Throughout the history of music, certain individuals have emerged with voices so captivating, expressive, and mesmerizing that they have etched their names in the annals of musical greatness. These exceptional artists possess the rare ability to transcend time and space, captivating generations with their melodic prowess and emotional depth. In this article, we embark on a journey through the ages to celebrate the top 15 best singers of all time, paying homage to the vocal virtuosos who have left an indelible mark on the world of music.
As we delve into this definitive list, we encounter a diverse array of voices representing a multitude of genres and eras. From the velvety croons of jazz and the raw power of rock ‘n’ roll, to the soul-stirring ballads of R&B and the soaring vocal acrobatics of pop, these singers have shaped the very fabric of our musical landscape. Their unparalleled vocal abilities, coupled with their innate artistry, have not only moved us emotionally but also challenged our perception of what it means to be a singer.
This exploration is an opportunity to marvel at the incredible range, control, and expressiveness demonstrated by these talented individuals. We will witness the transcendence of language barriers and the ability of their voices to resonate with audiences around the globe. From the legendary icons of yesteryears to the contemporary maestros of today, these singers have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and influence generations of artists to come.
Join us as we embark on this musical odyssey, celebrating the unparalleled talent and timeless appeal of the top 15 best singers of all time.
1. Aretha Franklin
With no surprise, Aretha Franklin is one of the top contenders for the title of "The Best Singer of All Time". Her powerful and soulful voice has been a significant inspiration to generations. She was an influential figure in the music industry who left a remarkable impact on music lovers globally, becoming known as the "Queen of Soul."
Aretha's legacy emerges from her unique vocal range, ability to transform lyrics into emotional experiences, and significant contributions to Soul Music. She possessed grit, grace, and passion that made each song come alive with deep-seated emotion. Moreover, Aretha Franklin was not only an exceptional artist but also a symbol of strength and empowerment for women worldwide.
In addition to winning eighteen Grammy Awards and having over 100 charted singles worldwide, Aretha helped pioneer one of the most celebrated genres in contemporary music – R&B. She showcased that soulful singing could be intermixed with chords yielding dynamic melodies.
If you want to experience an unmatchable sweet spot between rhythm sophistication and impeccable timing while feeling every beat under your skin-just feel her musical style-blended rock-and-soul vibe!
Overall, if you are looking for genuine examples of how creative talent should always strive towards creating unique personal statements—tuning into Aretha Franklin's catalog offers a lifetime worth of lessons on precisely that. Don't miss out on exploring this awe-inspiring performer's legendary career – you'll never regret it!
Freddie Mercury had a voice that could hit notes higher than my credit score.
2. Freddie Mercury
One of the most iconic and influential singers of all time is none other than the dynamic frontman, Freddie Mercury. His unmatched charisma and vocal range captivated audiences worldwide, spanning over two decades with the band Queen. From rock anthems like "Bohemian Rhapsody" to the power ballad "The Show Must Go On," Freddie's ability to command a stage and connect with fans make him an unparalleled performer.
As a songwriter, he crafted some of rock's most enduring hits and tackled complex themes with piercing honesty. He was unafraid to push creative boundaries, merging genres from opera to funk. Beyond music, he championed LGBTQ+ rights and elevated the artistry of live performance.
Few voices in history can rival his technical skill or emotional expressiveness. With his soaring falsetto and natural showmanship, Freddie Mercury remains a standard-bearer for excellence in both vocal ability and stage presence.
To truly understand his impact, one must witness footage of his unforgettable concerts or listen to his timeless recordings. Though he left us too soon, his legacy continues to inspire generations of artists around the world.
Stevie Wonder: proof that even if you're blind, you can still see your way to the top of the music industry.
3. Stevie Wonder
Regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, the talented Stevie Wonder revolutionized R&B music with his signature blend of soulful melodies and socially relevant lyrics. His unparalleled songwriting skills spawned numerous chart-topping hits such as "Superstition" and "You Are the Sunshine of My Life". He also became a prominent voice in political activism throughout his career, earning him immense respect and admiration from fans around the world.
