24 Most Famous Jewish Singers of All Time

Jewish singers have played a profound role in shaping the global music landscape, contributing to a wide array of genres and styles.

From the soulful melodies of Leonard Cohen to the powerful anthems of Barbra Streisand, these artists have not only entertained millions but have also used their voices to express deep cultural, spiritual, and personal themes.

This article delves into the lives and careers of some of the most famous Jewish singers, exploring how their heritage and unique talents have left an indelible mark on the music industry.

24 Greatest & Most Famous Jewish Singers You Should Know

This list covers a wide range of musical genres and decades, reflecting the diversity and influence of Jewish artists in the music industry.

Here’s a list of 24 famous Jewish singers, spanning various genres and eras:

#1 Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand is one of the most successful and influential entertainers of all time. She was born on April 24, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, and rose to fame in the 1960s with her unique blend of theatricality and vocal power. Streisand’s career spans over six decades, during which she has won multiple Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

She is also a successful actress, winning two Academy Awards, one for Best Actress in “Funny Girl” (1968). Streisand is known for her versatility, excelling in pop, Broadway, and classical music, making her a true icon.

#2 Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen, born on September 21, 1934, in Montreal, Canada, was a profound singer-songwriter and poet. Cohen’s music is characterized by his deep, gravelly voice and introspective lyrics that explore themes like love, faith, and the human condition. His career began in the 1960s, and he quickly became a cult figure with albums like “Songs of Leonard Cohen” (1967) and “Songs of Love and Hate” (1971).

Perhaps his most famous song is “Hallelujah,” which has been covered by countless artists and remains a staple in popular music. Cohen’s influence extends far beyond music, as he is also a celebrated literary figure.

#3 Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan, born Robert Zimmerman on May 24, 1941, in Duluth, Minnesota, is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Dylan’s career took off in the early 1960s when he became the voice of the civil rights and anti-war movements with songs like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “The Times They Are a-Changin’.” His unique blend of folk, rock, and blues, along with his distinctive vocal style, redefined the boundaries of popular music.

In 2016, Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, a testament to the poetic depth and cultural impact of his songwriting.

#4 Bette Midler

Bette Midler, born on December 1, 1945, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a multi-talented entertainer known for her powerful singing voice, comedic timing, and acting prowess. She began her career in the late 1960s in New York City’s Off-Off-Broadway scene and soon became known for her performances at the Continental Baths, a gay bathhouse in Manhattan, where she cultivated a strong fan base.

Midler’s breakthrough came in 1972 with the release of her debut album, “The Divine Miss M,” which earned her a Grammy Award. Over the years, she has become a beloved figure in both music and film.

#5 Paul Simon

Paul Simon, born on October 13, 1941, in Newark, New Jersey, is a legendary singer-songwriter known for his work as part of the duo Simon & Garfunkel and as a solo artist. Simon’s career began in the late 1950s, but he achieved widespread fame in the 1960s alongside Art Garfunkel with hits like “The Sound of Silence” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Their harmonies and Simon’s poetic lyrics captured the spirit of a generation.

After the duo’s split, Simon embarked on a successful solo career, with albums like “Graceland” (1986) showcasing his innovative blend of world music influences.

#6 Adam Levine

Adam Levine, born on March 18, 1979, in Los Angeles, California, is the lead vocalist of the pop-rock band Maroon 5. Levine’s career began in the mid-1990s with the band Kara’s Flowers, but it wasn’t until they rebranded as Maroon 5 that they achieved commercial success. Their debut album, “Songs About Jane” (2002), included hits like “This Love” and “She Will Be Loved,” propelling Levine and the band to international fame.

Levine is known for his distinctive tenor voice and charismatic stage presence. In addition to his music career, he has also gained recognition as a coach on the television show “The Voice.”

#7 Carole King

Carole King, born on February 9, 1942, in Manhattan, New York, is one of the most prolific and successful songwriters of the 20th century. King began her career as a songwriter in the Brill Building in the 1960s, penning hits for artists like Aretha Franklin, The Shirelles, and The Drifters. Her transition to a solo artist came with the release of her landmark album “Tapestry” (1971), which included timeless classics like “You’ve Got a Friend” and “It’s Too Late.”

“Tapestry” was a massive success, earning King four Grammy Awards and solidifying her place as a musical icon with a lasting legacy in both songwriting and performance.

#8 Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond, born on January 24, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York, is a legendary singer-songwriter whose career spans over five decades. Diamond’s rich baritone voice and ability to write catchy, heartfelt songs have made him one of the best-selling musicians of all time. He started his career in the 1960s as a songwriter in the Brill Building, penning hits for other artists before launching his solo career. His breakthrough came with songs like “Solitary Man” and “Cherry, Cherry,” which established him as a pop sensation.

Diamond’s hits, such as “Sweet Caroline,” “Cracklin’ Rosie,” and “Song Sung Blue,” have become iconic, cementing his legacy in the music industry.

