A cappella music, the art of vocal performance without instrumental accompaniment, has captivated audiences for centuries with its pure, unadulterated sound. From the harmonious strains of barbershop quartets to the contemporary rhythms of vocal percussion, a cappella groups have pushed the boundaries of what the human voice can achieve.
Over the years, numerous a cappella ensembles have risen to prominence, each bringing their unique style and innovation to the genre.
This article explores some of the most famous a cappella groups, delving into their history, influence, and the distinctive sounds that have made them legends in the vocal music world.
21 Famous A Cappella Groups That You Should Hear
Contents
- 1 21 Famous A Cappella Groups That You Should Hear
- 2 #1 Pentatonix
- 3 #2 The King’s Singers
- 4 #3 Take 6
- 5 #4 Straight No Chaser
- 6 #5 The Real Group
- 7 #6 Rockapella
- 8 #7 Vocal Spectrum
- 9 #8 Rajaton
- 10 #9 Voctave
- 11 #10 Naturally 7
- 12 #11 Home Free
- 13 #12 Glee Club (Various University-Based Groups)
- 14 #13 BYU Vocal Point
- 15 #14 The Swingle Singers
- 16 #15 The House Jacks
- 17 #16 Chanticleer
- 18 #17 Cluster
- 19 #18 Cadence
- 20 #19 The Persuasions
- 21 #20 The Alley Cats
- 22 #21 VoicePlay
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
This list includes a variety of a cappella groups, each with its unique style, ranging from pop and jazz to classical and barbershop.
Here’s a list of 21 famous a cappella groups from around the world:
#1 Pentatonix
Pentatonix is an American a cappella group that has become one of the most successful and popular vocal ensembles in the world. Formed in 2011, the group originally gained fame by winning the third season of NBC’s The Sing-Off. Pentatonix is known for their innovative arrangements of pop songs, which often include intricate harmonies, vocal percussion, and bass lines, all performed without instruments. Their YouTube channel has millions of subscribers, and their videos have garnered billions of views.
They have released several albums, many of which have achieved platinum status, and they’ve won multiple Grammy Awards. The group’s ability to blend contemporary pop with a cappella traditions has earned them a wide-ranging fan base and critical acclaim.
#2 The King’s Singers
The King’s Singers is a British a cappella group that has been a prominent force in the vocal music world since its founding in 1968. The group was formed by six choral scholars from King’s College, Cambridge, and quickly gained a reputation for their impeccable vocal blend and versatility. The King’s Singers perform a wide range of music, from Renaissance madrigals to contemporary pop songs, often commissioning new works and arrangements to expand the a cappella repertoire.
Over the decades, they have performed in prestigious venues worldwide, released numerous recordings, and won multiple Grammy Awards. The ensemble’s ability to seamlessly transition between genres while maintaining a high level of artistry has made them one of the most respected vocal groups in the world.
#3 Take 6
Take 6 is an American a cappella gospel group that has significantly influenced the genre with their sophisticated harmonies and jazz-influenced sound. Formed in 1980 at Oakwood College in Huntsville, Alabama, the group initially performed gospel songs with a unique blend of jazz, R&B, and doo-wop. Take 6’s debut album, released in 1988, was a groundbreaking success, winning multiple Grammy Awards and establishing them as pioneers in the a cappella and gospel music scenes.
The group is known for their intricate vocal arrangements, tight harmonies, and innovative use of vocal percussion. Over the years, they have collaborated with numerous artists across various genres and continue to perform and record, maintaining their reputation as one of the premier vocal ensembles in the world.
#4 Straight No Chaser
Straight No Chaser is an American male a cappella group that became an internet sensation and later a mainstream success story. The group was originally formed in 1996 at Indiana University, and their fame skyrocketed in 2007 when a video of their rendition of “The 12 Days of Christmas” went viral on YouTube. This unexpected popularity led to a recording contract with Atlantic Records and the release of their debut album, Holiday Spirits, in 2008.
Straight No Chaser is known for their humorous and creative arrangements of popular songs, often incorporating elements of comedy into their performances. They have released multiple albums, many of which have charted on the Billboard 200, and continue to tour extensively, bringing their unique blend of humor and harmony to audiences around the world.
