Singers are the heart and soul of the music industry. They are the artists who bring songs to life with their voices, conveying emotion, passion, and power through their lyrics and melodies. Singers come in many different styles, from pop divas and crooners to rockers and soulful belters. What sets them apart is their ability to connect with audiences on a deep, emotional level through the power of their voices.
The best singers have a natural talent for singing, but they also have the discipline and dedication to hone their craft over many years. They have a unique vocal style that sets them apart from other singers, and they know how to use their voices to create a range of emotions, from joy and happiness to sadness and heartbreak.
Singers are often accompanied by a band or musical ensemble, but it is their voice that takes center stage. They must be able to command the attention of their audience and draw them in with their vocal prowess. A great singer can turn an average song into a masterpiece, using their voice to elevate the music and create a memorable performance that will stay with listeners long after the song has ended.
In conclusion, singers are the backbone of the music industry, bringing songs to life with their unique vocal styles and ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Whether you are a fan of pop, rock, soul, or any other genre, there is a singer out there who will speak to your heart and inspire you with their voice.
1. Freddie Mercury
Known for his flamboyant stage presence and powerful vocals, Freddie Mercury remains an icon to this day. As the lead singer of the British rock band Queen, he captivated audiences with hits like 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and 'We Are the Champions'. Mercury's diverse range and theatrical flair earned him a spot on our list of the 15 Best Singers of All Time.
Continuing with Mercury's ethereal performances, Queen's music videos are visual masterpieces that complemented his vocal talents. The band's worldwide success and influence are rooted in Mercury's unique style, which often drew from various genres such as opera and rock. Mercury broke boundaries in music and identity making him an inspiration for generations to come.
To add to his already impressive credentials, he was also an accomplished songwriter who penned some of the group's most beloved songs. His natural stage presence only amplified his immense talent, leaving concert-goers mesmerized. For these reasons, we place Freddie Mercury among history's greatest singers.
It is worth noting that taking cues from Freddie can help any aspiring performer connect with audiences better. Incorporating elaborate costumes or props during performances can create a Victoria spectacle; however, it is essential not to get carried away and compromise vocals for theatrics.
Aretha Franklin had a voice that could move mountains, but, unfortunately, she couldn't move up the list of '15 Best Singers of All Time'.
2. Aretha Franklin
Rising to fame in the 1960s, this influential American artist was hailed as the 'Queen of Soul' with her powerful and emotive vocal performances. Her name was rightfully etched in music history due to her phenomenal range and ability to tackle genres like soul, R&B, gospel, and even jazz. She had a career spanning over five decades and had numerous Grammy Awards under her belt, making her one of the greatest artists of all time.
Aretha Franklin's speech-like phrasing and soulful delivery were unmatched, earning her a spot among the most successful female singers ever. Her discography included iconic songs like "Respect," "Think," and "A Natural Woman." Aretha's uniquely expressive voice bridged diverse audiences and had a significant impact on social justice topics.
It is worth noting that during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, she became an icon for black empowerment because of her artistry and support for movements demanding equal rights for minorities. She has inspired many generations of female musicians who followed in her footsteps.
It is well-known that Aretha Franklin struggled with personal demons throughout her life but still managed to get up on stage time after time and deliver unforgettable performances. In 2018, she passed away at the age of 76, leaving behind a musical legacy that will never be forgotten.
Sorry, Adele, but Michael Jackson had the greatest voice of all time…and the smoothest moonwalk too.
3. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson stands out as one of the top singers in history. His powerful vocal abilities and unique style of performance made him a standout artist. He was widely known as the King of Pop, and his songs were popular across generations. His music videos had cinematic quality, which elevated the visual representation of music on television. Michael's signature dance moves and incredible stage presence made him an unparalleled artist, influencing artists all over the world. He had a tremendous impact on pop culture, breaking barriers and healing social divides.
Michael Jackson's genius extended far beyond his music career. He was deeply committed to making a positive impact on society, from championing environmental initiatives to fighting poverty worldwide. His philanthropy work vastly improved the lives of people around the globe, earning him immense respect in addition to musical recognition.
It's fascinating how Michael established himself as a true innovator within the music industry through his experimental sounds and exploration into various genres of music like R&B, rock and folk that still resonates with audiences today.
