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First Posted July 22, 2025 | Last Updated on July 22, 2025 by Ryan Conlon

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New Hampshire is known for its beauty and strong spirit. Musicians have been inspired by its landscapes for years. From the White Mountains to the lakes and seacoast, Songs About New Hampshire celebrate it all.

This guide shows you the best New Hampshire music. You’ll find famous songs and hidden treasures. Each one tells a story about the Granite State. You’ll hear folk, country, rock, and more, showing New Hampshire’s rich music scene.

The Musical Heritage of the Granite State

New Hampshire’s music comes from its history and culture. The state motto, “Live Free or Die,” shows its love for freedom. Local artists have shaped the state’s music, from folk to rock.

Historical Influences on New Hampshire Music

New Hampshire’s music has been shaped by history. The state has nine state songs, with “Old New Hampshire” from 1949. More songs have been added, showing the state’s cultural diversity.

Cultural Impact of Local Artists

Local artists have made New Hampshire’s music scene rich. Pop singer JoJo, from Keene, has sold millions of albums. Hip-hop artist Statik Selektah, from Exeter, is well-known nationwide. The state also values classical music, with composers like Amy Beach and Edward MacDowell.

Evolution of New Hampshire’s Music Scene

New Hampshire’s music scene has grown, mixing old and new styles. Artists find inspiration in the state’s beauty and communities. Barbershop music is big here, with many choirs and groups. Rock bands like Aerosmith and Ray LaMontagne also call New Hampshire home.

New Hampshire’s music is a mix of old and new. It shows the state’s rich history and the spirit of its people. This legacy keeps growing, showing the unique character of the Granite State.

Songs About New Hampshire: A Comprehensive Collection

New Hampshire, known as the “Granite State,” has inspired many musicians. Its history, landscapes, and culture have been celebrated in songs. Check out this list of musical tributes to New Hampshire.

“Escape From New Hampshire” by Boscoden talks about wanting to leave the state. John Linnell and Sonic Youth’s “New Hampshire” shows the state’s beauty and their own stories.

Folk music also shines with Below The Sea’s “New Hampshire’s Coast” and Beverly Rush’s “New Hampshire You’re My Home”. The Super Secret Project’s “Granite State Of Mind” is a funny rap about the state.

Song TitleArtistGenreRelease Year
“Escape From New Hampshire”BoscodenFolk2018
“New Hampshire”John Linnell and Sonic YouthAlternative Rock1999
“Leaving New Hampshire”Andy LeftwichCountry2015
“Emperor Of New Hampshire”James ParkingtonRock2021
“New Hampshire’s Coast”Below The SeaFolk2020
“Live Free Or Die”Bill MorrisseyFolk2000
“Granite State Of Mind”The Super Secret ProjectRap/Parody2010
“New Hampshire You’re My Home”Beverly RushFolk2018
“Okay Alright”Moe.Rock2012

This collection of Songs About New Hampshire shows the state’s big impact on music. Each song gives a special view of the “Granite State.”

“The Granite State’s natural beauty and rich history have long been a source of inspiration for musicians, and this collection of songs is a testament to the enduring appeal of New Hampshire.”

Folk and Traditional Music from New Hampshire

New Hampshire has a rich tapestry of New England folk music. This music is known for its stories, acoustic sounds, and themes of rural life. It reflects the experiences of local artists.

Regional Folk Music Characteristics

The folk music of New Hampshire uses traditional instruments like guitars, banjos, and fiddles. These sounds create a unique style. It blends the state’s history and people’s experiences.

Ballads, work songs, and stories are common. They help keep the state’s culture alive.

Notable Folk Musicians and Their Stories

Kate McNally is a big name in New Hampshire’s folk scene. She hosts “The Folk Show” on NHPR since 1995. Her work has helped the local music scene grow.

In 2003, the community helped McNally after a fire in Marlow. They showed their support.

The Shaw Brothers were known as “New Hampshire’s Musical Ambassadors.” They were famous at the Prescott Park Arts Festival. Sadly, Ron Shaw passed away at 77. But his daughter, Jessica Shaw, keeps their music alive.

