The alto voice is a unique and powerful instrument that can add depth and soul to any song. With its rich, warm tone and ability to hit those soulful high notes, the alto voice is a versatile and important part of any musical ensemble. Whether you’re a seasoned alto singer or just starting out, finding the right song to showcase your skills can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top 20 best songs for altos. From classic ballads to modern pop hits, we’ve handpicked a diverse range of songs that are perfect for alto singers. Whether you’re looking to stretch your vocal range, showcase your emotional expressiveness, or simply sing your heart out, this list has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 20 best songs for altos, showcasing the different ways in which these songs can help you to showcase your unique vocal abilities and bring your musical talents to the forefront.
1. Glitter in the Air – Pink
“Glitter in the Air” is a powerful ballad by Pink. The song features a haunting piano melody and Pink’s emotional vocals as she sings about the feeling of love and the magic that it brings. The song has a spiritual and ethereal quality, with lyrics about letting go and finding freedom. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the line “Do you believe in love after life?” serving as a question that many listeners can relate to. The music video for “Glitter in the Air” is equally stunning, featuring Pink suspended in the air while performing the song, with glitter and water being used as visual metaphors for the beauty and fragility of love. Overall, “Glitter in the Air” is a beautifully crafted song that showcases Pink’s artistic range and lyrical depth.
2. Someone Like You – Adele
“Someone Like You” is a soulful ballad by Adele that showcases her powerful voice and emotive lyrics. The song was a breakthrough hit for Adele, propelling her to international fame and cementing her status as one of the greatest vocalists of her generation. The song is about heartbreak and the aftermath of a failed relationship, with Adele pouring her heart out as she sings about wanting to find someone like her ex-lover. The song’s simple piano melody provides the perfect backdrop for Adele’s voice, and the raw emotion in her performance is palpable. “Someone Like You” has become a staple of radio and playlists around the world, and it remains one of Adele’s most iconic songs to this day. The song’s popularity speaks to Adele’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
3. Because of You – Kelly Clarkson
“Because of You” is an empowering ballad by Kelly Clarkson that speaks to the pain of a failed relationship and the journey to reclaiming one’s self-worth. The song’s driving beat and powerful vocals perfectly convey the message of the lyrics, which encourage listeners to move on from toxic relationships and find the strength to love themselves. The chorus is particularly memorable, with Clarkson belting out the powerful line, “I will not make the same mistakes that you did.” “Because of You” became one of Kelly Clarkson’s biggest hits, and it has been covered by numerous artists since its release. The song has a timeless quality, and its message of self-love and empowerment continues to resonate with listeners today. Overall, “Because of You” is a powerful and inspiring anthem that showcases Kelly Clarkson’s vocal range and songwriting talent.
4. Bound to You – Christina Aguilera
“Bound to You” is a powerful ballad by Christina Aguilera. The song features a sweeping orchestral arrangement and Aguilera’s soulful vocals as she sings about the depth of love and the bonds that hold two people together. The lyrics are deeply emotional, with Aguilera expressing her devotion and her commitment to her lover. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the line “I am bound to you” serving as a powerful declaration of love. The song was written for the movie “Burlesque,” and it perfectly captures the film’s themes of love, passion, and self-discovery. “Bound to You” showcases Christina Aguilera’s incredible vocal range and her ability to convey complex emotions through her performance. The song remains one of her most powerful and beloved ballads.
5. Bluebird – Sara Bareilles
“Bluebird” is a beautiful and uplifting ballad by Sara Bareilles. The song features a simple piano melody and Bareilles’ emotive vocals as she sings about finding hope and joy in the midst of difficult times. The lyrics are inspiring, with Bareilles encouraging listeners to keep their spirits up and to never give up on their dreams. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the line “Spread your wings, little bluebird” serving as a call to action for listeners to soar and find happiness. The song has a hopeful and optimistic quality, and it has become a favorite among fans of Bareilles’ music. “Bluebird” showcases Sara Bareilles’ songwriting and vocal talent, and it remains one of her most beloved and enduring songs. The song’s message of hope and perseverance has resonated with listeners for many years.
