Broadway has long been a beacon of brilliance, where music, drama, and passion collide on stage to create unforgettable moments. But behind every legendary performance is a singer whose voice has the power to transport audiences to new emotional heights. From stirring ballads to show-stopping anthems, Broadway’s finest vocalists have left an indelible mark on the world of musical theater. In this article, we’re counting down the top 15 best Broadway singers of all time—a monumental task considering the sheer talent that has graced the Great White Way.
These artists didn’t just sing; they embodied their characters, making audiences laugh, cry, and cheer with performances that transcended the stage. Whether it’s the soaring notes of classic show tunes or the heart-wrenching depth of more contemporary works, these Broadway legends have set the bar for vocal excellence. From the golden age of Broadway to the modern era, each of these singers has contributed something extraordinary, leaving an enduring legacy. So, take your seat, dim the lights, and prepare to be dazzled as we celebrate the voices that helped define Broadway and shaped musical theater history as we know it.
1. Ethel Merman
Ethel Merman is often referred to as the queen of Broadway, and for good reason. With her booming voice and larger-than-life stage presence, Merman dominated the Broadway scene for decades. Her signature belt gave life to iconic songs like “There’s No Business Like Show Business” and “Everything’s Coming Up Roses.” Merman had an uncanny ability to project her voice all the way to the back of the theater, long before microphones became standard. Her performances in shows such as Annie Get Your Gun and Gypsy have become the gold standard for musical theater. Merman’s voice was not just powerful—it was unforgettable, and her influence on Broadway singing is immeasurable.
2. Julie Andrews
Few voices are as universally recognized as Julie Andrews’. The British-born star captured hearts on both sides of the Atlantic with her angelic soprano and impeccable technique. Andrews made her Broadway debut in The Boy Friend, but it was her portrayal of Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady that cemented her as a star. Her ability to effortlessly navigate complex vocal lines, combined with her charm, made her a force to be reckoned with. Later roles in Camelot continued to showcase her vocal brilliance, and though she eventually transitioned to film, Broadway will always remember her as one of its most refined and talented singers.
3. Audra McDonald
Audra McDonald is a modern Broadway legend, known for her breathtaking range and emotive performances. With six Tony Awards under her belt—more than any other performer—McDonald has become synonymous with vocal excellence. Her ability to move seamlessly between genres, from operatic arias to soulful ballads, is nothing short of remarkable. Roles in shows like Ragtime, Porgy and Bess, and Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill showcase her unparalleled vocal versatility. When McDonald sings, it feels like she’s telling a story with every note, bringing a depth and richness to her characters that few can match.
4. Patti LuPone
Patti LuPone is the definition of a Broadway powerhouse. Known for her fiery presence and commanding voice, LuPone has delivered some of the most iconic performances in musical theater history. Her portrayal of Eva Perón in Evita launched her into stardom, with her rendition of “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” becoming a Broadway anthem. LuPone is also celebrated for her role as Mama Rose in Gypsy, where her raw emotion and vocal intensity left audiences spellbound. Whether she’s belting a high note or delivering a quiet, tender moment, LuPone’s performances are always electrifying, making her one of Broadway’s most unforgettable stars.
5. Bernadette Peters
With her unmistakable curly red hair and a voice that can melt hearts, Bernadette Peters is one of Broadway’s most beloved stars. Known for her work with legendary composer Stephen Sondheim, Peters has dazzled audiences in shows like Sunday in the Park with George and Into the Woods. Her voice is both sweet and powerful, capable of bringing out the nuances in Sondheim’s complex compositions. Peters has a unique ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously, making her performances deeply moving and emotionally resonant. Few singers can match her combination of vocal prowess and acting skill.
6. Angela Lansbury
Angela Lansbury is a Broadway icon whose career has spanned decades, from her breakout role in Mame to her unforgettable turn as Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd. Known for her ability to infuse humor and pathos into her performances, Lansbury’s voice is both rich and versatile. She brought a unique warmth and wit to her characters, and her vocal delivery was always pitch-perfect. Lansbury’s longevity in the world of musical theater is a testament to her immense talent and lasting appeal. Her performances have become the stuff of Broadway legend, and her impact on the stage will be felt for generations to come.
