25 Most Famous Musicians Who Headlined Las Vegas Residencies

Las Vegas, often dubbed the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” has long been a magnet for the biggest names in music. From the glitz and glamour of the Strip to the intimate stages of legendary venues, the city has hosted some of the most iconic performances in music history.

Over the decades, an array of famous musicians have headlined in Las Vegas, leaving an indelible mark on its vibrant entertainment scene. These artists, spanning genres from rock and pop to jazz and country, have not only captivated audiences with their unforgettable shows but have also helped shape the cultural fabric of the city.

This article delves into the lives and careers of these legendary performers who have made Las Vegas their stage, transforming it into the ultimate destination for world-class entertainment.

25 Most Famous & Popular Musicians Who Performed Las Vegas Residencies

These musicians are among the most iconic performers who have taken the stage in Las Vegas, contributing to the city’s reputation as the entertainment capital of the world.

Here’s a list of 25 famous musicians who have headlined in Las Vegas:

#1 Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley, known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” became one of Las Vegas’ most iconic headliners during the late 1960s and 1970s. His residency at the International Hotel, which later became the Las Vegas Hilton, began in 1969 and marked a triumphant return to live performances after years focused on film and recording. Presley’s shows in Vegas were legendary, combining his classic hits with his electrifying stage presence, and were characterized by his flamboyant jumpsuits and dynamic performances.

The success of his Las Vegas shows helped revive his career and solidified his status as a cultural icon. Elvis performed over 600 shows in Vegas, drawing massive crowds and earning him the title of one of the most influential performers in the city’s entertainment history.

#2 Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra, often referred to as “Ol’ Blue Eyes,” was a quintessential Las Vegas headliner and a central figure in the city’s entertainment scene during the 1950s and 1960s. Sinatra’s association with Las Vegas began in the early 1950s, and he quickly became one of the Strip’s most sought-after performers.

Known for his smooth voice, charismatic stage presence, and impeccable style, Sinatra performed regularly at venues such as the Sands Hotel and Casino, where he was a part of the legendary Rat Pack, alongside Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. His performances were marked by a mix of his greatest hits, including “My Way” and “New York, New York,” and his interactions with the audience, which often included humor and personal anecdotes. Sinatra’s influence on Las Vegas is enduring, as he helped define the city’s image as the ultimate destination for world-class entertainment.

#3 Celine Dion

Celine Dion is one of the most successful Las Vegas headliners of all time, known for her powerful voice and spectacular shows. Her residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, which began in 2003, set a new standard for Las Vegas entertainment. The show, titled “A New Day…,” was a groundbreaking production that combined Dion’s incredible vocal performances with stunning visual effects and choreography.

It ran for nearly five years and grossed over $385 million, making it one of the highest-grossing residencies in Las Vegas history. Dion returned to The Colosseum in 2011 for another residency, simply titled “Celine,” which also enjoyed immense success. Her performances attracted audiences from around the world, and her residencies have been credited with revitalizing the Las Vegas Strip, influencing other major artists to pursue similar engagements.

#4 Liberace

Liberace, known as “Mr. Showmanship,” was a Las Vegas icon whose flamboyant performances and extravagant costumes made him one of the most memorable entertainers in the city’s history. He began headlining in Las Vegas in the 1940s and continued to do so for decades, becoming one of the highest-paid performers on the Strip. Liberace’s shows were a blend of classical music, popular tunes, and comedic banter, all delivered with his signature flair.

His performances were characterized by his grand pianos, often adorned with candelabras, and his dazzling costumes, which included sequined suits and fur capes. Liberace’s ability to connect with his audience and his larger-than-life persona made him a beloved figure in Las Vegas. His influence on the entertainment industry and his status as a Las Vegas legend are commemorated at the Liberace Museum, which was dedicated to preserving his legacy.

#5 Wayne Newton

Wayne Newton, often referred to as “Mr. Las Vegas,” is one of the most enduring and beloved entertainers in the history of Las Vegas. Newton’s association with the city began in the 1950s, and he quickly became a staple of the Las Vegas entertainment scene. Known for his smooth voice, charismatic stage presence, and ability to connect with his audience, Newton’s performances included a mix of pop standards, country songs, and his signature hit, “Danke Schoen.”

Over the years, Newton headlined at various venues across the city, including the Stardust Resort and Casino, where he performed for several decades. His dedication to Las Vegas and his status as a local icon earned him the title of “Mr. Las Vegas,” a moniker that reflects his deep connection to the city and its entertainment industry. Newton’s influence on Las Vegas is profound, and his contributions to the city’s cultural landscape have made him a true legend in the world of entertainment.

