The Best Singers Of All Time
Who are the best singers of all time? That's a tough question to ask. Over 300K music fans have come together to share their votes and rank this list. This list includes many of the greatest, most famous vocalists ever, from all genres of music. From the old guard to new legends in the making, these talented singers are among the most popular in the world thanks to their commanding live performance and powerful singing voices. Whether it's the incomparable, late, great Whitney Houston with her extraordinary pop and R&B tones or rock icons like Freddie Mercury from Queen, Jim Morrison from The Doors or John Lennon and/or Paul McCartney from The Beatles, this list spans decades of incredible musicians. What singers do you feel are the greatest of all time? What are some of the greatest voices in music? Who's the best singer alive today? Which late powerhouse has cemented their place in history? Vote for your favorites, and vote down any whom you don't like.
Vote: The Best Rock Vocalists
Putting together the top singers in music history is a tall order. Everyone has an opinion. Some might lean more toward rock vocalists as their personal favorite (think Ann Wilson, Stevie Nicks and Mick Jagger), while others might prefer excellent pop or R&B vocalists like the late Michael Jackson, Ray Charles, or even Stevie Wonder, James Brown or Aretha Franklin.
Rank: The Top Female Vocalists of the Last Decade
Country musicians could also easily be included on this list. Musicians like Johnny Cash and Keith Whitley gave new meaning to great vocals with outstanding country songs. Female country artists, including modern era vocalists like Carrie Underwood, are also featured below. So, what are you waiting for?! Help us decide who the greatest singers of all time are, and please vote based on the quality of their talent and music releases rather than just their popularity or fame.
- 1Pop music, Rock music, Rockabilly
- Albums: The Solo Collection, Barcelona, Mr. Bad Guy, Time, Guide Me Home
- Nationality: United Kingdom
Known for his electrifying stage presence, Mercury had an unparalleled vocal range, spanning four octaves. His voice was a unique blend of power and control, and he had an incredible ability to convey emotion through his singing. Some of his most iconic performances include "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Somebody to Love," and "We Are the Champions."
- 2Pop music, Rock music, Rhythm and blues
- Albums: Lady Soul, I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, Young, Gifted and Black, Respect
- Nationality: United States of America
The "Queen of Soul," was a trailblazer for female artists in the music industry. Her powerful, soulful voice was unmatched, and she could remarkably convey emotion through her singing. Some of her most memorable hits include "Respect," "Chain of Fools," and "Think." Franklin's impact on music was not only due to her remarkable voice but also her activism and advocacy for civil rights.
- 3Pop music, Dance-pop, Contemporary R&B
- Albums: The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album, Whitney Houston, My Love Is Your Love, I'm Your Baby Tonight, The Preacher's Wife: Original Soundtrack Album
- Nationality: United States of America
Whitney Houston's self-titled debut album, released in 1985, established her as one of the most potent vocalists in pop music. Her powerful soprano was a unique blend of power and tenderness, and she had an incredible range that could effortlessly shift from low notes to high notes.
- 4Motown Sound, Rock music, Electronic music
- Albums: Thriller, Bad, Off the Wall, Dangerous, Michael
- Nationality: United States of America
The "King of Pop," was a legendary performer who revolutionized music videos and had a distinctive voice that blended pop, rock, and soul. His music was a fusion of different styles, and his vocal abilities were unmatched.
- 5Christian music, Pop music, Rock music
- Albums: Jailhouse Rock, The Sun Sessions, From Nashville to Memphis: The Essential '60s Masters, Can’t Help Falling in Love / Rock-A-Hula Baby, Elvis Presley (Legacy Edition)
- Nationality: United States of America
Elvis Presley, the "King of Rock and Roll," was a cultural phenomenon that fused rock and roll with country and gospel music. His voice was a unique blend of power, passion, and vulnerability.
- 6Swing music, Traditional pop music, Big band
- Albums: Christmas With the Rat Pack, In the Wee Small Hours, Christmas Songs by Sinatra, A Jolly Christmas From Frank Sinatra, Nothing but the Best
- Nationality: United States of America
Sinatra's ability to infuse a song with his own personality, combined with his impeccable phrasing and timing, made him a true master of interpretation. He could deliver a poignant ballad with the same skill and grace as an upbeat swing number, leaving listeners captivated by his charm and charisma.
