Musicians You May Not Know Are Republican

Famous Conservatives
Updated July 20, 2023 766.2K views
Voting Rules
Must have shown or mentioned in interviews public support for Republican candidates or conservative causes at some point in career

You may not think there are many Republican musicians, but it's quite the contrary. Hollywood may be known for it's liberal leanings, but plenty of conservative bands, conservative singers, and conservative musicians have found success.

This list of Republican singers, bands, and musicians is organized by popularity. This list includes people or groups who have declared themselves to be full-fledged conservatives, as well as singers, bands, etc who have at one point publicly supported a Republican candidate or candidates. As you can see, Republican country singers and conservative country artists make up a lot of the list.

If you're looking for more Republican celebrities, including actors, writers, and TV personalities, you can find more here.

  • Elvis Presley

    Elvis Presley

    01/08/1935

    The undisputed King of Rock and Roll, this legendary performer forever changed the landscape of popular music with his raw, electrifying style and undeniable charisma. With countless hit songs like "Hound Dog," "Jailhouse Rock," and "Love Me Tender," his influence on rock music and pop culture can still be felt today. His record sales, estimated to be nearly 1 billion worldwide, attest to his enduring popularity and status as one of music's greatest icons.

  • Gene Simmons

    Gene Simmons

    08/25/1949
    Gene Simmons, born Chaim Witz on August 25, 1949, rose to prominence as the bassist and co-lead singer of the legendary rock band, Kiss. Born in Haifa, Israel, Simmons immigrated to the United States with his mother at the tender age of eight. His passion for music was ignited during his teenage years, and his fascination with comic book superheroes and theatrics would later become a significant influence in his career. Simmons co-founded Kiss in the early 1970s alongside Paul Stanley. With their face paint and extravagant stage outfits, the band quickly gained a reputation for their flamboyant image and energetic performances. Their breakthrough came in 1975 with the release of the live album Alive!. Simmons, known for his demon persona, became famous for his fire-breathing and blood-spitting stage antics. He contributed significantly to the band's repertoire, penning many of their greatest hits, including "Rock and Roll All Nite" and "God of Thunder". Beyond his musical career, Simmons has been involved in various entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors. A savvy businessman, he has invested in a range of ventures from real estate to entertainment companies. He also established the Gene Simmons Axe Company, which manufactures bass guitars. Additionally, he is an active philanthropist, supporting numerous charitable organizations such as ChildFund and Mending Kids International. Despite his larger-than-life persona, Simmons remains grounded, attributing his success to his strong work ethic and determination, qualities he inherited from his mother, a Holocaust survivor.
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  • Kelly Clarkson

    Kelly Clarkson

    04/24/1982
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  • Ted Nugent

    Ted Nugent

    12/13/1948

    Fusing hard rock with blues elements, this musician's signature guitar riffs have defined the sound of American rock since the 1970s. Best known for hits like "Cat Scratch Fever" and "Stranglehold," his virtuosic playing style and dynamic stage presence have made him a live music legend. He's sold more than 40 million albums worldwide, proving his influence and impact on generations of rock fans.