Stevie Wonder's incredible success story is an inspiration to aspiring musicians everywhere. He began his career as a child prodigy, playing multiple instruments and writing songs that showcased his undeniable talent. Throughout his career, he constantly challenged himself musically, experimenting with different styles and genres while staying true to his roots.
What sets Stevie Wonder apart from other singers is not only his exceptional vocal abilities but also his ability to convey deep emotions through every note. His music has touched the hearts of millions worldwide, influencing generations of musicians who came after him.
Pro Tip: To appreciate Stevie Wonder's music fully, listen to it with an open mind and immerse yourself in its infectious rhythms and meaningful lyrics.
Michael Jackson may be the King of Pop, but moonwalking on the moon is still out of reach.
4. Michael Jackson
Starting with the fourth name on the list, we delve into the mastery of one of the greatest singers of all time. This artist is known for his distinctive voice and dynamic performances that captivated audiences worldwide.
Through his incredible music career, this artist was able to create hits that transcended genres and generations. With a catalog spanning decades, he continues to be a household name today.
In addition to his musical achievements, this performer overcame many personal challenges throughout his life. Despite these obstacles, he remained dedicated to his craft and used his platform to raise awareness for important issues.
It's no surprise that this artist made it onto our list of the best singers of all time. His legacy has left an indelible mark on the music industry and will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.
Mariah Carey hits those high notes so effortlessly, it's like her vocal cords are made of angel feathers and unicorn hair.
5. Mariah Carey
One of the most remarkable singers in music history is known as the Butterfly, Mariah Carey. With her unmistakable crystalline voice and multi-octave range, she has produced countless hits over time. Her unparalleled talent in songwriting and vocal arrangement sets her apart as one of the best artists of all times.
In addition to being an accomplished singer-songwriter, Carey was also a record producer and occasional actress. The star has won five Grammy Awards, 19 World Music Awards, 11 American Music Awards, and several other prestigious awards throughout her career. Her timeless classic hit songs include 'All I Want For Christmas is You,' 'Hero,' 'One Sweet Day,' and "We Belong Together."
Carey helped pioneer contemporary R&B in the early 90s, crossing over boundaries with chart-topping pop anthems that dominated airwaves globally. She brought soulful balladry back into vogue during the same time period by writing polarising and legendary tracks like “Vision Of Love,” “Emotions,” “Someday,” among others. It’s impossible to talk about the music industry without mentioning Carey's name.
During her early teens, Carey began recording demo tapes composed of soul ballads and contemporary R&B tunes inspired by Whitney Houston's self-title album; few people until now know Mariah's well-documented struggles with her background label executives who doubted both her vision and work ethics as a brand-new artiste untested in mainstream pop culture at that time.
Once she entered songwriting partnerships with Walter Afanasieff -who played a great role on co-writing iconic ballads such as Hero, All I want for Christmas is You etc.,- Carey established herself firmly within popular music culture's heartlands remaining ever-revered even to this day due to her contributions towards contemporary RnB.
James Brown may be the Godfather of Soul, but he's also a close second to the Godfather of One-Liners.
6. James Brown
One of the 15 best singers of all time was a man whose music shone as bright as his nickname, the "Godfather of Soul." This legend created music that blended funk, soul, and rhythm and blues into an unmistakably unique sound. He pioneered new styles like the funky dance moves and was often referred to as the hardest working man in show business. Though he passed away in 2006, James Brown's influence on music can still be heard today.
Brown's contributions to music were not limited to his catchy beats or impressive vocals. He also used his platform to champion civil rights and bring attention to issues affecting Black communities at a time when it was not widely accepted for celebrities to be political activists. Additionally, Brown founded multiple charities dedicated to providing education opportunities for underserved youth.
It's worth noting that despite his immense talent and success, Brown had his fair share of controversies both in and out of the public eye. However, there is no denying the lasting impact he had on music and social justice movements.
