Barbra Streisand is a legendary figure in the world of music and entertainment, renowned for her powerful voice, emotional depth, and versatility across genres. Her ability to excel in both singing and acting has made her a unique and influential artist, inspiring many others to follow in her footsteps.
For those who admire Streisand’s iconic style, there are several other singers who share her exceptional vocal talents and have similarly made their mark in the entertainment industry.
This article explores some of the most notable singers like Barbra Streisand, each bringing their own unique contributions to the world of music and beyond.
21 Incredibly Versatile Singers Similar to Barbra Streisand for Your Vocalist Playlist
Contents
- 1 21 Incredibly Versatile Singers Similar to Barbra Streisand for Your Vocalist Playlist
- 2 #1 Celine Dion
- 3 #2 Whitney Houston
- 4 #3 Diana Ross
- 5 #4 Liza Minnelli
- 6 #5 Judy Garland
- 7 #6 Bette Midler
- 8 #7 Aretha Franklin
- 9 #8 Shirley Bassey
- 10 #9 Julie Andrews
- 11 #10 Cher
- 12 #11 Patti LaBelle
- 13 #12 Lena Horne
- 14 #13 Karen Carpenter
- 15 #14 Ella Fitzgerald
- 16 #15 Peggy Lee
- 17 #16 Joni Mitchell
- 18 #17 Sarah Vaughan
- 19 #18 Natalie Cole
- 20 #19 Eydie Gormé
- 21 #20 Linda Ronstadt
- 22 #21 Dionne Warwick
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
These singers, like Barbra Streisand, are celebrated for their vocal abilities, versatility, and impact on the music and entertainment industries.
Here’s a list of 21 singers who share similarities with Barbra Streisand, known for their powerful vocals, versatility across genres, and significant contributions to music and entertainment:
#1 Celine Dion
Celine Dion, born in 1968 in Charlemagne, Quebec, Canada, is one of the most successful and beloved vocalists in the world. Known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery, Dion first gained international recognition after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1988. Her career skyrocketed in the 1990s with the release of hit albums such as The Colour of My Love (1993) and Falling Into You (1996), which won her multiple Grammy Awards. Her signature song, “My Heart Will Go On,” from the Titanic soundtrack, became one of the best-selling singles of all time.
Dion’s music spans pop, ballads, and film soundtracks, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion and connect with audiences worldwide. Over the years, she has released numerous chart-topping albums and has performed in sold-out concerts around the globe. Her Las Vegas residency further cemented her status as one of the most enduring and iconic performers in the music industry.
#2 Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston, born in 1963 in Newark, New Jersey, was a legendary vocalist whose influence on pop and R&B music is unparalleled. Houston’s career took off in the mid-1980s with the release of her self-titled debut album, which produced several hit singles, including “Saving All My Love for You” and “How Will I Know.” Her follow-up albums continued her streak of success, and she became the first artist to achieve seven consecutive number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100.
Houston’s most iconic work includes the The Bodyguard soundtrack, which featured her rendition of “I Will Always Love You,” one of the best-selling singles of all time. Her powerful, emotive voice, combined with her ability to cross genres, made her one of the most successful artists in music history. Despite personal struggles, Houston’s legacy as a pioneering and influential artist continues to be celebrated, and her impact on the music industry remains profound.
#3 Diana Ross
Diana Ross, born in 1944 in Detroit, Michigan, is a music and entertainment icon who first rose to fame as the lead singer of The Supremes, one of the most successful Motown groups of the 1960s. With hits like “Stop! In the Name of Love” and “You Can’t Hurry Love,” The Supremes became a cultural phenomenon, and Ross became the face of the group. In 1970, Ross launched a highly successful solo career, releasing a string of hits including “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “I’m Coming Out.”
Ross’s versatility has allowed her to excel in various genres, including pop, soul, R&B, and disco. She has also made her mark in film and television, earning an Academy Award nomination for her role in Lady Sings the Blues (1972). Over her career, Ross has received numerous accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and she continues to influence generations of artists with her powerful voice and commanding stage presence.