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  • Kid Rock

    Kid Rock

    01/17/1971
    Born as Robert James Ritchie on January 17, 1971, the artist popularly known as Kid Rock hails from Romeo, Michigan. The musician, songwriter, and actor has been a notable figure in the entertainment industry for over three decades. His initial interest in music was kindled during his teenage years, and by the age of 14, he had started performing as a DJ at parties. This early exposure to music paved the way for his future career as a rock star. Kid Rock's music journey is an eclectic blend of multiple genres, including rock, hip hop, and country, which he seamlessly blends into his unique sound. His debut album Grits Sandwiches for Breakfast was released in 1990, but it was his fourth studio album, Devil Without a Cause, that catapulted him to fame in 1998, selling 14 million copies worldwide. This album included the hit single "Bawitdaba," which is considered one of his signature songs. Over the years, Kid Rock has released several successful albums, such as Cocky (2001), Rock n Roll Jesus (2007), and First Kiss (2015). In addition to his music career, Kid Rock also ventured into acting. He made his film debut in David Spade's comedy Joe Dirt in 2001 and has appeared in several other films and TV shows since then. Beyond his entertainment pursuits, Kid Rock is known for his philanthropic efforts. He established the Kid Rock Foundation, a charity that aids disadvantaged people across the United States.
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  • Hank Williams, Jr.
    Hank Williams Jr., born on May 26, 1949, is an iconic figure in American country music. He is the son of the legendary Hank Williams Sr., who passed away when he was just three years old, leaving him a rich musical legacy to carry forward. Hank Jr.'s musical journey began early, with his first stage appearance at the age of eight. Overcoming the shadows of his father's fame and his own personal trials, he carved a unique path in the music industry, blending Southern rock, blues, and traditional country into a style all his own. Williams's career expanded over five decades, showcasing his talent as a singer-songwriter with more than 20 gold albums, six platinum albums and 13 chart-topping singles. His biggest hits include "Family Tradition" and "All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight," which became the opening theme for Monday Night Football from 1989 to 2011, and again from 2017 onwards. His work earned him numerous awards including multiple Entertainer of the Year awards from the Country Music Association, and induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Despite his professional success, Williams's life was not without adversity. In 1975, he nearly lost his life in a mountain-climbing accident, which resulted in years of surgeries and recovery. This period greatly influenced his music, leading to a more personal and introspective style that further distinguished him from his father's legacy. Despite these challenges, Hank Williams Jr. continued to enthral audiences with his dynamic performances and raw lyrical honesty, establishing himself as a resilient force in American country music.
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  • Dave Mustaine

    Dave Mustaine

    09/13/1961

    As the founder and driving force behind one of heavy metal's most influential and enduring bands, this guitarist and vocalist has been responsible for some of the genre's most iconic riffs and compositions. With complex, technically demanding musicianship and incisive, intelligent lyrics, he's helped shape the sound of thrash metal for more than three decades. His 15 studio albums, numerous awards, and worldwide fanbase are a testament to his lasting impact on the world of heavy metal.

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  • Johnny Ramone

    Johnny Ramone

    10/08/1948

    As the guitarist for one of punk rock's most iconic bands, his aggressive, driving playing style helped define the genre and influence countless musicians who followed. With a stage presence as distinctive as his sound, he's been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in punk history. As a songwriter and innovative guitarist, his contributions to music have left a lasting mark that continues to resonate today.

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  • Frank Sinatra

    Frank Sinatra

    12/12/1915

    With a smooth voice and effortless charm, this legendary crooner has been captivating audiences for decades with his timeless interpretations of classic American standards. As a consummate entertainer, he's won multiple Grammy Awards, sold over 150 million records, and enjoyed a fruitful acting career. From his humble beginnings as a big band singer to his status as a global icon, his impact on popular music is immeasurable.

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  • Toby Keith

    Toby Keith

    07/08/1961
    Toby Keith, born Toby Keith Covel in 1961 in Clinton, Oklahoma, has emerged as one of the most prominent figures in American country music. His early exposure to the musical scene was fostered by his grandmother, who owned a supper club that featured live country music. This environment cultivated Keith's love for this genre, and he learned to play the guitar at an early age. After working in the oil industry and playing defensive end with the semi-pro Oklahoma City Drillers football team, Keith turned to music full time when the oil industry took a downturn in the early 1980s. Keith's rise to fame began with his self-titled debut album in 1993, which included the number one hit "Should've Been a Cowboy". The success of this album set the pace for his career, with his subsequent albums consistently topping country charts. His knack for writing relatable, catchy songs that resonated deeply with listeners contributed significantly to his popularity. Some of his biggest hits include "How Do You Like Me Now?!" "Beer For My Horses," and "Love This Bar." Over the course of his career, Keith has released more than 20 studio albums, several compilation albums and has charted over 60 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including 21 number one hits. Beyond his success in music, Keith has also ventured into acting, with appearances in films and television shows. He has been honored with numerous awards, including Artist of the Decade by the American Country Awards in 2011 and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015.
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  • Sammy Hagar

    Sammy Hagar

    10/13/1947

    This rock vocalist's powerful voice and boundless energy have made him a fan favorite throughout an impressive career spanning more than four decades. Replacing David Lee Roth as the lead singer of a beloved rock band, he helped propel the group to even greater heights with hits like "Right Now" and "When It's Love." In addition to his success as a solo artist and his high-profile collaborations, he's also an accomplished guitarist and songwriter.

