Broadway, the pinnacle of American musical theater, has been graced by countless talented singers who have left an indelible mark on the stage. These performers have captivated audiences with their powerful voices, emotional depth, and charismatic presence, bringing to life some of the most iconic characters in the history of theater. Their contributions have not only entertained millions but have also helped shape the landscape of musical theater, inspiring generations of aspiring performers. In this article, we celebrate the top 15 most popular Broadway singers of all time, each of whom has made a significant impact on the world of theater and has earned a place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
1. Ethel Merman
Ethel Merman, often referred to as the “Queen of Broadway,” was a legendary singer and actress whose powerful voice and larger-than-life personality made her one of the most iconic figures in the history of musical theater. With a career spanning over five decades, Merman starred in numerous Broadway productions, including “Girl Crazy,” “Annie Get Your Gun,” and “Gypsy,” among others. Her performances were known for their energy, humor, and ability to bring down the house with her signature belting style. Merman’s voice was unparalleled in its power and clarity, and her ability to project to the back of the theater without the aid of modern sound amplification was legendary. Her influence on the world of musical theater cannot be overstated, as she set the standard for generations of Broadway singers to come. Merman’s recordings, including her definitive renditions of songs like “I Got Rhythm” and “Everything’s Coming Up Roses,” continue to be celebrated by musical theater enthusiasts and serve as a testament to her enduring legacy. Ethel Merman’s place in the pantheon of Broadway greats is secure, and her impact on the art form will continue to be felt for generations to come.
2. Patti LuPone
Patti LuPone, a true force of nature on the Broadway stage, is one of the most acclaimed and versatile singers of her generation. With a career spanning over four decades, LuPone has starred in numerous iconic productions, including “Evita,” “Anything Goes,” and “Gypsy,” among others. Her performances are known for their emotional depth, technical brilliance, and ability to captivate audiences with her commanding presence. LuPone’s voice is a powerhouse, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the delicate to the explosive. Her acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing her to fully embody the complex characters she portrays. LuPone’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including two Tony Awards and a Grammy Award. Her influence on the art form is immeasurable, as she has set a new standard for what it means to be a leading lady on Broadway. LuPone’s recordings, including her solo albums and cast recordings, showcase her exceptional vocal abilities and serve as a testament to her enduring artistry. Patti LuPone’s legacy as one of the greatest Broadway singers of all time is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
3. Bernadette Peters
Bernadette Peters, a beloved figure in the world of musical theater, is renowned for her unique voice, impeccable comic timing, and heartfelt performances. With a career spanning over six decades, Peters has starred in numerous Broadway productions, including “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Into the Woods,” and “Annie Get Your Gun,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her ability to bring a sense of vulnerability and depth to her characters, while also showcasing her impressive vocal range and musicality. Peters’ voice is instantly recognizable, with a distinctive vibrato and a warm, inviting tone that draws audiences in. Her acting abilities are equally noteworthy, allowing her to fully inhabit the roles she plays and bring them to life with nuance and authenticity. Peters’ contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including three Tony Awards and a Golden Globe Award. Her influence on the art form is significant, as she has helped to redefine what it means to be a leading lady on Broadway, bringing a new level of emotional honesty and complexity to her performances. Bernadette Peters’ legacy as one of the most beloved and talented Broadway singers of all time is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater will continue to be felt for generations to come.
4. Barbara Streisand
Barbara Streisand, a true icon of stage and screen, is one of the most successful and influential singers in the history of Broadway. With a career spanning over six decades, Streisand first made her mark on Broadway in the 1960s, starring in productions such as “I Can Get It for You Wholesale” and “Funny Girl,” which catapulted her to stardom. Her performances were marked by her incredible vocal range, impeccable phrasing, and ability to convey deep emotion through her singing. Streisand’s voice is a marvel, capable of seamlessly transitioning from delicate whispers to powerful belts, and her ability to interpret lyrics with sincerity and depth is unparalleled. While her time on Broadway was relatively brief, Streisand’s impact on the world of musical theater cannot be overstated. Her performances in “Funny Girl” and other productions set a new standard for what it meant to be a leading lady on Broadway, and her influence can still be felt in the performances of countless singers who have followed in her footsteps. Streisand’s recordings of Broadway classics, including her iconic rendition of “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” continue to be celebrated by musical theater enthusiasts and serve as a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time.
