24 Greatest & Most Famous Baritone Singers With Smooth Voices

Baritone singers have long captivated audiences with their rich, resonant voices and versatile range, bridging the gap between tenor and bass. These vocalists bring a unique depth and warmth to various musical genres, from classical and opera to rock, pop, and jazz.

In this article, we explore the careers and contributions of some of the most famous baritone singers who have left an indelible mark on music history. From iconic crooners and soulful storytellers to powerful rockers and operatic legends, these artists have enchanted listeners with their distinctive sounds and unforgettable performances.

Join us as we celebrate the talent and legacy of these remarkable baritone singers.

24 Most Famous Baritone Singers That Will Make Your Playlist Complete

Here’s a list of 24 famous baritone singers across various genres:

#1 Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra, born on December 12, 1915, was an American singer, actor, and producer who became one of the most influential musical artists of the 20th century. Known as “Ol’ Blue Eyes,” Sinatra’s career began in the 1930s as a crooner with the Harry James and Tommy Dorsey orchestras.

He gained immense popularity in the 1940s with hits like “Fly Me to the Moon,” “My Way,” and “New York, New York.” Sinatra’s smooth baritone voice, impeccable phrasing, and charismatic stage presence made him a beloved figure worldwide. He won numerous awards, including nine Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Presidential Medal of Freedom. Sinatra was also a successful actor, starring in films like “From Here to Eternity” and “The Manchurian Candidate.” His influence on music and popular culture remains significant, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers in history.

#2 Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley, born on January 8, 1935, was an American singer and actor known as the “King of Rock and Roll.” Presley revolutionized popular music in the 1950s with his unique blend of rock, country, blues, and gospel influences. His deep, resonant baritone voice, along with his charismatic stage presence and provocative style, captivated audiences worldwide. Some of his most famous songs include “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Hound Dog,” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

Elvis also starred in numerous films, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon. Throughout his career, he sold over 600 million records and won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards. Despite his untimely death in 1977, Elvis’s music and image continue to influence generations of artists and fans.

#3 Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash, born on February 26, 1932, was an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his deep, resonant voice and distinctive style. Often called the “Man in Black,” Cash’s music spanned various genres, including country, rock, folk, and gospel. He is best known for hits like “I Walk the Line,” “Ring of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and “Hurt.”

Cash’s music often explored themes of love, loss, redemption, and social justice, resonating with a wide audience. He was also known for his live performances at prisons, including the famous “At Folsom Prison” album. Over his career, Cash won numerous awards, including 13 Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music, Rock and Roll, and Gospel Music Halls of Fame. His influence on music and culture is profound, and he is considered one of the greatest artists of all time.

#4 Jim Morrison

Jim Morrison, born on December 8, 1943, was an American singer, songwriter, and poet best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band The Doors. Morrison’s deep, charismatic voice and enigmatic stage presence made him a captivating figure in the 1960s rock scene.

The Doors gained fame with hits like “Light My Fire,” “Break On Through (To the Other Side),” and “Riders on the Storm.” Morrison was known for his poetic lyrics, exploring themes of existentialism, freedom, and rebellion. His persona as a rock icon was marked by his unpredictable behavior and exploration of psychedelia. Despite his controversial lifestyle, Morrison’s contributions to music and his impact on rock culture are undeniable. He tragically died at the age of 27 in 1971, becoming a member of the “27 Club,” but his legacy continues to influence musicians and fans worldwide.

#5 Nat King Cole

Nat King Cole, born Nathaniel Adams Coles on March 17, 1919, was an American jazz pianist and vocalist known for his smooth, velvety baritone voice. Cole began his career as a jazz pianist, forming the Nat King Cole Trio in the late 1930s. His transition to singing brought him widespread fame, with classic hits like “Mona Lisa,” “Unforgettable,” “Nature Boy,” and “The Christmas Song.” Cole’s voice, characterized by its warmth and clarity, made him one of the most beloved vocalists of his time.

