Opera, a timeless art form that combines music, drama, and storytelling, has captivated audiences for centuries. Throughout history, numerous opera singers have left an indelible mark on the world of classical music with their exceptional voices, artistic interpretations, and charismatic stage presence. These singers have not only showcased their incredible talent but have also played a significant role in popularizing opera and inspiring generations of aspiring performers. In this article, we celebrate the top 15 most popular opera singers of all time, each of whom has made a lasting impact on the world of opera and has earned a place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti, the legendary Italian tenor, is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most popular opera singers of all time. With his powerful and expressive voice, charismatic stage presence, and undeniable musical talent, Pavarotti captivated audiences around the world and helped popularize opera among mainstream audiences. His career spanned over four decades, during which he performed in the most prestigious opera houses and concert halls, and collaborated with numerous renowned musicians across various genres. Pavarotti’s signature roles included Rodolfo in “La Bohème,” Riccardo in “Un Ballo in Maschera,” and Nemorino in “L’elisir d’amore,” among others. His performances were known for their emotional depth, technical brilliance, and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Pavarotti’s fame extended beyond the opera world, as he became a household name through his appearances in popular media, including the famous “Three Tenors” concerts with José Carreras and Plácido Domingo. His philanthropic work, most notably through the Pavarotti & Friends charity concerts, further endeared him to the public. Luciano Pavarotti’s legacy as one of the most beloved and influential opera singers of all time continues to inspire and enchant music lovers around the world.
2. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, the Greek-American soprano, is widely considered one of the most influential and iconic opera singers of the 20th century. Known for her powerful and expressive voice, dramatic intensity, and unparalleled acting abilities, Callas redefined the art of opera and set a new standard for generations of singers to come. Her career spanned over three decades, during which she performed in the most prestigious opera houses around the world and tackled a wide range of roles, from the bel canto heroines of Bellini and Donizetti to the dramatic characters of Verdi and Puccini. Callas’ signature roles included Norma, Violetta in “La Traviata,” and Tosca, among others. Her performances were known for their emotional depth, musical intelligence, and ability to bring characters to life with unmatched intensity. Callas’ personal life and tempestuous relationships often made headlines, adding to her mystique and public fascination. Her recordings, many of which remain benchmarks for aspiring singers, showcase her exceptional vocal technique, musical insight, and dramatic power. Maria Callas’ legacy as one of the most gifted and influential opera singers of all time continues to inspire and captivate music lovers around the world.
3. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo, the Spanish tenor, conductor, and opera administrator, is one of the most versatile and popular opera singers of his generation. With a career spanning over six decades, Domingo has performed in more than 150 roles, showcasing his exceptional vocal range, musicality, and acting abilities. He is known for his interpretations of Verdi and Puccini heroes, as well as his ventures into baritone roles later in his career. Domingo’s signature roles include Otello, Cavaradossi in “Tosca,” and Siegmund in “Die Walküre,” among others. His performances are celebrated for their emotional depth, technical brilliance, and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Domingo’s fame extends beyond the opera world, thanks in part to his participation in the “Three Tenors” concerts with Luciano Pavarotti and José Carreras, which helped popularize opera among mainstream audiences. In addition to his singing career, Domingo has also made significant contributions as a conductor and opera administrator, serving as the General Director of the Los Angeles Opera and the Washington National Opera. Plácido Domingo’s legacy as one of the most gifted and influential opera singers of his time continues to inspire and enchant music lovers around the world.
4. Enrico Caruso
Enrico Caruso, the legendary Italian tenor, is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential opera singers of all time. With his powerful and expressive voice, charismatic stage presence, and undeniable musical talent, Caruso revolutionized the art of opera and set a new standard for generations of singers to come. His career spanned over 25 years, during which he performed in the most prestigious opera houses around the world and recorded extensively, becoming one of the first global musical superstars. Caruso’s signature roles included Canio in “Pagliacci,” Rodolfo in “La Bohème,” and the Duke of Mantua in “Rigoletto,” among others. His performances were known for their emotional intensity, technical brilliance, and ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Caruso’s recordings, many of which were made during the early years of sound recording technology, showcase his exceptional vocal technique, musical expressiveness, and timeless artistry. His fame extended beyond the opera world, as he became a cultural icon and a symbol of Italian pride. Enrico Caruso’s legacy as one of the most beloved and influential opera singers of all time continues to inspire and captivate music lovers around the world.
5. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, the Australian soprano, was one of the most celebrated and influential opera singers of the 20th century. Known for her stunning vocal range, agility, and expressiveness, Sutherland helped revive interest in the bel canto repertoire and set a new standard for coloratura singing. Her career spanned over four decades, during which she performed in the most prestigious opera houses around the world and collaborated with many renowned conductors and singers. Sutherland’s signature roles included Lucia in “Lucia di Lammermoor,” Norma, and Elvira in “I Puritani,” among others. Her performances were known for their technical brilliance, musical elegance, and ability to navigate even the most challenging vocal passages with ease and grace. Sutherland’s partnership with her husband, conductor Richard Bonynge, was instrumental in shaping her career and exploring the bel canto repertoire. Her recordings, many of which remain benchmarks for aspiring singers, showcase her exceptional vocal technique, musical intelligence, and artistic versatility. Joan Sutherland’s legacy as one of the greatest and most influential opera singers of her time continues to inspire and enchant music lovers around the world.
6. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming, the American soprano, is one of the most acclaimed and popular opera singers of her generation. Known for her luscious voice, artistic versatility, and compelling stage presence, Fleming has captivated audiences around the world with her performances in a wide range of roles, from the works of Mozart and Strauss to contemporary opera and crossover projects. Her signature roles include the Marschallin in “Der Rosenkavalier,” Rusalka, and the Countess in “Le Nozze di Figaro,” among others. Fleming’s performances are celebrated for their emotional depth, musical intelligence, and ability to bring characters to life with nuance and authenticity. In addition to her opera career, Fleming has also ventured into other genres, including jazz, musical theater, and indie rock, showcasing her artistic curiosity and versatility. Her recordings, which span a wide range of styles and periods, have garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. Fleming is also known for her commitment to arts advocacy and education, serving as a spokesperson for various cultural institutions and mentoring young singers. Renée Fleming’s legacy as one of the most gifted and influential opera singers of her time continues to inspire and captivate music lovers around the world.
7. José Carreras
José Carreras, the Spanish tenor, is one of the most beloved and influential opera singers of his generation. Known for his warm and expressive voice, artistic integrity, and charismatic stage presence, Carreras has captivated audiences around the world with his performances in a wide range of roles, from the works of Verdi and Puccini to zarzuela and crossover projects. His signature roles include Don José in “Carmen,” Rodolfo in “La Bohème,” and Calaf in “Turandot,” among others. Carreras’ performances are celebrated for their emotional depth, musical elegance, and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. In addition to his opera career, Carreras is also known for his participation in the “Three Tenors” concerts with Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti, which helped popularize opera among mainstream audiences. His recordings, which span a wide range of styles and periods, showcase his exceptional vocal technique, musical expressiveness, and artistic versatility. Carreras is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly through the José Carreras International Leukemia Foundation, which he established after his own battle with the disease. José Carreras’ legacy as one of the most gifted and influential opera singers of his time continues to inspire and enchant music lovers around the world.
8. Kiri Te Kanawa
Kiri Te Kanawa, the New Zealand soprano, is one of the most acclaimed and beloved opera singers of her generation. Known for her rich and luminous voice, elegant phrasing, and captivating stage presence, Te Kanawa has enchanted audiences around the world with her performances in a wide range of roles, from the works of Mozart and Strauss to Puccini and Verdi. Her signature roles include the Countess in “Le Nozze di Figaro,” Fiordiligi in “Così fan tutte,” and Desdemona in “Otello,” among others. Te Kanawa’s performances are celebrated for their musical sophistication, emotional depth, and ability to convey the essence of each character with grace and authenticity. In addition to her opera career, Te Kanawa has also ventured into other genres, including musical theater and popular music, showcasing her artistic versatility and crossover appeal. Her recordings, which span a wide range of styles and periods, have garnered numerous accolades and introduced her to a broader audience. Te Kanawa is also known for her commitment to music education and her support of young singers, particularly those from her native New Zealand. Kiri Te Kanawa’s legacy as one of the most gifted and influential opera singers of her time continues to inspire and captivate music lovers around the world.
9. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, the German baritone, was one of the most versatile and influential opera singers of the 20th century. Known for his intelligent musicianship, expressive delivery, and vast repertoire, Fischer-Dieskau set a new standard for lieder singing and left an indelible mark on the world of opera. His career spanned over five decades, during which he performed in the most prestigious concert halls and opera houses around the world, and collaborated with many renowned conductors, pianists, and composers. Fischer-Dieskau’s repertoire encompassed a wide range of styles and periods, from the works of Bach and Schubert to contemporary compositions. His signature roles included Papageno in “Die Zauberflöte,” Count Almaviva in “Le Nozze di Figaro,” and the title roles in “Don Giovanni” and “Wozzeck,” among others. Fischer-Dieskau’s performances were known for their intellectual depth, emotional honesty, and ability to illuminate the meaning behind each word and phrase. His extensive discography, which includes hundreds of recordings of lieder, opera, and oratorio, remains a testament to his exceptional artistry and a valuable resource for aspiring singers and music lovers alike. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau’s legacy as one of the greatest and most influential opera singers of his time continues to inspire and inform the world of classical music.
10. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson, the Swedish soprano, was one of the most powerful and commanding opera singers of the 20th century. Known for her exceptional vocal strength, stamina, and dramatic intensity, Nilsson dominated the dramatic soprano repertoire and left an indelible mark on the world of opera. Her career spanned over three decades, during which she performed in the most prestigious opera houses around the world and collaborated with many renowned conductors and singers. Nilsson’s signature roles included Brünnhilde in Wagner’s “Ring” cycle, Isolde in “Tristan und Isolde,” and Elektra in the eponymous Strauss opera, among others. Her performances were known for their vocal brilliance, musical intelligence, and ability to convey the psychological complexity of each character with unmatched intensity. Nilsson’s recordings, many of which remain benchmarks for aspiring singers, showcase her exceptional vocal technique, musical expressiveness, and dramatic power. In addition to her opera career, Nilsson was also known for her wit, humor, and down-to-earth personality, which endeared her to colleagues and fans alike. Birgit Nilsson’s legacy as one of the greatest and most influential opera singers of her time continues to inspire and awe music lovers around the world.
11. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling, the Swedish tenor, was one of the most beloved and admired opera singers of the 20th century. Known for his warm and lyrical voice, impeccable technique, and musical sensitivity, Björling enchanted audiences around the world with his performances in a wide range of roles, from the works of Verdi and Puccini to Mozart and Tchaikovsky. His signature roles included Rodolfo in “La Bohème,” Riccardo in “Un Ballo in Maschera,” and the title role in “Faust,” among others. Björling’s performances were known for their emotional sincerity, musical elegance, and ability to convey the essence of each character with grace and authenticity. His recordings, which span a wide range of styles and periods, showcase his exceptional vocal technique, musical expressiveness, and artistic integrity. Björling’s international career was cut short by his untimely death at the age of 49, but his legacy as one of the greatest tenors of his generation continues to inspire and captivate music lovers around the world. His recordings remain a testament to his exceptional artistry and a valuable resource for aspiring singers and opera enthusiasts alike. Jussi Björling’s enduring popularity and influence on the world of opera serve as a reminder of the power of music to touch the human soul.