#6 Elton John

Elton John, the legendary British singer-songwriter, became a prominent figure in Las Vegas entertainment with his highly successful residencies at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. His first residency, “The Red Piano,” ran from 2004 to 2009 and was known for its elaborate set designs, which featured giant inflatable props and a massive LED screen that displayed provocative images and videos. The show was a hit, drawing large crowds and earning praise for its mix of Elton John’s greatest hits, including “Rocket Man,” “Your Song,” and “Bennie and the Jets.”

In 2011, Elton John returned to The Colosseum with a second residency titled “The Million Dollar Piano,” which ran until 2018. This show continued the tradition of spectacular visuals and featured a custom-made piano covered in LED lights, adding to the show’s dazzling aesthetic. Elton John’s residencies in Las Vegas were among the most successful in the city’s history, showcasing his timeless music and enduring appeal to audiences from around the world.

#7 Tom Jones

Tom Jones, the Welsh singer known for his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, became one of Las Vegas’ most beloved headliners in the late 1960s and 1970s. Jones first performed in Las Vegas in 1967, quickly becoming a fixture on the Strip with his energetic performances and sensual style. His shows were known for their blend of pop, rock, and soul, with hits like “It’s Not Unusual,” “Delilah,” and “What’s New Pussycat?” captivating audiences.

Jones’ performances were also famous for the enthusiastic female fans who would throw lingerie on stage, adding to his image as a sex symbol. Over the years, Jones continued to perform in Las Vegas, adapting his shows to new audiences while maintaining his signature style. His long-standing association with the city and his ability to remain relevant across decades have made him one of Las Vegas’ most enduring and iconic performers.

#8 Bette Midler

Bette Midler, the multi-talented singer, actress, and comedian, brought her unique blend of humor, music, and theatricality to Las Vegas with her residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Beginning in 2008, Midler headlined a show titled “The Showgirl Must Go On,” which ran for two years and featured a mix of her greatest hits, comedy sketches, and elaborate stage production. Known as “The Divine Miss M,” Midler’s Las Vegas show was a celebration of her eclectic career, featuring her hit songs like “Wind Beneath My Wings” and “The Rose,” along with her trademark bawdy humor and extravagant costumes.

Midler’s ability to blend music, comedy, and theatrical performance made her show a standout on the Las Vegas Strip, earning her rave reviews and a dedicated following. Her residency helped solidify her status as one of the most versatile and entertaining performers in Las Vegas history.

#9 Cher

Cher, the iconic singer, actress, and entertainer, has headlined multiple successful residencies in Las Vegas, showcasing her legendary career and larger-than-life persona. Her first major Las Vegas residency began in 2008 at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace with the show “Cher at the Colosseum,” which ran until 2011. The production was a spectacular showcase of Cher’s greatest hits, including “Believe,” “If I Could Turn Back Time,” and “Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves,” along with elaborate costumes and stunning visual effects.

Cher’s ability to reinvent herself and stay relevant across decades made her Las Vegas shows a major draw for audiences of all ages. In 2017, Cher returned to Las Vegas with another residency, “Classic Cher,” at the Park Theater, further cementing her status as a Las Vegas legend. Her performances are known for their theatricality, energy, and the timeless appeal of her music, making her one of the most iconic headliners in the city’s entertainment history.

#10 Sammy Davis Jr.

Sammy Davis Jr., a member of the legendary Rat Pack, was one of the most versatile and dynamic performers to ever grace the Las Vegas stage. Davis, known for his incredible talent as a singer, dancer, actor, and comedian, became a fixture in Las Vegas during the 1950s and 1960s, performing at venues such as the Sands Hotel and Casino. His shows were a blend of music, comedy, and showmanship, with Davis often performing alongside his Rat Pack friends Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

Despite facing racial discrimination during his early career, Davis broke down barriers and became one of the first African American performers to achieve headline status in Las Vegas. His performances were characterized by their energy, charisma, and emotional depth, making him a beloved figure in the entertainment world. Davis’ influence on Las Vegas is profound, as he helped to integrate the city’s entertainment scene and left a lasting legacy as one of the most talented and beloved performers of his era.

#11 Dean Martin

Dean Martin, the suave and charismatic member of the Rat Pack, became one of Las Vegas’ most iconic headliners during the 1950s and 1960s. Known for his smooth voice, effortless charm, and laid-back style, Martin’s performances in Las Vegas were a mix of music, comedy, and playful banter. He often performed at the Sands Hotel and Casino, where his shows, along with those of his Rat Pack colleagues, became legendary.

