The southernmost state in the union has a deep and rich musical culture that draws on influences from all over the United States and the world.
If you didn’t get enough music from the Sunshine State in our Hear the Music and Extended Play sections, here are a few video clips showcasing famous musicians who have called Florida their home. First off, the great Julian “Cannonball” Adderley, performing “Work Song” by his brother Nat (playing cornet to Cannonball’s right) during a 1963 concert in Switzerland. In the rhythm section are pianist Joe Zawinul, bassist Sam Jones, and drummer Louis Hayes.
Next, K.C. and the Sunshine Band play “Get Down Tonight” on The Midnight Special in 1977. Singer/keyboardist Harry Wayne Casey (a.k.a. “K.C.”) leads the group through some wacky dance moves—a typical feature of any Sunshine Band show.
Gainesville native Tom Petty sings “The Waiting” with backup from his Heartbreakers in this classic 1981 video.
Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine, plus some rather exotically dressed dancers, show off Florida’s Latin side in a 1985 performance of “Conga.”
Finally, Boca Raton’s own Ariana Grande takes a run through “Problem,” live at the 2015 Capital Summertime Ball in London.