According to Rolling Stone, James Brown once offered Elvis Presley advice on how to move on stage during a concert in Las Vegas.
Ol' Blue Eyes ain't just a nickname, it's a warning to all other singers who dare to compete with Frank Sinatra's smooth style and timeless talent.
7. Frank Sinatra
One of the most celebrated vocalists of all time, this legendary singer had a charismatic and soulful voice that won over millions. With hits like "My Way" and "Fly Me To The Moon", Frank Sinatra was not only a successful singer but also an actor and cultural icon. He was known for his impeccable phrasing and ability to convey pure emotion through his music. This seventh entry in the list of 15 best singers of all time is undoubtedly one of the greats.
Sinatra's career spanned almost six decades, producing numerous hits across genres like jazz, swing, pop, and big band. His singing style was distinctive and influenced by his Italian-American background, blending elements from various sources seamlessly. In addition to his musical prowess, he was also famous for his charm and charisma as an all-around entertainer.
A true standout quality that made Sinatra one of the most influential artists of the era was his ability to revolutionize popular music with his unique interpretations and innovative arrangements. He took a leading role in shaping American culture during the mid-20th century and inspired generations after him.
According to Rolling Stone, Sinatra held nine albums in their list of "500 Greatest Albums of All Time," including "In The Wee Small Hours," which earned its place at number 101.
Elton John's piano is more famous than most musicians' entire careers.
8. Elton John
Regarded as one of the greatest singers of all time, this musician needs no introduction. With a career spanning over five decades, he has produced timeless hits that have captured the hearts of millions around the world. His distinctive voice and flamboyant stage persona make him an icon in the music industry. The singer's unique blend of rock, pop and classical music has set him apart from his peers.
Elton John's musical talent was recognized at a young age when he began playing piano at the age of three. By the time he reached adulthood, he had developed his songwriting skills and collaborated with lyricist Bernie Taupin to create some of his most famous songs. From Rocket Man to Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Elton John's music has become synonymous with the era it was created in.
In addition to his musical success, Elton John is also known for his philanthropic work and activism. He has been a champion for LGBTQ+ rights since coming out as bisexual in 1976. He founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992 to support those living with HIV/AIDS and fund research into treatments for the disease.
Interestingly, Elton John was actually born Reginald Kenneth Dwight but changed his name to Elton John in honor of two former bandmates – saxophonist Elton Dean and vocalist Long John Baldry.
Elton John continues to perform today, captivating audiences with his incredible talent and showmanship. It is safe to say that this singer will remain a legend for many years to come.
Otis Redding's voice can make you feel emotions you didn't even know existed, like the sudden longing for a lost love or the inexplicable urge to eat a whole tub of ice cream.
9. Otis Redding
Ranked as the 9th best singer of all time, Otis Redding was an American soul and R&B singer whose dynamic voice and emotionally arresting performances made him a fan favorite. His hits like "Sittin' On The Dock Of The Bay" and "Try A Little Tenderness" remain classics even today, decades after his untimely death. Otis' influence on other musicians is undeniable, with many artists like Etta James, Sam Cooke and Rod Stewart being inspired by his unique style. With a career spanning just seven short years, Otis Redding has left an indelible mark on the music industry that will never be forgotten.
Roy Orbison's voice was so smooth, it could butter bread with just a single note.
10. Roy Orbison
Throughout history, several singers have left a mark in the industry. One such singer who stands out is the American legend known for his unique sound and vocal range. His contributions to rock and roll music are unparalleled, making him an unforgettable artist.
Renowned for his iconic sunglasses and black attire, this singer's heartbreaking ballads have touched many hearts worldwide. He was known for his falsetto voice and vibrato style that mesmerized audiences everywhere he sang. Orbison's minimalistic approach to music earned him massive success in the 1960s.
What sets this singer apart is his ability to infuse raw emotions into his music, which continues to appeal to generations of listeners even today. His hauntingly beautiful melodies still evoke powerful emotions, making him an influential musician that will forever be remembered.
