Broadway has long been the beating heart of musical theater, a place where extraordinary voices tell captivating stories, ignite emotions, and leave audiences spellbound night after night. Over the years, this iconic stage has been graced by singers whose talents transcend time, turning songs into anthems and performances into legend. These artists have not only carried the weight of Broadway’s most demanding roles but have also etched their names into the history of theater, inspiring generations of performers and fans alike.
In this article, we celebrate the top 15 best Broadway singers of all time—talents who have redefined what it means to perform on the Great White Way. From the golden age of musicals to the electrifying productions of today, these performers have pushed boundaries, elevated storytelling, and left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Whether it’s the commanding presence of Ethel Merman, the emotional depth of Audra McDonald, or the dazzling versatility of Lin-Manuel Miranda, each name on this list represents a unique chapter in Broadway’s rich tapestry.
So, get ready to take a journey through the voices that have shaped Broadway’s legacy, as we honor the singers who made the lights of Broadway shine a little brighter!
1. Ethel Merman
Ethel Merman is widely regarded as the “First Lady of Broadway,” a title she earned through her unmistakable voice and commanding stage presence. Her brassy, powerhouse vocals set a new standard for musical theater, influencing generations of performers. With showstopping roles in classics like Annie Get Your Gun and Gypsy, Merman brought an energy that could fill any theater. Her signature vibrato and effortless projection allowed her to perform without a microphone, making her a standout in the golden age of Broadway. Beyond her technical ability, she had a magnetic personality that made every role unforgettable. Her performances weren’t just heard—they were felt.
2. Patti LuPone
Patti LuPone is a force to be reckoned with, a Broadway legend whose voice carries both raw power and refined artistry. She shot to fame with her Tony-winning role in Evita, delivering an electrifying performance as Eva Perón, and later solidified her legacy with her stunning portrayal of Mama Rose in Gypsy. LuPone’s stage presence is commanding, her vocal delivery bold and uncompromising. Whether she’s belting out anthems or delivering tender ballads, she makes every moment on stage feel urgent and alive. In recent years, her acclaimed performance in Company once again proved that she remains one of Broadway’s most thrilling performers.
3. Julie Andrews
Before she became a beloved film icon, Julie Andrews was a shining star on Broadway, known for her crystalline soprano and natural charm. She won audiences over as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady, a role that showcased her impeccable vocal control and acting talent. Later, she enchanted theatergoers as Queen Guinevere in Camelot, solidifying her place as one of Broadway’s most refined and elegant performers. Andrews’ voice had an ethereal purity that made every song she sang feel effortless. Though she later transitioned to film, her impact on Broadway remains timeless, a testament to her unparalleled artistry.
4. Bernadette Peters
Bernadette Peters is the epitome of Broadway royalty, celebrated for her distinctive voice, emotional depth, and remarkable versatility. Whether playing the dreamy Dot in Sunday in the Park with George or the enchanting Witch in Into the Woods, Peters brings a unique magic to every role. Her ability to convey raw emotion through song allows audiences to connect with her on a deep level. Her breathy, expressive soprano, combined with her dynamic acting, makes her performances unforgettable. Even decades into her career, Peters continues to captivate, proving that her talent and passion for musical theater are as strong as ever.
5. Audra McDonald
With six Tony Awards to her name, Audra McDonald is a record-breaking Broadway powerhouse. Her vocal range is astonishing, effortlessly spanning from operatic heights to rich, soulful depths. Whether in Ragtime, Porgy and Bess, or Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill, McDonald delivers performances that are both vocally flawless and emotionally riveting. She has a rare ability to transform each song into a deeply personal narrative, making every note feel meaningful. McDonald’s artistry transcends genres, proving her as one of the most gifted and versatile performers to ever grace the Broadway stage.