#4 Liza Minnelli
Liza Minnelli, born in 1946 in Los Angeles, California, is a legendary entertainer known for her powerful voice, acting talent, and charismatic stage presence. The daughter of Judy Garland and director Vincente Minnelli, Liza was destined for stardom from an early age. She first gained widespread attention for her performance in the 1972 film Cabaret, for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress. Her portrayal of Sally Bowles remains one of the most iconic performances in musical theater history.
Minnelli’s career spans Broadway, film, television, and music, making her one of the most versatile performers of her generation. She has released numerous albums, showcasing her ability to interpret both classic standards and contemporary songs with emotional depth and vocal precision. Minnelli’s work has earned her an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony, making her one of the few performers to achieve EGOT status. Her contributions to entertainment continue to be celebrated, and she remains an enduring figure in the world of music and theater.
#5 Judy Garland
Judy Garland, born in 1922 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, is one of the most iconic figures in the history of American entertainment. Garland’s career began as a child star in the 1930s, but she gained worldwide fame for her role as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz (1939), where her performance of “Over the Rainbow” became one of the most beloved songs in cinema history. Her powerful voice, emotional depth, and ability to convey vulnerability made her a unique talent in both film and music.
Garland’s career spanned over four decades, during which she starred in numerous films, performed in concert tours, and released several successful albums. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Garland remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, known for her resilience and immense talent. Her legacy continues to inspire artists across generations, and she is remembered as one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
#6 Bette Midler
Bette Midler, born in 1945 in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a multi-talented performer known for her powerful voice, comedic talent, and stage presence. Midler began her career in the 1960s, performing in Off-Broadway shows and cabaret acts, but her breakthrough came in the early 1970s with her debut album The Divine Miss M, which included hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Do You Want to Dance.” Her unique blend of music, comedy, and theatricality quickly established her as a force in the entertainment industry.
Midler’s versatility extends to film and television, where she has starred in movies like The Rose (1979), Beaches (1988), and Hocus Pocus (1993). Her performances have earned her multiple Grammy Awards, a Tony Award, and Golden Globe Awards, among others. Known as “The Divine Miss M,” Midler’s career has spanned decades, and she continues to captivate audiences with her dynamic performances and larger-than-life personality.
#7 Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin, born in 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in Detroit, Michigan, is widely known as the “Queen of Soul.” Franklin began her career singing gospel music in her father’s church before signing with Columbia Records in the early 1960s. However, it was her move to Atlantic Records in 1967 that catapulted her to fame, with hits like “Respect,” “Chain of Fools,” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” becoming anthems of the era. Her powerful voice, emotional depth, and ability to convey the complexities of love, pain, and empowerment made her one of the most iconic singers of all time.
Franklin’s influence extends beyond music; she became a symbol of the civil rights movement and female empowerment. Over her career, she won 18 Grammy Awards and was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. Franklin’s legacy as a trailblazer in soul, R&B, and pop music is unparalleled, and her voice continues to resonate with generations of listeners.
#8 Shirley Bassey
Shirley Bassey, born in 1937 in Cardiff, Wales, is a powerhouse vocalist known for her dramatic voice and dynamic stage presence. Bassey first gained international fame in the late 1950s with hits like “As I Love You” and “Kiss Me, Honey Honey, Kiss Me,” but she is perhaps best known for her work on James Bond film soundtracks. Her performance of “Goldfinger” (1964) became one of the most iconic songs associated with the Bond franchise, and she later recorded “Diamonds Are Forever” (1971) and “Moonraker” (1979) for the series.
Bassey’s career has spanned over six decades, during which she has remained a prominent figure in pop and jazz music. Her powerful voice and ability to convey emotion through song have made her a beloved performer worldwide. Bassey has been honored with numerous awards, including a Damehood from Queen Elizabeth II in 1999, recognizing her contributions to music and entertainment.