Martin’s repertoire included hits like “That’s Amore,” “Everybody Loves Somebody,” and “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head,” which showcased his distinctive vocal style. His relaxed, easygoing stage presence made him a favorite among audiences, and his ability to entertain with both song and humor ensured his status as one of the most beloved entertainers in Las Vegas history. Martin’s influence on the city’s entertainment culture is enduring, and his contributions to the Rat Pack’s legacy continue to be celebrated.

#12 Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand, one of the most celebrated and accomplished performers in the world, has headlined Las Vegas on several occasions, bringing her incredible voice and commanding stage presence to the city’s most prestigious venues. Streisand’s association with Las Vegas began in the 1960s, but her most notable performances came later in her career when she headlined at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in the 1990s and 2000s.

Her shows were a showcase of her extraordinary talent, featuring a mix of her greatest hits, including “People,” “The Way We Were,” and “Evergreen,” along with stories and anecdotes that highlighted her remarkable career. Streisand’s ability to connect with her audience on an emotional level, combined with her unparalleled vocal prowess, made her Las Vegas performances unforgettable events. Her rare appearances in Las Vegas are considered special occasions, and her influence on the world of entertainment is immeasurable.

#13 Barry Manilow

Barry Manilow, the pop icon known for his string of chart-topping hits, has enjoyed a highly successful career as a Las Vegas headliner, with multiple residencies spanning over a decade. Manilow’s first major Las Vegas residency began in 2005 at the Las Vegas Hilton, where his show “Manilow: Music and Passion” became one of the longest-running and most successful shows on the Strip. His performances featured a mix of his greatest hits, including “Mandy,” “Copacabana,” and “Can’t Smile Without You,” along with elaborate stage production and choreography.

Manilow’s ability to create a personal connection with his audience, combined with his talent for crafting memorable pop songs, made his Las Vegas shows a major draw. In 2010, Manilow moved his residency to the Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino, where he continued to perform to sold-out audiences. His success in Las Vegas has solidified his status as one of the city’s most beloved entertainers, and his contributions to the world of pop music are legendary.

#14 The Rat Pack (Sinatra, Davis Jr., and Martin)

The Rat Pack, consisting of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, and occasionally Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford, became synonymous with Las Vegas entertainment during the 1960s. The group’s performances at the Sands Hotel and Casino are the stuff of legend, combining music, comedy, and a sense of camaraderie that was unmatched. Their shows were a mix of solo performances, duets, and group numbers, with each member bringing their own unique talent and style to the stage.

The Rat Pack’s shows were also known for their improvisational nature, with the members often engaging in playful banter and jokes that kept the audience entertained. The Rat Pack’s influence on Las Vegas is profound, as they helped to define the city’s image as the ultimate destination for world-class entertainment. Their legacy continues to be celebrated, and their contributions to the culture of Las Vegas remain an indelible part of the city’s history.

#15 Diana Ross

Diana Ross, the legendary singer and former lead vocalist of The Supremes, has headlined numerous shows in Las Vegas, bringing her iconic voice and glamorous stage presence to the Strip. Ross first gained fame in the 1960s as the lead singer of The Supremes, one of the most successful Motown acts of all time, before embarking on a highly successful solo career. Her Las Vegas performances, which began in the 1970s and have continued for decades, are known for their elegance, energy, and timeless appeal.

Ross’s setlists typically include her greatest hits, such as “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “I’m Coming Out,” and “Endless Love,” along with dazzling costume changes and elaborate stage productions. Her ability to captivate audiences with her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence has made her one of Las Vegas’ most enduring and beloved headliners. Ross’s influence on music and pop culture is immense, and her contributions to Las Vegas entertainment are a testament to her status as a true diva and a legendary performer.

#16 Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart, the British rock legend known for his distinctive raspy voice and string of hit songs, has been a major headliner in Las Vegas with his residency show “Rod Stewart: The Hits” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Beginning in 2011, Stewart’s residency has been a celebration of his long and successful career, featuring a setlist packed with his greatest hits, including “Maggie May,” “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?,” and “Tonight’s the Night.”

The show is known for its high energy, with Stewart often interacting with the audience, sharing stories, and delivering powerful performances that showcase his unique vocal style. The production also features a dynamic stage design, complete with impressive visuals and a talented band that complements Stewart’s rock and pop sensibilities. Stewart’s ability to connect with his audience and deliver memorable performances night after night has made his Las Vegas residency a resounding success, solidifying his status as one of the Strip’s most popular and enduring headliners.

