Freehold's Bruce Springsteen was New Jersey's first rock star. His album Born in the USA sold more than 12 million copies. Springsteen is considered by some to be America's greatest living rock star. He continues to pack arenas whenever he goes on tour.

Perth Amboy's Jon Bon Jovi is another New Jersey rocker who has enjoyed great success. His 1987 album Slippery When Wet was that year's top-selling rock album. Bon Jovi has had continued success both with his band and as a solo artist.

As rap and R&B became part of the popular music scene, New Jersey played no small part in producing its stars. Lauryn Hill of South Orange began her musical success story with the Fugees. Her solo album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, won her five Grammies at the 1999 awards show, a record for a female artist.