#9 Julie Andrews
Julie Andrews, born in 1935 in Surrey, England, is a beloved actress and singer known for her pure soprano voice and her roles in classic musicals. Andrews’ career began on the stage, where she starred in Broadway productions like My Fair Lady and Camelot, but she gained international fame with her role as Maria in the film The Sound of Music (1965). Her performance of songs like “Do-Re-Mi” and “My Favorite Things” became timeless classics, and her portrayal of Mary Poppins in the 1964 Disney film further cemented her status as a cultural icon.
Andrews’ contributions to musical theater and film have earned her numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA, and multiple Golden Globes. Her voice, often described as “crystalline,” and her ability to convey warmth and charm through her performances have made her one of the most enduring figures in entertainment. Andrews continues to be celebrated for her work on stage and screen, and her influence on the world of musical theater is immeasurable.
#10 Cher
Cher, born in 1946 in El Centro, California, is a multifaceted entertainer known for her distinctive contralto voice, flamboyant style, and ability to reinvent herself over the decades. Cher first gained fame in the 1960s as part of the duo Sonny & Cher, with hits like “I Got You Babe” making them household names. In the 1970s, she established herself as a solo artist with chart-topping singles like “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” and “Half-Breed,” showcasing her ability to blend pop, rock, and disco.
Cher’s career has spanned music, television, and film, earning her an Academy Award for her role in Moonstruck (1987). Known as the “Goddess of Pop,” Cher has continued to innovate and adapt, achieving success in the 1980s with hits like “If I Could Turn Back Time” and in the 1990s with the dance anthem “Believe,” which pioneered the use of Auto-Tune. Cher’s impact on pop culture is undeniable, and she remains a vibrant and influential figure in the entertainment industry.
#11 Patti LaBelle
Patti LaBelle, born in 1944 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a legendary soul singer known for her powerful voice, wide vocal range, and electrifying stage presence. LaBelle first gained fame as the lead singer of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, later known as Labelle, which scored a massive hit with “Lady Marmalade” in 1974. Her ability to blend soul, funk, and rock elements set her apart from her contemporaries, and she quickly became known for her dynamic live performances.
LaBelle’s solo career in the 1980s further cemented her status as a music icon, with hits like “If Only You Knew” and “New Attitude” showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth. Over the years, LaBelle has received numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Her influence on soul, R&B, and pop music is profound, and she continues to inspire both fans and fellow artists with her powerful performances and enduring talent.
#12 Lena Horne
Lena Horne, born in 1917 in Brooklyn, New York, was an American singer, actress, and civil rights activist known for her elegant voice and pioneering contributions to entertainment. Horne began her career as a nightclub singer and quickly gained fame in the 1940s with her work in Hollywood films, becoming one of the first African American performers to sign a long-term contract with a major studio. Her roles in films like Stormy Weather (1943), where she performed the titular song, showcased her talents and broke racial barriers in the industry.
Horne’s music career was equally impressive, with her performances in jazz and pop becoming widely celebrated. She was a trailblazer for African American artists in Hollywood and on the concert stage, using her platform to advocate for civil rights and equality. Over her lifetime, Horne received numerous honors, including Grammy Awards, a Tony Award, and the Kennedy Center Honors, cementing her legacy as a groundbreaking artist and activist.
#13 Karen Carpenter
Karen Carpenter, born in 1950 in New Haven, Connecticut, was the lead singer and drummer of The Carpenters, one of the most successful pop duos of the 1970s. Known for her warm, rich contralto voice, Karen’s vocals became the signature sound of The Carpenters’ string of hit songs, including “Close to You,” “We’ve Only Just Begun,” and “Rainy Days and Mondays.” Her ability to convey deep emotion and vulnerability in her singing made her one of the most beloved vocalists of her time.