#9 Billy Joel

Billy Joel, born on May 9, 1949, in The Bronx, New York, is an American singer-songwriter and pianist who has been one of the most prominent figures in popular music since the 1970s. Often referred to as the “Piano Man” after his signature song, Joel’s music blends elements of rock, pop, and classical music. His ability to craft compelling narratives through his lyrics and his dynamic performances have earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards.

Joel’s hits, such as “Just the Way You Are,” “Uptown Girl,” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” have become anthems, making him a beloved figure across generations.

#10 Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz, born on May 26, 1964, in New York City, is a multi-talented singer-songwriter, producer, and actor known for his retro-inspired sound that blends rock, soul, funk, and R&B. Kravitz burst onto the music scene in the late 1980s with his debut album “Let Love Rule” (1989), which showcased his eclectic style and distinctive voice. He became known for his ability to play multiple instruments and produce his own records, drawing comparisons to classic rock legends.

Hits like “Are You Gonna Go My Way,” “Fly Away,” and “American Woman” established Kravitz as a major force in rock music.

#11 Gene Simmons

Gene Simmons, born Chaim Witz on August 25, 1949, in Haifa, Israel, is best known as the co-founder, bassist, and co-lead vocalist of the legendary rock band KISS. Simmons moved to the United States as a child and eventually formed KISS in 1973 with Paul Stanley. Known for their elaborate stage makeup, theatrical performances, and iconic songs like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City,” KISS became one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

Simmons, with his demonic stage persona and business acumen, played a crucial role in turning KISS into a global brand, extending beyond music into various merchandise and media.

#12 Geddy Lee

Geddy Lee, born Gary Lee Weinrib on July 29, 1953, in Willowdale, Ontario, Canada, is the lead vocalist, bassist, and keyboardist for the iconic progressive rock band Rush. Lee joined Rush in 1968, and the band quickly gained a reputation for their complex musical arrangements, virtuosic performances, and thought-provoking lyrics. Lee’s distinctive high-pitched voice and innovative bass playing became central to Rush’s sound, helping to define the progressive rock genre.

With albums like “2112,” “Moving Pictures,” and “Permanent Waves,” Rush solidified their place in rock history. Lee is widely regarded as one of the greatest bassists in rock music.

#13 Idina Menzel

Idina Menzel, born on May 30, 1971, in Queens, New York, is a Broadway superstar and actress best known for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence. Menzel first gained widespread recognition for her role as Maureen in the original Broadway production of “Rent” (1996), but it was her portrayal of Elphaba in the musical “Wicked” (2003) that catapulted her to stardom, earning her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.

Menzel’s voice became known to millions more when she voiced Elsa in Disney’s “Frozen” (2013), performing the Oscar-winning song “Let It Go,” which became an anthem around the world.

#14 Art Garfunkel

Art Garfunkel, born on November 5, 1941, in Forest Hills, New York, is best known as one half of the legendary folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. Garfunkel’s angelic voice provided the perfect complement to Paul Simon’s songwriting, and together they created some of the most iconic music of the 1960s. Their harmonies on hits like “The Sound of Silence,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” and “Scarborough Fair” became the soundtrack of a generation.

After the duo split in 1970, Garfunkel pursued a solo career, achieving success with songs like “All I Know” and “Bright Eyes,” and he also explored acting and poetry.

#15 Regina Spektor

Regina Spektor, born on February 18, 1980, in Moscow, Russia, is a Russian-American singer-songwriter and pianist known for her quirky, eclectic style and emotionally resonant music. Spektor immigrated to the United States with her family in 1989, and she began her musical career in New York City’s anti-folk scene. Her unique blend of indie pop, folk, and classical influences set her apart, and she gained a dedicated following with albums like “Soviet Kitsch” (2004) and “Begin to Hope” (2006).

Spektor’s songs, such as “Fidelity,” “Samson,” and “Us,” showcase her imaginative lyrics, distinctive voice, and her ability to craft deeply personal yet universally relatable music.

#16 Serj Tankian

Serj Tankian, born on August 21, 1967, in Beirut, Lebanon, is the lead vocalist and lyricist of the alternative metal band System of a Down. Tankian moved to Los Angeles with his family at a young age, and it was there that he co-founded System of a Down in 1994. The band quickly gained a reputation for their politically charged lyrics, unique sound that blends metal, punk, and Middle Eastern influences, and Tankian’s dynamic vocal range.

With albums like “Toxicity” (2001) and “Mezmerize” (2005), System of a Down became one of the most influential bands of the 2000s. Tankian has also pursued solo projects, continuing to explore his diverse musical and political interests.

#17 P!nk (Alecia Beth Moore)

P!nk, born Alecia Beth Moore on September 8, 1979, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice, rebellious image, and dynamic performances. P!nk rose to fame in the early 2000s with her debut album “Can’t Take Me Home” (2000), which featured the hit singles “There You Go” and “Most Girls.” Her music blends pop, rock, and R&B, and she has become known for her honest lyrics and strong, confident persona.

