Music is an ethereal art form that transcends time, cultures, and generations, leaving an indelible mark on the human experience. Within the vast tapestry of musical history, certain voices emerge as iconic and influential, capturing the hearts and minds of listeners across the globe. In this article, we embark on a journey to uncover the gems among the myriad of talents in the world of singing. We delve into the realm of timeless melodies and explore the lives and legacies of the top 15 best singers of all time.
These gifted vocalists have left an enduring impact on the music industry, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and redefining what it means to possess an exceptional voice. From soaring high notes to soul-stirring emotive performances, each singer on this distinguished list has contributed in their unique way to the evolution and progression of music.
Spanning a range of genres including pop, rock, soul, jazz, opera, and more, these extraordinary voices have captured the hearts of millions, garnering critical acclaim, accolades, and adoration throughout their careers. From the velvety-smooth tones of Nat King Cole to the raw power of Aretha Franklin, the mesmerizing range of Freddie Mercury to the haunting elegance of Billie Holiday, this compilation of exceptional singers is a testament to the diverse and boundless nature of human vocal ability.
Join us as we pay homage to these remarkable artists, revisiting their legendary performances and exploring the immeasurable influence they have had on the world of music. Prepare to be captivated by the unparalleled talent and the enduring legacy of the top 15 best singers of all time.
1. Aretha Franklin
Dubbed as the Queen of Soul, this phenomenal singer's style transcended genres from gospel to soul to rock. Aretha Franklin's raw and emotive vocal delivery showcased her unparalleled range and genuine emotion. Her potent and empowering anthems like "Respect," "Natural Woman," and "Think" influenced a generation of musicians and listeners alike. Franklin became a symbol of black pride, civil rights, and the women's liberation movement with her expressive performances that brought people together regardless of race or gender.
Being the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, she won 18 Grammys for her iconic hits including "Chain of Fools," "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," and "Freeway of Love." She was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and performed at President Barack Obama's inaugural ball. Rest in power, Aretha Franklin, your music will continue to inspire generations to come.
Transcending boundaries through her soulful tracks, Franklin was an activist who fought for social change through her lyrics. She once stated in an interview that music is meant to heal people across political divides. Her resilient spirit even inspired renowned artists like Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey who both cite her as their primary influence.
Despite facing criticism early on in her career due to societal stereotypes based on race and gender; it didn't deter Franklin from pursuing music as her passion, paving the way for countless artists today trying to break into the industry. Despite extreme scrutiny over personal struggles such as alcohol addiction issues, Franklin never ceased in elevating music as a form therapy towards a more harmonious society.
Stevie Wonder may be blind, but his voice sees no limits.
2. Stevie Wonder
One of the greatest musicians of all time, Stevie Wonder, has an extraordinary ability to create unforgettable melodies and lyrics. Overcoming blindness since childhood, he became one of the most accomplished multi-instrumentalists in music history. With hits like "Superstition," "Isn't She Lovely," and "Higher Ground," his sound has influenced not just R&B but also rock, jazz, and pop. The singer's accolades include 25 Grammy Awards, a lifetime achievement award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, among others. His signature funk-soul style continues to inspire generations worldwide.
Stevie Wonder's rise to stardom started at Motown Records in the 1960s with iconic hits such as "Fingertips" and "For Once in My Life." His songwriting skills range from social commentary songs like "Living for the City" to romantic ballads such as "You Are the Sunshine of My Life." He is known for using synthesizers and other instruments to add depth to his music genre-bending style. He has collaborated with top artists like Beyonce, Paul McCartney, Elton John amongst others.
The impact that Stevie Wonder had on modern popular music cannot be overstated. Through his remarkable career spanning over five decades, he gave us songs that people still sing along years later. In addition, the singer uses his influence to challenge societal and political issues worldwide. For instance, in 1981 Stevie Wonder released the anti-apartheid song "It's Wrong (Apartheid)", which addressed South Africa's segregation policies. Besides being an international treasure revered by many fans globally for his contributions to music and activism, he stands out as an exceptional artist who defies limitations posed by disability or life circumstances.
Stevie Wonder once revealed that he was inspired by a unique idea when he wrote the popular love song "Isn't She Lovely." It turned out that the song was a tribute to his daughter, Aisha. In the interview, he recounted how Aisha kept crying when she was born and inspired him to create a song about the joy of having a child. The song is known not only for its catchy tune but also for its heartfelt lyrics, making it an all-time favorite for many music lovers across generations.