#5 The Real Group
The Real Group is a Swedish a cappella ensemble that has been at the forefront of the genre since their formation in 1984. The group was founded by five students from the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, and they quickly became known for their extraordinary vocal abilities and innovative arrangements. The Real Group’s repertoire spans a wide range of genres, including jazz, pop, and classical music, all performed with impeccable precision and artistry.
They have released numerous albums and performed in prestigious venues across the globe, earning accolades for their technical skill and creative interpretations. The Real Group is particularly known for their jazz-influenced style, and they have been influential in shaping the modern a cappella landscape, inspiring countless other vocal groups.
#6 Rockapella
Rockapella is an American a cappella group that has been a pioneering force in the genre, particularly known for their role in the 1990s television show Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?. The group was formed in 1986 and quickly gained a following for their unique sound, which blends pop, rock, and R&B with vocal percussion and tight harmonies. Rockapella’s music gained widespread attention through their work on Carmen Sandiego, where their catchy theme song became iconic.
Over the years, they have released multiple albums, both of original music and covers, and have maintained a dedicated fan base through their energetic live performances. Rockapella’s ability to blend contemporary music with a cappella traditions has made them one of the most enduring and influential groups in the genre.
#7 Vocal Spectrum
Vocal Spectrum is a highly acclaimed barbershop quartet from St. Charles, Missouri, known for their exceptional vocal precision and stunning harmonies. Formed in 2003, the group quickly rose to prominence within the barbershop community, winning the Barbershop Harmony Society’s International Quartet Championship in 2006. Vocal Spectrum is celebrated for their technical skill, particularly their ability to seamlessly blend traditional barbershop harmonies with contemporary music styles.
Their performances are marked by their impressive vocal range, from soaring high notes to deep bass tones, and their ability to captivate audiences with both classic barbershop songs and modern arrangements. They have released several albums and continue to perform at barbershop conventions and festivals worldwide, earning praise for their contribution to the genre.
#8 Rajaton
Rajaton is a Finnish a cappella group that has garnered international acclaim for their versatility and innovative approach to vocal music. Formed in 1997, the group’s name, which means “boundless” in Finnish, reflects their eclectic repertoire, which spans classical, pop, jazz, and folk music.
Rajaton is known for their tight harmonies, intricate arrangements, and the ability to seamlessly switch between genres, often within a single performance. They have released numerous albums, many of which have topped the Finnish charts, and they regularly perform in prestigious venues around the world. Rajaton has also collaborated with symphony orchestras and other artists, further showcasing their versatility and broad appeal. Their unique sound and dynamic performances have made them one of the leading a cappella groups in Europe.
#9 Voctave
Voctave is an American a cappella group that has gained widespread recognition for their powerful and intricate vocal arrangements, particularly of Disney songs and Broadway classics. Formed in 2015, the group consists of eleven singers who have extensive backgrounds in musical theater, opera, and pop. Voctave quickly rose to fame with their viral YouTube videos, where their renditions of popular songs showcased their exceptional vocal range and tight harmonies.
The group’s ability to deliver both emotionally resonant and technically impressive performances has earned them a dedicated fan base. In addition to their online success, Voctave has released several albums and continues to perform live, captivating audiences with their polished sound and dynamic stage presence.
#10 Naturally 7
Naturally 7 is an American a cappella group known for their unique “vocal play” style, where they use their voices to replicate the sounds of instruments, creating a full-band sound without any instruments. Formed in 1999 in New York City, the group gained international fame after their performance of “Feel It (In the Air Tonight)” went viral. Naturally 7’s ability to blend genres such as R&B, pop, and hip-hop, combined with their extraordinary vocal talent, has set them apart in the a cappella world.
They have toured extensively, often opening for prominent artists like Michael Bublé, and have performed in prestigious venues worldwide. Their innovative approach to a cappella has earned them critical acclaim and a loyal fan base, making them one of the most distinctive groups in the genre.
