Alto singers, with their rich and deep vocal tones, bring a unique warmth and emotional depth to music that resonates across genres. These vocalists possess a distinctive range that sets them apart, allowing them to deliver powerful, soulful performances that captivate audiences worldwide.
From the soulful sounds of legends like Nina Simone and Amy Winehouse to the timeless voices of Karen Carpenter and Annie Lennox, alto singers have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
In this article, we explore the careers and contributions of some of the most famous alto singers, celebrating their influence and enduring legacy in the world of music.
21 Most Famous Alto Singers of All Time
Contents
- 1 21 Most Famous Alto Singers of All Time
- 2 #1 Adele
- 3 #2 Cher
- 4 #3 Annie Lennox
- 5 #4 Toni Braxton
- 6 #5 Tracy Chapman
- 7 #6 Karen Carpenter
- 8 #7 Patsy Cline
- 9 #8 Norah Jones
- 10 #9 Sade
- 11 #10 Amy Winehouse
- 12 #11 Joni Mitchell
- 13 #12 Stevie Nicks
- 14 #13 Fiona Apple
- 15 #14 Lauryn Hill
- 16 #15 Shirley Bassey
- 17 #16 Erykah Badu
- 18 #17 Nina Simone
- 19 #18 Sarah McLachlan
- 20 #19 Alison Moyet
- 21 #20 Natalie Merchant
- 22 #21 Marianne Faithfull
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
These singers are celebrated for their unique alto voices, bringing depth and warmth to their music across various genres.
Here’s a list of 21 famous alto singers known for their rich, lower vocal range:
#1 Adele
Adele, born Adele Laurie Blue Adkins on May 5, 1988, in Tottenham, London, is an English singer-songwriter known for her powerful, emotive voice and deeply personal lyrics. Adele first gained international attention with her debut album 19 (2008), which featured the hit single “Chasing Pavements” and earned her critical acclaim and multiple awards, including two Grammy Awards. However, it was her 2011 sophomore album 21 that catapulted her to global superstardom, featuring hits like “Rolling in the Deep,” “Someone Like You,” and “Set Fire to the Rain.” The album became one of the best-selling albums of all time and won numerous awards, including six Grammy Awards.
Adele’s music is characterized by its raw emotion, powerful vocal delivery, and timeless appeal, resonating with listeners across generations. Her 2015 album 25 continued her streak of success, featuring the hit single “Hello” and earning her five more Grammy Awards. Adele’s influence on contemporary pop and soul music, her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level, and her authenticity as an artist have made her one of the most beloved and respected singers of her generation.
#2 Cher
Cher, born Cherilyn Sarkisian on May 20, 1946, in El Centro, California, is an American singer, actress, and television personality known as the “Goddess of Pop.” Cher first gained fame in the 1960s as part of the pop duo Sonny & Cher, alongside her then-husband Sonny Bono. The duo achieved widespread success with their hit single “I Got You Babe” and their television variety show The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour. Cher’s deep, distinctive voice and her ability to reinvent herself throughout her career have made her a lasting figure in the entertainment industry.
In the 1970s, Cher embarked on a successful solo career, producing hits like “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves,” “Half-Breed,” and “Dark Lady.” She continued to evolve as an artist, embracing dance music in the 1990s with her chart-topping single “Believe,” which popularized the use of Auto-Tune in mainstream music. Beyond her music career, Cher has also achieved success as an actress, winning an Academy Award for her role in Moonstruck. Cher’s ability to remain relevant across multiple decades, her influence on pop culture, and her status as an icon have solidified her place as one of the most enduring and versatile performers in history.
#3 Annie Lennox
Annie Lennox, born on December 25, 1954, in Aberdeen, Scotland, is a Scottish singer, songwriter, and activist known for her distinctive contralto voice and her work as one-half of the groundbreaking pop duo Eurythmics. Lennox first gained international recognition in the 1980s with Eurythmics, alongside bandmate Dave Stewart, producing hits like “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This),” “Here Comes the Rain Again,” and “Would I Lie to You?” Her powerful voice, androgynous style, and captivating stage presence made her one of the most iconic figures of the decade.
After Eurythmics, Lennox embarked on a successful solo career, releasing critically acclaimed albums like Diva (1992) and Medusa (1995). Her solo work continued to showcase her vocal prowess and ability to convey deep emotion through her music, with hits like “Why” and “Walking on Broken Glass.” In addition to her music career, Lennox is known for her humanitarian work, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Annie Lennox’s contributions to music, her influence on fashion and culture, and her dedication to social causes have earned her a lasting legacy as one of the most important female artists of her generation.