Despite their commercial success, Karen struggled with personal issues, including an eating disorder that ultimately led to her untimely death in 1983. However, her legacy as a vocalist continues to endure, with her recordings still resonating with audiences worldwide. Karen Carpenter’s voice is often cited as one of the most beautiful in pop music history, and her influence on subsequent generations of singers remains significant.
#14 Ella Fitzgerald
Ella Fitzgerald, born in 1917 in Newport News, Virginia, is one of the most celebrated jazz vocalists of all time, known as the “First Lady of Song.” Fitzgerald’s career began in the 1930s when she won an amateur singing contest at the Apollo Theater, which led to her joining Chick Webb’s orchestra. Her breakout hit “A-Tisket, A-Tasket” in 1938 propelled her to stardom, and she soon became known for her impeccable vocal technique, wide range, and scat singing.
Fitzgerald’s ability to interpret the Great American Songbook with both technical precision and emotional warmth made her a beloved figure in jazz and popular music. Over her career, she won 13 Grammy Awards and recorded over 200 albums, collaborating with some of the greatest musicians of her time, including Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. Ella Fitzgerald’s influence on jazz and vocal music is immeasurable, and her recordings continue to be celebrated as some of the finest examples of vocal artistry in the 20th century.
#15 Peggy Lee
Peggy Lee, born in 1920 in Jamestown, North Dakota, was an American jazz and pop singer known for her sultry, expressive voice and her sophisticated approach to music. Lee’s career began in the early 1940s when she joined Benny Goodman’s orchestra, where she gained fame with hits like “Why Don’t You Do Right?” Her solo career took off in the late 1940s, and she became known for her smooth vocal style and ability to interpret songs with subtlety and emotion.
Lee was also a talented songwriter, penning hits like “Fever,” which became one of her signature songs. Her versatility allowed her to move seamlessly between jazz, pop, and blues, making her one of the most respected vocalists of her time. Over her six-decade career, Lee received multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Her influence on both jazz and popular music remains significant, and she is remembered as one of the greatest female vocalists of the 20th century.
#16 Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell, born in 1943 in Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada, is a singer-songwriter and painter known for her poetic lyrics, unique voice, and innovative approach to music. Mitchell’s career began in the mid-1960s in the folk music scene, but she quickly gained recognition for her original compositions that blended folk, rock, jazz, and pop. Her 1971 album Blue is considered one of the greatest albums of all time, featuring introspective songs like “A Case of You” and “River” that showcase her emotional depth and lyrical brilliance.
Mitchell’s influence on music is profound, as she pushed the boundaries of genre and songwriting with albums like Court and Spark (1974) and Hejira (1976). Her ability to blend complex harmonies, unconventional structures, and deeply personal lyrics has inspired countless artists across various genres. In addition to her musical achievements, Mitchell is also an accomplished painter, often creating the artwork for her album covers. Her legacy as a pioneering and influential artist is firmly established in the history of contemporary music.
#17 Sarah Vaughan
Sarah Vaughan, born in 1924 in Newark, New Jersey, was an American jazz singer known for her rich, operatic voice and impeccable vocal technique. Vaughan, often referred to as “Sassy” or “The Divine One,” began her career after winning an amateur night at the Apollo Theater in 1942, which led to her joining Earl Hines’s big band. Her career took off in the 1940s and 1950s as she became one of the leading voices in jazz, known for her ability to interpret both jazz standards and pop songs with emotional depth and technical precision.
Vaughan’s voice was characterized by its warmth, vibrato, and wide range, allowing her to perform with a level of expressiveness that set her apart from her peers. She won multiple Grammy Awards and was honored with the NEA Jazz Masters Award, recognizing her contributions to jazz. Vaughan’s influence on vocal jazz is immense, and she remains a benchmark for excellence in the genre, with a legacy that continues to inspire singers worldwide.
#18 Natalie Cole
Natalie Cole, born in 1950 in Los Angeles, California, was an American singer and daughter of the legendary Nat King Cole. Natalie first gained fame in the 1970s with her debut album Inseparable (1975), which earned her two Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist. Her soulful voice and ability to blend pop, R&B, and jazz made her a versatile and beloved artist. Hits like “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” and “Our Love” established her as a star in her own right.