#11 Home Free
Home Free is an American country a cappella group that gained widespread fame after winning the fourth season of NBC’s The Sing-Off in 2013. Formed in 2000, the group originally started as a show ensemble, performing at fairs and festivals, but their success on The Sing-Off catapulted them to national prominence.
Home Free is known for their rich harmonies, deep bass lines, and country-inspired sound, which blends traditional a cappella with contemporary country music. They have released several albums, many of which have topped the country charts, and they continue to tour extensively, bringing their unique blend of country and a cappella to audiences across the globe. Their ability to appeal to both country music fans and a cappella enthusiasts has made them a standout group in the genre.
#12 Glee Club (Various University-Based Groups)
Glee clubs are traditional collegiate a cappella groups that have existed in universities across the United States and other countries for decades. These groups gained renewed popularity with the success of the TV show Glee, which showcased the power of a cappella singing within a high school setting, although collegiate glee clubs have a long history predating the show.
University glee clubs often perform a mix of classical, pop, and contemporary music, and many have become breeding grounds for some of the most talented vocalists and future musicians. These clubs frequently participate in competitions, tours, and recordings, contributing to the rich tradition of a cappella music in educational institutions. Their influence extends beyond their campuses, inspiring countless other a cappella groups and singers.
#13 BYU Vocal Point
BYU Vocal Point is a renowned collegiate a cappella group from Brigham Young University, known for their dynamic performances and polished vocal arrangements. Formed in 1991, the group has become one of the most successful collegiate a cappella groups in the United States, regularly winning awards and accolades at national competitions. Vocal Point’s repertoire spans a wide range of genres, including pop, rock, classical, and religious music, and their performances are characterized by their tight harmonies, vocal percussion, and engaging stage presence.
They have released numerous albums and videos, gaining a substantial following both within and outside the a cappella community. Vocal Point’s commitment to excellence and their ability to connect with audiences through their music have made them a standout group in the collegiate a cappella scene.
#14 The Swingle Singers
The Swingle Singers, now known simply as The Swingles, are a British a cappella group that has been a significant force in vocal music since their formation in 1962. Originally founded in Paris by American-born Ward Swingle, the group became famous for their “Swingle sound,” a style that involved singing classical music, particularly Bach, in a jazz-influenced a cappella format. The Swingle Singers won multiple Grammy Awards for their innovative arrangements and virtuosic performances.
Over the decades, the group has undergone numerous changes in membership but has maintained its reputation for excellence and creativity. The Swingles continue to perform and record, exploring a wide range of genres, from classical to contemporary music, while pushing the boundaries of what a cappella music can achieve. Their enduring legacy is a testament to their influence and innovation in the vocal music world.
#15 The House Jacks
The House Jacks is an American a cappella group that has been a pioneering force in the genre, particularly in the rock a cappella style. Formed in 1991 by Deke Sharon, often referred to as the “godfather of modern a cappella,” The House Jacks are known for their powerful, instrument-free performances that emulate a full rock band using only their voices. They are credited with helping to shape the contemporary a cappella scene, blending rock, pop, and soul influences into their music.
The group has released multiple albums featuring original songs and covers, showcasing their ability to create rich, full-band sounds with just their voices. The House Jacks have toured internationally and have been featured in numerous media projects, including movies and television shows. Their innovative approach to a cappella has earned them a dedicated following and a significant place in the history of vocal music.
#16 Chanticleer
Chanticleer is an American male vocal ensemble founded in 1978, based in San Francisco, and widely regarded as one of the world’s leading vocal ensembles. Known for their seamless blend and extraordinary vocal range, Chanticleer performs a broad repertoire that spans medieval to contemporary music, with a particular focus on Renaissance polyphony, gospel, jazz, and newly commissioned works. The group has released over 40 recordings, many of which have won prestigious awards, including multiple Grammys.
Chanticleer is renowned for their immaculate technique and expressiveness, and they regularly tour internationally, performing in major concert halls and festivals. Their commitment to expanding the vocal repertoire and their educational outreach efforts have solidified their reputation as one of the premier vocal groups in the world.
