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Best singers of all time: The legends who continually make us swoon

Prepare to be enchanted as we unveil the ethereal realm of the best singers of all time, whose voices have forever imprinted their melodies upon the tapestry of music history.

In the vast realm of music, there are voices that transcend time, touch our souls, and redefine the very essence of what it means to be a singer. They are the select few who have etched their names in the annals of musical history as the best singers of all time, leaving an indelible mark that resonates across generations.

Join us as we embark on a journey to celebrate the best singers of all time, from Amy winehouse to Ella Fitzgerald and Tom Waits, their extraordinary talent and undeniable artistry have shaped the very fabric of the music we hold dear.

Paul McCartney Live and Let Die

 

Aretha Franklin

The Queen of Soul –  Aretha Franklin is the current reigning best singer of all time, as per pretty much any list you come across, and with good reason. Aretha’s unparalleled talent and soul-stirring voice make her an undisputed icon. From her powerful anthems like “Respect” to her emotional ballads, her range and versatility established her as the Queen of Soul and inspired generations of artists.

Aretha Franklin

Freddie Mercury

The showman extraordinaire – Freddie Mercury’s unparalleled charisma and operatic voice propelled Queen to new heights. His ability to effortlessly switch from thunderous rock anthems to tender ballads, combined with his electrifying stage presence, cemented him as one of the greatest showmen in music history.

Freddie Mercury new vocals Queen single

Frank Sinatra

The Chairman of the Board – Frank Sinatra’s smooth voice and impeccable phrasing made him an unforgettable crooner. With timeless classics like “My Way” and “Fly Me to the Moon,” Sinatra’s velvety tones exuded class and sophistication, earning him the title of Chairman of the Board.

frank sinatra

Whitney Houston

The Voice – Whitney Houston possessed a vocal range and power that was simply awe-inspiring. Her ability to effortlessly hit high notes and infuse emotion into every lyric made her an unparalleled force in the music industry. Hits like “I Will Always Love You” continue to captivate audiences to this day and solidifies her place as one of the best singers of all time.

whitney houston

Elvis Presley

The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll – Elvis Presley’s sultry voice and magnetic stage presence made him a cultural phenomenon. With his fusion of blues, gospel, and rock ‘n’ roll, he revolutionized music and left an indelible mark on the world. Songs like “Suspicious Minds” and “Jailhouse Rock” are timeless classics.

elvis best singers of all time

Mariah Carey

The vocal powerhouse – Mariah Carey’s five-octave range and whistle register catapulted her to superstardom. Known for her melismatic style and emotional ballads, she has earned the title of the best-selling female artist of all time. Hits like “Hero” and “We Belong Together” showcase her extraordinary vocal prowess.

mariah carey

Michael Jackson

The King of Pop – Michael Jackson’s magnetic stage presence and unique vocal style turned him into a global sensation. His unmatched ability to combine pop, R&B, and dance, along with his distinctive falsetto, produced unforgettable hits such as “Billie Jean” and “Thriller,” solidifying his status as the King of Pop.

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Stevie Wonder

The musical genius – Stevie Wonder’s soulful voice and prodigious talent as a multi-instrumentalist make him a true musical genius. His ability to blend R&B, pop, and funk with socially conscious lyrics created a musical legacy that transcends generations. Songs like “Superstition” and “Isn’t She Lovely” are timeless classics.

Stevie Wonder, Songs in the Key of Life, Sir Duke, Isn't She Lovely

Ella Fitzgerald

The First Lady of Song – Ella Fitzgerald’s unparalleled vocal control and scat singing made her an iconic jazz singer. Known as the First Lady of Song alone, makes her one of the best singers of all time, her mesmerizing performances and effortless improvisation continue to inspire jazz musicians worldwide. Classics like “Summertime” and “Mack the Knife” showcase her extraordinary talent.