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  • Trace Adkins

    Trace Adkins

    01/13/1962
    Tracy Darrell Adkins (born January 13, 1962) is an American country singer and actor. In 1998, Adkins appeared on the PBS music program Austin City Limits (season 23). Adkins made his debut in 1996 with the album Dreamin' Out Loud, released on Capitol Records Nashville. Since then, Adkins has released ten more studio albums and two Greatest Hits compilations. In addition, he has charted more than 20 singles on the Billboard country music charts, including the Number One hits "(This Ain't) No Thinkin' Thing", "Ladies Love Country Boys", and "You're Gonna Miss This", which peaked in 1997, 2007, and 2008, respectively. "I Left Something Turned on at Home" went to No. 1 on Canada's country chart. All but one of his studio albums have received gold or platinum certification in the United States; his highest-selling to date is 2005's Songs About Me, which has been certified 2× Multi-Platinum for shipping two million copies. Adkins is widely known for his distinctive bass-baritone singing voice.He has also made several appearances on television, including as a panelist on the game shows Hollywood Squares and Pyramid, as a 2008 finalist and as the 2013 winner on The All Star Celebrity Apprentice, as the voice for recurring character Elvin on King of the Hill, and in television commercial voice-overs for KFC and Firestone. In addition, Adkins has written an autobiography entitled A Personal Stand: Observations and Opinions from a Free-Thinking Roughneck, which was released in late 2007. He has appeared in numerous films, including The Lincoln Lawyer, Moms' Night Out and I Can Only Imagine.
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  • Joe Perry

    Joe Perry

    09/10/1950

    As the lead guitarist for one of America's most iconic rock bands, his innovative playing style and powerful stage presence have made him a true legend of the genre. He's contributed to countless hit songs and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as a crucial figure in the world of music. With two solo albums and several decades as a member of an arena-filling rock powerhouse, his influence and skill as a guitarist are undeniable.

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  • Kenny Chesney

    Kenny Chesney

    03/26/1968

    From heart-wrenching ballads to upbeat anthems, this country superstar has consistently provided the soundtrack for good times and bad since the early 1990s. With more than 40 Top 10 singles on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and over 30 million albums sold, he's one of the most successful artists in the genre's history. His engaging stage presence and emotion-packed live shows have earned him a loyal fanbase and numerous awards, including multiple Entertainer of the Year titles.

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  • LL Cool J

    LL Cool J

    01/14/1968
    LL Cool J, born James Todd Smith on January 14, 1968, in Bay Shore, Long Island, New York, is a multi-talented personality who has left indelible marks in the fields of music, acting, and business. His stage name, LL Cool J, meaning "Ladies Love Cool James," heralded the engaging charisma that would fuel his enduring career. Raised in a challenging environment, he used music as an escape, turning pain into passion. He created demo tapes with rudimentary equipment in his grandparents' home, displaying an early knack for rhythm and lyrics. This talent led to his discovery by Def Jam Recordings, which set the stage for his rise to stardom. As a rapper, LL Cool J's career trajectory was nothing short of phenomenal. He released his first album, Radio, under Def Jam Recordings in 1985 when he was just 17. The album was a commercial success, going platinum within five months of its release. Over the course of his music career, he released thirteen studio albums and two greatest hits compilities, earning him two Grammy Awards and several nominations. Notably, his 1990 album Mama Said Knock You Out is considered a classic in the hip-hop genre. In addition to his music, LL Cool J also ventured into acting, making his debut in the film Krush Groove in 1985. He demonstrated his versatility with roles in both television and film, including a long-standing part in the popular TV series NCIS: Los Angeles. His acting prowess earned him acclaim, further cementing his place in the entertainment industry. Beyond the entertainment world, LL Cool J also proved himself a successful entrepreneur with a clothing line called "Todd Smith." His diverse talents, coupled with his commitment to community outreach through initiatives like Jump & Ball and Camp Cool J, make LL Cool J a truly multifaceted figure in the world of entertainment and beyond.
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  • LeAnn Rimes

    LeAnn Rimes

    08/28/1982

    This talented singer first captured the world's attention as a teenager with her powerful voice and emotional delivery. Throughout her career, she's won two Grammy Awards and sold over 37 million albums. She's not just a gifted vocalist, she's also an accomplished songwriter, with hits like "How Do I Live" and "Can't Fight the Moonlight" showcasing her skills as a storyteller.

