Few art forms capture the magic of storytelling quite like Broadway. The bright lights, the thundering applause, and the spine-tingling melodies have defined theater for generations. But at the heart of every unforgettable performance is the singer—the artists whose voices transport us to worlds of love, heartbreak, triumph, and tragedy. From the first note to the final bow, these performers leave audiences breathless, their vocal prowess and emotional depth shaping the very essence of Broadway’s enduring legacy.
In this article, we celebrate the top 15 best Broadway singers of all time—the legends whose names are etched in theater history. These vocal icons have graced stages with groundbreaking performances, redefined what it means to be a Broadway star, and inspired millions with their extraordinary talent. Whether belting out show-stopping anthems or delivering haunting ballads that stir the soul, these singers have not only mastered the craft but have also elevated it to new heights.
Join us as we journey through the lives and careers of Broadway’s brightest stars, reliving the performances that made them icons. From golden-age pioneers to modern-day powerhouses, this list shines a spotlight on the voices that have left an indelible mark on the world of musical theater. Curtain up—let’s begin!
1. Ethel Merman
Ethel Merman was, and still is, the undisputed “Queen of Broadway.” With a voice that could cut through an orchestra without the need for a microphone, she revolutionized the Broadway musical with her powerful belt and impeccable diction. Merman’s career spanned decades, and her unforgettable performances in Anything Goes, Annie Get Your Gun, and Gypsy made her a legend. Songs like “There’s No Business Like Show Business” and “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” are practically synonymous with her name, and her ability to hold a note seemingly forever was nothing short of astounding.
What made Merman so special wasn’t just her powerhouse vocals but also her commanding stage presence. She wasn’t just a singer—she was a force of nature, a performer who could dominate a scene with her sheer energy and charisma. She embodied the golden age of Broadway, setting the standard for future musical theater stars. Her straightforward, no-nonsense personality also made her a beloved figure offstage, adding to her larger-than-life legacy.
Even today, no list of Broadway’s greatest performers is complete without Ethel Merman. She paved the way for generations of powerful female vocalists and left behind a legacy of iconic performances that continue to inspire singers and audiences alike.
2. Patti LuPone
Patti LuPone is the very definition of a Broadway powerhouse. With her unmistakable voice, electrifying stage presence, and fearless commitment to her craft, she has dominated the world of musical theater for decades. Whether she’s bringing down the house with “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” in Evita, delivering a show-stopping performance in Gypsy, or thrilling audiences with Sunset Boulevard, LuPone consistently proves why she is one of the most respected and revered Broadway divas of all time.
What sets LuPone apart is her ability to pour raw emotion into every note she sings. Her voice is full of fire, passion, and intensity, making each of her performances unforgettable. She doesn’t just sing—she embodies the character, telling a story with every phrase. Her portrayal of Mama Rose in Gypsy is considered one of the greatest performances in Broadway history, and her ability to hold an audience in the palm of her hand is unparalleled.
Beyond her legendary performances, LuPone is known for her strong personality and her dedication to maintaining the integrity of live theater. She has no patience for cell phone distractions during performances and has become famous for calling out audience members who break theater etiquette. That fiery spirit is exactly what makes her such an icon.
Patti LuPone is more than a Broadway star—she is a Broadway institution, a performer whose voice and presence have shaped the theater world for generations.
3. Julie Andrews
Julie Andrews is the embodiment of elegance, grace, and pure vocal perfection. With a crystal-clear soprano and impeccable diction, she set the standard for Broadway leading ladies. Her breakout role as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady catapulted her to fame, and her enchanting performances in Camelot and later Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music solidified her as one of the most beloved voices in musical theater history.
What made Andrews truly special was her ability to bring warmth and depth to every role she played. Her portrayal of Eliza in My Fair Lady was a masterclass in transformation, seamlessly shifting from cockney flower girl to refined lady with both comedic charm and dramatic weight. Her voice, often described as effortlessly pure, was full of emotion and nuance, making every song she sang feel like a heartfelt confession.
Despite losing the chance to star in the film adaptation of My Fair Lady, Andrews’ career soared, and she became a household name. Her ability to balance technical brilliance with genuine emotion made her a favorite among audiences and critics alike. Even after losing her singing voice due to surgery complications, Andrews remains an icon of musical theater, continuing to inspire new generations of performers. Her legacy is one of timeless artistry and unwavering grace.
4. Bernadette Peters
Bernadette Peters is one of Broadway’s most distinctive and emotionally compelling performers. With her signature curly red hair, unique vocal tone, and remarkable acting ability, she has captivated audiences for decades in musicals such as Into the Woods, Sunday in the Park with George, and Annie Get Your Gun. Whether delivering comedic brilliance or deep emotional intensity, Peters has an unmatched ability to connect with audiences.