#17 Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez, the multi-talented singer, actress, and dancer, brought her electrifying stage presence and show-stopping performances to Las Vegas with her residency “All I Have” at the Zappos Theater in Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Running from 2016 to 2018, Lopez’s residency was a major success, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer and her ability to seamlessly blend music, dance, and theatrical production. The show featured a mix of Lopez’s greatest hits, including “On the Floor,” “Jenny from the Block,” and “Love Don’t Cost a Thing,” as well as elaborate choreography, stunning costumes, and state-of-the-art visual effects.

Lopez’s performances were characterized by their high energy, with the singer often engaging with the audience and delivering powerful, emotional vocals. “All I Have” was one of the highest-grossing Las Vegas residencies, and it solidified Lopez’s reputation as one of the most dynamic and captivating performers in the entertainment industry. Her residency in Las Vegas was a testament to her status as a global superstar and a true icon of pop music.

#18 Garth Brooks

Garth Brooks, one of the best-selling country music artists of all time, brought his unique blend of country, rock, and pop to Las Vegas with a series of highly successful residencies. Brooks first headlined in Las Vegas with his residency at the Encore Theater in the Wynn Las Vegas from 2009 to 2014, where he performed intimate, acoustic shows that focused on storytelling and his musical influences. These performances were a departure from his usual arena shows, allowing fans to experience his music in a more personal and stripped-down setting.

Brooks returned to Las Vegas in 2014 for a limited engagement at the same venue, followed by another residency, “Garth Brooks: The Man, His Band, His Music,” at the T-Mobile Arena in 2016. Brooks’ ability to connect with his audience and his dynamic performances, which often included impromptu moments and fan interactions, made his Las Vegas shows a major draw for country music fans and beyond. His influence on country music and his success as a Las Vegas headliner have further cemented his legacy as one of the most important figures in modern music.

#19 Britney Spears

Britney Spears, the pop icon and one of the best-selling female artists of all time, revolutionized the Las Vegas residency scene with her show “Britney: Piece of Me” at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Running from 2013 to 2017, Spears’ residency was a groundbreaking production that set new standards for pop performances in Las Vegas. The show featured a mix of Spears’ biggest hits, including “Toxic,” “Baby One More Time,” and “Oops!… I Did It Again,” along with elaborate choreography, high-energy dance routines, and cutting-edge visual effects.

Spears’ residency was a massive success, drawing large crowds and revitalizing her career while also paving the way for other pop stars to pursue similar engagements in Las Vegas. “Britney: Piece of Me” became one of the highest-grossing residencies in the city’s history, and it earned Spears numerous awards and accolades. Her influence on the Las Vegas entertainment landscape is significant, as her residency helped to attract a younger audience to the Strip and solidified her status as a pop music legend.

#20 Prince

Prince, the legendary musician and one of the most influential artists in pop and rock history, brought his extraordinary talent to Las Vegas with a series of performances at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Prince’s residency, titled “Prince: 3121,” ran from 2006 to 2007 and was a unique and intimate experience that showcased his incredible musicianship and versatility. The show featured a mix of Prince’s greatest hits, including “Purple Rain,” “Kiss,” and “When Doves Cry,” as well as deep cuts and new material. Known for his electrifying live performances, Prince’s shows in Las Vegas were no exception, as he captivated audiences with his virtuosic guitar playing, dynamic stage presence, and genre-defying music.

The residency also included guest appearances by other artists and musicians, adding to the show’s allure and unpredictability. Prince’s performances in Las Vegas were a rare opportunity for fans to see him in a more intimate setting, and they further cemented his reputation as one of the greatest live performers of all time. His influence on music and his contributions to the Las Vegas entertainment scene are enduring, as his legacy continues to inspire artists across genres.

#21 Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga, the pop sensation known for her eclectic style, powerful vocals, and theatrical performances, brought her unique brand of entertainment to Las Vegas with two residencies at the Park Theater at Park MGM. Beginning in December 2018, Gaga’s “Enigma” residency showcased her pop hits in a high-energy, futuristic show filled with elaborate costumes, stunning visuals, and her signature blend of pop and rock music.

In addition to “Enigma,” she also performed “Jazz & Piano,” a second residency that highlighted her versatility as an artist by focusing on jazz standards and stripped-down versions of her songs. This dual residency allowed Gaga to display her range as a performer, from the bombastic to the intimate, earning her critical acclaim and solidifying her place as one of the most dynamic entertainers in Las Vegas. Her innovative shows attracted a wide audience, further expanding her influence and adding to her legacy as a modern pop icon.