#4 Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton, born on October 7, 1967, in Severn, Maryland, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her rich, sultry voice and her ability to blend R&B, soul, and pop into her music. Braxton first gained widespread recognition in the early 1990s with the release of her self-titled debut album Toni Braxton (1993), which included hit singles like “Breathe Again” and “Another Sad Love Song.” The album earned her three Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist, and established her as one of the leading voices in contemporary R&B.
Braxton’s follow-up album, Secrets (1996), was even more successful, featuring the chart-topping singles “You’re Makin’ Me High” and “Un-Break My Heart,” the latter of which became one of the best-selling singles of all time. Throughout her career, Braxton has continued to release successful albums, earning multiple Grammy Awards and accolades for her vocal abilities. In addition to her music career, Braxton has appeared in film, television, and on Broadway, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer. Toni Braxton’s contributions to R&B, her powerful voice, and her impact on the music industry have solidified her place as one of the most influential female artists of the 1990s and beyond.
#5 Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman, born on March 30, 1964, in Cleveland, Ohio, is an American singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice, socially conscious lyrics, and ability to blend folk, rock, and blues into her music. Chapman first gained widespread recognition in 1988 with the release of her self-titled debut album, which included the hit singles “Fast Car” and “Talkin’ ’bout a Revolution.” The album’s success earned her three Grammy Awards and established her as a powerful voice in contemporary music.
Chapman’s music often addresses themes of social justice, love, and personal reflection, resonating with audiences around the world. Her follow-up albums, including Crossroads and New Beginning, continued to receive critical acclaim, with the latter featuring the hit single “Give Me One Reason,” which won her another Grammy Award. Despite her relatively low public profile, Chapman’s influence on music and her ability to convey deep emotion through her voice and lyrics have made her one of the most respected and enduring singer-songwriters of her generation.
#6 Karen Carpenter
Karen Carpenter, born on March 2, 1950, in New Haven, Connecticut, was an American singer and drummer best known as one half of the pop duo The Carpenters, alongside her brother Richard Carpenter. Karen’s warm, rich alto voice and impeccable phrasing made her one of the most beloved vocalists of the 1970s. The Carpenters achieved massive success with hits like “Close to You,” “We’ve Only Just Begun,” and “Rainy Days and Mondays,” becoming one of the best-selling music acts of the decade.
Karen’s voice was characterized by its clarity, purity, and ability to convey deep emotion, making even the simplest songs resonate with listeners. Despite her success, Karen struggled with anorexia nervosa, a condition that ultimately led to her untimely death in 1983 at the age of 32. Karen Carpenter’s legacy as one of the greatest voices in pop music history remains strong, and her influence on vocalists continues to be felt across generations. Her contributions to music, her distinctive voice, and her tragic story have made her a lasting icon in the world of pop music.
#7 Patsy Cline
Patsy Cline, born Virginia Patterson Hensley on September 8, 1932, in Winchester, Virginia, was an American country music singer who became one of the most influential vocalists in the genre. Cline first gained national attention in the late 1950s with hits like “Walkin’ After Midnight” and “I Fall to Pieces.” Her rich, emotional voice and ability to convey deep emotion made her a standout artist in both country and pop music, helping to bridge the gap between the two genres.
Cline’s 1961 recording of “Crazy,” written by Willie Nelson, became one of her most iconic songs and showcased her ability to deliver heartfelt, poignant performances. Despite her tragically short career, which ended when she died in a plane crash in 1963 at the age of 30, Cline’s impact on country music remains profound. She was one of the first female country artists to achieve major success, and her influence continues to be felt in the work of countless singers across genres. Patsy Cline’s legacy as a trailblazer and one of the greatest voices in country music is enduring.
#8 Norah Jones
Norah Jones, born Geetali Norah Shankar on March 30, 1979, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist known for her smooth, sultry voice and her ability to blend jazz, pop, and soul into her music. Jones first gained widespread recognition with the release of her debut album Come Away with Me in 2002, which featured the hit single “Don’t Know Why.” The album’s success earned her five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, and established her as one of the leading voices in contemporary jazz and pop music.
Jones’s music is characterized by its laid-back, intimate style, with her vocals often described as soothing and emotive. She has continued to release successful albums, including Feels Like Home, Not Too Late, and Day Breaks, each showcasing her versatility as an artist. In addition to her solo work, Jones has collaborated with a wide range of artists across genres, further demonstrating her musical range. Norah Jones’s ability to connect with listeners through her warm, evocative voice and her contributions to contemporary music have made her one of the most respected and beloved artists of her generation.
