The 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked

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Updated April 16, 2024 2.2M views 557 items
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3.1M votes
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Vote up the singers you believe are the greatest of all time.

The talent of a great singer transcends generations, genres, and cultures. In this article, we honor and rank the best singers of all time based on their vocal ability, impact on music, originality, popularity, and the lasting legacy they left behind. This list is the result of extensive research combined with the highly valuable input from fans. We know that the power of music creates beautiful, personal connections, and we are looking for singers who touch our souls, make our hearts soar, and can deliver a song that lingers in our minds long after the melody ends.

Expect to encounter renowned vocal powerhouses such as Freddie Mercury, whose operatic range and charismatic stage presence made Queen one of the most unforgettable rock bands. Discover the exceptional authenticity and soulfulness of Aretha Franklin, also dubbed the Queen of Soul. Marvel at the technical brilliance of Mariah Carey with her five-octave vocal range and whistle register. Frank Sinatra will inevitably feature, as his smooth voice and interpretive skills set standards for the classic American songbook. Celine Dion with her vocal prowess, Whitney Houston's emotive delivery, and Bob Dylan's powerful lyrical skills all left their enduring impact. Elvis Presley's iconic voice brought rock and roll to the masses, while Michael Jackson’s extraordinary vocal style and incredible dance moves earned him the title "King of Pop". The angelic yet powerful voice of Adele proves that great singers are not confined to the past.

Also included in this ranking are definitive voices from different periods - such as the legendary Luciano Pavarotti, Barbra Streisand, Stevie Wonder, and Beyoncé. Featuring the most famous vocalists in the world, every artist on this list represents a unique voice that has truly made a significant impact in shaping the landscape of music.

This (almost) comprehensive list offers a chance to applaud the vocal artists who define our musical heritage. It’s now up to you to decide who tops the list. Which singer's voice moved you the most? Which artist do you believe has the lasting power to continue influencing generations? Cast your votes, engage in the ranking process, and let's appreciate the best singers of all time together!

Most divisive: John Lennon
Over 325.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Ranking the Best Singers Ever
  • Freddie Mercury
    1

    Freddie Mercury

    Pop music, Rock music, Rockabilly
    91,998 votes

    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."
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  • Aretha Franklin
    2

    Aretha Franklin

    Pop music, Rock music, Rhythm and blues
    38,657 votes

    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. 
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  • Whitney Houston
    3

    Whitney Houston

    Pop music, Dance-pop, Contemporary R&B
    60,058 votes

    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. 
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  • Michael Jackson
    4

    Michael Jackson

    Motown Sound, Rock music, Electronic music
    73,257 votes

    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. 
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  • Elvis Presley
    5

    Elvis Presley

    Christian music, Pop music, Rock music
    50,686 votes

    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.
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  • Frank Sinatra
    6

    Frank Sinatra

    Swing music, Traditional pop music, Big band
    45,721 votes

    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. 
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  • Luciano Pavarotti
    7

    Luciano Pavarotti

    Opera
    22,868 votes

    Luciano Pavarotti is widely regarded as one of the greatest opera singers of all time, with a voice that was powerful, expressive, and full of emotion. His unmistakable tenor voice could soar to incredible heights, filling concert halls and opera houses with its resonance and power.
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  • Ray Charles
    8

    Ray Charles

    Soul blues, Pop music, Rock music
    17,544 votes

    Charles created a unique and timeless style that influenced generations of musicians. With hits like "What'd I Say," "Georgia on My Mind," and "Hit the Road Jack," he captured the essence of American music and brought it to a global audience. Charles was also a trailblazer in his use of technology and studio techniques, experimenting with new sound effects and multi-tracking to create groundbreaking recordings.
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  • Marvin Gaye
    9

    Marvin Gaye

    Doo-wop, Motown Sound, Rock music
    24,157 votes

    His silky smooth vocals, combined with his emotional depth and musicality, helped define the sound of Motown in the 1960s and 70s. Gaye's hits like "What's Going On," "Let's Get It On," and "Sexual Healing" showcased his ability to blend R&B, soul, and funk into a unique and timeless style. 
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  • Stevie Wonder
    10