12. Rosa Ponselle
Rosa Ponselle, the American soprano, was one of the most gifted and influential opera singers of the early 20th century. Known for her rich and powerful voice, dramatic intensity, and musical intelligence, Ponselle revolutionized the art of singing and set a new standard for generations of sopranos to come. Her career, although relatively short, left an indelible mark on the world of opera. Ponselle’s signature roles included Norma, Violetta in “La Traviata,” and Carmen, among others. Her performances were known for their emotional depth, vocal brilliance, and ability to convey the psychological complexity of each character with unmatched intensity. Ponselle’s recordings, made during the early years of sound recording technology, showcase her exceptional vocal technique, musical expressiveness, and timeless artistry. Despite her relatively short career, Ponselle’s influence on the world of opera was significant, as she helped popularize the art form in the United States and inspired countless aspiring singers with her performances and recordings. Rosa Ponselle’s legacy as one of the greatest and most influential opera singers of her time continues to be celebrated by music lovers and scholars alike, who recognize her contributions to the art of singing and her enduring impact on the world of opera.
13. Montserrat Caballé
Montserrat Caballé, the Spanish soprano, was one of the most versatile and accomplished opera singers of her generation. Known for her luscious voice, technical brilliance, and musical intelligence, Caballé captivated audiences around the world with her performances in a wide range of roles, from the bel canto heroines of Bellini and Donizetti to the dramatic characters of Verdi and Puccini. Her signature roles included Norma, Elisabetta in “Don Carlo,” and Liù in “Turandot,” among others. Caballé’s performances were known for their emotional depth, musical elegance, and ability to navigate even the most challenging vocal passages with ease and grace. In addition to her opera career, Caballé also ventured into other genres, including zarzuela and crossover projects, showcasing her artistic curiosity and versatility. Her collaboration with Freddie Mercury on the song “Barcelona” introduced her to a broader audience and remains a beloved example of classical-rock fusion. Caballé’s extensive discography, which spans a wide range of styles and periods, serves as a testament to her exceptional artistry and a valuable resource for aspiring singers and music lovers alike. Montserrat Caballé’s legacy as one of the most gifted and influential opera singers of her time continues to inspire and enchant audiences around the world.
14. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price, the American soprano, was one of the most groundbreaking and influential opera singers of the 20th century. As an African American artist, Price broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of diverse opera singers. Known for her lush and powerful voice, dramatic intensity, and regal stage presence, Price captivated audiences around the world with her performances in a wide range of roles, from the works of Verdi and Puccini to Barber and Strauss. Her signature roles included Aida, Leonora in “Il Trovatore,” and Cleopatra in “Antony and Cleopatra,” among others. Price’s performances were known for their emotional depth, musical intelligence, and ability to convey the essence of each character with grace and authenticity. Her recordings, which span a wide range of styles and periods, showcase her exceptional vocal technique, musical expressiveness, and artistic versatility. In addition to her opera career, Price was also a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, using her platform to advocate for racial equality and to inspire young African American artists. Leontyne Price’s legacy as one of the greatest and most influential opera singers of her time continues to resonate with music lovers and serves as a testament to the power of art to transcend barriers and unite people.
15. Bryn Terfel
Bryn Terfel, the Welsh bass-baritone, is one of the most celebrated and versatile opera singers of his generation. Known for his powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and musical intelligence, Terfel has captivated audiences around the world with his performances in a wide range of roles, from the works of Mozart and Wagner to Sondheim and Lloyd Webber. His signature roles include Figaro in “Le Nozze di Figaro,” Wotan in Wagner’s “Ring” cycle, and the title role in “Sweeney Todd,” among others. Terfel’s performances are known for their emotional depth, dramatic intensity, and ability to bring characters to life with nuance and authenticity. In addition to his opera career, Terfel has also ventured into other genres, including musical theater, Welsh folk music, and crossover projects, showcasing his artistic curiosity and versatility. His recordings, which span a wide range of styles and periods, have garnered numerous accolades and introduced him to a broader audience. Terfel is also known for his commitment to music education and his support of young singers, particularly those from his native Wales. Bryn Terfel’s legacy as one of the most gifted and influential opera singers of his time continues to inspire and captivate music lovers around the world.
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.