#9 Sade
Sade, born Helen Folasade Adu on January 16, 1959, in Ibadan, Nigeria, is a British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress known for her smooth, sultry voice and her unique blend of soul, jazz, and R&B. Sade first gained international recognition with the release of her debut album Diamond Life in 1984, which included the hit single “Smooth Operator.” Her distinctive voice, characterized by its rich, velvety tone, and her ability to create music that is both sophisticated and deeply emotional have made her a standout artist in the music industry.
Throughout her career, Sade has continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including Promise, Stronger Than Pride, and Lovers Rock, each showcasing her ability to evolve while maintaining her signature sound. Her music often explores themes of love, longing, and resilience, resonating with audiences across the world. Despite maintaining a relatively low public profile, Sade’s influence on contemporary music is undeniable, and her contributions to the soul and jazz genres have earned her a lasting legacy as one of the most iconic female vocalists of her time.
#10 Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse, born on September 14, 1983, in London, England, was a British singer and songwriter known for her powerful, soulful voice and her ability to blend jazz, R&B, and blues into her music. Winehouse first gained widespread recognition with the release of her debut album Frank in 2003, which showcased her unique vocal style and earned her critical acclaim. However, it was her 2006 album Back to Black that catapulted her to international fame, featuring hit singles like “Rehab,” “You Know I’m No Good,” and the title track “Back to Black.”
Winehouse’s music was characterized by its raw emotion, deeply personal lyrics, and her distinctive voice, which drew comparisons to legendary singers like Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan. Despite her immense talent, Winehouse struggled with addiction and personal issues, leading to her untimely death in 2011 at the age of 27. Amy Winehouse’s influence on contemporary music, her contributions to the revival of soul and jazz, and her enduring legacy as a powerful, emotive vocalist have made her one of the most iconic and tragic figures in modern music history.
#11 Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell, born Roberta Joan Anderson on November 7, 1943, in Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada, is a Canadian singer-songwriter and painter who is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Mitchell first gained recognition in the late 1960s with her debut album Song to a Seagull, but it was her 1971 album Blue that solidified her place as a pioneering figure in folk and pop music. Her voice, characterized by its purity, emotional depth, and range, allowed her to convey complex emotions and narratives in her music.
Mitchell’s songwriting often explores themes of love, loss, and social issues, with songs like “A Case of You,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” and “Both Sides, Now” becoming timeless classics. Throughout her career, Mitchell has continued to evolve as an artist, experimenting with jazz, rock, and world music, and earning numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. Joni Mitchell’s influence on music and culture, her ability to innovate while staying true to her artistic vision, and her status as a trailblazing female artist have earned her a lasting legacy as one of the most important musicians of the 20th century.
#12 Stevie Nicks
Stevie Nicks, born Stephanie Lynn Nicks on May 26, 1948, in Phoenix, Arizona, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer best known as the lead vocalist of Fleetwood Mac and as a successful solo artist. Nicks first gained widespread recognition with Fleetwood Mac’s 1975 self-titled album, which featured hits like “Rhiannon” and “Landslide,” both of which showcased her distinctive, raspy voice and mystical, poetic lyrics. Her contributions to the band’s 1977 album Rumours, including the hit single “Dreams,” helped make it one of the best-selling albums of all time.
In addition to her work with Fleetwood Mac, Nicks launched a successful solo career in 1981 with her debut album Bella Donna, which included the hit singles “Edge of Seventeen” and “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around.” Throughout her career, Nicks has been known for her unique voice, her ethereal stage presence, and her ability to blend rock, pop, and folk influences into her music. Stevie Nicks’s influence on rock music, her contributions to the success of Fleetwood Mac, and her enduring status as a rock icon have made her one of the most beloved and respected figures in the music industry.
#13 Fiona Apple
Fiona Apple, born Fiona Apple McAfee-Maggart on September 13, 1977, in New York City, is an American singer-songwriter and pianist known for her intense, emotive voice and her deeply personal, often unconventional music. Apple first gained widespread recognition with her 1996 debut album Tidal, which included the hit single “Criminal.” The album’s success earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance and established her as one of the most distinctive voices in alternative music.