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Bob Dylan

The voice of a generation – Bob Dylan’s distinctive gravelly voice and poetic songwriting made him an influential figure in music history. Often referred to as the Voice of a Generation, his songs became anthems for social change during the turbulent 1960s. With hits like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “Like a Rolling Stone,” Dylan’s raspy vocals and poignant lyrics resonated with millions around the world.

Dylan playing It Aint Me Babe

Stevie Nicks

The enchanting songstress – Stevie Nicks’ distinctive husky voice and bewitching stage presence made her a driving force behind Fleetwood Mac’s success. Her hauntingly beautiful vocals in songs like “Landslide” and “Rhiannon” captivated listeners, solidifying her status as a rock icon.

Here I imagine Stevie Nicks is saying, "um, this decision is obvious."

Luciano Pavarotti

The maestro of Opera – Luciano Pavarotti’s powerful tenor voice and incredible vocal range established him as one of the greatest opera singers of all time. With his remarkable ability to convey emotion through his voice, Pavarotti’s renditions of arias like “Nessun Dorma” still resonate with audiences worldwide.

Luciano pavarotti Decostruttori Postmodernisti nessun dorma theremin

Janis Joplin

The Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll – Janis Joplin’s raw, passionate vocals and uninhibited stage presence shattered gender stereotypes in the male-dominated rock scene of the ’60s. Her unforgettable performances in songs like “Piece of My Heart” and “Me and Bobby McGee” paved the way for future generations of female rockers.

Janis

Nat King Cole

The velvet voice – Nat King Cole’s smooth, velvety voice and elegant phrasing captivated listeners from the jazz era to the golden age of pop. With timeless hits like “Unforgettable” and “Mona Lisa,” Cole’s rich baritone remains a symbol of sophistication and romance.

nat king cole

Adele

The vocal powerhouse – Adele’s soulful, powerhouse vocals and heartfelt ballads have earned her critical acclaim and a massive global following. Her emotive performances in songs like “Someone Like You” and “Rolling in the Deep” have solidified her place as one of the most successful and beloved singers of her generation.

Adele

Johnny Cash

The Man in Black – Johnny Cash’s deep, resonant voice and rebellious spirit defined him as one of the pioneers of country music. From the iconic “Folsom Prison Blues” to the heartfelt “Hurt,” Cash’s distinctive baritone and storytelling ability left an indelible mark on American music.

San Quentin

Celine Dion

The voice of emotion – Celine Dion’s powerhouse vocals and emotional delivery have made her one of the best-selling female artists of all time. With her unforgettable performances in ballads like “My Heart Will Go On” and “The Power of Love,” Dion’s voice has become synonymous with passion and vulnerability.

Celine Dion bets singers of all time

Marvin Gaye

The Prince of Soul – Marvin Gaye’s smooth, sensual vocals and socially conscious lyrics solidified his status as a legend of soul music. Songs like “What’s Going On” and “Let’s Get It On” showcased Gaye’s silky falsetto and his ability to address important issues through his music.

Rihanna

The hitmaker – Rihanna’s distinctive voice, magnetic personality, and genre-bending music have made her one of the most successful and influential artists of our time. From her early hits like “Umbrella” to her more recent ventures, such as “Diamonds” and “Work,” Rihanna’s trailblazing talent has captivated the world. Rihanna is writing history as she walks and breathes, as the best singer of all time.

rihanna best singers of all time

Tony Bennett

The crooning icon – Tony Bennett’s velvety smooth voice and timeless charm have made him a true legend in the world of traditional pop and jazz. With his signature hit “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” and his collaboration with contemporary artists, Bennett has remained a timeless symbol of elegance and class.

Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga best singers of all time

Elton John

The Rocket Man – Elton John’s flamboyant style, exceptional piano skills, and emotive vocals propelled him to international superstardom. From the heartfelt ballads like “Your Song” to the infectious energy of “Crocodile Rock,” John’s catalog is a testament to his enduring impact on the music scene.

elton john music video tiny dancer benny and the jets rocket man youtube

Amy Winehouse

The soulful songstress – Amy Winehouse’s soulful, jazz-infused voice and poignant lyrics brought a fresh and authentic sound to the music industry. Hits like “Rehab” and “Back to Black” showcased her incredible talent, while her untimely passing left a void that can never be filled.