With hits like “Just Like a Pill,” “So What,” and “What About Us,” P!nk has solidified her place as one of the most influential and enduring pop stars of her generation.

#18 David Lee Roth

David Lee Roth, born on October 10, 1954, in Bloomington, Indiana, is best known as the charismatic lead singer of the rock band Van Halen. Roth joined Van Halen in 1974, and with his energetic stage presence and distinctive voice, he helped the band become one of the most successful rock acts of the 1980s. Hits like “Jump,” “Panama,” and “Hot for Teacher” showcased Roth’s flamboyant personality and vocal prowess.

Roth left Van Halen in 1985 to pursue a solo career, achieving success with albums like “Eat ‘Em and Smile.” He rejoined Van Halen in the mid-2000s, reuniting with the band for successful tours and recordings.

#19 Jack Black

Jack Black, born Thomas Jacob Black on August 28, 1969, in Santa Monica, California, is an American actor, comedian, and musician, best known as the lead vocalist of the comedy rock duo Tenacious D. Black formed Tenacious D in the mid-1990s with friend Kyle Gass, and the duo quickly gained a cult following for their humorous and satirical songs. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2001, featured the hit single “Tribute,” which became an anthem for rock fans.

In addition to his music career, Black is a successful actor, starring in films like “School of Rock,” where he showcased his musical talents on the big screen.

#20 Melanie Safka

Melanie Safka, known simply as Melanie, was born on February 3, 1947, in Astoria, Queens, New York. She is an American singer-songwriter who became an iconic figure in the 1960s and 1970s folk music scene. Melanie gained national attention with her appearance at the 1969 Woodstock Festival, where her performance of “Beautiful People” resonated with the counterculture movement. Her hit single “Brand New Key,” also known as “The Roller Skate Song,” became a chart-topping success in 1971.

Melanie’s music is characterized by her distinctive voice and deeply personal lyrics, making her a beloved figure in folk music history.

#21 Carly Simon

Carly Simon, born on June 25, 1943, in New York City, is an American singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the early 1970s. Simon’s music is known for its introspective lyrics and melodic sophistication, which resonated with a wide audience. Her breakthrough came with the release of her self-titled debut album in 1971, which included the hit single “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be.”

Simon solidified her place in music history with the release of “You’re So Vain” in 1972, a song that became an instant classic and has remained one of her signature hits.

#22 Marc Bolan

Marc Bolan, born Mark Feld on September 30, 1947, in London, England, was the lead singer and guitarist of the glam rock band T. Rex. Bolan was a pioneering figure in the glam rock movement of the early 1970s, known for his flamboyant style and distinctive voice. T. Rex achieved commercial success with hits like “Get It On (Bang a Gong)” and “20th Century Boy,” which became anthems of the era.

Bolan’s influence on rock music is profound, as he helped shape the sound and style of glam rock, inspiring future generations of musicians. Tragically, Bolan’s life was cut short in a car accident in 1977.

#23 Matisyahu

Matisyahu, born Matthew Paul Miller on June 30, 1979, in West Chester, Pennsylvania, is an American reggae singer known for blending Jewish themes with reggae, rock, and hip-hop. Matisyahu gained widespread attention in 2004 with his debut album “Shake Off the Dust… Arise,” which featured the hit single “King Without a Crown.” His music is characterized by its spiritual and uplifting lyrics, reflecting his deep connection to his Jewish faith.

Matisyahu’s unique sound and message have earned him a diverse fan base, and he continues to explore new musical directions while staying true to his roots.

#24 Beck (Hansen)

Beck, born Bek David Campbell on July 8, 1970, in Los Angeles, California, is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his eclectic style and innovative approach to music. Beck emerged in the early 1990s with his breakthrough single “Loser,” which became an anthem for the alternative rock scene. His music defies genre boundaries, blending elements of folk, rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.

Albums like “Odelay” (1996) and “Sea Change” (2002) have solidified Beck’s reputation as a musical chameleon, capable of reinventing himself with each new project. Beck’s influence on modern music is profound, as he continues to push the boundaries of creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are some of the most influential Jewish singers in music history?

Barbra Streisand, Bob Dylan, and Leonard Cohen are among the most influential Jewish singers, each leaving a significant impact on various genres like pop, folk, and rock. Their contributions have shaped the music industry and inspired countless artists worldwide.

How has Jewish heritage influenced the music of famous Jewish singers?

Jewish heritage has often influenced these artists’ music through themes of spirituality, social justice, and personal identity. Many have drawn from their cultural backgrounds to create deeply resonant and universally relatable songs.

Which Jewish singer has won a Nobel Prize in Literature?

Bob Dylan, a Jewish singer-songwriter, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016 for his profound influence on music and culture through his poetic lyrics. He is celebrated for redefining the boundaries of songwriting.

Are there Jewish singers in modern pop music?

Yes, contemporary Jewish singers like Adam Levine of Maroon 5 and P!nk are prominent figures in modern pop music. Their success continues the legacy of Jewish artists contributing to the global music scene.