The unique combination of his melancholic songs, soulful voice and unconventional style has made this artist one of the best singers of all time. Listening to his music can transform a person's mood and bring them immense joy.
Therefore, if you want to experience the magic of one of the greatest musicians ever to grace our world, listen to this artist's timeless melodies today!
Sam Cooke had a voice smooth enough to make butter jealous, and he knew how to use it to make hearts melt and hips sway.
11. Sam Cooke
This musician, whose voice had an inimitable charm, is a legend in soul music. With hit numbers like "A Change Is Gonna Come" and "Wonderful World," Sam Cooke continues to inspire new generations. His timeless music touched hearts with its compelling rhythm and ground-breaking sound.
Cooke's expressive voice painted vivid stories of love, hope and the human condition. His extensive range and emotion-filled voice resonated with fans across genres, making him an influential figure in music history. Dynamic compositions like "You Send Me" and "(What A) Wonderful World" established his legacy as one of the greatest singers ever.
Beyond his music career, Cooke raised awareness about social justice issues in society. Always seeking to make a positive impact, he paved the way for future generations to strive towards equality. This adds depth and richness to his artistic legacy that still resonates with audiences today.
Missing out on listening to Sam Cooke's classics would be a disservice to any music lover. His powerful vocals inspired countless artists who followed him and continue to do so today. Tune in to his soulful tunes for an experience that will take you through a wave of emotions – pure magic!
Don't worry about a thing, Bob Marley's reggae beats will make everything alright.
12. Bob Marley
Considered one of the most influential musicians of all time, Marley was a Jamaican singer-songwriter whose reggae music was infused with social and political commentary. He captivated millions with his mesmerizing voice and his lyrics that centered on themes such as love, revolution, and peace. Marley's impact extended beyond music as he became a symbol of hope for oppressed people worldwide.
Marley's unique voice had an unmistakable quality that evoked powerful emotions in his listeners. His ability to communicate his message through music made him not only a remarkable artist but also an activist who used his platform to bring about change. His eclectic style fused together different genres like ska, rocksteady, and soulful rhythms that created a sound that was distinctively his own.
One aspect that set Marley apart from other singers was his commitment to Rastafarianism – a culture and religion rooted in Africa that embraced the divinity of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie I. This devotion translated into many of Marley's songs, which celebrated African heritage and constantly urged society to embrace unity.
Pro Tip: If you want to get lost in Marley's music entirely, turn up your bass or invest in good headphones to fully enjoy the richness of his sound.
You know you've made it as a singer when you're known simply as 'The King', unless your name is Burger, in which case you've just got a really weird nickname.
13. Elvis Presley
With his raw, passionate vocals and unforgettable stage presence, this legendary musician skyrocketed to fame with hits like "Hound Dog" and "Jailhouse Rock". His music defined a generation and influenced countless artists to come, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time.
Whitney Houston had such a powerful voice, even her drug dealer probably couldn't resist turning up the volume when she belted out 'I Will Always Love You'.
14. Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston, one of the greatest singers of all time, graces this list at number fourteen. Known for her soaring vocals and emotional ballads, Houston's talent and influence in the music industry have left a lasting impact. Her career spanned from the 1980s to the 2010s and included hit songs like "I Will Always Love You" and "I Wanna Dance With Somebody." Her voice was not only powerful but also versatile, allowing her to perform a variety of genres such as soul, pop, and gospel. Houston's legacy lives on through her music and memorable performances.
Bob Dylan's voice may not be for everyone, but it's perfect for anyone who enjoys the sound of a gravel-filled garbage disposal trying to sing.
15. Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan, a legendary songwriter of American folk music, is widely considered one of the greatest musicians and lyricists of all time. His unique blend of rock, blues and folk music has inspired countless artists over the years. Dylan's lyrics often contain social and political commentary, making him an important voice in the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Not only has he won numerous awards for his music, but he has also been awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.
Pro Tip: Listen to his music chronologically to appreciate his evolution as an artist.
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.