Her collaborations with Stephen Sondheim have made her a legend in musical theater. Her performances in Into the Woods as the Witch and Sunday in the Park with George as Dot showcase her extraordinary range, moving seamlessly from whimsical charm to heart-wrenching vulnerability. Songs like “Children Will Listen” and “Move On” resonate deeply because of the sincerity and raw emotion she brings to them.
Beyond her exceptional voice and acting talent, Peters has a magnetic stage presence that makes every role she plays unforgettable. She possesses an ability to make classic songs feel new, injecting them with such authenticity that they become personal experiences for audiences. Her career has spanned decades, yet she continues to perform with the same energy and passion that made her a star.
A true Broadway icon, Bernadette Peters represents the best of what musical theater has to offer: technical mastery, emotional depth, and an undeniable ability to move an audience.
5. Audra McDonald
Audra McDonald is a Broadway legend whose voice transcends genres, blending operatic finesse with the raw emotion of musical theater. With a record-breaking six Tony Awards to her name, McDonald has redefined what it means to be a Broadway star. From her stunning performances in Ragtime and Porgy and Bess to her heartbreaking portrayal of Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill, McDonald consistently delivers breathtaking vocal mastery and unparalleled dramatic depth.
Her voice, a rich and soaring soprano, is capable of both delicate nuance and commanding power. She has the ability to make an audience feel every note, every lyric, and every moment of a song. Whether she’s belting out the triumphant “Your Daddy’s Son” from Ragtime or bringing quiet, aching vulnerability to “Summertime” in Porgy and Bess, McDonald infuses every performance with authenticity and heart.
Beyond her vocal abilities, McDonald’s impact on Broadway is immense. She has broken barriers as an African American performer in traditionally white-dominated roles, paving the way for greater diversity in theater. Her presence on stage is magnetic, and her commitment to storytelling is evident in every role she takes on.
Audra McDonald is not just a singer or an actress—she is a force of nature. Her ability to command the stage with both technical brilliance and raw emotion ensures her place as one of Broadway’s greatest performers of all time.
6. Angela Lansbury
Angela Lansbury was the definition of a Broadway legend. With a career spanning over seven decades, she left an indelible mark on musical theater with her extraordinary versatility, charm, and commanding stage presence. Whether she was bringing warmth and wit to Mame or delivering chilling intensity in Sweeney Todd, Lansbury was an actress who could do it all.
Her performance in Mame was a career-defining moment, showcasing her comedic timing, dazzling stage energy, and powerful vocals. She embodied the eccentric and lovable title character with a vibrancy that made audiences fall in love with her. But Lansbury was never one to be typecast—she stunned Broadway with her dark and menacing portrayal of Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd, proving her ability to tackle complex and sinister roles just as effortlessly as her lighthearted ones.
Even beyond musical theater, Lansbury was a beloved figure, known for her long-running role as Jessica Fletcher in Murder, She Wrote. However, Broadway was always a home for her, and she continued to return to the stage well into her later years. Her ability to capture an audience with humor, heartbreak, and sheer star power made her a rare talent.
Angela Lansbury’s legacy is one of brilliance, versatility, and an unwavering love for the stage. She will always be remembered as one of Broadway’s greatest performers, an artist who could make audiences laugh, cry, and cheer—all in the span of a single show.
7. Mandy Patinkin
Mandy Patinkin is a Broadway powerhouse, known for his rich, expressive tenor voice and deeply emotional performances. With an acting style that blends intensity and vulnerability, he has made every role he’s taken on unforgettable. From originating the role of Che in Evita to delivering a career-defining performance as Georges Seurat in Sunday in the Park with George, Patinkin has proven himself as one of Broadway’s most captivating performers.
His ability to tell a story through song is unparalleled. When he sings “Finishing the Hat” from Sunday in the Park with George, every note is infused with yearning and frustration, capturing the soul of an artist struggling to balance love and creation. In Evita, his powerful rendition of “Oh, What a Circus” brought fire and passion to the stage, making him a standout in the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic.
What sets Patinkin apart is his fearless approach to performance. He throws himself into his roles with an intensity that few actors can match. His voice, rich with emotion, has a unique ability to pull audiences into the heart of a character’s journey.
Beyond Broadway, Patinkin has also made a name for himself in film and television, but his love for the stage remains undeniable. His concerts and solo performances continue to showcase his immense vocal and storytelling abilities. Mandy Patinkin is not just a Broadway singer—he is a true artist, bringing depth, nuance, and passion to every role he inhabits.
8. Sutton Foster
Sutton Foster is one of Broadway’s brightest stars, known for her infectious energy, powerhouse vocals, and impeccable comedic timing. A true triple threat, Foster has dazzled audiences with her ability to act, sing, and dance with effortless charm. From her Tony-winning breakout role in Thoroughly Modern Millie to her show-stopping performance in Anything Goes, she has cemented herself as one of the most beloved performers of her generation.