In 1956, he became the first African American to host a national television show, “The Nat King Cole Show,” breaking significant racial barriers in the entertainment industry. Despite facing discrimination, Cole’s success paved the way for future generations of African American artists. He passed away in 1965, but his music continues to be cherished worldwide.

#6 Bing Crosby

Bing Crosby, born Harry Lillis Crosby on May 3, 1903, was an American singer and actor known for his smooth, mellow baritone voice. Crosby’s career spanned over five decades, during which he became one of the best-selling recording artists of all time. He was a pioneer in the recording industry, known for his relaxed, conversational singing style that influenced many future artists. Crosby’s hit songs include “White Christmas,” “Swinging on a Star,” and “Pennies from Heaven.”

His recording of “White Christmas” remains one of the best-selling singles of all time. In addition to his music career, Crosby was a successful actor, winning an Academy Award for his role in “Going My Way” and starring in classic films like “Holiday Inn” and “The Bells of St. Mary’s.” Crosby’s contributions to music and film have left an enduring legacy, and he is often considered one of the most influential entertainers of the 20th century.

#7 Dean Martin

Dean Martin, born Dino Paul Crocetti on June 7, 1917, was an American singer, actor, and comedian known for his smooth baritone voice and laid-back charm. Martin began his career as a crooner, achieving success in the 1940s with songs like “That’s Amore” and “Memories Are Made of This.” He became a prominent member of the Rat Pack, alongside Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., and was celebrated for his easygoing style and comedic timing.

Martin also enjoyed a successful film career, starring in movies such as “Rio Bravo,” “Ocean’s 11,” and “The Caddy.” He hosted his own television variety show, “The Dean Martin Show,” from 1965 to 1974, which showcased his singing and comedic talents. Known as the “King of Cool,” Martin’s influence extended beyond music and film, making him a beloved cultural icon. He passed away in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and entertainment.

#8 Eddie Vedder

Eddie Vedder, born Edward Louis Severson III on December 23, 1964, is an American singer, songwriter, and musician best known as the lead vocalist and one of the guitarists of the rock band Pearl Jam. Vedder’s powerful baritone voice and emotive delivery became the defining sound of the grunge movement in the early 1990s. Pearl Jam’s debut album, “Ten,” released in 1991, featured hits like “Alive,” “Even Flow,” and “Jeremy,” establishing Vedder as a prominent figure in rock music.

Known for his passionate performances and introspective lyrics, Vedder has continued to evolve as an artist, exploring various musical styles in albums like “Vs.,” “Vitalogy,” and “Yield.” In addition to his work with Pearl Jam, Vedder has pursued a solo career, releasing the soundtrack album “Into the Wild” and the solo album “Ukulele Songs.” He has also been involved in activism, advocating for social and environmental causes. Vedder’s contributions to music have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

#9 Chris Cornell

Chris Cornell, born Christopher John Boyle on July 20, 1964, was an American singer, songwriter, and musician known for his powerful voice and wide vocal range. Cornell was the lead vocalist for the rock bands Soundgarden and Audioslave and was also known for his solo work. He gained fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with Soundgarden, a key band in the grunge movement, with hits like “Black Hole Sun,” “Spoonman,” and “Rusty Cage.” Cornell’s voice, characterized by its rich baritone and piercing high notes, made him one of the most distinctive singers in rock.

After Soundgarden disbanded in 1997, he formed Audioslave with former members of Rage Against the Machine, achieving success with songs like “Cochise” and “Like a Stone.” Cornell also released several solo albums, including “Euphoria Mourning” and “Carry On.” His music often explored themes of existentialism, love, and despair. Cornell’s contributions to music were widely recognized, earning him multiple Grammy Awards. He passed away in 2017, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest rock vocalists of his generation.

#10 David Bowie

David Bowie, born David Robert Jones on January 8, 1947, was an English singer, songwriter, and actor known for his innovative music and eclectic style. Bowie’s career spanned over five decades, during which he became known for his distinctive voice and constantly evolving image. He gained fame in the early 1970s with the character Ziggy Stardust, a persona that blended rock and theatrical elements, and released the critically acclaimed album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.”