#22 Shania Twain

Shania Twain, the best-selling female artist in country music history, headlined two successful Las Vegas residencies, solidifying her status as a country-pop superstar. Her first residency, “Shania: Still the One,” took place at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace from 2012 to 2014 and featured an elaborate production that included live horses, stunning visual effects, and a setlist of Twain’s greatest hits like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and “You’re Still the One.”

Twain’s ability to blend country with pop and rock made her a perfect fit for the Las Vegas stage, and her show was a commercial success. In 2019, she returned to Las Vegas with a second residency, “Let’s Go!,” at the Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. This residency continued to showcase her dynamic stage presence, powerful vocals, and anthemic songs, reaffirming her status as one of Las Vegas’ most beloved headliners. Twain’s Las Vegas performances have been praised for their energy, spectacle, and connection with the audience, making her one of the city’s top attractions.

#23 Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder, the legendary singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, has headlined several shows in Las Vegas, bringing his iconic music and extraordinary talent to the Strip. Wonder’s performances in Las Vegas are a celebration of his long and influential career, featuring a setlist of his greatest hits, including classics like “Superstition,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” and “I Just Called to Say I Love You.” His shows are known for their joyous atmosphere, virtuosic musicianship, and the emotional connection he creates with his audience.

Wonder’s ability to blend soul, pop, R&B, and funk into a unique sound has made him one of the most respected and admired artists in the world. His Las Vegas performances are a testament to his enduring appeal and his status as a musical legend. Wonder’s influence on the music industry and his contributions to Las Vegas entertainment have made his shows a must-see for fans of all ages.

#24 Carlos Santana

Carlos Santana, the legendary guitarist known for his fusion of rock, Latin music, and blues, has been a major headliner in Las Vegas with his residency at the House of Blues in Mandalay Bay. Titled “An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live,” the residency began in 2012 and has been an ongoing success, offering fans a chance to see Santana perform his iconic hits in an intimate setting. The show features a mix of Santana’s greatest songs, including “Black Magic Woman,” “Oye Como Va,” and “Smooth,” as well as extended instrumental jams that showcase his virtuosic guitar playing.

Santana’s residency is known for its energetic performances, spiritual atmosphere, and the band’s tight, rhythmic sound. The House of Blues venue provides a close-up experience, allowing the audience to feel the full impact of Santana’s music. His Las Vegas residency has been a highlight of the city’s entertainment scene, drawing fans from around the world to see one of the greatest guitarists of all time in action.

#25 Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett, the legendary crooner with a career spanning over seven decades, has been a beloved headliner in Las Vegas, bringing his timeless voice and classic repertoire to the city’s stages. Bennett’s association with Las Vegas dates back to the 1950s, when he first performed at the Sahara Hotel and Casino. Over the years, he has continued to captivate audiences with his smooth vocals, elegant stage presence, and masterful interpretations of standards like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” and “The Way You Look Tonight.”

Bennett’s performances in Las Vegas have been marked by their intimacy and warmth, as he connects with the audience through his music and storytelling. Even into his later years, Bennett continued to perform regularly in Las Vegas, including memorable duets with younger artists like Lady Gaga. His enduring appeal and his contributions to the Great American Songbook have made him a cherished figure in the world of entertainment, and his legacy as one of Las Vegas’ most iconic performers is well established.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which artist is known as the “King of Rock and Roll” and had a legendary residency in Las Vegas that helped revive his career?

Elvis Presley, known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” had a legendary residency at the International Hotel in Las Vegas starting in 1969. His performances became iconic, revitalizing his career and solidifying his status as a cultural icon.

What makes Celine Dion’s Las Vegas residency one of the most successful in the city’s history?

Celine Dion’s residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, which began in 2003, set a new standard for Las Vegas entertainment with its groundbreaking production and massive box office success. Her show “A New Day…” grossed over $385 million, making it one of the highest-grossing residencies ever.

How did Britney Spears influence the Las Vegas residency scene with her show “Piece of Me”?

Britney Spears’ “Piece of Me” residency at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, running from 2013 to 2017, was a major commercial success and attracted a younger audience to Las Vegas. Her innovative show set new trends for pop stars pursuing residencies, revitalizing the Strip’s entertainment landscape.

Which Rat Pack members were key figures in defining Las Vegas’ entertainment scene in the 1960s?

The Rat Pack, consisting of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin, were key figures in defining Las Vegas’ entertainment scene in the 1960s. Their shows at the Sands Hotel combined music, comedy, and improvisation, creating a legendary legacy that shaped the city’s image as an entertainment capital.