Southern California is famous for its influence on both the pop and rock music scenes. With its pristine sandy beaches, enviably 70-degree weather, and inspiring sunsets, it's no surprise that Newport Beach has been the home of many acclaimed artists. With summer quickly approaching, we’ve put together four of the best Newport Beach musicians to give a listen.
Sugar Ray
Formed in 1986,
Sugar Ray is an American rock band that originated in Newport Beach. Their best-selling album, 14:59, was released in 1999. Popular singles from the album included “Every Morning” and “Someday”. After this best-selling album propelled them into mainstream popularity, the band released three more albums before announcing another album,
Little Yachty, in the summer of 2019. If you’re looking for classic rock, Sugar Ray still stands the test of time.
Steve Aoki
Newport Beach native
Steve Aoki burst onto the music scene in 1996 when he founded his own label
Dim Mak Records. Since then, he has become a world-famous DJ and EDM legend. With his iconic and distinctive music, Aoki has achieved incredible success in the dance music scene. In addition to his thriving musical career, he also founded the
Steve Aoki Charitable Fund, which raises funds for global humanitarian aid organizations. He is also the author of his captivating memoir,
Blue: The Color of Noise.
Susann Hoffs
Born in Newport Beach in the 1950s,
Susanna Hoffs is well-known for her role as the co-founder of
The Bangles, an iconic 80s American pop-rock band. She cultivated a love for music when she started playing guitar in her teenage years, eventually graduating from UC Berkeley with a bachelor’s degree in art. The Bangles’ released their self-titled EP in 1982, followed by a full-length album in 1984. After many years as a part of The Bangles, Susanna pursued a career as a solo artist. “Manic Monday” or not, The Bangles timeless classics are still iconic.
Elise Trouw
Elise Trouw is an up-and-coming artist born in Newport Beach. Her music is a mix of alternative, pop, and jazz. Not only is she a singer, but Trouw’s talents also include songwriting and being a multi-instrumentalist. Her debut album,
Unraveling, was released three years ago. The 10-song album features Elise on the drums, guitar, piano, bass guitar—oh, and vocals.