Listening to Michael Jackson's music is not something anyone should put off because it has truly shaped modern-day pop-culture in more ways than one can imagine, from lunar-inspired dance moves to iconic black fedoras.
Don't be left behind; immerse yourself in some Michael Jackson classics now!
Whitney Houston's voice was so powerful, she could have sung the ingredients list off a cereal box and still made it sound like a heart-wrenching ballad.
4. Whitney Houston
This iconic singer, known for her powerhouse vocals and striking beauty, has left an unforgettable legacy. Whitney Houston's music career spanned over three decades and included chart-topping hits like "I Will Always Love You" and "Greatest Love of All." She was one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 200 million records sold worldwide. Houston also acted in several films, including the critically acclaimed "The Bodyguard." Her soulful voice and engaging performances earned her numerous accolades, including six Grammy Awards.
Elvis may have left the building, but his voice stays on as one of the greatest of all time.
5. Elvis Presley
The King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, is a legendary singer with an unmistakable voice. He has sold over one billion records worldwide and is known for his energetic performances and iconic style. Throughout his career, he released numerous hits including "Hound Dog," "Suspicious Minds," and "Jailhouse Rock." His influence on the music industry is undeniable, inspiring countless artists for generations to come. It's no wonder why he is considered one of the 15 Best Singers of All Time.
In addition to his musical career, Elvis Presley also starred in films such as Love Me Tender and Blue Hawaii. He was a cultural phenomenon during the 1950s and 1960s, with fans all around the world who were enamored by his charisma and talent. Despite facing criticism for appropriating black music, he used his platform to bring different cultures together through music.
Beyond his fame and fortune, Elvis experienced personal struggles throughout his life such as addiction and health issues. Despite this, he continued to perform until his untimely death in 1977.
Don't miss out on the timeless legacy of Elvis Presley's music. Take a trip down memory lane and experience the captivating voice of one of history's greatest singers.
Stevie Wonder may be blind, but his voice sees straight to our musical souls.
6. Stevie Wonder
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwn7ChFTf7c&pp=ygUNU3RldmllIFdvbmRlcg%3D%3D
One of the greatest singers of all time is a multi-talented artist previously known as "Little Stevie Wonder." Stevie Wonder's music paved the way for funk, soul and R&B artists with hits like "Superstition" and "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours." His unique composition style and message-driven lyrics make him stand out from other musicians in his genre.
In addition to his hit records, Stevie Wonder's political activism and philanthropy are also worthy of recognition. He used his music as a tool to spread awareness about social issues such as racism, poverty, and war. As a result, he became an influential figure in the Civil Rights movement.
Moreover, Stevie Wonder has remained relevant throughout the decades with various accolades from Grammy Awards to being included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His legacy transcends both time and genre.
Stevie Wonder was once slated to perform at a Martin Luther King Jr rally but after Dr. King Jr was assassinated, he decided not to perform but took off for an entire year mourning instead. It was this empathy that makes him a cherished musician even today."
Frank Sinatra: proving that a voice like velvet and a face like leather can still capture our hearts.
7. Frank Sinatra
One of the legendary singers that have ever graced this planet is the man known as 'The Voice.' Frank Sinatra's charisma and vocal prowess are beyond explanation, making him a revered figure in the music industry. He dominated the music scene for more than five decades, recording over 2000 songs, winning numerous accolades, including 11 Grammys.
Sinatra's distinct phrasing and crooning technique made him stand out from other performers of his era. His music cuts across different genres such as jazz, swing, pop, and ballads. Sinatra's voice has been described as smooth and velvety with an impeccable sense of timing that could move any listener. Even after his death in 1998, Sinatra remains an iconic figure and has inspired many contemporary musicians.
Aside from being a singer, Sinatra was also an accomplished actor in both movies and television series. He appeared on dozens of films, portraying some iconic roles such as Maggio on "From Here to Eternity," Sammy on "Ocean's 11," and John Baron on "The Manchurian Candidate."
Pro Tip: To appreciate Frank Sinatra's impact fully, dive into his discography and listen to some of his masterpieces like "My Way," "Fly Me to The Moon," or "New York New York."