Her voice, a dynamic and expressive instrument, can soar in big belting numbers and soften for moments of vulnerability. In Anything Goes, her rendition of the title song bursts with joy and old-school Broadway glamour, while her performance of “Gimme Gimme” in Thoroughly Modern Millie builds from quiet longing to a thrilling climax, showcasing her extraordinary vocal range.
Foster’s natural charisma and comedic flair make her a standout in musical theater. Whether she’s delivering a perfectly timed punchline or bringing depth to a dramatic moment, she commands the stage with an irresistible presence. She has also seamlessly transitioned into television, starring in hit shows like Younger, but Broadway remains her true home.
With multiple Tony Awards and a reputation as one of the hardest-working stars in the industry, Sutton Foster continues to be a force to be reckoned with. Her talent, dedication, and undeniable star power make her one of Broadway’s most cherished performers.
9. Idina Menzel
Idina Menzel’s voice is one of the most recognizable in Broadway history, a powerful, soaring belt that can shake a theater to its core. Best known for originating the role of Elphaba in Wicked, Menzel brought an electrifying intensity to the show, making “Defying Gravity” one of the most iconic numbers in modern musical theater. Her performance in Rent as Maureen also helped define an era of Broadway, blending rock and theatricality in a way that captivated audiences.
Menzel’s voice is more than just technically impressive—it’s filled with emotion. When she sings, she brings the full weight of a character’s journey to every note. Whether she’s belting out a rebellious anthem or delivering a tender ballad, her performances are always deeply felt. Her work in If/Then showcased her ability to handle complex, layered roles, proving that she’s not just a phenomenal singer but also a compelling actress.
Beyond Broadway, Menzel has achieved mainstream success, particularly as the voice of Elsa in Disney’s Frozen, where “Let It Go” became a worldwide sensation. Despite her fame beyond the stage, she remains a Broadway icon, continually returning to the theater that made her a star.
Idina Menzel is more than just a great singer—she’s a powerhouse performer who brings fire and soul to every role she takes on. Her ability to connect with audiences through her voice ensures her place as one of Broadway’s greatest stars.
10. Chita Rivera
Chita Rivera is a Broadway legend, a trailblazer whose talent, charisma, and groundbreaking performances have shaped the history of musical theater. As one of the first Latina actresses to achieve Broadway superstardom, Rivera broke barriers and set a new standard for what it meant to be a leading lady on stage. Her roles in West Side Story, Chicago, and Kiss of the Spider Woman cemented her status as one of the greatest performers to ever grace the stage.
Rivera’s combination of sultry vocals, effortless dance skills, and undeniable stage presence makes her one of Broadway’s most dynamic performers. In West Side Story, she brought energy and passion to the role of Anita, delivering unforgettable performances of songs like “America.” Later, in Chicago, her portrayal of Velma Kelly was sizzling and fierce, proving that she could command the stage with both attitude and elegance.
One of Rivera’s greatest strengths is her ability to evolve with the industry. Even after decades in the business, she continues to perform with the same fire and commitment that made her a star. Her contributions to Broadway have paved the way for future generations of performers, particularly for Latina actresses who followed in her footsteps.
Chita Rivera isn’t just a Broadway star—she’s a living legend whose influence on musical theater will be felt for generations to come. Her impact on the stage is undeniable, and her legacy as a performer and trailblazer is firmly secured.
11. Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth is one of Broadway’s most distinctive and beloved performers, known for her dazzling soprano, impeccable comedic timing, and boundless energy. With a voice that can effortlessly soar into the stratosphere, she has captivated audiences in a variety of roles, most notably as Glinda in Wicked. Her performance in the original cast alongside Idina Menzel helped define the show as a Broadway phenomenon, with her charming, bubbly take on Glinda perfectly complementing her powerhouse vocals in songs like “Popular” and “For Good.”
Chenoweth’s vocal talent is truly remarkable—her crystal-clear tone and ability to hit impossibly high notes set her apart from many of her peers. But what makes her truly special is her ability to blend comedy and sincerity. Whether she’s delivering a hilarious line or an emotional ballad, she always brings authenticity and heart to her performances.
Beyond Wicked, she has wowed audiences in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, where she won a Tony Award for her portrayal of Sally Brown, as well as in On the Twentieth Century and Promises, Promises. Her versatility extends beyond Broadway, with successful ventures into film, television, and even country and gospel music.
With her magnetic stage presence and undeniable vocal prowess, Kristin Chenoweth continues to be one of Broadway’s most treasured stars. Her ability to make audiences laugh, cry, and marvel at her vocal acrobatics ensures that her place in theater history is secure.