Why settle for hitting high notes when you can shatter glass with Mariah Carey?
3. Mariah Carey
A true songbird, Mariah Carey stands out as one of the greatest singers of all time. Her range and vocal control are unparalleled, making her a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. With hits like "Vision of Love" and "Hero," Carey has captivated audiences for decades with her powerful voice that can easily hit notes other singers could only dream of. Known for her use of whistle register and melismatic style, Carey's unique sound has garnered millions of loyal fans worldwide.
Carey's impressive career spans over three decades, during which she has sold over 200 million records globally, making her one of the best-selling music artists in history. She has won five Grammy Awards, nineteen World Music Awards, and eleven American Music Awards throughout her illustrious career. Additionally, Carey is known for co-writing many of her songs and producing her own albums.
Moreover, Carey's impact on pop culture ranges from fashion to filmography. In addition to music videos that have gone down in history as iconic creations in their own right (“Honey,” “Fantasy,” “Heartbreaker,” among others), Mariah is instantly recognizable by fans and critics alike due to her signature look: curly hair and bold makeup.
Pro Tip: When planning a performance or recording session, it's advisable to warm up your vocal cords first. This helps prevent strain or injury on your voice just like Mariah does before every show!
Frank Sinatra had such a smooth voice, he could sing the phonebook and still make it sound like a love song.
4. Frank Sinatra
One of the most iconic and influential singers of all time, this artist was known for his smooth voice and incredible stage presence. His career spanned over six decades, during which he sold more than 150 million records worldwide. He was awarded numerous Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1965. Aside from his music career, he also had success in acting, appearing in numerous films and television shows.
His distinctive vocal style and impeccable phrasing set him apart from other singers of his time, making him a true legend in the industry. His songs have become classics that still resonate with audiences today, including "My Way," "Strangers in the Night," and "New York, New York."
Despite his musical achievements, he faced personal struggles throughout his life, including marital issues and health problems. However, he continued to perform until the end of his life and left behind an unforgettable legacy that has inspired countless musicians.
This artist's impact on the music industry is immeasurable, making him one of the best singers of all time.
Otis Redding may have had a short career, but his soulful voice left a lasting impact, unlike my attempts at karaoke.
5. Otis Redding
With his soulful voice and electrifying stage presence, Otis Redding remains one of the greatest singers of all time. Known for hits like "Try a Little Tenderness" and "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay," his music blended R&B, gospel, and blues in a way that inspired generations to come. But beyond his chart-topping success, Redding's influence extended to civil rights activism and he paved the way for other black artists in the industry. His untimely death at only 26 was a tremendous loss to the music world, but his legacy lives on through his timeless recordings.
Sam Cooke's voice was like a warm hug from your grandpa, except instead of candy he was giving you goosebumps.
6. Sam Cooke
Recognized as one of the greatest singers of all time, Sam Cooke was a trailblazer in the music industry. With his smooth and soulful voice, he influenced numerous artists and genres. Cooke's hits include "A Change Is Gonna Come," "You Send Me," and "Wonderful World." His contribution to music extended beyond his vocal talent, as he was also an accomplished songwriter and producer. Overall, Sam Cooke's legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians.
Pro Tip: Listen to Sam Cooke's live performances for an even deeper appreciation of his unmatched vocal abilities.
Elvis may have left the building, but his music will continue to rock and roll in our hearts forever.
7. Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, an American rock and roll icon and a pioneer of the genre, marks the seventh spot on the list of 15 Best Singers of All Time. With his electrifying performances and soulful voice, Elvis captivated audiences across the globe for decades. His influence on popular music is unmatched due to his fusion of various genres such as country, blues, gospel, and R&B.
Elvis' music has stood the test of time because of its iconic nature; he was able to combine multiple styles which made him unique. He had a distinctive voice that could resonate through any song he sang. His stage presence, electrifying moves, and charm made him stand out from other musicians in his era and still do so today. Elvis' performances earned him a reputation as one of the most prolific entertainers not only in America but globally.
In addition to being a great singer, Elvis also played a significant role in bridging racial gaps in music. In the mid-1950s when segregation was prevalent, Elvis played with black musicians who had been excluded from mainstream music because they were black. His collaboration with artists like Big Mama Thornton paved the way for other artists who faced similar exclusion.
To appreciate Elvis' musical genius fully, it is essential to listen to his tracks with attention to detail on what makes his technique different from other artists in his era. One can learn a lot about technique from listening to how he used different rhythms and beats deliberately to create vibrant melodies that are timeless.