Mariah Carey hits those high notes like a champ, but let's be real, we all know who really hits the high notes in her life – her bank account.
8. Mariah Carey
One of the most celebrated artists of all time is none other than Mariah Carey. Her impressive vocal range and effortless control over melody and pitch have made her an icon in the music industry. Heralded as the "Songbird Supreme," Carey has released countless chart-topping hits and became a pop culture staple in the 90s and early 2000s. Her influence extends beyond her music, as many other artists cite her as an inspiration for their own careers.
Carey's ability to convey emotions through her music is unmatched, with each note carrying depth and resonance that can move audiences to tears. She has sold millions of records across the globe and won numerous awards, including five Grammys. In addition to her singing prowess, Carey is also a talented songwriter, having written or co-written many of her biggest hits.
For fans around the world, Carey's music provides a sense of nostalgia and joy that transcends time. Her timeless anthems continue to be played on radio stations worldwide as new generations discover her talent. Without question, Mariah Carey is one of the greatest singers of all time, cementing her place in music history forever.
Ella Fitzgerald could hit a high note better than a hurricane hitting a rooftop.
9. Ella Fitzgerald
This entry on the list of '15 Best Singers of All Time' features the legendary voice of Ella Fitzgerald – known for her unique style, scat singing and vocal range. Her improvisational skills and ability to connect with the audience gave her a cult-like following in her prime.
Fitzgerald's soaring vocals won her acclaim and Grammy awards for a career spanning six decades. Her timeless classics like "A-Tisket, A-Tasket" and "Summertime" continue to entertain fans worldwide.
Beyond her vocal prowess, Fitzgerald was also an active supporter of the civil rights movement, using her music to inspire social change. She broke down barriers for female artists at a time when male-dominated recording industries dominated popular culture.
To emulate Fitzgerald's signature range, one should focus on developing their phrasing, breath control and vibrato to match Fitzgerald's distinct sound. Listening to her recordings will help develop a sense of tempo and tone needed to deliver high-quality performance techniques that break boundaries.
Marvin Gaye's voice was so smooth, it could make your heart melt faster than warm butter on a hot biscuit.
10. Marvin Gaye
This entry on our list features the soulful and iconic voice of Marvin Gaye, a singer-songwriter who revolutionized the Motown era. Gaye's music addressed social issues such as racism and poverty, earning him critical acclaim. He had an impressive vocal range and innovative musical style, best exemplified in hits like "What's Going On" and "Let's Get It On."
Gaye's introspective lyrics and captivating performances deeply resonated with audiences around the world. He brought authenticity to his songs, infusing them with emotion, passion, and sincerity. Beyond just being a performer, Gaye was also a gifted producer who pushed boundaries to create genre-defying albums like What’s Going On.
Gaye's tragic death at the age of 44 cut short his career, but his legacy continues to inspire countless artists today.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate Marvin Gaye’s contributions to music, listen to his entire discography and focus on the artistry that went into producing his albums.
Luciano Pavarotti's voice is like a fine Italian wine, it only gets better with age and pairs well with a plate of spaghetti.
11. Luciano Pavarotti
One of the iconic performers in the history of music, Luciano Pavarotti was known for his magnificent tenor voice. He enraptured audiences with his soaring vocals, impeccable technique, and passionate interpretations of some of the most beautiful operatic pieces. His performances were characterized by a rare mix of power and grace that brought tears to the eyes of many music lovers.
Pavarotti's exceptional talent and exquisite showmanship earned him worldwide recognition that spanned several decades. He was highly influential, paving the way for other opera singers to follow in his footsteps. His legacy lives on as he remains one of the most celebrated tenors of all time.
Despite being a larger-than-life figure in music, Pavarotti remained humble and approachable throughout his career. He had an infectious charm that endeared him to everyone he met, including fellow musicians and fans. The impact he made on the world of music is immeasurable, and his name will forever be etched in history as one of its greatest icons.
It's worth noting that apart from being a phenomenal singer, Pavarotti was also a humanitarian who used his voice and influence to support numerous charitable causes such as war-torn countries and medical research initiatives aimed at curing diseases.