5. Julie Andrews
Julie Andrews, a beloved figure in the world of musical theater and film, is renowned for her crystal-clear soprano voice, impeccable diction, and charming stage presence. With a career spanning over seven decades, Andrews first made her mark on Broadway in the 1950s, starring in productions such as “The Boy Friend” and “My Fair Lady,” which established her as a leading lady of the stage. Her performances were marked by her incredible vocal range, effortless phrasing, and ability to embody the characters she portrayed with grace and authenticity. Andrews’ voice is a marvel, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the playful to the poignant. Her contributions to the world of musical theater have been immense, as she helped to popularize the genre and bring it to a wider audience through her performances on stage and screen. Andrews’ recordings of Broadway classics, including her definitive renditions of songs from “My Fair Lady” and “Camelot,” continue to be celebrated by musical theater enthusiasts and serve as a testament to her enduring artistry. Julie Andrews’ legacy as one of the most beloved and talented performers in the history of musical theater is secure, and her impact on the art form will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
6. Liza Minnelli
Liza Minnelli, a true icon of stage and screen, is one of the most dynamic and versatile performers in the history of Broadway. With a career spanning over six decades, Minnelli has starred in numerous productions, including “Flora the Red Menace,” “The Act,” and “Chicago,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her incredible energy, powerful voice, and ability to fully embody the characters she portrays. Minnelli’s voice is a force of nature, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the brassy to the tender. Her acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing her to bring a sense of depth and authenticity to her roles. Minnelli’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including four Tony Awards and an Academy Award for her performance in the film adaptation of “Cabaret.” Her influence on the art form is significant, as she has helped to push the boundaries of what is possible on the Broadway stage, bringing a new level of intensity and emotional honesty to her performances. Liza Minnelli’s legacy as one of the greatest performers in the history of Broadway is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater will continue to be felt for generations to come.
7. Chita Rivera
Chita Rivera, a true legend of Broadway, is renowned for her incredible dancing abilities, powerful voice, and magnetic stage presence. With a career spanning over seven decades, Rivera has starred in numerous iconic productions, including “West Side Story,” “Chicago,” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her ability to seamlessly blend dance and song, creating a truly immersive and captivating experience for audiences. Rivera’s voice is a powerhouse, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the sultry to the explosive. Her dancing abilities are unparalleled, and her ability to tell a story through movement is truly remarkable. Rivera’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including three Tony Awards and a Kennedy Center Honor. Her influence on the art form is immeasurable, as she has helped to redefine what it means to be a triple threat on Broadway, excelling in acting, singing, and dancing. Chita Rivera’s legacy as one of the greatest performers in the history of Broadway is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
8. Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth, a versatile performer with a powerful voice and infectious charm, has become one of the most beloved figures on Broadway in recent years. With a career spanning over three decades, Chenoweth has starred in numerous productions, including “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” “Wicked,” and “On the Twentieth Century,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her incredible vocal range, comedic timing, and ability to fully inhabit the characters she portrays. Chenoweth’s voice is a marvel, capable of effortlessly transitioning from delicate soprano notes to powerful belts. Her acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing her to bring a sense of depth and authenticity to her roles, whether she’s playing a comedic or dramatic character. Chenoweth’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Tony Award and an Emmy Award. Her influence on the art form is significant, as she has helped to bring a new level of energy and excitement to the Broadway stage, attracting new audiences and inspiring a new generation of performers. Kristin Chenoweth’s legacy as one of the most talented and beloved performers on Broadway is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater will continue to be felt for years to come.
9. Audra McDonald
Audra McDonald, a true powerhouse of the Broadway stage, is renowned for her incredible vocal range, emotional depth, and commanding presence. With a career spanning over three decades, McDonald has starred in numerous productions, including “Carousel,” “Ragtime,” and “Porgy and Bess,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her ability to fully embody the characters she portrays, bringing a sense of authenticity and vulnerability to each role. McDonald’s voice is a marvel, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the tender to the triumphant. Her acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing her to tackle both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. McDonald’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a record-breaking six Tony Awards, more than any other performer in history. Her influence on the art form is immeasurable, as she has helped to push the boundaries of what is possible on the Broadway stage, taking on challenging roles and bringing a new level of diversity and representation to the industry. Audra McDonald’s legacy as one of the greatest performers in the history of Broadway is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
10. Sutton Foster
Sutton Foster, a versatile performer with a powerful voice and infectious energy, has become one of the most beloved figures on Broadway in recent years. With a career spanning over two decades, Foster has starred in numerous productions, including “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Anything Goes,” and “Violet,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her incredible dance abilities, comedic timing, and ability to fully inhabit the characters she portrays. Foster’s voice is a powerhouse, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the playful to the poignant. Her dancing abilities are equally impressive, and her ability to seamlessly blend dance and song is truly remarkable. Foster’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including two Tony Awards and a Drama Desk Award. Her influence on the art form is significant, as she has helped to bring a new level of energy and excitement to the Broadway stage, attracting new audiences and inspiring a new generation of performers. Sutton Foster’s legacy as one of the most talented and beloved performers on Broadway is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater will continue to be felt for years to come.
