Opera is a world where music and drama collide in the most magnificent way, creating experiences that transcend time and place. For centuries, the stage has been graced by voices so powerful, so mesmerizing, that they’ve become legends in their own right—artists whose talent has not only defined their era but has also inspired countless others to follow in their footsteps. In this article, we’re celebrating the top 15 most popular opera singers of all time—those extraordinary vocalists whose performances have left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences and on the history of music itself. From the ethereal high notes of Maria Callas to the heart-stirring warmth of Luciano Pavarotti, these artists have transformed the art of opera into a universal language of emotion and beauty. Whether you’re a lifelong opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, prepare to be captivated as we journey through the careers of these iconic figures, each one a master of their craft, whose voices continue to resonate around the world.
1. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, often hailed as “La Divina,” was not just a soprano; she was a force of nature that redefined the world of opera. Born in New York to Greek parents and later moving to Greece, Callas became an icon of the 20th century. Her voice, marked by an extraordinary range and dramatic intensity, was capable of expressing the deepest human emotions. But it wasn’t just her vocal prowess that made her legendary; it was her ability to breathe life into every character she portrayed. Whether she was the tragic heroine in Puccini’s Tosca or the vengeful Medea, Callas brought an electrifying presence to the stage. Her interpretations of bel canto operas, particularly those of Bellini and Donizetti, were considered revelatory, reviving interest in these works. Callas’s personal life, marked by its drama and intensity, only added to her mythic status. She was the epitome of operatic glamour, tragedy, and passion, and her influence on the art form remains unparalleled.
2. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti was the tenor who brought opera to the masses, making it accessible to millions who had never set foot in an opera house. Born in Modena, Italy, his voice was instantly recognizable—warm, powerful, and capable of hitting high Cs with an ease that seemed almost superhuman. Pavarotti’s charisma was as big as his voice, and he became a beloved figure worldwide, not just for his vocal talent but for his larger-than-life personality. His rendition of “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s Turandot became an anthem, and his performances, whether in grand opera houses or sold-out stadiums, were events. Pavarotti was also a philanthropist, using his fame to support humanitarian causes, including his annual Pavarotti & Friends concerts, which featured collaborations with pop stars and raised millions for charity. In every sense, Luciano Pavarotti was a superstar whose legacy continues to inspire.
3. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo is a living legend whose career has spanned over six decades and more than 150 roles—an achievement unmatched by any other tenor in history. Born in Madrid, Spain, Domingo is celebrated for his vocal versatility, having sung both tenor and baritone roles with equal aplomb. His voice, rich and powerful, combined with his intense acting skills, has made him one of the most compelling artists of our time. Domingo’s performances are renowned for their emotional depth, particularly in roles like Otello, where he brought Shakespeare’s tragic hero to life with unparalleled intensity. Beyond the stage, Domingo has also made significant contributions as a conductor and as an opera administrator, helping to shape the future of the art form. His tireless work ethic, passion for music, and commitment to nurturing young talent have cemented his status as a titan of opera.
4. Enrico Caruso
Enrico Caruso was the first global superstar of the operatic world, a tenor whose voice captivated audiences long before the age of digital media. Born in Naples, Italy, Caruso’s rise to fame was meteoric, and by the early 20th century, he was the most famous opera singer in the world. His recordings, which were among the first to be made and widely distributed, helped to popularize opera far beyond the elite circles of Europe. Caruso’s voice was robust, with a rich timbre and a passionate delivery that made each performance unforgettable. He was particularly admired for his interpretations of Italian operas by composers like Verdi and Puccini, as well as for his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Caruso’s influence on the art form was profound, and his recordings continue to be cherished by opera lovers today. His legacy is that of a trailblazer who brought opera into the modern age.
5. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, often referred to as “La Stupenda,” was an Australian soprano whose voice was nothing short of miraculous. Sutherland possessed a vocal range and flexibility that allowed her to master the most challenging coloratura roles, making her one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century. Her portrayal of Lucia in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor is legendary, showcasing her incredible ability to hit high notes with precision and beauty. Sutherland was instrumental in reviving interest in the bel canto repertoire, bringing operas by Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini back into the limelight. Her partnership with conductor Richard Bonynge, who was also her husband, was one of the most fruitful in opera, leading to numerous acclaimed performances and recordings. Sutherland’s voice was often described as ethereal, and her ability to sustain long, smooth phrases was unmatched. Her impact on opera was monumental, and she remains a towering figure in the history of the art form.