7. Sutton Foster
Sutton Foster is a modern Broadway star with a voice that’s as infectious as her energy. Known for her dazzling performances in shows like Thoroughly Modern Millie and Anything Goes, Foster has become a fan favorite for her incredible versatility. Whether she’s belting out a show-stopping number or delivering a tender ballad, Foster’s voice is always full of life and emotion. Her ability to seamlessly blend comedy and heart in her performances makes her one of the most engaging performers on Broadway today. With every new role, she continues to prove that she’s a force to be reckoned with in the world of musical theater.
8. Idina Menzel
Idina Menzel’s voice is nothing short of iconic. Her breakout role as Elphaba in Wicked introduced the world to her incredible range and power, with the song “Defying Gravity” becoming one of Broadway’s most beloved anthems. Menzel’s voice has a unique, raw quality that sets her apart from other singers—it’s emotional, powerful, and unmistakably hers. Beyond Wicked, she’s also known for her work in Rent and her vocal performance in the Disney hit Frozen. Menzel is a performer who sings with passion and conviction, leaving audiences breathless with every note.
9. Elaine Stritch
Elaine Stritch was a Broadway original, known for her sharp wit and no-nonsense singing style. Her vocal performances were often as brash and bold as the characters she portrayed, with her most famous role being Joanne in Company, where her rendition of “The Ladies Who Lunch” became an instant classic. Stritch had a unique ability to connect with audiences, whether she was delivering a biting one-liner or a heartfelt ballad. Her voice may not have been the most polished, but it was undeniably authentic, and her performances were always unforgettable.
10. Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth’s voice is as bubbly and effervescent as her onstage personality. With her petite stature and a voice that seems to defy gravity, Chenoweth has dazzled Broadway audiences in shows like Wicked and You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Her soprano is light and airy but incredibly powerful, capable of hitting high notes that seem almost impossible. Chenoweth’s charm and charisma make her a joy to watch, and her ability to blend comedy and music into one seamless performance is a testament to her immense talent. She’s one of Broadway’s most versatile performers, and her voice is instantly recognizable to theater fans everywhere.
11. Carol Channing
With her unmistakable voice and comedic timing, Carol Channing lit up the Broadway stage in a way few could rival. Best known for her role as Dolly Gallagher Levi in Hello, Dolly!, Channing’s performances were full of life and energy. Her distinctive raspy voice made her stand out, and her comedic presence was second to none. Channing had an infectious enthusiasm that made every performance feel like a celebration. Her work helped define an era of Broadway, and her legacy as one of the greats is undeniable.
12. Mandy Patinkin
Mandy Patinkin is a vocal chameleon, known for his ability to shift seamlessly between musical genres and acting styles. With a voice that can go from tender and soft to powerful and commanding, Patinkin has wowed audiences in shows like Sunday in the Park with George and Evita. His emotional intensity on stage is palpable, and his ability to bring depth to every song he sings is what makes him one of Broadway’s most respected performers. Patinkin’s voice is not just technically impressive—it’s full of heart and soul, making every performance a deeply moving experience.
13. Barbara Cook
Barbara Cook’s voice was often described as pure and crystalline, with a warmth that could touch even the coldest heart. A leading lady of the golden age of Broadway, Cook made her mark in shows like The Music Man and She Loves Me. Her soprano was effortless, and she had a way of making even the most complex vocal lines sound easy. Cook was not just a singer—she was a storyteller, bringing a depth of emotion to her performances that was unparalleled. Her voice remains one of the most cherished in Broadway history, and her influence on musical theater singing cannot be overstated.
14. Brian Stokes Mitchell
Brian Stokes Mitchell is often referred to as the “last leading man” of Broadway, and his rich, baritone voice is a key reason why. With a vocal range that is as impressive as his acting chops, Mitchell has wowed audiences in shows like Ragtime, Kiss Me, Kate, and Man of La Mancha. His voice is strong, resonant, and full of emotion, capable of delivering both powerful ballads and tender love songs. Mitchell’s stage presence is commanding, and his performances are always deeply compelling. He’s a true Broadway star whose voice continues to captivate audiences around the world.
15. Chita Rivera
Chita Rivera is a Broadway legend, known not only for her incredible dancing but also for her distinctive voice that has brought to life some of musical theater’s most iconic roles. Rivera’s performances in shows like West Side Story, Chicago, and Kiss of the Spider Woman have become the stuff of legend. Her voice has a fiery quality to it, full of passion and power, perfectly complementing her dynamic stage presence. Rivera’s contributions to Broadway are immeasurable, and she remains one of the most celebrated performers in theater history.