Bowie’s hits include “Space Oddity,” “Heroes,” “Let’s Dance,” and “Under Pressure,” a collaboration with Queen. He was known for pushing musical boundaries, experimenting with various genres such as glam rock, electronic, soul, and pop. Bowie’s influence extended beyond music to fashion, art, and film, making him a cultural icon. He received numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Bowie passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of artistic innovation and a profound impact on popular culture.

#11 Josh Groban

Josh Groban, born on February 27, 1981, is an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his rich baritone voice and versatile repertoire. Groban’s career took off in 2001 with the release of his debut self-titled album, which featured hits like “To Where You Are” and “You’re Still You.” He gained widespread recognition for his powerful vocal performances, often blending classical, pop, and operatic elements. Groban’s subsequent albums, including “Closer,” “Awake,” and “Noël,” continued to showcase his broad vocal range and emotive singing style, with hits like “You Raise Me Up” becoming signature songs.

In addition to his music career, Groban has appeared in films, television shows, and Broadway productions, further demonstrating his versatility as an artist. He has received numerous awards and nominations, including Grammy nominations, and remains a popular figure in contemporary classical and pop music. Groban is also known for his philanthropic work, supporting various charitable causes.

#12 George Michael

George Michael, born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou on June 25, 1963, was a British singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his soulful voice and charismatic performances. Michael first gained fame as one-half of the pop duo Wham!, with hits like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Last Christmas,” and “Careless Whisper.” He launched a successful solo career in the late 1980s with the release of the album “Faith,” which included hits like “Faith,” “Father Figure,” and “One More Try.”

Michael’s music often blended pop, soul, and R&B influences, and he was known for his smooth vocal style and introspective lyrics. Throughout his career, he sold over 115 million records worldwide and received numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards. In addition to his music career, Michael was known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various charities and causes. He passed away in 2016, but his music continues to be celebrated and influential in the pop and soul genres.

#13 Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond, born on January 24, 1941, is an American singer-songwriter known for his deep, resonant voice and timeless pop hits. Diamond’s career began in the early 1960s as a songwriter, penning hits like “I’m a Believer” for The Monkees. He achieved fame as a solo artist with hits such as “Sweet Caroline,” “Cracklin’ Rosie,” “Song Sung Blue,” and “America.” Diamond’s music blends elements of pop, rock, and folk, characterized by his distinctive voice and emotive storytelling.

He has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Throughout his career, Diamond has received numerous awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Despite announcing his retirement from touring in 2018 due to a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, Diamond’s influence on music continues to resonate with fans across generations.

#14 John Mayer

John Mayer, born on October 16, 1977, is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his smooth vocals and skilled guitar playing. Mayer’s career took off with the release of his debut album “Room for Squares” in 2001, featuring hits like “No Such Thing” and “Your Body Is a Wonderland.” He gained further acclaim with his follow-up albums “Heavier Things,” “Continuum,” and “Battle Studies,” showcasing a blend of pop, rock, blues, and folk influences.

Mayer’s expressive baritone voice and impressive guitar work have made him a standout artist in contemporary music. He has won multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance. In addition to his solo work, Mayer has collaborated with artists across genres and formed the John Mayer Trio, exploring a more blues-oriented sound. Mayer is also known for his candid and often introspective lyrics, addressing themes of love, life, and self-reflection.

#15 Michael Bublé

Michael Bublé, born on September 9, 1975, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and actor known for his classic crooner style and contemporary jazz-pop hits. Bublé’s career breakthrough came with his self-titled debut album in 2003, featuring covers of classic standards and pop songs. He gained widespread recognition with hits like “Haven’t Met You Yet,” “Home,” “Feeling Good,” and “Everything.” Bublé’s rich baritone voice and charismatic stage presence have made him a popular figure in modern pop and jazz music.

He has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and has sold over 75 million records worldwide. In addition to his music career, Bublé has hosted television specials and participated in various charitable causes. His music often blends traditional pop and jazz with contemporary elements, appealing to a broad audience across different age groups.