6. Montserrat Caballé
Montserrat Caballé was a Spanish soprano whose voice was as grand as her presence on the stage. Born in Barcelona, Caballé was known for her exceptional control, particularly in the art of singing pianissimo—softly, yet with incredible clarity and emotion. Her voice had a purity and warmth that made her one of the most beloved sopranos of her time. Caballé was particularly renowned for her interpretations of Verdi and Puccini, but she also excelled in the bel canto repertoire, bringing a new level of emotional depth to roles like Norma and Maria Stuarda. Her legendary performance of “Barcelona” with Freddie Mercury introduced her to a whole new audience, showcasing her versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories. Montserrat Caballé was not just a singer; she was an artist who used her voice to convey the full spectrum of human emotions, leaving an indelible mark on the world of opera.
7. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price was a trailblazing soprano whose voice was as powerful as her impact on the world of opera. Born in Mississippi, Price broke racial barriers to become one of the first African-American singers to achieve international stardom in opera. Her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in 1961 was a watershed moment, and she went on to become one of the company’s most celebrated performers. Price’s voice was richly textured, with a warmth and depth that made her particularly suited to roles in Verdi and Puccini operas. Her interpretation of Aida is considered definitive, and her performances in roles like Tosca and Leonora have become benchmarks of excellence. Beyond her extraordinary vocal talent, Price was a symbol of perseverance and artistry, inspiring countless singers who followed in her footsteps. Her legacy is one of brilliance, both as a vocalist and as a pioneer who expanded the boundaries of what was possible in the world of opera.
8. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling, the Swedish tenor with the voice of gold, is often hailed as one of the greatest tenors of all time. His voice was renowned for its extraordinary beauty, clarity, and effortless delivery, making him a favorite among opera lovers. Björling began singing at a young age, and his early start in music laid the foundation for a career that would take him to the world’s most prestigious opera houses. He was particularly celebrated for his interpretations of Italian and French operas, with roles like Rodolfo in La Bohème and the Duke in Rigoletto standing out as iconic performances. Björling’s voice had a unique, silvery quality that could convey both the joy and the tragedy of the characters he portrayed, making his performances deeply moving experiences. Despite his relatively short life, Björling’s recordings continue to be treasured, and his legacy as a master of the tenor repertoire remains unchallenged.
9. Renata Tebaldi
Renata Tebaldi, the Italian soprano with a voice often described as “angelic,” was one of the most beloved opera singers of her time. Tebaldi’s voice was characterized by its lush, velvety quality and its ability to convey deep emotion, making her a favorite in the roles of Verdi and Puccini heroines. Born in Pesaro, Italy, Tebaldi’s rise to fame was swift, and she became a star at La Scala in Milan, where she was a reigning diva for many years. Her rivalry with Maria Callas, though often exaggerated by the media, only added to her mystique. Tebaldi’s performances were marked by a sincerity and warmth that endeared her to audiences, and her interpretations of roles like Desdemona in Otello and Mimi in La Bohème are still revered today. Renata Tebaldi’s voice was a gift to the world, and her legacy as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century is secure.
10. Nicolai Gedda
Nicolai Gedda was a Swedish tenor whose extraordinary versatility and linguistic prowess made him one of the most accomplished singers of his generation. Fluent in several languages, Gedda was equally at home in French, Italian, German, and Russian opera, making him a sought-after performer on the international stage. His voice was known for its clarity, brilliance, and remarkable control, allowing him to tackle a wide range of roles with ease. Gedda’s ability to convey the nuances of each character he portrayed, combined with his impeccable technique, made him a favorite of both audiences and critics. He was particularly admired for his performances in French operas, where his mastery of the language and style set him apart. Gedda’s career spanned more than five decades, and he left behind a vast legacy of recordings that continue to be celebrated for their artistry and technical excellence. Nicolai Gedda was a singer of extraordinary talent and a true master of his craft.
11. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson, the Swedish dramatic soprano, was a vocal powerhouse whose performances in the operas of Wagner and Strauss are the stuff of legend. Nilsson’s voice was remarkable for its sheer power and stamina, capable of cutting through the densest orchestration with ease. She was particularly famed for her portrayals of Brünnhilde in Wagner’s Ring Cycle and Isolde in Tristan und Isolde, roles that require a voice of immense strength and endurance. Nilsson’s ability to sustain long, demanding phrases without any loss of vocal quality was unparalleled, and her performances were marked by a combination of technical brilliance and emotional depth. Despite the demands of the dramatic soprano repertoire, Nilsson’s voice remained in pristine condition throughout her career, a testament to her exceptional technique. Birgit Nilsson’s legacy is that of a true operatic titan, and her influence on the world of opera continues to be felt today.
12. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli, the Italian mezzo-soprano, is a vocal phenomenon whose artistry has captivated audiences around the world. Bartoli is renowned for her interpretations of Baroque and Classical repertoire, bringing a fresh, expressive approach to works by composers like Handel, Mozart, and Rossini. Her voice is characterized by its agility, warmth, and incredible range, allowing her to tackle the most challenging coloratura passages with ease and grace. Bartoli’s performances are marked by their emotional intensity and her ability to bring each character to life with vivid detail. She is also known for her adventurous spirit, often uncovering and reviving forgotten works, and for her collaborations with leading conductors and ensembles. Bartoli’s recordings have won numerous awards, and her live performances are consistently sold out, testifying to her status as one of the most beloved and respected artists in the world of classical music. Cecilia Bartoli is a true innovator, whose passion for music and commitment to excellence continue to inspire.
13. Kiri Te Kanawa
Kiri Te Kanawa, the New Zealand-born soprano, is a singer whose voice has been described as one of the most beautiful of her generation. Te Kanawa’s rise to fame was meteoric, and she quickly became a favorite in the world’s leading opera houses. Her voice, known for its purity, warmth, and effortless delivery, made her particularly suited to the roles of Mozart and Strauss heroines, where her natural elegance and grace shone through. Te Kanawa’s portrayal of the Countess in Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro and the Marschallin in Strauss’s Der Rosenkavalier are among her most celebrated roles. Beyond her operatic achievements, Te Kanawa gained widespread recognition when she performed at the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981, an event watched by millions around the world. Kiri Te Kanawa’s career has been marked by a combination of vocal beauty, artistic integrity, and a deep connection with her audiences, making her one of the most cherished sopranos of the late 20th century.
14. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau was a German baritone whose impact on the world of classical music was profound and far-reaching. Known as the greatest Lieder singer of the 20th century, Fischer-Dieskau brought a new level of interpretative depth to the art of song. His voice, with its rich, resonant tone, was perfectly suited to the intimate world of German art song, and his performances of works by Schubert, Schumann, Brahms, and Mahler are considered definitive. Fischer-Dieskau’s ability to convey the emotional and intellectual content of the music, combined with his impeccable diction and phrasing, made him a master storyteller. In addition to his achievements in Lieder, Fischer-Dieskau had a distinguished operatic career, excelling in roles such as Wotan in Wagner’s Ring Cycle and the title role in Verdi’s Rigoletto. His influence on generations of singers and his contributions to the interpretation of German art song are immeasurable. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau was a true artist whose legacy continues to inspire and educate.
15. Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
Elisabeth Schwarzkopf, the German soprano, was one of the most refined and sophisticated artists of the 20th century. Schwarzkopf’s voice was known for its elegance, precision, and extraordinary attention to detail, qualities that made her a supreme interpreter of Mozart and Strauss. Her performances of roles such as the Marschallin in Der Rosenkavalier and the Countess in Le Nozze di Figaro are legendary, characterized by their emotional depth and vocal beauty. Schwarzkopf was also a celebrated recitalist, particularly in the German Lieder repertoire, where her ability to convey the subtleties of the text and music was unmatched. Throughout her career, Schwarzkopf worked with some of the greatest conductors and directors of her time, and her recordings remain benchmarks of excellence in the operatic and song literature. Elisabeth Schwarzkopf’s artistry was a perfect blend of technical brilliance and emotional insight, making her one of the most revered sopranos in the history of opera.
Samuel Moore 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.