    Stevie Wonder

    Motown Sound, Psychedelic soul, Pop music
    29,995 votes

    Wonder's trademark growl, upper-register melodic acrobatics, and gospel-like swoops showcases his vocal tactics that elevate his songs into overdrive. 
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  • Nat King Cole
    11

    Nat King Cole

    Jump blues, Swing music, Traditional pop music
    19,187 votes

    Born in Montgomery, Alabama in 1919, Cole rose to fame in the 1940s and 50s with hits like "Unforgettable," "Mona Lisa," and "The Christmas Song." His velvet baritone voice, impeccable timing, and melodic creativity established him as one of the most influential and successful performers of his era.
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  • Ella Fitzgerald
    12

    Ella Fitzgerald

    Ballad, Swing music, Traditional pop music
    23,069 votes

    Ella Fitzgerald, also known as the "First Lady of Song," is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time. Her incredible range, precision, and improvisational skills made her a virtuoso performer, inspiring generations of musicians to follow in her footsteps. 
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  • Johnny Cash
    13

    Johnny Cash

    Outlaw country, Christian music, Americana
    21,001 votes

    Johnny Cash was an iconic American singer-songwriter known for his deep, resonant voice, distinctive style, and storytelling lyrics. With hits like "I Walk the Line," "Ring of Fire," and "Folsom Prison Blues," Cash created a unique sound that blended country, rock, and folk music into a powerful and unforgettable style.
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  • Celine Dion
    14

    Celine Dion

    Adult contemporary music, Pop music, Rock music
    33,623 votes

    With hits like "My Heart Will Go On," "The Power of Love," and "Because You Loved Me," Dion has established herself as one of the most successful and popular singers of her era. Her music, which often explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, has resonated with audiences worldwide, and her incredible vocal ability has earned her numerous accolades and awards. 
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  • Prince
    15

    Prince

    Hip hop music, Synthpop, New Wave
    23,504 votes

    An innovative and prolific American musician known for his eclectic style, virtuosic musicianship, and striking stage presence. With hits like "Purple Rain," "When Doves Cry," and "Kiss," Prince created a sound that blended funk, rock, pop, and R&B into a unique and groundbreaking style. He was a master of multiple instruments, including guitar, bass, drums, and keyboard, and his inventive use of technology and studio techniques helped redefine the sound of popular music. 
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  • Elton John
    16

    Elton John

    Pop music, Rock music, Piano rock
    30,438 votes

    Elton John is an English singer-songwriter, pianist, and composer. He has established himself as one of the most successful and popular musicians of all time. John's music, which often explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, has resonated with audiences worldwide, and his incredible musical ability has earned him numerous accolades and awards. 
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  • Robert Plant
    17

    Robert Plant

    Blues-rock, Rock music, Folk rock
    22,107 votes

    A legendary British rock musician, best known as the lead singer of the iconic band Led Zeppelin. With his powerful, soulful voice and electrifying stage presence, Plant helped define the sound of rock music in the 1970s with hits like "Stairway to Heaven," "Whole Lotta Love," and "Black Dog."
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  • Adele
    18

    Adele

    Pop, R&B, Soul
    46,290 votes

    Her music has resonated with audiences around the world, and her incredible vocal ability has earned her numerous accolades and awards, including 15 Grammy Awards. Adele's artistry is marked by her ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability in her performances, as well as her unique ability to blend elements of pop, soul, and blues into her music. 
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  • Mariah Carey
    19

    Mariah Carey

    Pop, Contemporary R&B
    33,798 votes

    With over 200 million records sold worldwide, Carey is one of the most successful and influential female artists of all time. Her music, which often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment, has resonated with audiences around the world, and her incredible musical ability has earned her numerous accolades and awards, including five Grammy Awards.
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  • Tina Turner
    20

    Tina Turner

    Rock music, Dance-pop, Rhythm and blues
    16,250 votes

    Turner established herself as one of the most dynamic and influential female artists of all time. Her music, which blends elements of rock, soul, R&B, and pop, has inspired generations of musicians and fans around the world. Turner's artistry is marked by her ability to infuse her performances with raw energy and emotion, as well as her powerful and soulful voice, which has earned her numerous accolades and awards.
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  • Paul McCartney
    21

