15 Best Broadway Singers of All Time

Broadway singers are the radiant stars of the musical theater world, possessing voices that dazzle and captivate audiences under the bright lights of the Great White Way. With vocal ranges that span from soaring sopranos to commanding baritones, they bring characters to life through a potent combination of acting and vocal prowess.

These artists are the embodiment of versatility, seamlessly transitioning between genres and styles to suit the demands of diverse roles. Their performances are a showcase of emotion, storytelling, and technical skill, as they breathe life into beloved characters and bring original musicals to vivid, memorable life.

Broadway singers undergo rigorous training to master the demanding requirements of musical theater. They possess not only exceptional vocal abilities but also the acting chops needed to convey complex characters on stage.

Performing in legendary theaters like the New York City’s Broadway district, these singers command the stage with a magnetic presence. Their voices, backed by talented ensembles and orchestras, transport audiences to worlds of fantasy, drama, and romance.

Broadway singers are the heartbeat of the theatrical experience, leaving indelible impressions with their dynamic performances. They hold the power to inspire, entertain, and move audiences in a way that is unique to the magic of live theater. Through their talent, dedication, and artistry, Broadway singers continue to enchant audiences worldwide.

1. Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand, the Broadway singer extraordinaire, has amazed audiences with her mesmerizing voice and talent. She stands tall on the list of 15 Best Broadway Singers of All Time.

Let's take a look at Barbra Streisand's achievements:

With an amazing discography of over 50 albums and hit songs like "People" and "The Way We Were," Barbra Streisand is one of the best Broadway singers of all time.

Not only was she a successful singer, but she also enjoyed success as an actor. Her philanthropic activities demonstrate her kind nature and dedication to making a difference.

Don't miss out! Let Barbra Streisand's captivating performances and awe-inspiring voice transport you to another realm. Ethel Merman's powerful voice could break glass – but her performances were so fantastic, the theater owners had to install reinforced windows!

2. Ethel Merman

Ethel Merman, famed for her powerful vocals, is one of the greatest Broadway singers ever. Her career spanned four decades, with amazing vocal range and stage presence.

Her birth name is Ethel Agnes Zimmermann and she was born on January 16, 1908 in Astoria, Queens, New York City. Her notable works include "Gypsy," "Annie Get Your Gun," and "Call Me Madam."

What makes her unique is her gift to bring characters to life. Her performances were full of emotion and left audiences in awe.

Her collaboration with composer Irving Berlin is legendary. Together they created iconic Broadway musicals such as "Annie Get Your Gun" and "Call Me Madam." Their combined talents made for magical shows.

Not only was she a talented singer, but she was also a philanthropist. She used her fame to support various causes.

Ethel Merman's legacy continues to inspire future generations of Broadway performers. Her talent, commitment, and contributions to musical theatre have earned her a place as a true legend in the industry. Move over, Cats! With Bernadette Peters, the real queen of the Broadway jungle has arrived.

3. Bernadette Peters

Bernadette Peters – an extraordinary Broadway singer – has made a lasting impact on musical theatre. Her talent and versatility have enchanted audiences for years. Let's explore the achievements that make her career remarkable.

A few of Bernadette Peter's legendary works on Broadway include:

1. 'Sunday in the Park with George' (1984)
2. 'Into the Woods' (1987)
3. 'Annie Get Your Gun' (1999)
4. 'Gypsy' (2003)
5. 'Hello, Dolly!' (2018-2019)

Her ability to bring characters alive is unparalleled, giving viewers an unforgettable experience.

Apart from stage performances, she has also appeared on TV and in movies. She has been in popular shows such as "The Good Fight" and films such as "Annie". Each project further demonstrates her exceptional singing and acting abilities.

A remarkable fact about her is that she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role as Dot/Marie in 'Sunday in the Park with George'. Her performance left the audience awestruck.

When Bernadette Peters sings, she brings down the curtain, the walls, and any doubt of her position as one of the greatest Broadway singers of all time.

4. Patti LuPone

Patti LuPone is an amazing Broadway singer. Her stage presence and singing have earned her respect in the industry. Let's take a look at her achievements:

Notable Performances like Evita, Gypsy, Sweeney Todd, Les Misérables and Sunset Boulevard. Accolades like Tony Awards, Drama Desk Awards and Laurence Olivier Award.

Her performances are more than just singing. She is able to emotionally connect with her audience. Each character she plays has a unique depth. To really understand her talent, watch her live performances. Her stage presence and vocal range are incredible. Move over Meryl Streep, we have the real queen of versatility here – Audra McDonald!

5. Audra McDonald

Audra McDonald is an amazing Broadway singer! She has made a name for herself in the theatre world, earning numerous awards and setting a new standard of excellence. Let's take a look at this extraordinary performer's journey.

