island in the early 1970s, Twisted Sister became synonymous with glam metal and achieved commercial success with albums like "Stay Hungry," featuring hits such as "We're Not Gonna Take It" and "I Wanna Rock." Read more Crazy Facts ABout Twisted Sister here.
Taking Back Sunday: Emerging from Amityville, Taking Back Sunday blended emo and post-hardcore elements to create their distinct sound, earning a devoted fanbase with albums like "Tell All Your Friends" and "Louder Now."
Billy Joel: The iconic singer-songwriter and pianist, known for hits like "Piano Man," "Uptown Girl," and "New York State of Mind," was born in the Bronx but raised in Hicksville. Read more Crazy Facts About Billy Joel here.
Mariah Carey: The legendary pop and R&B singer, known for her incredible vocal range and hits like "Hero" and "We Belong Together," was born in Huntington.
Pat Benatar: The Grammy-winning rock singer, known for songs like "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" and "Love Is a Battlefield," grew up in Lindenhurst.
Eddie Money: The rock musician and singer-songwriter, famous for songs like "Take Me Home Tonight" and "Two Tickets to Paradise," was born in Brooklyn but raised in Levittown. In 1967, he graduated from Island Trees High School.
Lou Reed: The influential singer-songwriter and founding member of The Velvet Underground, known for songs like "Walk on the Wild Side," was raised in Freeport. Reed attended Atkinson Elementary School in Freeport and went on to Freeport Junior High School.
Ashanti: The Grammy-winning R&B singer-songwriter, known for songs like "Foolish" and "Always on Time," was born and raised in Glen Cove.