6. Back to Black – Amy Winehouse
“Back to Black” is a soulful ballad by the late Amy Winehouse that showcases her unique vocal style and lyrical storytelling. The song was a breakthrough hit for Winehouse, propelling her to international fame and helping to establish her as one of the most distinctive voices of her generation. The song is about the aftermath of a failed relationship, with Winehouse singing about wanting to return to the good times and escape the pain of heartbreak. The song’s powerful and melancholic melody provides the perfect backdrop for Winehouse’s voice, and the raw emotion in her performance is palpable. “Back to Black” has become a classic of modern music, and it remains one of Amy Winehouse’s most iconic and beloved songs. The song’s popularity speaks to Winehouse’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level and her timeless musical talent.
7. Rainy Days and Mondays – Karen Carpenter
“Rainy Days and Mondays” is a classic ballad by Karen Carpenter, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest pop songs of the 1970s. The song features the signature lush harmonies of the Carpenters, with Karen’s beautiful and understated vocals leading the way. The lyrics express the feeling of being down or feeling blue, and they paint a picture of a rainy Monday as a symbol of life’s challenges. Despite the melancholic tone of the song, there is also a sense of optimism and resilience running throughout. The chorus, in particular, is memorable and has become a beloved sing-along classic. “Rainy Days and Mondays” remains one of Karen Carpenter’s most popular and enduring songs, and it is a testament to her timeless musical talent. The song’s popularity speaks to the universal appeal of its message, which is as relevant today as it was when it was first released.
8. Million Reasons – Lady Gaga
“Million Reasons” is a powerful ballad by Lady Gaga that showcases her versatility as a singer and songwriter. The song features an emotional and stripped-down performance by Gaga, with a focus on her voice and piano playing. The lyrics of the song are about persevering through heartbreak and holding on to love, despite the difficulties and obstacles that may arise. The chorus, with the line “I’ve got a million reasons to quit you, but baby I just need one good one to stay,” is particularly memorable and has resonated with listeners. “Million Reasons” is a heartfelt and personal song that highlights Gaga’s ability to connect with listeners on a deep level. The song was a commercial success and was well received by audiences and critics alike. It is a standout track from her album “Joanne” and it remains one of Lady Gaga’s most beloved songs.
9. My Favorite Mistake – Sheryl Crow
“My Favorite Mistake” is a upbeat rock song by Sheryl Crow that has become one of her signature hits. The song is about the aftermath of a failed relationship, with Crow singing about realizing that her former lover was her favorite mistake. The catchy and upbeat melody, combined with Crow’s confident and bluesy vocals, creates a joyful and celebratory mood that belies the sadness of the lyrics. The song was a commercial success and received positive reviews from audiences and critics alike. “My Favorite Mistake” is a standout track from Sheryl Crow’s album “The Globe Sessions” and it remains one of her most popular and enduring songs. The song’s popularity speaks to Crow’s ability to write catchy and memorable songs that resonate with listeners, and it is a testament to her timeless musical talent.
10. If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys
“If I Ain’t Got You” is a soulful ballad by Alicia Keys that has become one of her most beloved and enduring songs. The song is a beautiful and heartfelt expression of love and devotion, with Keys singing about the importance of love in her life and the things that really matter. The song features Keys’ signature soulful and powerful vocals, backed by simple piano playing and a gospel-inspired choir. The lyrics are deeply personal and touch on themes of love, loss, and the search for happiness. “If I Ain’t Got You” was a commercial success and received positive reviews from audiences and critics alike. The song remains one of Alicia Keys’ most popular and enduring hits, and it is a testament to her timeless musical talent. The song’s popularity speaks to its universal appeal and the emotional resonance of its message, which continues to touch listeners today.
Darren Jamison 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.