Cole’s career took a significant turn in 1991 with the release of Unforgettable… with Love, an album that paid tribute to her father by featuring re-recordings of his classic songs, including a duet of “Unforgettable” created using his original vocals. The album was a massive success, earning her seven Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Throughout her career, Natalie Cole’s ability to cross genres and her powerful voice made her one of the most respected and enduring artists in music.
#19 Eydie Gormé
Eydie Gormé, born in 1928 in The Bronx, New York, was an American singer known for her powerful voice and ability to perform across multiple genres, including pop, Latin, and jazz. Gormé first gained fame in the 1950s as a solo artist and as part of a duo with her husband, Steve Lawrence. Together, they became one of the most popular husband-and-wife acts in show business, known for their lively performances and chemistry on stage.
Gormé’s solo career was highlighted by her hit single “Blame It on the Bossa Nova” (1963), which showcased her ability to blend American pop with Latin rhythms. She also recorded several successful albums in Spanish, further demonstrating her versatility as a performer. Over her career, Gormé received numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award, and she remains remembered for her dynamic stage presence and her contributions to both American and Latin music.
#20 Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt, born in 1946 in Tucson, Arizona, is a versatile American singer known for her ability to cross genres, including rock, country, pop, and Latin music. Ronstadt first gained fame in the late 1960s and 1970s with hits like “You’re No Good,” “When Will I Be Loved,” and “Blue Bayou.” Her powerful voice, emotional delivery, and ability to interpret songs across different styles made her one of the most successful female artists of her era.
Ronstadt’s career includes multiple Grammy Awards, and she has sold over 100 million records worldwide. In addition to her success in pop and rock, she has explored other genres, including traditional Mexican music with her album Canciones de Mi Padre (1987), which became the best-selling non-English language album in U.S. history. Ronstadt’s influence on music is vast, and her ability to move seamlessly between genres has solidified her status as one of the most significant and versatile voices in American music.
#21 Dionne Warwick
Dionne Warwick, born in 1940 in East Orange, New Jersey, is an American singer known for her smooth, soulful voice and her interpretations of Burt Bacharach and Hal David’s pop hits. Warwick first rose to prominence in the early 1960s with hits like “Walk On By,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” and “Do You Know the Way to San Jose?” Her elegant vocal style and ability to convey emotion made her one of the most successful and enduring female vocalists of the 20th century.
Warwick’s career has spanned over six decades, during which she has won five Grammy Awards and sold over 100 million records worldwide. Her collaborations with Bacharach and David produced some of the most memorable songs in pop music history, and her influence on soul, pop, and R&B is profound. Warwick’s contributions to music have earned her a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame, and she continues to be celebrated as one of the great voices of her generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Singers like Barbra Streisand are known for their powerful vocal abilities, versatility across genres, and emotive performances that resonate deeply with audiences. They often have successful careers in both music and entertainment, showcasing their talents in various forms, including film and theater.
Are there contemporary singers who have a similar style to Barbra Streisand?
Yes, contemporary singers like Celine Dion and Linda Ronstadt share a similar style, with their powerful voices and ability to cross genres, from pop and rock to classical and jazz. These artists, like Streisand, have built careers that blend commercial success with critical acclaim.
What sets Barbra Streisand apart from other singers in her genre?
Barbra Streisand is distinguished by her seamless ability to combine musical talent with acting, making her a unique force in both the music and film industries. Her distinctive voice, emotional depth, and commitment to her craft have earned her numerous awards and a lasting legacy.
How have singers like Barbra Streisand influenced the music industry?
Singers like Barbra Streisand have significantly influenced the music industry by setting high standards for vocal performance and artistic versatility. Their careers have paved the way for future generations of artists to explore diverse genres and multimedia success.