Apple’s music is characterized by its raw emotion, intricate lyrics, and her ability to convey vulnerability and strength in equal measure. Her subsequent albums, including When the Pawn… (1999), Extraordinary Machine (2005), and The Idler Wheel… (2012), have received critical acclaim for their innovative sound and poetic lyricism. Known for her reclusive nature and aversion to the spotlight, Apple has nonetheless maintained a devoted fan base and continues to be a respected and influential figure in the music industry. Fiona Apple’s contributions to alternative music, her powerful voice, and her willingness to push creative boundaries have earned her a lasting legacy as one of the most important artists of her generation.
#14 Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill, born on May 26, 1975, in East Orange, New Jersey, is an American singer, songwriter, rapper, and actress who is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists in hip-hop and R&B. Hill first gained fame as a member of the Fugees, a hip-hop group that achieved international success with their 1996 album The Score, which featured hits like “Killing Me Softly” and “Ready or Not.” Her powerful voice, lyrical prowess, and ability to seamlessly blend rap and singing made her a standout member of the group.
In 1998, Hill released her solo debut album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, which became a critical and commercial success, earning her five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. The album’s blend of hip-hop, R&B, soul, and reggae, combined with Hill’s introspective lyrics and emotive vocal delivery, has made it a landmark in contemporary music. Despite stepping away from the spotlight in the years following her debut, Lauryn Hill’s influence on music, her role as a trailblazer for female artists in hip-hop, and her enduring legacy as a powerful voice for social and personal change have solidified her place as one of the most important artists of the 1990s and beyond.
#15 Shirley Bassey
Shirley Bassey, born on January 8, 1937, in Cardiff, Wales, is a Welsh singer renowned for her powerful voice and dramatic flair. Bassey first gained fame in the 1950s with her debut single “The Banana Boat Song” and quickly became known for her dynamic stage presence and commanding vocal range. She is best known for her performances of three James Bond theme songs: “Goldfinger,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” and “Moonraker,” which have become iconic elements of the film series and solidified her status as a major international star.
Throughout her career, Bassey has released numerous successful albums and singles, showcasing her ability to blend pop, jazz, and show tunes into her unique style. Her music is characterized by its grandeur and her ability to convey deep emotion, making her a beloved figure in both the UK and worldwide. Bassey has been honored with numerous awards, including a Damehood for her contributions to music. Shirley Bassey’s enduring influence on popular music, her iconic performances, and her remarkable career have made her one of the most celebrated and respected vocalists of her time.
#16 Erykah Badu
Erykah Badu, born Erica Abi Wright on February 26, 1971, in Dallas, Texas, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known as the “Queen of Neo-Soul” for her pioneering role in the neo-soul movement. Badu first gained widespread recognition with the release of her debut album Baduizm in 1997, which included hit singles like “On & On” and “Next Lifetime.” The album’s success earned her critical acclaim and multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best R&B Album. Her music, characterized by its blend of soul, jazz, hip-hop, and R&B, and her distinctive voice, has made her a defining figure in contemporary music.
Badu’s subsequent albums, including Mama’s Gun and Worldwide Underground, further solidified her reputation as an innovative and influential artist. Her lyrics often explore themes of love, spirituality, and social issues, resonating with audiences for their depth and insight. In addition to her music career, Badu has also ventured into acting and activism, using her platform to advocate for various causes. Erykah Badu’s contributions to music, her unique voice, and her role as a cultural icon have earned her a lasting legacy as one of the most important artists of her generation.
#17 Nina Simone
Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, in Tryon, North Carolina, was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and civil rights activist known for her powerful voice and ability to blend jazz, blues, classical, and folk music. Simone first gained attention in the late 1950s with her recording of “I Loves You, Porgy,” and she continued to rise to prominence with songs like “My Baby Just Cares for Me” and “Feeling Good.” Her music often addressed themes of love, struggle, and social justice, making her a voice for the civil rights movement.
Simone’s fearless activism and willingness to speak out against racial injustice made her an icon both in music and in the fight for equality. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, combined with her commitment to using her platform for social change, has earned her a lasting legacy as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Nina Simone’s contributions to music and her role as a voice for social justice continue to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.
#18 Sarah McLachlan
Sarah McLachlan, born on January 28, 1968, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her ethereal voice and emotional ballads. McLachlan first gained widespread recognition with her 1993 album Fumbling Towards Ecstasy, which included hits like “Possession” and “Good Enough.” Her music, characterized by its lush arrangements and introspective lyrics, resonated with a wide audience, making her one of the leading figures in the adult contemporary music scene of the 1990s.
