If you’ve always dreamed of becoming a great singer, chances are you’ve turned to some of the greatest singers of all time for inspiration. You’ve likely scoured through different genres, playing famous 70s old singers on repeat and learning every lyric song by your favorite female pop singers. After all, there’s no better way to learn how to sing than by listening to the world’s most iconic singers that have pathed the way for many artists to come.
Because there are so many incredible artists out there, we’ve rounded up a list of some of the best singer in the world for you to get to know. Some of them you may have heard of, like Elvis Presley and Celine Dion, but others may come as a surprise to you.
Our list includes the best singers names of all time from a variety of genres and eras, but it is far from comprehensive. These particular singers made the list because they have something that really makes them stand out, whether it’s their sound or presentation – or both! Of course, there’s no way we could fit every great singer here, so if you find your favorite singer missing, leave a comment below!
The 50 Best Vocalists of All Time
Before we go into the details of why each singer made the list, this infographic shows a small selection of the most famous singers from our top 50. Click around, have a listen, and enjoy!
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Best Female Singers of All Time
You’re likely already familiar with these greatest female singers of all time on this list, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take the time to dig deeper and discover more about their stunning vocals and timeless lyrics. Inspirational is an understatement when it comes to these iconic singers!
Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand has an extremely unique voice that has been enchanting audiences for over 50 years. Her gorgeous tone, belting prowess, and way with a ballad are only a few reasons why so many people adore her.
Aretha Franklin
There’s a reason why everyone loves singing Aretha Franklin at karaoke night. The power, the musicality, the feeling! That’s why Aretha will forever be the “Queen of Soul.” Though many have tried to be her, there is just no topping the sassy original. No wonder she’s considered one of the best singers of all time.
Patsy Cline
Hands down, Patsy Cline is easily one of the best country singers the world has ever heard. This country legend had a rich voice that many consider to be one of the finest ever. Though Willie Nelson penned the hit song “Crazy,” he admitted that no one could sing it like Patsy. Her version is magical!
Ella Fitzgerald
Not only did she have a youthful and beautiful tone, but Ella had musicianship like no other singer. She said she “learned to sing from the birds,” and after listening to this song you’ll believe her!
Karen Carpenter
Although she may have started her musical journey as a drummer, Karen’s brother Richard encouraged her to share her gorgeous contralto with the world. The rest is history!
Best Male Famous Singers of All Time
The following are some of the best male famous singers that you must get to know. Play their most iconic hits, and see for yourself why these best male singers songs have stood the test of time.
Elvis Presley
The King of Rock and Roll was such a presence. He took the world by storm with his unmatched charisma and beautiful baritone that he used in everything from rockabilly to ballads and even soulful gospel songs.
Frank Sinatra
If you want to hear masterful phrasing, listen to Frank Sinatra. His cool, clear baritone is timeless. Like Ella, he was known for making each song his own — even nursery rhymes! To this day, Sinatra is considered one of the most legendary singers of all time.
Sam Cooke
His soulful tenor could sell a song like nothing else. The polish in his delivery is another reason why singers will admire Sam Cooke for years to come.
Freddie Mercury
Is there a rock vocalist alive that doesn’t wish they could sing like Freddie? The range, the sheer power, the showmanship! He’s a legend and one of the best male singers ever for many reasons.
Luther Vandross
Many have compared Luther’s voice to velvet. The beautiful quality of his voice paired with the feeling in his singing are just a few reasons why he will always have millions of fans.
Best Pop Singers of All Time
Pop music is catchy, brilliant, and unforgettable. There’s a reason why it gets stuck in your head! Check out some of the greatest male and female pop singers in the world.
Celine Dion
Discovered at an early age, Celine is known for her amazing range and effortless sound. She takes great care of her instrument and you can definitely tell. If you’re interested in the best female pop singers of all time, she certainly makes the cut.
George Michael
A soulful and distinctive sound, George could really tug at the heartstrings when he performed a ballad, or get us to dance with more lighthearted tunes. This is the mark of a singer with true versatility!