If you want to develop incredible singing abilities or achieve excellence in your craft as an artist like Elvis did, you must embrace uniqueness. Combining various styles will make you stand out as an artist; let your creativity shine through your work!
Bob Dylan's voice may not be everyone's cup of tea, but hey, neither is kale and we all know it's good for us.
8. Bob Dylan
One of the outstanding singers who has been a topic of discussion in the '15 Best Singers of All Time' list is an American songwriter and singer-songwriter born in Minnesota. His career spanned over six decades, and he is acclaimed for his unique voice and songwriting skills. He also received several Grammy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Academy Awards for his work.
Bob Dylan's contribution to music industry is immeasurable. He pioneered many genres like folk rock and electric blues which helped him achieve success. Initially considered as a protest singer, he later delved into deep topics like love, life, loss and faith through his songs that resonated internationally with audiences through generations. Bob Dylan's music has influenced countless other musicians worldwide.
Furthermore, Bob Dylan's albums such as The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan (1963), Highway 61 Revisited (1965) and Blood on the Tracks (1975) left noteworthy impacts on the listeners with their unique style of storytelling. His lyrics carry strong messages that have been interpreted in multiple ways by listeners making it more personal to them.
Bob Dylan's unmatched talent carved out a space for him among the best singers of all time making him worthy to be remembered for years to come.
Don't miss out on listening to his exceptional contribution to music spanning more than six decades!
Freddie Mercury might be gone, but his music will never die. Unless your speaker system breaks, then it's just static.
9. Freddie Mercury
Considered as one of the greatest singers of all time, the lead vocalist of Queen, Freddie Mercury is a name that will forever be etched in music history. Known for his powerful vocals and flamboyant stage presence, he was an icon who pushed the boundaries and brought theatrics to his performances. With hits like "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "We Will Rock You", Freddie Mercury captivated audiences with his unique vocal style and range. He passed away in 1991 but his impact on music remains unmatched.
Freddie Mercury's distinctive voice captured the essence of Queen's music in a way that resonates with listeners even today. His ability to engage crowds with his electrifying performances acted as an inspiration to many aspiring artists in the industry. Known as a true showman, he had a flair for drama and spectacle which made him stand out from other performers.
One of Freddie Mercury's lesser-known talents was his songwriting skills. He wrote some of Queen's biggest hits which showcased his creativity and talent as a musician. One such song was "Somebody To Love" which has been covered by various artists over the years.
A true fact about Freddie Mercury is that he was born Farrokh Bulsara in Stone Town, Zanzibar (now Tanzania) to Indian Parsi parents.
Michael Jackson, the king of pop, moonwalked his way into our hearts and left us all wondering if it was the shoes or his supernatural talent.
10. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, the iconic King of Pop, is considered one of the best singers of all time. His unique vocal range and ability to capture audiences with his electrifying performances has made him a legend in the music industry. With over 350 million records sold globally, he is one of the most successful musicians of all time. Known for his hits like "Billie Jean", "Beat It", and "Thriller", Jackson's influence on pop culture is timeless.
Jackson's innovative music videos changed the way artistes approached music video production, with films like "Thriller" becoming recognized as American cultural icons. Despite controversies surrounding his personal life, Jackson remains an influential musician and performer who inspired generations to embrace their creativity.
Notably, Michael Jackson had an impact beyond just music arrangements where his creative ingenuity shifted into fashion, dance styles and overall artistic expression complemented by diverse musical genres that he explored across his career.
Pro Tip: Explore Michael Jackson discography!
James Brown wasn't just the Godfather of Soul, he was also the CEO of funky footwork.
11. James Brown
This legendary icon, dubbed the "Godfather of Soul," revolutionized not only soul music but also R&B and funk. James Brown's electrifying stage presence, combined with his powerful vocals, made him one of the most influential singers of all time. His hits such as "I Got You (I Feel Good)" and "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" showcased his unique style, which was characterized by soulful grooves, high-pitched screams, and gritty raspiness. Brown's contributions to American popular music are immeasurable and secure his place among the 15 best singers in history.
Throughout his career that spanned over five decades, James Brown achieved remarkable feats. He became an idol for young black Americans struggling with poverty and racial inequality during the Civil Rights Movement era. Brown also paved the way for future artists with his showmanship innovations, including dramatic dance moves, sparkling costumes and props that kept audiences captivated during live shows. Despite facing personal challenges off-stage, Brown remained committed to uplifting people through music till he passed away in 2006 at age 73.