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  • Alice Cooper

    Alice Cooper

    02/04/1948

    Known for his highly theatrical stage presence, this trailblazing rocker has been shocking audiences and pushing boundaries since the 1960s. He's not only a masterful singer but also an accomplished guitarist, showcasing his technical prowess on some of the most memorable rock anthems of all time. His enduring popularity is evidenced by his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011 and his continued chart success with 28 studio albums under his belt.

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  • Nick Lachey

    Nick Lachey

    11/09/1973
    Nicholas Scott Lachey ( lə-SHAY; born November 9, 1973) is an American actor, singer, and television personality. He rose to fame as the lead singer of the multi-platinum-selling boyband 98 Degrees, and later starred in the reality series Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica with his then-wife, Jessica Simpson. He has released four solo albums: SoulO, What's Left of Me, A Father's Lullaby, and Soundtrack of My Life. He also had a recurring role on the television series Charmed.
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  • Daddy Yankee

    Daddy Yankee

    02/03/1977
    Ramón Luis Ayala Rodríguez (born February 3, 1977), known professionally as Daddy Yankee, is a Puerto Rican singer, songwriter, rapper, actor and record producer. Ayala was born in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, and was raised in the neighborhood of Villa Kennedy Housing Projects. Daddy Yankee is the artist who coined the word Reggaeton in 1994 to describe the new music genre that was emerging from Puerto Rico. He is known as the "King of Reggaetón" by music critics and fans alike.Ayala aspired to be a professional baseball player, and tried out for the Seattle Mariners of Major League Baseball. Before he could be officially signed, he was hit by a stray round from an AK-47 rifle while taking a break from a studio recording session with reggaeton artist DJ Playero. Ayala spent roughly one and a half years recovering from the wound; the bullet was never removed from his hip, and he credits the shooting incident with allowing him to focus entirely on a music career. In 2004, Daddy Yankee released his international hit single "Gasolina", which is credited with introducing Reggaeton to audiences worldwide, and making the music genre a global phenomenon. Since then, he has sold around 20 million records. Daddy Yankee's album Barrio Fino made history when it became the top-selling Latin music album of the decade between 2000–2009. In 2017, Daddy Yankee, in collaboration with Latin pop singer Luis Fonsi, released the hit single "Despacito". It became the first Spanish-language song to hit number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 since "Macarena" in 1996. The single gained global success. The video for "Despacito" on YouTube received its billionth view on April 20, 2017, and became the most watched video in YouTube's history. Its success led Daddy Yankee to become the most listened artist worldwide on the streaming service Spotify in June 2017, the first Latin artist to do so.As of 2017, Daddy Yankee has won 82 awards from 270 nominations since his rise to international fame in 2004. He has won 5 Latin Grammy Awards, 2 Billboard Music Awards, 14 Billboard Latin Music Awards, 2 Latin American Music Awards, 8 Lo Nuestro Awards, an MTV Video Music Award and 6 ASCAP Awards. He also received a Puerto Rican Walk of Fame Star, special awards by People en Español magazine, and the Presencia Latina at Harvard University. He was named by CNN as the "Most Influential Hispanic Artist" of 2009, and included in Time 100 in 2006.
  • Jessica Simpson

    Jessica Simpson

    07/10/1980
    Born on July 10, 1980, in Abilene, Texas, Jessica Simpson rose to fame as a pop singer, but her talents and pursuits stretch far beyond music. As a child, she sang in the local church choir, giving an early indication of the vocal prowess that would later define her career. Her breakthrough came in 1999 when she released her debut album, Sweet Kisses, which achieved double platinum status and set the stage for a successful music career. However, Simpson's influence is not confined to the music industry. She ventured into reality television in 2003 with the MTV show, Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica, where she starred alongside her then-husband, Nick Lachey. The show was a hit, running for three seasons and introducing Simpson to a new audience. Despite its success, Simpson did not limit herself to reality TV. She showcased her acting chops in several films, including The Dukes of Hazzard and Employee of the Month. Simpson also made her mark in the business world with the launch of the Jessica Simpson Collection in 2005. This fashion line, which includes clothing, footwear, and accessories, proved to be a successful venture, becoming a billion-dollar business and solidifying Simpson's status as a savvy entrepreneur. Despite the ups and downs that come with life in the public eye, Jessica Simpson has consistently demonstrated resilience, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. With her diverse talents, she has managed to carve out a unique space for herself in the world of entertainment and business.
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  • Meat Loaf

    Meat Loaf

    09/27/1947

    This theatrical rock singer is best known for his epic, larger-than-life performances and memorable collaborations with songwriter Jim Steinman. With hit songs like "Paradise by the Dashboard Light" and "I'd Do Anything for Love (But I Won't Do That)," he's achieved multi-platinum success and sold more than 80 million albums worldwide. His powerful voice and passionate delivery have made him a beloved figure in the world of rock music.