Josh Groban
This versatile baritone is one of the best singers because of his special way with standards and ballads. He can also sing in Italian and has starred on Broadway. What can’t Josh do?!
k.d. lang
An underrated yet greatly respected vocalist, k.d. lang is equally gifted in old school country, jazz, and pop standards. Her version of “Hallelujah” has been called one of the best ever.
Whitney Houston
This legend had a clear and soulful mezzo voice that could soar and tackle absolutely everything from dance songs to love songs. Skilled with vocal runs, she knew just how to use them tastefully.
Best Rock Singers of All Time
Calling all rock ’n’ roll lovers! The following artists are some of the best singers of this genre. Check out these artists’ top songs, and don’t forget to crank the volume.
Grace Slick
Her intimidating stage presence and steely tone: these are just two reasons why Grace will always be a queen of rock.
Ann Wilson
When it comes to the best female rock singers of all time, Ann Wilson has certainly earned this title. In fact, Ann sounds better than ever now that she is in her sixties! She studied healthy vocal technique, and it shows. Her sheer power has many calling her the “female Robert Plant.”
Sammy Hagar
Still rocking in his seventies, because he can! The Red Rocker had an extremely powerful voice that made Van Halen a success, as well as his numerous other bands and solo projects.
Robert Plant
No one can wail quite like Robert. Clearly, he has mastered the rock singing technique like no other. His soaring tenor is legendary both as the frontman of Led Zeppelin and as a soloist. He is another artist that many imitate, but simply can’t master.
Chris Cornell
Chris may be remembered for the sheer power and cut of his vocals, but he also had range! He was able to sing more subtle ballads that were equally impressive, whether with Soundgarden, Audioslave, or as a solo artist.
Best Country Singers of All Time
Country music is a fascinating genre as it has transformed over the years, from the old-school, classic vibes of Johnny Cash to the more modern, honky-tonk hits by Loretta Lynn. Grab your microphone and sing along with some of the top singers below.
Tammy Wynette
You believed every word Tammy sang! She poured everything she had into her classics and made no apologies for it. She is one of the best singers of all time due to the feeling she put into each and every song.
George Jones
One of the undisputed kings of country music, this tenor really seemed to live his sad songs — much like his ex-wife, Tammy!
Kitty Wells
The twang, the tears, the authenticity! Kitty inspired so many great country artists that came after her.
Loretta Lynn
This legend packed such power with her sassy lyrics. The “Coal Miner’s Daughter” is still singing today, collaborating with artists like Jack White.
Johnny Cash
Being a great singer is more than just having a great voice. Sometimes, it’s all about the emotion and life you put into a song. And the Man in Black is proof of that.
Best Opera Singers of All Time
Some of the best music you won’t hear on the radio. Opera may be a niche genre, but it sure packs a punch. Discover these legendary singers, and while you’re at it, check out their entire opera performances. You just might get hooked on opera!
Maria Callas
By far the most revered opera singer of all time for good reason. Maria is the soprano who had it all: a great voice, thrilling stage presence, and ultimate musicianship.
Luciano Pavarotti
This Italian superstar tenor had an instantly recognizable voice. His high notes seemed so easy that his nickname was “King of the High Cs”!
Robert Merrill
This American baritone had a big voice and a big personality, making him a beloved star for opera audiences everywhere.
Jussi Björling
Perhaps the greatest tenor you haven’t heard off! Even Pavarotti himself was in awe of this Swedish singer.
Renata Tebaldi
Arturo Toscanini said this Italian soprano had the “voice of an angel.” Renata was often praised for her gorgeous tone, and it’s easy to hear why.
Best R&B Singers of All Time
The best R&B singers know how to get you out of your chair and onto the dance floor. From Marvin Gaye to Gladys Knight, these extraordinary artists will forever go down in history for their smooth voices, powerful performances, and dance-inducing numbers.