    Paul McCartney

    Pop music, Rock music, Experimental rock
    27,314 votes

    Paul McCartney is an iconic British singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his incredible musicianship, versatile vocal ability, and enduring influence on popular music. With hits like "Yesterday," "Let It Be," and "Hey Jude," he has established himself as one of the most successful and beloved musicians of all time. 
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  • David Bowie
    22

    David Bowie

    Rock music, Psychedelic pop, Electronic music
    28,392 votes

    He was a master of reinvention, constantly pushing the boundaries of genre and style and collaborating with a range of artists to create groundbreaking music that defied categorization. Bowie was also a pioneer in multimedia and technology, creating elaborate stage shows and music videos that helped redefine the art of performance. 
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  • Karen Carpenter
    23

    Karen Carpenter

    Pop music, Soft rock
    15,462 votes
    Karen Carpenter, a name etched in the annals of music history, was an iconic American singer and drummer who carved out a space for herself and her brother Richard in the Pop industry during the 1970s. Born on March 2, 1950, in New Haven, Connecticut, Karen's enchanting journey into the world of music commenced at a young age, with her distinctively soft contralto vocals quickly gaining attention from music enthusiasts. Recognized for her unique vocal style, Karen, alongside her brother Richard, formed The Carpenters, which went on to become one of the most successful groups during that era. Their mesmerizing melodies transcended genre lines and captured hearts worldwide. Some of their most notable hits include "We've Only Just Begun," "Close to You," and "Top of the World". Karen's skills extended beyond singing, as she was also a talented drummer. Her drumming prowess was often overshadowed by her angelic voice but was nonetheless appreciated by musicians and critics alike. Unfortunately, Karen's journey was fraught with personal struggles as well. She battled anorexia nervosa, a little-understood illness at the time, which led to her untimely death on February 4, 1983, at the age of 32. Despite her relatively short career, Karen Carpenter's profound impact on pop music remains undeniable. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans, cementing her status as a timeless icon in the music industry.
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  • Steve Perry
    24

    Steve Perry

    Pop music, Rock music, Pop rock
    14,265 votes

    Steve Perry is an American singer and songwriter, best known as the former lead vocalist of the rock band Journey. With hits like "Don't Stop Believin'," "Separate Ways," and "Open Arms," Perry's soaring tenor voice helped define the sound of 80s rock and made him one of the most recognizable and beloved singers of his era.
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  • Stevie Nicks
    25

    Stevie Nicks

    Classic rock, Pop music, Rock music
    13,623 votes

    Stevie Nicks has created a musical legacy that seamlessly blends rock, pop, and folk elements into a unique and unforgettable sound. Her poetic and introspective lyrics, combined with her distinctive voice, have captured the hearts of audiences around the world.
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  • Patsy Cline
    26

    Patsy Cline

    Rock music, Swing music, Rockabilly
    10,602 votes

    Patsy Cline was an American country singer, known for her distinctive voice, emotive delivery, and enduring influence on popular music. She is a beloved icon of country music, and her influence can be felt in the work of countless singers and musicians who have been inspired by her artistry.
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  • Sam Cooke
    27

    Sam Cooke

    Pop music, Rhythm and blues, Jazz
    9,916 votes
    Samuel Cook (January 22, 1931 – December 11, 1964), known professionally as Sam Cooke, was an American singer, songwriter, civil-rights activist and entrepreneur. Influential as both a singer and composer, he is commonly known as the King of Soul for his distinctive vocals and importance within popular music. He began singing as a child and joined the Soul Stirrers before moving to a solo career where he scored a string of hit songs like "You Send Me", "A Change Is Gonna Come", "Wonderful World", "Chain Gang", "Twistin' the Night Away", and "Bring it on Home to Me". His pioneering contributions to soul music contributed to the rise of Aretha Franklin, Bobby Womack, Al Green, Curtis Mayfield, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Billy Preston, and popularized the likes of Otis Redding and James Brown. AllMusic biographer Bruce Eder wrote that Cooke was "the inventor of soul music", and possessed "an incredible natural singing voice and a smooth, effortless delivery that has never been surpassed".On December 11, 1964, at the age of 33, Cooke was shot and killed by Bertha Franklin, the manager of the Hacienda Motel in Los Angeles, California. After an inquest, the courts ruled Cooke's death to be a justifiable homicide. Since that time, the circumstances of his death have been called into question by Cooke's family.
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  • John Lennon
    28