(Source: Rolling Stone)
Paul McCartney may have been knighted for his contributions to music, but let's not forget his other achievement – being the only Beatle to successfully pull off a mullet.
12. Paul McCartney
This legendary icon is one of the most celebrated musicians of all time. Paul McCartney's exceptional voice and songwriting skills have garnered him recognition not just in England but also worldwide. As a former band member of The Beatles, he has given the world many classics, including 'Hey Jude' and 'Let It Be'. His solo career has continued to inspire and entertain audiences globally.
McCartney's distinct voice quality and varied vocal range have been appreciated by fans for decades. The variation in his singing style gives each of his songs a unique flavor that is unparalleled in the music industry. Moreover, McCartney's proficiency in playing several instruments, including guitar, bass, drums, and keyboard, indicates his musical prowess.
Apart from being a successful musician, Sir Paul McCartney is an advocate for animal rights and supports environmental causes. Such attributes make him an inspiration for not only budding singers but also for those who aspire to become socially responsible citizens.
To miss out on his contributions would be regrettable for any music lover. Consider listening to some of his classic hits to witness his unparalleled talent firsthand.
James Brown may be the Godfather of Soul, but he's also the reason your dad won't stop wearing fedoras.
13. James Brown
This entry on the '15 Best Singers of All Time' showcases James Brown. Known as the 'Godfather of Soul', James Brown revolutionized R&B and soul music with his energetic performances and unique singing style. His voice, full of grit and emotion, commanded attention and inspired countless musicians who followed in his wake.
Brown's music was a fusion of various genres including jazz, funk, gospel, and blues. He released numerous hit songs such as "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag", "I Got You (I Feel Good)", and "It's a Man's Man's Man's World". However, it was his electrifying live performances that truly set him apart from his peers.
In addition to being an exceptional singer, Brown was also a talented songwriter, dancer, and bandleader. He incorporated complex choreography into his live shows, often performing splits and other acrobatic moves while belting out his hits.
Overall, James Brown is a true legend in the world of music. His impact on the industry cannot be overstated, and he continues to inspire new generations of artists with his incredible talent and boundless energy.
If Adele's voice was a person, it would be the perfect therapist to listen to your woes and give you a hug afterwards.
14. Adele
Adele, a renowned English singer, is undoubtedly one of the greatest vocalists of our time. Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonate with millions of fans worldwide. With 15 Grammy Awards, Adele has broken records and left an indelible mark on the music industry.
She burst onto the scene in 2008 with her debut album "19," which established her as a powerhouse vocalist. However, it was her sophomore album "21" that catapulted her to international fame, with hits like "Rolling in the Deep" and "Someone Like You." Adele's unique ability to convey raw emotion through her vocals separates her from other artists.
Interestingly, Adele derives inspiration for her songwriting from real-life experiences and relationships. She has been open about struggles in her personal life, which are often reflected in her music. This sincerity has won over fans who appreciate authenticity in art.
In keeping with her down-to-earth personality, Adele is known for being relatable and engaging during live performances -her anecdotes between songs have become almost as famous as the performances themselves.
Overall, Adele continues to be celebrated for both vocal prowess and relatability – qualities that speak to audiences around the world.
Robert Plant's voice is so powerful, it's no wonder he could resurrect the dead – in fact, he probably does every time he hits a high note.
15. Robert Plant
Robert Plant, a legendary British singer, is deemed one of the greatest vocalists of all time. His unparalleled tenor range and electrifying performances as the frontman for Led Zeppelin have undoubtedly marked his place in music history. Additionally, Plant's musical style has been influenced by numerous genres including blues, folk and world music, which is evident in his solo projects.
Moreover, Robert Plant's lyrical approach embodies philosophical musings that are not commonly found in mainstream rock music. His refined lyrics and harmonies were a major contribution to Led Zeppelin's unique sound and their lasting legacy of musical genius. It is worth noting that many contemporary artists cite Robert Plant as a major influence on their own work.
One can learn from Robert Plant by incorporating mythological elements to their lyrics or experimenting with new vocal styles to create innovative sounds. His commitment to artistic integrity makes him an inspiration for all aspiring musicians seeking longevity in the ever-changing music industry.
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.