Traditional Instruments and Styles

  • Acoustic guitar
  • Banjo
  • Fiddle
  • Ballads
  • Work songs
  • Narrative-driven tunes

 

“The Folk Show” nearly went off the air before McNally took over and helped grow its popularity.

New Hampshire’s folk music shows the state’s strength, creativity, and bond with its land and people. Thanks to local artists and the community, this music keeps thriving in the Granite State.

Modern Musical Tributes to the Granite State

New Hampshire’s rich music history inspires today’s artists. They honor the state with their songs. For example, Granite State of Mind by The Super Secret Project and Okay Alright by Moe celebrate the state’s culture.

These songs talk about special places and traditions in New Hampshire. They connect the state’s past and present. They also introduce new fans to its beauty and charm.

Celebrating the Granite State Through Music

New Hampshire’s landscapes inspire many artists. The White Mountains and Lake Region are just a few examples. Songs like Down in New Hampshire by Robert Reid and New Hampshire by Jason Anderson highlight its beauty.

ArtistSong TitleGenreRelease Year
The Super Secret ProjectGranite State of MindIndie/Rock2015
MoeOkay AlrightRock2018
Robert ReidDown in New HampshireFolk2010
Jason AndersonNew HampshireCountry2007
Heather MaloneyGranite StateIndie/Folk2013

These songs show off New Hampshire’s talent and beauty. They mix old and new sounds. This makes New Hampshire a center for music and creativity.

Natural Landscapes in New Hampshire Music

New Hampshire’s natural beauty has inspired many musicians. They’ve written songs that show off the state’s beauty. From the White Mountains to the coast and lakes, the state’s beauty is in music.

White Mountains Musical Inspirations

The White Mountains are known for their beauty and tall peaks. Musicians like Bill Morrissey and James Parkington have written songs about them. Their songs show the state’s adventurous spirit and beauty.

Coastal Region Songs

New Hampshire’s short coastline has caught the eye of musicians. Songs like “New Hampshire’s Coast” by Below The Sea take listeners to the shores. They celebrate the calm and beauty of the coast.

Lake Region Musical Tributes

New Hampshire’s lakes, like Lake Winnipesaukee, have inspired many songs. Tracks like “New Hampshire” by John Linnell show the calm and fun of these lakes. They highlight the state’s natural charm.

 

New Hampshire’s beauty, from mountains to lakes, inspires musicians. Their songs celebrate the state’s stunning views. They also show the bond between the land and the artists who live here.

Contemporary Artists Celebrating New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s music legacy lives on through today’s artists. Ray LaMontagne mixes alternative rock and folk. Mandy Moore’s songs mention the Granite State, keeping its culture alive.

Ray LaMontagne is from Nashua. He’s known for his unique sound. His songs often talk about New Hampshire’s beauty.

Mandy Moore is also from New Hampshire. She sings pop music with hints of her home. Her songs show the state’s spirit and strength.

Moe is a band from New Hampshire. They play indie rock and alternative country. They celebrate New Hampshire’s culture through their music.

“The mountains, the lakes, the forests of New Hampshire – they all somehow find their way into my music. This place is a part of who I am, and it’s impossible for me to separate that from my art.”

The Impact of Seasonal Changes on NH Music

New Hampshire’s changing seasons deeply affect its music. Winter’s beauty and summer’s energy inspire artists. This leads to a wide range of New Hampshire music, taking listeners on a journey through the year.

Winter in New Hampshire brings quiet and deep thoughts. This is seen in many Granite State songs with sad tones and deep words. Spring and summer bring joy and lively songs, full of happiness and energy.

Fall’s colorful leaves inspire songs that celebrate New Hampshire’s beauty. This shows how seasons shape New Hampshire music. Musicians share the state’s wonders with their music, inviting everyone to listen.

A vintage map of New England, with "Songs About New Hampshire" in bold white text, highlights local New Hampshire artists and features a Your Music Depot logo at the bottom.

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