    John Lennon

    Blues-rock, Pop music, Rock music
    28,789 votes
    John Lennon, born on October 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England, was a musical genius whose influence as a singer, songwriter, and peace activist continues to shape the world of music. He first gained popularity as a member of the legendary rock band, The Beatles. His unique vocals, innovative songwriting, and dynamic stage presence played a pivotal role in propelling the group to unprecedented heights of fame during the 1960s. In addition to his work with The Beatles, Lennon's solo career was marked by several iconic albums that showcased his profound lyricism and evocative melodies. Lennon's early life was characterized by hardship and loss. His parents separated when he was young, and he was raised by his aunt after his mother's untimely death. Despite these challenges, Lennon found solace in music, and it was during his time at the Liverpool College of Art that he formed his first band, The Quarrymen, which would later evolve into The Beatles. After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, Lennon embarked on a solo career, releasing critically acclaimed albums such as Imagine and Plastic Ono Band, which reflected his deep-seated concerns about social issues and his yearning for peace. Tragically, Lennon's life was cut short when he was murdered outside his New York City home on December 8, 1980. Despite his premature departure from the world, his legacy continues to resonate powerfully in contemporary music and culture. His timeless songs, known for their emotional depth and lyrical brilliance, are celebrated worldwide. John Lennon's life and career stand as a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring appeal of his vision for a more peaceful world.
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  • Otis Redding
    29

    Otis Redding

    Southern soul, Soul blues, Rock music
    9,447 votes
    Otis Redding, an iconic figure in the world of soul music, was born on September 9, 1941, in Dawson, Georgia. Raised in a deeply religious family, his love for music was fostered at an early age when he began singing in the Vineville Baptist Church choir. His early life involved a myriad of jobs including well digging and gas station attendant before he found his true calling. In spite of the hardships, he managed to develop his musical talents, which soon set him on a path towards an illustrious career. Redding's journey into professional music began with Johnny Jenkins & The Pinetoppers, where he served as a driver and musician. His talent shone through during a recording session at Stax Records, leading to his first single, "These Arms of Mine." This song was a commercial success and marked the beginning of Redding's fruitful relationship with Stax. Over the years, he produced numerous hits including "I've Been Loving You Too Long," "Mr. Pitiful," and the posthumously released "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay," which became the first posthumous number-one record on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts. Despite his tragic death in a plane crash on December 10, 1967, Redding's influence on music remains undiminished. His emotive, raw vocal style has inspired countless musicians and continues to captivate audiences worldwide. His legacy was further cemented when he was inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
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  • Etta James
    30

    Etta James

    Rock music, Rhythm and blues, Rock and roll
    9,390 votes
    Etta James, born as Jamesetta Hawkins on January 25, 1938, was an influential American singer who redefined the landscape of R&B, soul, and blues. Her journey began in Los Angeles, California, where she sang in a church choir as a child. This early experience set the stage for her remarkable career marked by raw emotional performances and evocative vocals, which led to the creation of timeless hits like "At Last," "Tell Mama," and "I'd Rather Go Blind." James's music career spanned over five decades and saw her navigate through diverse genres, from gospel and blues to jazz and rock music, displaying her range and versatility as an artist. She signed with Chess Records in the 1960s, which catapulted her to fame and allowed her music to reach a wider audience. Over the years, her unique sound won her a collection of prestigious awards, including six Grammys and 17 Blues Music Awards. In 1993, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, securing her place in the history of music. Despite battling personal issues and addictions throughout her life, Etta James's enduring spirit and unparalleled talent secured her legacy as one of the greatest singers in American music. Her influence can be seen in numerous artists who followed in her footsteps, reflecting the lasting impact she had on the music industry. Even after her death on January 20, 2012, James's music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, cementing her status as an unforgettable icon of the 20th century.
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