6. Angela Lansbury
Angela Lansbury was the definition of a Broadway treasure, known for her charm, wit, and incredible versatility. She brought elegance and energy to roles like Mame Dennis in Mame and Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd, where she masterfully blended comedy and darkness. Lansbury’s impeccable timing, expressive voice, and ability to fully embody her characters made her a legend in musical theater. Whether playing a lively socialite or a scheming baker, she commanded the stage with an ease that only true icons possess. Even outside Broadway, she remained beloved, but it was the theater where she truly shined.
7. Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth’s dazzling soprano and impeccable comic timing have made her a Broadway favorite. Best known for her role as Glinda in Wicked, she brought an irresistible charm to the character, making audiences fall in love with her bubbly persona and soaring vocals. But Chenoweth’s talent extends far beyond one role—she’s excelled in everything from classic revivals to original productions, always leaving a lasting impression. Whether belting out high notes or delivering a perfectly timed punchline, she exudes pure joy on stage. Her performances are a testament to her extraordinary vocal agility and magnetic stage presence.
8. Idina Menzel
Few voices are as instantly recognizable as Idina Menzel’s. With her powerful belt and emotional depth, she redefined modern Broadway, most notably with her iconic performance as Elphaba in Wicked. Her rendition of “Defying Gravity” became an anthem, inspiring countless aspiring performers. Menzel’s voice carries an emotional rawness that makes her performances deeply affecting, whether she’s singing about heartbreak, ambition, or resilience. Beyond Wicked, she’s wowed audiences in Rent and If/Then, proving her versatility. She continues to push boundaries, solidifying her place as one of Broadway’s most influential and beloved performers.
9. Elaine Stritch
Elaine Stritch was a Broadway powerhouse, known for her sharp wit, commanding presence, and fearless performances. Her rendition of “The Ladies Who Lunch” in Company remains one of the most iconic moments in musical theater history, showcasing her singular blend of humor, pathos, and biting honesty. Stritch had a rare ability to completely own the stage, turning every song and monologue into a masterclass in storytelling. She embraced her distinctive voice and persona, never trying to fit into a mold but instead breaking it. Her legacy is one of bold, unapologetic brilliance.
10. Mandy Patinkin
Mandy Patinkin’s unmistakable baritone and intense acting skills have made him a standout on Broadway. Whether playing the tortured artist Georges Seurat in Sunday in the Park with George or the fiery revolutionary Che in Evita, he brings an emotional depth that makes his performances unforgettable. Patinkin’s voice is rich, expressive, and filled with nuance, allowing him to convey deep emotion with every note. His passion for storytelling is evident in every performance, making him a favorite among theater lovers. Few actors can match his combination of vocal prowess and dramatic intensity.
11. Sutton Foster
Sutton Foster is the definition of a modern Broadway star—effervescent, endlessly talented, and a true triple threat. From her breakout role in Thoroughly Modern Millie, which earned her a Tony Award, to her show-stopping performance in Anything Goes, Foster has a rare ability to command the stage with both charm and precision. Her voice is bright and powerful, with a distinctive warmth that makes every song she sings feel fresh and heartfelt. But it’s not just her vocal prowess that makes her remarkable—it’s her ability to fully embody her characters, whether playing a determined flapper, an aspiring dancer, or a romantic dreamer.
Beyond her musical talent, Foster brings an infectious energy that captivates audiences, making her performances feel both effortless and exhilarating. She has a knack for physical comedy, dance, and emotional depth, making her one of Broadway’s most versatile leading ladies. Whether she’s belting out an 11 o’clock number or delivering a comedic punchline, she does it with grace and authenticity. Even outside of Broadway, Foster continues to shine in television and concert performances, but the stage remains where she truly belongs. Her contributions to musical theater solidify her as a Broadway icon for the modern era.