Amy Winehouse best singers

Sam Cooke

The Voice of the Civil Rights Movement – Sam Cooke’s velvety-smooth voice and socially conscious lyrics made him a pivotal figure during the Civil Rights Movement. From his timeless classic “A Change Is Gonna Come” to his infectious hits like “Twistin’ the Night Away,” Cooke’s music continues to inspire change and unite generations.

Sam cooke bets singers

Prince

The Purple One – Prince’s unique blend of rock, funk, R&B, and pop, coupled with his dazzling stage presence, established him as a true musical genius. With hits like “Purple Rain,” “Kiss,” and “When Doves Cry,” Prince’s artistry and vocal range continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Prince best singers

Tina Turner

The Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll – Tina Turner’s powerful, raspy voice and electrifying performances made her an icon in the world of rock ‘n’ roll. Her legendary hits like “Proud Mary” and “Simply the Best” showcased her dynamic vocals and unmatched stage presence, solidifying her status as the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Tina Turner Image 1_Edited (1) bets singers

Otis Redding

The soulful pioneer – Otis Redding’s raw, emotive voice and passionate delivery made him a seminal figure in soul music and has cemented his legacy as one of the best singers of all time. With soul-stirring hits like “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay” and “Try a Little Tenderness,” Redding’s soulful vocals continue to resonate and inspire musicians across generations.

otis redding studio albums vinyl box (sittin' on) the dock of the back best singer of all time

Annie Lennox

The enigmatic diva – Annie Lennox’s captivating voice, unique style, and thought-provoking lyrics established her as a powerhouse in the music industry. Whether as a solo artist or as part of the Eurythmics, hits like “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” and “Walking on Broken Glass” showcased her versatility and unmatched artistry.

annie lennox best singers

Karen Carpenter

The velvety songstress – Karen Carpenter’s velvety-smooth voice and impeccable phrasing made her the heart and soul of the Carpenters. With timeless classics like “Close to You” and “We’ve Only Just Begun,” Carpenter’s rich vocals and emotional delivery continue to touch the hearts of listeners.

karen carpenter best singer of all time

Dolly Parton

The Country Queen – Dolly Parton’s distinctive voice, heartfelt songwriting, and charismatic personality have made her an icon in country music. From her signature hit “Jolene” to the timeless “I Will Always Love You,” Parton’s soulful vocals and storytelling prowess have solidified her status as a country music legend.

Dolly Parton

Patti Smith

The punk poetess Patti Smith’s raw, poetic lyrics and rebellious spirit established her as a pioneering force in the punk rock movement. Her distinctive voice and electrifying performances in songs like “Because the Night” and “Gloria” blurred the lines between poetry and rock, making her an influential figure in music history.

Patti Smith

Tom Waits

The gravelly storyteller – Tom Waits distinctive, raspy voice and evocative storytelling have made him a master of creating a raw and emotionally immersive experience through his music.

tom waits playlist

Sly Stone

The funk visionary Sly Stone’s soulful vocals and innovative approach to funk music revolutionized the genre, blending it with elements of rock, pop, and psychedelic sounds.

sly stone memoir best singer of all time

Ronnie Spector

The soulful icon Ronnie Spector’s powerful, soul-infused voice as the lead singer of The Ronettes brought a captivating energy and depth to the world of 1960s pop music.

best singers  spector

Thom Yorke

The haunting innovator – Thom Yorke’s haunting falsetto and experimental approach to music as the frontman of Radiohead have consistently pushed boundaries and captivated listeners.

thom yorke

Lou Reed

The poetic troubadour – Lou Reed’s unique vocal delivery, combined with his poetic lyrics and unconventional song structures, established him as a seminal figure in the realm of alternative rock.