#17 Cluster
Cluster is an Italian a cappella group known for their sophisticated and jazz-infused vocal arrangements. Formed in 2004 by five musicians who met while studying at the Conservatorio Niccolò Paganini in Genoa, Cluster quickly gained recognition in the a cappella community for their technical skill and innovative interpretations of popular music. Their style blends jazz, pop, and classical elements, creating a unique sound that sets them apart from other vocal groups.
Cluster has released several albums, participated in international a cappella competitions, and performed extensively across Europe. They have also collaborated with renowned artists and have been praised for their creativity and musicality. Cluster’s ability to fuse different genres and their commitment to musical excellence have made them one of Italy’s most respected a cappella groups.
#18 Cadence
Cadence is a Canadian a cappella group known for their energetic performances and jazz-inspired vocal arrangements. Formed in 1998, the quartet has become one of Canada’s leading vocal ensembles, performing a wide range of music from jazz standards to pop hits, all delivered with their signature blend of tight harmonies and rhythmic precision. Cadence’s music often features complex vocal percussion and creative arrangements that push the boundaries of a cappella.
They have released several albums, received multiple awards, and performed at festivals and concerts around the world. Cadence is particularly noted for their engaging live performances, where they often incorporate humor and audience interaction, making them a favorite among a cappella enthusiasts. Their dedication to both musical innovation and entertainment has earned them a strong reputation in the vocal music community.
#19 The Persuasions
The Persuasions are an American a cappella group that is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the genre, particularly in bringing a cappella to mainstream audiences. Formed in 1962 in Brooklyn, New York, The Persuasions started as a street-corner doo-wop group and went on to become one of the most influential a cappella groups in history. Their music blends gospel, soul, R&B, and pop, characterized by rich harmonies and emotive performances.
Over their career, The Persuasions have released numerous albums and have collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including Frank Zappa, who produced their first album. Their influence extends across multiple genres, and they are credited with helping to keep the tradition of a cappella alive and vibrant in the modern music scene. The Persuasions’ legacy as trailblazers in a cappella continues to inspire new generations of vocal groups.
#20 The Alley Cats
The Alley Cats are an American a cappella group known for their doo-wop style and entertaining performances. Formed in 1987 in Southern California, The Alley Cats quickly became known for their high-energy shows that combine tight harmonies, humor, and nostalgic renditions of classic 1950s and 1960s rock ‘n’ roll hits. The group has performed across the United States, including at major theme parks like Disneyland, as well as on cruise ships and at corporate events.
The Alley Cats have also been featured on television and in commercials, further cementing their popularity. Their ability to connect with audiences through both their musical talent and charismatic stage presence has made them a beloved act in the a cappella and doo-wop communities. The Alley Cats continue to bring the joy of classic rock ‘n’ roll to audiences of all ages, preserving and celebrating the doo-wop tradition.
#21 VoicePlay
VoicePlay is an American a cappella group that gained national attention after participating in the fourth season of NBC’s The Sing-Off. Originally formed as a barbershop quartet in the early 2000s, VoicePlay evolved into a full a cappella group known for their theatrical performances and inventive arrangements. They are particularly noted for their use of vocal percussion and sound effects, which add a unique dimension to their music. VoicePlay’s repertoire spans a wide range of genres, from pop and rock to Disney classics and musical theater.
The group has a strong online presence, with many of their performances going viral on YouTube, attracting a global fan base. VoicePlay continues to tour and release new music, showcasing their creativity and versatility in the a cappella world. Their ability to entertain and engage audiences through both audio and visual elements has made them one of the standout groups in contemporary a cappella.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pentatonix stand out in the a cappella world?
Pentatonix is known for their innovative arrangements of pop songs, combining intricate harmonies with vocal percussion to create a full, dynamic sound without instruments.
How did The Persuasions influence the a cappella genre?
The Persuasions pioneered a cappella by blending gospel, soul, and R&B, bringing the genre to mainstream audiences and inspiring future generations of vocal groups.
What genre is The Real Group most associated with?
The Real Group is most associated with jazz, known for their sophisticated vocal arrangements and blending of jazz elements with pop and classical music.
Why is Rockapella famous outside the a cappella community?
Rockapella gained widespread recognition for their theme song on the popular TV show Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?, which became iconic in the 1990s.