To appreciate Audra McDonald's achievements, let's create a table. Here are some key highlights:

Audra McDonald is special because she can connect with her audience. She can easily move between genres, pleasing both experienced and new theatergoers.

Audra McDonald holds an incredible record. She has won 6 Tony Awards, the most by any performer. This proves her place among the best Broadway singers and stage legends.

Audra McDonald's success gives aspiring performers valuable lessons. Perfecting one's craft and striving for excellence is important. Also, exploring different musical genres can open doors of opportunity. This lets artists show their range and capture all kinds of audiences.

6. Kelli O'Hara

Kelli O'Hara – number six on the list of the best Broadway singers of all time – is an accomplished performer. Her vocal range and emotive performances have won over audiences.

Born on April 16, 1976, and a native American, O'Hara's repertoire ranges from classical opera to contemporary musical theater. She has earned critical acclaim for her work in shows like "The Light in the Piazza," "The King and I," "South Pacific," and "Kiss Me, Kate."

O'Hara has a commitment to her craft. She is known for her vocal technique and ability to convey complex emotions. Her performances are authentic and display a deep connection to the material she performs.

Pro Tip: To appreciate Kelli O'Hara's talent, watch recordings of her live performances. Kristin Chenoweth has a voice that can crack glass – and possibly eardrums too!

7. Kristin Chenoweth

Kristin Chenoweth is a renowned Broadway vocalist. Her remarkable range and alluring acts have entranced audiences across the globe. These are some key insights about this remarkable entertainer:

Not only does Kristin possess an astonishing vocal range, but she also brings an unparalleled charisma to her roles on stage. Her flair for transitioning between comedy and drama sets her apart from other performers. Furthermore, Kristin is a skilled songwriter.

If you wish to learn from the greatest and refine your own singing skills, here are some tips motivated by Kristin Chenoweth's success:

1. Experiment with different genres: Just like Kristin fearlessly explores various musical styles, don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try various genres of music. This will not only improve your versatility but also help you find new facets of your voice.
2. Embrace vulnerability: One of the reasons Kristin's performances resonate so deeply with audiences is because she fully embraces vulnerability on stage. Let yourself open up emotionally while performing, as this will create a stronger connection with your audience.
3. Develop strong acting skills: A great Broadway singer not only has a beautiful voice but also the ability to bring songs to life through acting. Take acting classes or workshops to enhance your stage presence and storytelling abilities. This will make your performances more engaging and unforgettable.

By following these tips, you can tap into your full potential as a singer and deliver astounding performances just like Kristin Chenoweth. Remember, success in the world of Broadway requires commitment, hard work, and a readiness to push boundaries. Idina Menzel: the queen of Broadway, belting out notes so powerful they could shatter glass and leaving audiences wondering if they had mistakenly stumbled into an opera house.

8. Idina Menzel

Idina Menzel, a Broadway sensation, takes her rightful spot as the 8th greatest singer ever! Let's explore what makes her an icon.

Birth Name: Idina Kim Mentzel.

Born: May 30, 1971.

Notable Works: "Rent," "Wicked," "Frozen."

Awards: Tony Award, Grammy Award, Academy Award.

Idina Menzel stands out for her passionate vocals and her knack to make audiences feel. Her performances leave people in awe with her unmatched vocal range.

Fun Fact: She earned an Academy Award for her amazing rendition of "Let It Go" from Disney's "Frozen!"

Sutton Foster is no less than a triple threat on Broadway. She can sing, dance, and act her way into our hearts.

9. Sutton Foster

Sutton Foster–the 9th best Broadway singer of all time–is talent that's hard to ignore! Her powerful vocals and incredible stage presence have wowed audiences for years. Let's take a closer look at her amazing career.

Birth Name: Sutton Lenore Foster

Date of Birth: March 18, 1975

Place of Birth: Statesboro, Georgia, U.S.

Famous Roles: Reno Sweeney in "Anything Goes", Millie Dillmount in "Thoroughly Modern Millie"

Sutton Foster has earned lots of accolades during her career. She won two Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Musical. Her stage presence and ability to convey emotion through song are remarkable!

If you haven't seen Sutton Foster on Broadway, don't miss out! Witnessing her talent firsthand is an unforgettable experience. Don't let the fear of FOMO keep you from seeing this extraordinary performer in action!

10. Robert Goulet

Robert Goulet, a top-10 Broadway singer, was renowned for his captivating performances. Let's explore facts about his career!

Birth Name: Robert Gerard Goulet

Born: November 26, 1933

Died: October 30, 2007 (aged 73)

Notable Works: Camelot, The Phantom of the Opera, Man of La Mancha

Goulet's stage presence was charismatic, and his voice was powerful and melodic. Each performance was unforgettable. Plus, he acted in TV shows and films, proving his versatility.

Fun fact: Goulet won a Tony for Best Actor in a Musical for his role as Lancelot in the original Broadway production of Camelot.[i]

[i]: Source: www.example.com

Julie Andrews is proof that fairy tales don't always end happily – sometimes they lead to sparkly Broadway dresses and amazing performances!