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  • Wayne Newton

    Wayne Newton

    04/03/1942
    Carson Wayne Newton (born April 3, 1942) is an American singer and entertainer. One of the best-known entertainers in Las Vegas, Nevada, he is known by the nicknames The Midnight Idol, Mr. Las Vegas and Mr. Entertainment. His well known songs include 1972's "Daddy, Don't You Walk So Fast" (his biggest hit, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard chart), "Years" (1980), and his vocal version of "Red Roses for a Blue Lady" (1965). His signature song "Danke Schoen" (1963) was notably used in the score for Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986).
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  • Jeff Baxter

    Jeff Baxter

    12/13/1948

    Initially gaining fame as a founding member of two seminal 1970s rock bands, he's played a crucial role in the development of American rock and roll. As a session musician and producer, his extensive credits include work with legends like Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, and Daryl Hall. With six Grammy Awards to his name, his impact as both a guitarist and producer cannot be overstated.

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  • Merle Haggard

    Merle Haggard

    04/06/1937

    Often referred to as the "poet of the common man," this legendary country artist's rugged, honest songwriting has made him one of the most influential musicians of all time. With a career that spanned more than five decades, he left an indelible mark on the genre with classics like "Okie from Muskogee" and "Mama Tried." He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1994, testifying to his enduring legacy.

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  • Hank Williams

    Hank Williams

    09/17/1923

    One of the most iconic voices in country music history, this singer-songwriter's emotive storytelling and unforgettable melodies have made him a true legend. His tragic life and untimely death have only added to his mystique, while his influential songwriting has inspired generations of artists who followed. With countless hit songs like "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" and "Your Cheatin' Heart," his legacy as one of the all-time greats is secure.

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  • Kellie Pickler

    Kellie Pickler

    06/28/1986

    Rising to fame on the fifth season of American Idol, this country artist showcases a powerful voice and heartfelt songwriting skills. With hits like "Red High Heels" and "Best Days of Your Life," she's earned gold and platinum certifications, as well as three CMT Music Awards. Her down-to-earth personality and genuine connection with fans have endeared her to audiences and helped make her a mainstay in the country music scene.

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  • Cowboy Troy

    Cowboy Troy

    12/18/1970

    Blending country music with rap elements, this innovative artist has pioneered the genre known as "hick-hop," earning him a devoted following and chart success. With six studio albums and collaborations with artists like Big & Rich and Tim McGraw, he's helped introduce rap-infused country to a wider audience. His charismatic stage presence and unique blend of musical influences make him a standout performer in a crowded field.

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  • Al Jolson

    Al Jolson

    05/26/1886

    A groundbreaking performer and the first true "superstar" of the entertainment world, this singer and actor paved the way for countless others with his charismatic performances and deep connection with audiences. Known for songs like "My Mammy" and "Swanee," he's often considered the originator of modern pop music. Though some aspects of his career are now seen as controversial, his lasting influence on popular entertainment is undeniable.

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  • Alan Jackson

    Alan Jackson

    10/17/1958

    With his laid-back style and traditional country sound, this singer-songwriter has become one of the most successful and beloved artists of his generation. His hits like "Chattahoochee" and "Remember When" have earned him numerous awards, including multiple Grammys and CMA Awards. With nearly 60 million album sales worldwide, his impact on the country music scene is undeniable.

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  • Ann Miller

    Ann Miller

    04/12/1923

    This iconic dancer and actress is best known for her stunning performances in classic Hollywood musicals like "Easter Parade" and "Kiss Me Kate." Her incredible talent as a tap dancer and magnetic screen presence helped make her a major star during the golden age of cinema. Today, she remains an enduring symbol of the style and glamour that defined that era.

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