Lou Reed

Phoebe Bridgers

Vulnerability Unveiled: Bridgers’ lyrical vulnerability and willingness to explore her innermost thoughts and emotions resonate deeply with listeners, creating a powerful and cathartic experience. From her breakthrough debut album “Stranger in the Alps” to the hauntingly beautiful “Punisher,” Bridgers’ introspective storytelling has captivated fans around the world.

phoebe bridgers

Björk

The ethereal songstress – Björk’s ethereal and enchanting voice, coupled with her boundary-pushing experimentation and genre-blending, have made her a true visionary in the world of art-pop.

Brian Wilson

The harmonic genius – Brian Wilson’s lush harmonies and intricate vocal arrangements as the creative force behind The Beach Boys have shaped the very fabric of pop music, inspiring generations of musicians.

Precision Bass Brian Wilson

Jim Morrison

The lyrical shaman – Jim Morrison’s mesmerizing baritone voice and enigmatic stage presence as the lead singer of The Doors embodied the rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll and poetry.

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Kurt Cobain

The voice of a generation – Kurt Cobain’s raw, emotive vocals and introspective songwriting with Nirvana gave voice to a disenchanted generation, influencing the alternative rock movement of the 1990s.

Jeff Buckley

The angelic crooner – Jeff Buckley’s angelic voice and emotive performances showcased his incredible vocal range, leaving behind a tragically short but profound legacy in the world of folk and rock.

jeff buckley

Joni Mitchell

The folk poetess – Joni Mitchell’s exquisite vocal abilities and introspective songwriting have made her one of the most influential folk singers of all time, effortlessly blurring the lines between genres.

Joni Mitchell Blue

Neil Young

The unyielding troubadour – Neil Young’s distinctive voice, often accompanied by his raw guitar work, has embodied the spirit of folk and rock, delivering powerful and thought-provoking songs for over five decades.

Nina Simone

The empress of soul – Nina Simone’s commanding voice and impassioned performances made her a force to be reckoned with, bringing her unique blend of soul, jazz, and activism to the forefront of the civil rights movement.

nina simone best singers of all time

Etta James

The Queen of Blues – Etta James’ powerhouse vocals, filled with raw emotion and incredible range, solidified her status as one of the greatest blues singers of all time, with unforgettable classics like “At Last” and “I’d Rather Go Blind.”

etta james

David Bowie

The chameleon of Rock – David Bowie’s ever-evolving personas, coupled with his dynamic vocal range and theatrical performances, made him an iconic figure in rock music, forever pushing the boundaries of artistry and gender norms.

david bowie best singers of all time

Bob Marley

The Reggae legend – Bob Marley’s soulful voice and passionate delivery, infused with messages of love, unity, and social justice, transformed reggae music into a global phenomenon, leaving an enduring legacy.

Bob Marley best singers

Mick Jagger

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Icon – Mick Jagger’s charismatic stage presence and distinctive vocals as the frontman of The Rolling Stones have solidified him as one of the most dynamic and influential figures in rock history.

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Roy Orbison

The orbisonic virtuoso – Roy Orbison’s soaring, operatic voice and emotionally charged performances made him a pioneer of rock ballads, immortalizing hits like “Oh, Pretty Woman” and “Crying.”

roy orbison best singers

Paul McCartney

The melodic mastermind – Paul McCartney’s melodious voice and songwriting genius, both as a member of The Beatles and in his solo career, have contributed to countless anthems that have become the soundtrack of our lives.

Paul McCartney Live and Let Die best singers

 

John Lennon

The visionary songwriter – John Lennon’s evocative lyrics, powerful vocals, and unwavering commitment to peace and activism continue to resonate, cementing his status as one of the greatest singer-songwriters in music history.

john lennon best singers

These legendary singers have left an indelible imprint on the music industry, their voices serving as a testament to the power of artistry and the profound impact of their contributions. Their voices have become part of the collective consciousness, forever etching their names in the hallowed halls of musical history and earning their rightfil place as the best singers of all time.