#16 Andrea Bocelli

Andrea Bocelli, born on September 22, 1958, is an Italian tenor and crossover artist known for his operatic and pop performances. Despite losing his sight at a young age, Bocelli pursued a career in music, gaining international fame with his rich, expressive voice.

He achieved mainstream success with the release of his album “Romanza,” which included the hit “Con te partirò” (Time to Say Goodbye), a duet with Sarah Brightman. Bocelli’s music spans classical opera and contemporary pop, and he has collaborated with numerous artists, including Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran, and Ariana Grande. His albums, such as “Sì,” “Amore,” and “Sacred Arias,” have sold millions of copies worldwide, and he has performed in some of the world’s most prestigious venues. Bocelli’s unique ability to bridge classical and popular music genres has made him one of the most beloved vocalists in the world.

#17 Harry Connick Jr.

Harry Connick Jr., born on September 11, 1967, is an American singer, pianist, actor, and television host known for his work in jazz, pop, and big band music. Connick gained early recognition with his contribution to the soundtrack of the 1989 film “When Harry Met Sally…,” which included the hit “It Had to Be You.” His smooth baritone voice and skilled piano playing have earned him acclaim as a modern crooner.

Connick has released numerous albums, ranging from jazz standards to original compositions, including “We Are in Love,” “Blue Light, Red Light,” and “Only You.” In addition to his music career, Connick has appeared in films such as “Hope Floats” and “Independence Day” and starred in the television series “Will & Grace.” He has won multiple Grammy Awards and Emmy Awards and is known for his charitable work, particularly in his hometown of New Orleans.

#18 Robbie Williams

Robbie Williams, born on February 13, 1974, is a British singer-songwriter and entertainer known for his dynamic stage presence and versatile vocal style. Williams first gained fame as a member of the boy band Take That, achieving significant success in the early 1990s. He launched a solo career in 1996, quickly becoming one of the best-selling British solo artists. Williams is known for hits like “Angels,” “Rock DJ,” “Feel,” and “Let Me Entertain You,” which showcase his powerful voice and charisma.

His music spans various genres, including pop, rock, and swing, and he has released several swing albums, including “Swing When You’re Winning” and “Swings Both Ways.” Williams has won numerous awards, including multiple Brit Awards, and is known for his engaging live performances. Despite facing personal challenges, including battles with addiction, Williams remains a prominent figure in the music industry, beloved for his talent and larger-than-life persona.

#19 Tom Jones

Tom Jones, born Thomas John Woodward on June 7, 1940, is a Welsh singer known for his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. Jones rose to fame in the mid-1960s with hits like “It’s Not Unusual,” “What’s New Pussycat?” and “Delilah,” showcasing his dynamic vocal range and distinctive baritone voice. His music spans a variety of genres, including pop, rock, soul, and country. Over the decades, Jones has maintained a successful career with continued chart-topping songs and albums, such as “Sex Bomb” and “Kiss.”

He has received numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award and a BRIT Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music. Jones has also been a coach on the UK version of “The Voice,” sharing his expertise with aspiring singers. His longevity in the music industry and ability to adapt to changing musical trends have made him a beloved figure across generations.

#20 Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong, born on August 4, 1901, was an American jazz trumpeter, singer, and composer known for his gravelly voice and virtuosic trumpet playing. Often referred to as “Satchmo” or “Pops,” Armstrong was a foundational figure in the development of jazz, influencing countless musicians. He gained fame in the 1920s with his innovative trumpet solos and unique singing style, exemplified in songs like “What a Wonderful World,” “Hello, Dolly!” and “La Vie En Rose.”

Armstrong’s scat singing and charismatic performances helped popularize jazz worldwide. He also appeared in numerous films and was known for his larger-than-life personality. Armstrong received numerous awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. His contributions to jazz and popular music are immense, making him one of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century.