11. Idina Menzel
Idina Menzel, a powerhouse vocalist and actress, has become one of the most recognizable names on Broadway and beyond. With a career spanning over three decades, Menzel has starred in numerous productions, including “Rent,” “Wicked,” and “If/Then,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her incredible vocal range, emotional depth, and ability to fully embody the characters she portrays. Menzel’s voice is a force of nature, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the tender to the triumphant. Her acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing her to tackle both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. Menzel’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Tony Award and a Grammy Award. Her influence on the art form is immeasurable, as she has helped to bring a new level of power and intensity to the Broadway stage, inspiring a new generation of performers. Menzel’s success has also extended beyond the stage, with her iconic performance of “Let It Go” from the Disney film “Frozen” becoming a global phenomenon. Idina Menzel’s legacy as one of the most talented and influential performers of her generation is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater and popular culture will continue to be felt for years to come.
12. Brian Stokes Mitchell
Brian Stokes Mitchell, a versatile performer with a rich baritone voice and commanding stage presence, has become one of the most respected and beloved figures on Broadway. With a career spanning over three decades, Mitchell has starred in numerous productions, including “Ragtime,” “Man of La Mancha,” and “Kiss Me, Kate,” among others. His performances are characterized by his incredible vocal range, emotional depth, and ability to fully inhabit the characters he portrays. Mitchell’s voice is a marvel, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the tender to the triumphant. His acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing him to tackle both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. Mitchell’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including two Tony Awards and a Drama Desk Award. His influence on the art form is significant, as he has helped to bring a new level of sophistication and artistry to the Broadway stage, inspiring a new generation of performers. Mitchell is also known for his philanthropic work and advocacy for the arts, using his platform to promote diversity and inclusion in the industry. Brian Stokes Mitchell’s legacy as one of the greatest performers in the history of Broadway is secure, and his impact on the world of musical theater will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
13. Lea Salonga
Lea Salonga, a Tony Award-winning actress and singer, has become one of the most beloved and respected figures on Broadway and beyond. With a career spanning over four decades, Salonga has starred in numerous productions, including “Miss Saigon,” “Les Misérables,” and “Once on This Island,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her incredible vocal range, emotional depth, and ability to fully embody the characters she portrays. Salonga’s voice is a marvel, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the tender to the triumphant. Her acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing her to tackle both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. Salonga’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Tony Award, an Olivier Award, and a Drama Desk Award. Her influence on the art form is significant, as she has helped to bring a new level of diversity and representation to the Broadway stage, paving the way for a new generation of Asian and Asian-American performers. Salonga’s success has also extended beyond the stage, with her iconic performances in Disney films such as “Aladdin” and “Mulan” becoming beloved by audiences around the world. Lea Salonga’s legacy as one of the most talented and influential performers of her generation is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater and popular culture will continue to be felt for years to come.
14. Mandy Patinkin
Mandy Patinkin, a versatile performer with a powerful tenor voice and intense acting abilities, has become one of the most respected and beloved figures on Broadway and beyond. With a career spanning over five decades, Patinkin has starred in numerous productions, including “Evita,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” and “The Secret Garden,” among others. His performances are characterized by his incredible vocal range, emotional depth, and ability to fully inhabit the characters he portrays. Patinkin’s voice is a marvel, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the tender to the explosive. His acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing him to tackle both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. Patinkin’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Tony Award and an Emmy Award. His influence on the art form is significant, as he has helped to bring a new level of intensity and authenticity to the Broadway stage, inspiring a new generation of performers. Patinkin’s success has also extended beyond the stage, with his iconic performances in films such as “The Princess Bride” and television shows like “Homeland” becoming beloved by audiences around the world. Mandy Patinkin’s legacy as one of the greatest performers of his generation is secure, and his impact on the world of musical theater and popular culture will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.
15. Kelli O’Hara
Kelli O’Hara, a Tony Award-winning actress and singer, has become one of the most beloved and respected figures on Broadway in recent years. With a career spanning over two decades, O’Hara has starred in numerous productions, including “The Light in the Piazza,” “South Pacific,” and “The King and I,” among others. Her performances are characterized by her incredible vocal range, emotional depth, and ability to fully embody the characters she portrays. O’Hara’s voice is a marvel, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and styles, from the tender to the triumphant. Her acting abilities are equally impressive, allowing her to tackle both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. O’Hara’s contributions to the world of musical theater have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award. Her influence on the art form is significant, as she has helped to bring a new level of sophistication and artistry to the Broadway stage, inspiring a new generation of performers. O’Hara is also known for her dedication to her craft and her commitment to mentoring young artists, using her platform to promote education and outreach in the performing arts. Kelli O’Hara’s legacy as one of the greatest performers of her generation is secure, and her impact on the world of musical theater will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.
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.