12. Brian Stokes Mitchell
Brian Stokes Mitchell is often referred to as “The Last Leading Man” of Broadway, and for good reason. His velvety baritone, commanding stage presence, and undeniable charisma make him one of the most respected performers in musical theater. His role as Coalhouse Walker Jr. in Ragtime remains one of his most defining performances, blending strength, vulnerability, and vocal mastery into a truly unforgettable portrayal. He brought the character’s passion and pain to life, earning widespread acclaim.
Another standout role was his Tony-winning performance in Kiss Me, Kate, where he showcased his ability to seamlessly blend classic musical theater with contemporary energy. Mitchell’s voice is a force of nature—rich, smooth, and effortlessly powerful—allowing him to tackle everything from Broadway standards to jazz-infused ballads with equal ease. His ability to balance intensity with charm makes him a captivating performer in any role.
Beyond his stage career, Mitchell is a passionate advocate for the arts, working to make theater more accessible and uplifting fellow performers. His impact extends far beyond the roles he has played, cementing his place as one of Broadway’s greatest talents and most beloved leading men.
13. Chita Rivera
Chita Rivera is a Broadway legend, a trailblazing performer who redefined musical theater with her electrifying energy, impeccable dance skills, and powerful voice. She made history as the first Latina actress to become a major Broadway star, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Her breakout role as Anita in West Side Story showcased her extraordinary talent, as she brought a fiery intensity to the character that was both mesmerizing and unforgettable.
Beyond West Side Story, Rivera continued to shine in productions like Chicago, where her portrayal of Velma Kelly cemented her status as a Broadway powerhouse. Her ability to seamlessly blend singing, acting, and dance makes her one of the most well-rounded performers in theater history. She has a natural magnetism that draws audiences in, making every performance feel like an event.
Even into her later years, Rivera’s passion for the stage never wavered, and her contributions to musical theater have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. She remains a symbol of resilience, dedication, and extraordinary talent. Few performers have left as lasting an impact as Chita Rivera, making her one of the most celebrated figures in Broadway history.
14. Carol Channing
Carol Channing was one of Broadway’s most distinctive and beloved performers, known for her larger-than-life personality, inimitable voice, and comedic genius. Her portrayal of Dolly Levi in Hello, Dolly! became one of the most iconic performances in musical theater history, a role she played thousands of times with unwavering enthusiasm. Her signature voice, marked by its unique rasp and cheerful vibrato, made her instantly recognizable.
Channing’s stage presence was unmatched—her energy, timing, and charisma lit up every production she was in. She had a knack for comedy, effortlessly delivering lines with a wit and charm that made audiences adore her. Beyond Hello, Dolly!, she made her mark in shows like Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, where she originated the role of Lorelei Lee and dazzled audiences with her rendition of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.”
Her legacy extends beyond the stage, as she remained a beloved figure in entertainment throughout her life. Channing’s joy for performing was contagious, and her contributions to Broadway remain timeless. Her impact on musical theater is undeniable, making her one of the most cherished and unforgettable stars ever to grace the stage.
15. Lea Salonga
Lea Salonga is a Broadway and international sensation, known for her crystal-clear soprano, emotional depth, and historic performances. She first captured the world’s attention as Kim in Miss Saigon, a role that earned her a Tony Award and made her the first Asian woman to win in a leading actress category. Her heartbreaking portrayal of Kim showcased her ability to bring raw emotion and depth to a character, making every note feel deeply personal.
Salonga continued to shine on Broadway, taking on roles like Éponine and Fantine in Les Misérables, where her soaring vocals and impeccable storytelling left audiences spellbound. Her voice is known for its purity, control, and effortless power, making even the most demanding songs seem easy.
Beyond Broadway, Salonga has gained worldwide recognition as the singing voice of Disney’s Princess Jasmine and Mulan, further cementing her status as a cultural icon. Her impact on musical theater goes beyond her incredible talent—she has broken barriers for Asian performers and continues to inspire young artists around the world. With her unmatched vocal ability and heartfelt performances, Lea Salonga remains one of Broadway’s most treasured and influential stars.
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.