Marvin Gaye
This legend had a massive range that he used very expressively. Although he started as a doo-wop singer, he found his voice performing songs with powerful messages.
Toni Braxton
It’s no wonder it seems so easy for Toni: her mother was a trained opera singer who stressed the importance of vocal technique! She is a true contralto with low notes to spare, and no list of the best R&B singers is complete without this iconic star.
Stevie Wonder
It may surprise you because he has such a big range, but Stevie is a baritone! His sweet, soulful sound and timeless melodies are what make him a legend.
Diana Ross
Who’s the boss? Ms. Diana Ross! A singer can learn a lot from her class and stage presence, and the way she used her sweet-sounding voice.
Gladys Knight
Still sounding fantastic, this Motown legend has a warm and very powerful mezzo voice that younger singers of today would envy.
Best Broadway Singers
Showtunes are every bit as important as pop anthems and rock hits. Get into a Broadway state of mind as you discover some of the best vocalists of all time who have graced the theater stage and silver screen.
Patti LuPone
With a belt as strong as her stage presence, Patti LuPone is without a doubt the most revered grand dame of the Great White Way.
John Raitt
This booming and bright baritone voice still has plenty of fans to this day, and rightly so. He is also the father of another fabulous musician – Bonnie Raitt!
Bernadette Peters
The emotion she puts into each and every song is no doubt why Bernadette is a favorite of composer Stephen Sondheim.
Julie Andrews
Her impossibly clear and pure soprano voice was featured in blockbuster movies, but she got her start on the stage, enchanting in classics such as My Fair Lady.
Ethel Merman
There is no one who can out-belt “the Merm!” The sheer brassiness in her voice and personality made her an icon on stage and on screen.
Greatest Singers of Yesteryear
The best singers in the world stand the test of time, and these artists are no exception. Year after year, we continue to celebrate these vocalists for their show-stopping talents.
Judy Garland
Judy is one of the finest singing actresses of all time. When she performed, you believed she truly lived each song.
Nat King Cole
Nat was wonderful not only because he had such a warm tone, but because he knew that singing simply was more than enough to sell a song.
Mel Tormé
They called him the “Velvet Fog” because of his beautiful tenor voice. Mel was also a great improviser and quite skilled at scat singing.
Rosemary Clooney
Her rich, clear voice lent itself beautifully to both uptempo novelty numbers as well as heartfelt ballads.
Cass Elliot
This amazing voice is one of the best of the 1960s. She used to compete with Barbra Streisand for the same roles in NYC when they were first starting out.
Greatest Singers of Today
Modern-day artists continue to push the envelope, wowing audiences with their creativity and vocal range. These 2000s singers really know how to bring down the house.
Lady Gaga
Don’t let the crazy costumes fool you: this lady has an absolutely wonderful voice that is as amazing in pop music as well as jazz standards.
Sam Smith
His tenor voice is not only beautiful and unique, but he sounds just as good live as he does on recordings.
Sara Bareilles
Sara’s slightly smoky tone paired with her heartfelt lyrics make this amazingly talented singer one of the best out there right now.
Brandi Carlile
The powerful and emotional delivery of her songs are on par with some of the greats from the past, including Patsy Cline.
Beyoncé
Not only does Queen Bey put on a great show, but she also has a killer voice. This internationally adored diva mixes it up between catchy dance tunes and massive ballads, earning her a place among the greatest singers ever!
There you have it: our 50 most famous singers of all time. If you’re feeling inspired to break into the music scene or improve your current skill set, sign up for private singing lessons. Here at TakeLessons, you can meet one-on-one with a certified singer teacher who can help you exceed all your music goals. Sign up today, and you just may one day find yourself on an updated list of the best singers in the world! Leave us a comment on who is the best singer in the world.
Post Author: Molly M.Molly M. teaches online and in-person singing lessons in Schaumburg, IL. Her specialties include teaching Opera and Classical Voice to beginners, shy singers, children, and older beginners. Molly started teaching in 2002. Learn more!
Jessica Dais