Jackson, Mississippi, isn’t just the state capital — it’s a city that’s launched talent into music, politics, sports, and even pop culture history. From Grammy-winning singers to Broadway icons and courtroom trailblazers, Jackson natives have left a mark far beyond state lines. This countdown looks at 15 of the most notable people born in the city, ranked from rising names to household legends.
#15. Dent May (1985– )
Dent May is an indie pop musician whose style mixes folk, synth-pop, and retro lounge sounds. A University of Mississippi graduate, he first gained attention with his ukulele-based music before shifting into richer, layered production. His albums released under the Paw Tracks label drew national attention, and he later relocated to Los Angeles to expand his career. Still, his Jackson roots shaped his early sound.
#14. Charlie Worsham (1985– )
Charlie Worsham grew up in Jackson before attending Grenada High School and later studying at Berklee College of Music. A talented multi-instrumentalist, he became known for his sharp songwriting and dynamic performances. Worsham has toured with artists like Taylor Swift and Dierks Bentley while releasing solo work that showcases his Mississippi influences. His mix of traditional country and modern flair keeps him active in Nashville’s competitive music scene.
#13. Al Goodman (1943–2010)
Born in Jackson, Al Goodman rose to fame as a member of The Moments, later renamed Ray, Goodman & Brown. The group earned success with R&B hits such as “Love on a Two-Way Street” and “Special Lady.” Goodman’s soulful voice carried through the 1970s and 1980s, making the trio a mainstay of romantic R&B. Though his career was based in New Jersey and New York, his beginnings in Mississippi gave him a gospel foundation.
#12. Lehman Engel (1910–1982)
Lehman Engel, born in Jackson, became one of Broadway’s most respected conductors and composers. He studied at the University of Mississippi before moving into the New York theater world, where he conducted dozens of productions. Engel also founded the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop, which trained prominent lyricists and composers, leaving a lasting impact on American theater. His legacy bridges Mississippi roots and Broadway tradition.
#11. Teddy Edwards (1924–2003)
Teddy Edwards was a jazz saxophonist raised in Jackson before making his mark in Los Angeles. Known for his elegant improvisation, he played with legends including Charlie Parker and Dexter Gordon. Edwards helped define the West Coast jazz scene, earning recognition for both his recordings and live performances. His long career produced a rich catalog of work that showcased Mississippi’s contribution to America’s jazz history.
#10. Bill Waller Jr. (1952– )
Bill Waller Jr., son of former Mississippi Governor Bill Waller, was born in Jackson and went on to serve as chief justice of the Mississippi Supreme Court. He earned his law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law and was known for his dedication to judicial reform. In 2019, he ran for governor, campaigning on healthcare and education issues. His leadership reflected a continuation of his family’s strong ties to Mississippi public life.
#9. Gregg Harper (1956– )
Gregg Harper, born in Jackson, represented Mississippi’s 3rd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2009 to 2019. A graduate of Mississippi College and the University of Mississippi School of Law, he became known for his work on committees addressing energy, science, and administration. Harper also championed causes related to individuals with disabilities, drawing from personal family experiences. His service highlighted Mississippi values on the national stage.
#8. Reuben V. Anderson (1942– )
Reuben V. Anderson made history as the first African American justice on the Mississippi Supreme Court. Born in Jackson, he studied at Tougaloo College before earning his law degree from the University of Mississippi. His career combined public service with civil rights advocacy, as he worked to expand representation in Mississippi’s legal system. Anderson later served as president of the Mississippi Bar, underscoring his groundbreaking role in the state’s judiciary.
#7. Dorothy Moore (1946– )
Dorothy Moore, born in Jackson, became internationally known for her soulful 1976 hit “Misty Blue.” Before her solo success, she sang with The Poppies while attending Jackson State University. Moore’s gospel-influenced style carried into her career, earning her Grammy nominations and a lasting reputation as one of Mississippi’s great soul voices. Her music continues to resonate with fans of both soul and R&B across generations.
#6. Bobby V (1980– )
Bobby V, born Bobby Wilson in Jackson, is an R&B singer who gained fame as part of the group Mista in the 1990s before launching a solo career. His 2005 single “Slow Down” became a major hit, earning him a spot in the mainstream R&B scene. Though he grew up in Atlanta, his Jackson roots are part of his story, connecting him to Mississippi’s strong music tradition.
#5. Jimmy Hart (1944– )
Jimmy Hart, nicknamed “The Mouth of the South,” was born in Jackson and became one of professional wrestling’s most colorful managers. Before wrestling, Hart performed with the 1960s band The Gentrys, known for the hit “Keep on Dancing.” He later transitioned to wrestling, where his loud personality and megaphone made him a fan favorite. Hart also wrote entrance music for WWE stars, blending his Mississippi music roots with sports entertainment.
#4. Larry Hoover (1950– )
Larry Hoover, born in Jackson, became infamous as the leader of the Chicago-based Gangster Disciples. His criminal influence grew during the 1970s and 1980s, leading to multiple convictions and a life sentence in federal prison. Despite later attempts to portray himself as a reform advocate, his legacy remains tied to organized crime. Hoover’s story stands as one of Jackson’s most controversial connections to national headlines.
#3. Robert Pittman (1953– )
Robert Pittman, born in Jackson, co-founded MTV and reshaped music and pop culture in the 1980s. A broadcasting prodigy, he began working in radio at age 15 in Mississippi before moving into major media. Pittman later held executive roles at AOL, Six Flags, and Clear Channel (now iHeartMedia). His work made him one of the most influential figures in entertainment, showing how a Jackson native could change global culture.
#2. Cassandra Wilson (1955– )
Cassandra Wilson, born in Jackson, is an acclaimed jazz vocalist recognized for her smoky voice and genre-crossing style. She studied at Millsaps College and Jackson State University before moving to New York, where she built her career. Wilson has won Grammy Awards for Best Jazz Vocal Album and is celebrated for her ability to blend blues, folk, and pop influences into jazz. She remains one of Mississippi’s most respected musical exports.
#1. LeAnn Rimes (1982– )
LeAnn Rimes became a country music sensation at just 13 with her hit “Blue,” and her powerful vocals quickly made her a household name. Born in Jackson, she went on to win multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, and Country Music Association honors. Rimes successfully crossed into pop, expanding her fanbase worldwide. Her career, launched from Mississippi beginnings, turned her into one of the best-selling artists of her generation.
Last Updated on August 2, 2026 by F.E.M