11. Julie Andrews

Julie Andrews is the 11th entry on our list of the best Broadway singers of all time. She's a true legend in the industry, renowned for her captivating performances and unparalleled talent.

Let's take a closer look at her life and achievements. Here's a table exploring her notable roles, awards won, and other remarkable accomplishments:

Another impressive aspect of Julie Andrews' career is how she transitioned from stage to screen. Her ability to captivate audiences in both mediums is remarkable.

If you want to follow in her footsteps, here are some tips:

1. Embrace versatility: Being versatile can open up more opportunities for growth and success.
2. Continual learning: Constantly seek improvement and learn from different experiences.
3. Diversify your repertoire: Expand your repertoire with various styles and genres.

Inspired by the iconic Julie Andrews, these suggestions can help aspiring singers on their own paths to success.

Angela Lansbury: She can solve a murder mystery and hit the high notes without breaking a sweat – talk about a killer combination!

12. Angela Lansbury

Angela Lansbury, a famous Broadway singer, mesmerizes people with her amazing talent and unique style. Let's take a further look at her extraordinary journey, successes, and the great impact she has had in theatre.

To comprehend Angela Lansbury's influence on Broadway, let's explore some essential facts about her successful career. Concerning awards and commendation, she has been nominated for an awe-inspiring five Tony Awards and has won four of them. Her unmatched capability as an actress and singer has enabled her to move between various roles, demonstrating her exceptional range and enchanting audiences everywhere.

Now, let's delve into an interesting section of Angela Lansbury's job that hasn't been widely discussed before. Did you know she made her Broadway debut at the age of 18? It was in 1942 when Lansbury stepped on the stage for the first time in the play "Gaslight," making a long-lasting effect on critics and theatre aficionados alike. This revolutionary performance marked the start of a remarkable journey that would solidify her status as one of the greatest Broadway singers of all time.

Apart from her exceptional talent, Angela Lansbury has also left a significant mark on Broadway history with her incomparable devotion and work ethic. She not only shone on stage but also took on demanding roles in film and television, showing off her versatile skills across different platforms. Her contribution to the entertainment industry covers several decades, demonstrating that real talent knows no restrictions or boundaries.

Who needs jewels when you can hear Carol Channing's voice and feel wealthy in amusing appeal and authentic Broadway sorcery?

13. Carol Channing

Carol Channing is definitely a force to be reckoned with! She's ranked 13th among the finest Broadway singers ever and her performances are legendary. Let's take a peek into her remarkable career by means of this visually stimulating table:

She's been lauded with numerous awards and her distinct voice and stage presence have made her an icon in the musical theater world. Carol Channing brought characters to life with her comedic timing, charm and wit. Her portrayal of Lorelei Lee in "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and Dolly Gallagher Levi in "Hello, Dolly!" is synonymous with excellence.

If you haven't had the chance to witness her talent, you must! It's an experience like none other. Her performances will transport you to a world where music and storytelling intertwine perfectly. Don't let time pass without soaking in the brilliance of Carol Channing on Broadway!

14. Chita Rivera

Chita Rivera – a renowned Broadway singer and actress – holds the 14th spot on the list of the greatest Broadway singers of all time. Her talent and accomplishments have earned her a prominent place in the entertainment industry.

Let's take a closer look at Rivera's career with a table of her accomplishments:

What else can we learn about Chita Rivera?

She has not just owned the stage, but also displayed her abilities on television. Rivera has a natural gift for captivating audiences with her performances, leaving a lasting impression everywhere she goes.

An exciting piece of history to mention: During one of her performances in "West Side Story," Rivera actually suffered serious injuries, but kept performing despite the pain. This incredible dedication and determination demonstrate her dedication to her craft.

In conclusion, Chita Rivera has undeniably left a mark on Broadway with her exceptional talent and passion for the performing arts. Her contributions will continue to influence and inspire upcoming singers and actors for years to come.

Liza Minnelli's voice is so strong, it could break glass – good thing she prefers Broadway stages to china shops!

15. Liza Minnelli

Liza Minnelli is one of the greatest Broadway singers of all time, celebrated for her talents. Her lasting mark on musical theater is undeniable.

To appreciate Liza's accomplishments, here's a look at her career. She has been performing for over 60 years, and won four Tony Awards and an Academy Award for "Cabaret." Her powerful voice and stage presence have won over audiences throughout the world.

In addition to her singing, Liza has a special talent for connecting with her audience. Her performances are passionate and vulnerable, making viewers feel a wide range of emotions. This genuine connection makes her artistry stand out.

Pro Tip: To fully understand Liza Minnelli's greatness, watch recordings of her live shows. Seeing her energy and charisma will show you why she's one of the best Broadway singers.

Edward Tomlin

Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.