#21 Adam Levine

Adam Levine, born on March 18, 1979, is an American singer, songwriter, and television personality best known as the lead vocalist of the pop-rock band Maroon 5. Levine’s career took off with Maroon 5’s debut album “Songs About Jane” in 2002, which included hits like “Harder to Breathe,” “This Love,” and “She Will Be Loved.” His distinctive voice, characterized by its clear falsetto and soulful baritone, has been a key element of the band’s sound.

Maroon 5 has released several successful albums, including “It Won’t Be Soon Before Long,” “Hands All Over,” and “Overexposed,” featuring chart-topping singles like “Moves Like Jagger” and “Sugar.” In addition to his work with Maroon 5, Levine has served as a coach on the reality TV show “The Voice,” helping to mentor new talent. He has won multiple awards, including three Grammy Awards, and is known for his dynamic performances and charismatic stage presence.

#22 Barry White

Barry White, born Barry Eugene Carter on September 12, 1944, was an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his deep, smooth voice and romantic ballads. White’s career began in the 1960s, but he gained widespread fame in the 1970s with hits like “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe,” “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything,” and “Love’s Theme.” His music often featured lush orchestration and sensual lyrics, making him a prominent figure in the soul and R&B genres.

White’s distinctive baritone voice and charismatic persona made him a beloved figure among fans of romantic music. In addition to his solo work, he was also the frontman for the Love Unlimited Orchestra, which produced instrumental hits. White won several awards, including two Grammy Awards, and sold over 100 million records worldwide. He passed away in 2003, but his legacy as the “Maestro of Love” endures.

#23 Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney, born on June 18, 1942, is a British singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist best known as a member of The Beatles. As the bassist and co-lead vocalist of The Beatles, McCartney, along with John Lennon, wrote some of the most iconic songs in music history, including “Hey Jude,” “Let It Be,” and “Yesterday.” His versatile vocal range allows him to sing in both tenor and baritone registers, contributing to The Beatles’ diverse sound.

After The Beatles disbanded in 1970, McCartney formed the band Wings, achieving further success with hits like “Band on the Run” and “Live and Let Die.” He has also enjoyed a prolific solo career, producing albums like “McCartney,” “Ram,” and “Egypt Station.” McCartney has received numerous awards, including 18 Grammy Awards and two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His contributions to music as a songwriter, performer, and innovator have made him one of the most influential artists in history.

#24 Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams, born on November 5, 1959, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his raspy voice and rock anthems. Adams gained international fame in the 1980s with his album “Reckless,” which included hits like “Run to You,” “Summer of ’69,” and “Heaven.” His distinctive baritone voice and catchy melodies have made him a staple in rock and pop music.

Adams has released several successful albums, including “Cuts Like a Knife,” “Waking Up the Neighbours,” and “18 til I Die,” featuring hits like “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You,” “Please Forgive Me,” and “Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?” He has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and Juno Awards, and has been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. In addition to his music career, Adams is an accomplished photographer and philanthropist, known for his work in supporting various charitable causes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Frank Sinatra influence popular music and culture?

Answer: Frank Sinatra revolutionized popular music with his smooth vocal style and impeccable phrasing, becoming a cultural icon known as “Ol’ Blue Eyes.” His influence extended beyond music into film and television, and he helped shape the image of the modern entertainer.

What makes Johnny Cash’s music unique among baritone singers?

Answer: Johnny Cash’s music is distinguished by his deep, resonant voice and storytelling lyrics that often explore themes of love, loss, and redemption. Known as the “Man in Black,” Cash’s blend of country, rock, and folk influences has left a lasting impact on multiple music genres.

How did Elvis Presley earn the title “King of Rock and Roll”?

Answer: Elvis Presley earned the title “King of Rock and Roll” through his pioneering blend of rock, country, and blues, along with his charismatic stage presence and distinctive baritone voice. His groundbreaking performances and chart-topping hits revolutionized the music industry and made him a global icon.

What is unique about Barry White’s contributions to soul and R&B music?

Answer: Barry White’s unique contributions to soul and R&B music include his deep, smooth baritone voice and sensual, romantic lyrics. His lush orchestral arrangements and distinctive sound made him a prominent figure in the genre, earning him the nickname “Maestro of Love.”