Not only did he top charts time after time; Brown had a few close calls because he possessed an eagerness to blend social purpose into his music. In one such instance, during Martin Luther King Jr.’s funeral televised live all across America soon after MLK's demise in April 1968 – it was hard to say what might happen if Brown didn't calm the situation when protesters started getting uncontrollable around him on stage mid-performance of his rendition of “Please Please Please.” His composure helped prevent chaos from erupting.
James Brown is a musical pioneer whose influence will remain important for generations to come. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest performers in history who brought passion and heart to every note he sang.
If you try to tell me you've never belted out 'Tiny Dancer' after a few drinks, I simply won't believe you.
12. Elton John
This legendary artist features on our list of the 15 Best Singers of All Time. With a career spanning over five decades, he has sold more than 300 million records worldwide and is known for his flamboyant costumes and piano skills. His timeless classics such as 'Rocket Man' and 'Tiny Dancer' have left a significant impact on the music industry. Elton John's vocal prowess and exceptional songwriting skills make him an all-time great artist. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts are remarkable, including his contribution to AIDS foundations across the world. Pro Tip: Catch his current farewell tour to experience the magic of this iconic singer-songwriter live on stage.
Roy Orbison's voice is so powerful, it could bring a tear to a glass eye.
13. Roy Orbison
With a voice often described as operatic, Roy Orbison was a legendary singer-songwriter of the rock and roll era. His songs were filled with haunting melodies and lyrics that spoke to the heart. One of his signature hits, "Oh, Pretty Woman," became an instant classic and solidified his place in music history.
Orbison's vocal range earned him the nickname "The Caruso of Rock," and he was known for his ability to hit high notes effortlessly. He was also a master at crafting songs that captured feelings of love, loss, and longing.
Beyond his impressive vocal talent, Orbison was also a gifted musician who played guitar, harmonica, bass, and piano. He wrote or co-wrote many of his own songs and collaborated with other artists on numerous occasions.
A tragic event in Orbison's personal life occurred when he lost both his wife and two of their children in a house fire. Despite this devastating loss, he continued to create music throughout his career until his untimely death at the age of 52.
Roy Orbison is undoubtedly one of the greatest singers of all time, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations to come.
When it comes to spreading good vibes through music, Bob Marley is the boss – even after all these years.
14. Bob Marley
Bob Marley, the legendary Jamaican musician, is considered one of the greatest singers of all time. His reggae music style, accompanied by his unique voice and lyrics, made him a cultural icon worldwide. He used music as a powerful tool to spread messages of peace, love, and unity.
Marley's international recognition grew during the 1970s when he released several albums, including "Catch a Fire," "Burnin'," and "Natty Dread." His collaboration with The Wailers helped create some of his most memorable hits. Some of his popular songs include "One Love," "No Woman No Cry," and "Redemption Song."
Aside from his music career, Marley was also an activist who fought against discrimination and inequality. He strongly believed that people should be treated equally regardless of their race or social status.
Marley's influence on music and culture continues to this day, with numerous artists citing him as an inspiration for their work. He passed away at the young age of 36 due to cancer, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
Fun Fact: Bob Marley's song "One Love" was declared the song of the millennium by BBC in 1999.
Whitney Houston had a voice smoother than a freshly shaved baby's bottom, and her songs will have you feeling all the emotions, from "I Will Always Love You" to "I'm Every Woman".
15. Whitney Houston
With a voice often described as "the voice of an angel," Whitney Houston's music career spanned over three decades and solidified her as one of the most iconic singers of all time. She received numerous awards, including six Grammys, and set multiple records with her albums. Her influence on the music industry not only paved the way for future vocalists but also made an impact on popular culture. Despite her tragic death in 2012, Houston's legacy continues to live on through her timeless music.
In addition to her incredible vocal range and power, Houston's ability to infuse emotion into every lyric she sang set her apart from other singers. Her passion and soulful delivery connected with audiences on a deep level, making even the most heartbreaking songs relatable and uplifting. Additionally, her stage presence was unmatched, captivating crowds with her energetic performances and stunning style.
It's worth noting that Whitney Houston wasn't just a talented singer; she was also an accomplished actress who starred in several films throughout her career. Though she faced personal struggles and controversies in later years, there is no denying the impact she had on both music and cinema.
Fun fact: In 2009, Whitney Houston was cited by the Guinness World Records for being the most awarded female act of all time.
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.