McLachlan’s 1997 album Surfacing further cemented her status as a major artist, featuring the hit singles “Angel” and “Building a Mystery,” and earning her multiple Grammy Awards. In addition to her music career, McLachlan is known for founding the Lilith Fair, a touring festival that showcased female artists and brought attention to women in music. Sarah McLachlan’s ability to convey deep emotion through her music, her contributions to the empowerment of women in the music industry, and her lasting influence as an artist have made her one of the most respected and beloved figures in contemporary music.
#19 Alison Moyet
Alison Moyet, born Geneviève Alison Jane Moyet on June 18, 1961, in Billericay, Essex, England, is a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful, bluesy voice and her work as both a solo artist and as part of the synthpop duo Yazoo (Yaz in the U.S.). Moyet first gained fame in the early 1980s with Yazoo, alongside Vince Clarke, producing hits like “Only You,” “Don’t Go,” and “Situation.” The duo’s innovative blend of synthpop and soul helped define the sound of the era and established Moyet as a unique voice in the music industry.
After Yazoo disbanded, Moyet embarked on a successful solo career, releasing her debut album Alf in 1984, which included the hit singles “Love Resurrection” and “All Cried Out.” Her subsequent albums, such as Raindancing and Hoodoo, continued to showcase her vocal prowess and ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Moyet’s rich alto voice, combined with her ability to blend genres, has made her a standout artist in the British music scene. Alison Moyet’s contributions to music, her distinctive voice, and her enduring influence have earned her a lasting place in the history of pop and soul music.
#20 Natalie Merchant
Natalie Merchant, born on October 26, 1963, in Jamestown, New York, is an American singer-songwriter known for her introspective lyrics and rich, expressive voice. Merchant first gained fame as the lead vocalist of the alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, with whom she recorded several successful albums, including In My Tribe and Blind Man’s Zoo. Her work with the band produced hits like “These Are Days” and “Because the Night,” showcasing her ability to blend folk, rock, and pop elements into her music.
In 1993, Merchant left 10,000 Maniacs to pursue a solo career, releasing her debut album Tigerlily in 1995. The album, which included the hit singles “Carnival” and “Wonder,” was both a critical and commercial success, solidifying her reputation as a powerful solo artist. Merchant’s subsequent albums, such as Ophelia and Motherland, continued to receive acclaim for their poetic lyrics and emotional depth. Natalie Merchant’s influence on the alternative and folk-rock genres, her distinctive voice, and her commitment to social and environmental causes have made her a respected and enduring figure in contemporary music.
#21 Marianne Faithfull
Marianne Faithfull, born on December 29, 1946, in Hampstead, London, is a British singer, songwriter, and actress known for her distinctive voice and her contributions to the rock and folk music scenes of the 1960s and beyond. Faithfull first gained fame in the mid-1960s with her debut single “As Tears Go By,” written by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Andrew Loog Oldham. Her ethereal voice and striking beauty made her a prominent figure in the swinging London scene, and she quickly became one of the most recognizable faces of the era.
Despite personal struggles and a period of relative obscurity, Faithfull made a remarkable comeback in the late 1970s with her album Broken English, which showcased a darker, more mature sound and earned her critical acclaim. Her voice, now marked by a raw, husky tone, brought a new depth to her music, and songs like “The Ballad of Lucy Jordan” and “Why’d Ya Do It” became cult classics. Marianne Faithfull’s resilience, her ability to reinvent herself, and her lasting influence on rock and alternative music have solidified her status as a true icon of the music world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Adele’s voice stand out among other alto singers?
Adele’s voice is renowned for its rich, soulful quality and emotional depth, allowing her to convey powerful feelings in her songs. Her ability to seamlessly blend pop, soul, and blues elements makes her one of the most distinctive alto singers of her generation.
How did Nina Simone’s music contribute to the Civil Rights Movement?
Nina Simone used her powerful voice and poignant lyrics to address social issues, making her music anthems for the Civil Rights Movement. Songs like “Mississippi Goddam” and “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free” became rallying cries for change.
Why is Karen Carpenter considered one of the greatest voices in pop music?
Karen Carpenter’s voice was known for its warm, pure tone and her ability to deliver emotionally resonant performances. Her work with The Carpenters produced timeless hits that showcased her unique vocal talents and solidified her legacy in pop music.
How did Annie Lennox influence the music industry as an alto singer?
Annie Lennox’s distinctive contralto voice, androgynous style, and innovative music with Eurythmics set new standards in the pop and new wave genres. Her ability to blend powerful vocals with socially conscious lyrics has made her a lasting influence on the music industry.