12. Brian Stokes Mitchell
With a voice as smooth as velvet and a stage presence that exudes elegance, Brian Stokes Mitchell is one of Broadway’s finest leading men. His rich baritone is instantly recognizable, carrying both power and warmth in every note he sings. Whether commanding the stage in Ragtime or charming audiences in Kiss Me, Kate, Mitchell has built a career on delivering unforgettable performances.
One of his most defining roles came in Ragtime, where he played Coalhouse Walker Jr., a character whose journey of love, loss, and justice was brought to life through Mitchell’s stirring performance. His rendition of “Make Them Hear You” remains one of the most powerful moments in Broadway history, demonstrating not only his vocal strength but also his ability to convey deep emotion through song.
Mitchell is a performer who brings both gravitas and charisma to every role he takes on. His portrayal of Fred Graham in Kiss Me, Kate showcased his ability to mix comedy with commanding vocals, while his performances in Man of La Mancha and Shuffle Along solidified his reputation as one of Broadway’s most versatile stars.
Beyond his work on stage, Mitchell is deeply involved in arts advocacy, using his platform to support the theater community. His dedication to the craft and his ability to breathe life into every character he plays make him one of the most respected and admired figures in Broadway history.
13. Barbara Cook
Barbara Cook’s name is synonymous with vocal purity, warmth, and emotional depth. One of Broadway’s most celebrated sopranos, Cook’s voice was a thing of beauty—crystal-clear, effortlessly lyrical, and rich with feeling. Her performances in The Music Man and Candide set the standard for musical theater singing, earning her a place among Broadway’s greatest legends.
Cook’s portrayal of Marian Paroo in The Music Man remains one of her most iconic roles, with her rendition of “Till There Was You” capturing the innocence and romance of the character. Her ability to deliver songs with both technical perfection and heartfelt sincerity made her a standout in every production she was part of. In Candide, she tackled the challenging coloratura role of Cunegonde, wowing audiences with her dazzling performance of “Glitter and Be Gay.”
Later in her career, Cook transitioned into cabaret and concert performances, where she continued to captivate audiences with her storytelling and vocal artistry. Even as her voice matured, her ability to connect emotionally with songs remained unmatched. She became one of the most respected interpreters of the American songbook, proving that great singing isn’t just about technique—it’s about heart.
Barbara Cook’s legacy as a Broadway icon and master vocalist is undeniable. Her voice, filled with warmth and sincerity, continues to inspire generations of performers.
14. Elaine Stritch
Elaine Stritch was a force of nature—bold, brassy, and utterly unforgettable. With a sharp wit and a voice that carried both power and personality, she made every performance uniquely her own. Whether delivering a biting one-liner or pouring raw emotion into a song, Stritch had a presence that demanded attention.
One of her most legendary moments came in Company, where she delivered a searing performance of “The Ladies Who Lunch.” With every syllable dripping in sarcasm and underlying sadness, she turned the song into a defining moment of the show. It remains one of Broadway’s most iconic performances, a masterclass in character interpretation.
Stritch was known for her fearless approach to roles, never shying away from characters with sharp edges or complex emotions. From Sail Away to A Little Night Music, she brought her signature mix of humor and grit to every production she was in. Her honesty on stage and in life made her a Broadway legend, one who never played by the rules and was all the better for it.
Even in her later years, she continued to perform with the same fire and tenacity, famously staging her one-woman show Elaine Stritch at Liberty, which gave audiences an unfiltered look at her life and career.
Elaine Stritch wasn’t just a Broadway performer—she was a Broadway institution. Her legacy lives on in the unforgettable performances she gave and the indelible mark she left on the theater world.
15. Lea Salonga
Lea Salonga is a Broadway and international star whose voice is synonymous with purity, precision, and heartfelt emotion. Best known for her Tony-winning performance as Kim in Miss Saigon, Salonga stunned audiences with her breathtaking vocals and deeply moving portrayal of a young woman caught in the turmoil of war. Her rendition of “I’d Give My Life for You” remains one of the most poignant and powerful performances in musical theater history.
Beyond Miss Saigon, Salonga made history as the first Asian actress to play both Eponine and Fantine in Les Misérables, bringing a fresh depth to these iconic roles. Her voice, crystal clear and filled with warmth, made songs like “On My Own” and “I Dreamed a Dream” unforgettable.
Salonga’s impact extends far beyond Broadway. She is also beloved as the singing voice of Disney princesses Jasmine in Aladdin and Mulan in Mulan, bringing her signature vocal beauty to songs like “A Whole New World” and “Reflection.” Her work in these films introduced her talent to millions around the world.
As a performer, Salonga is known for her technical excellence and emotional sincerity. Whether on stage or in concert, she connects deeply with her audience, making every song feel personal. Her career, spanning decades, continues to inspire performers worldwide, proving that true talent transcends borders. Lea Salonga is more than just a Broadway star—she is a global icon.
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.
