21 Most Famous Female Gospel Singers You Should Hear

Gospel music has long been a source of inspiration and spiritual upliftment, and many remarkable female artists have left an indelible mark on the genre. These talented singers have not only shaped the sound of gospel music but have also used their voices to spread messages of hope, faith, and resilience.

From the powerful and soulful Mahalia Jackson to the dynamic and contemporary sounds of Yolanda Adams and CeCe Winans, these artists have captivated audiences around the world.

This article explores the careers and contributions of some of the most famous female gospel singers, highlighting their unique voices and the enduring impact they have had on both gospel music and the broader music industry.

21 Most Talented Famous Female Gospel Singers to Add to Your Playlist

These singers have made significant contributions to gospel music, inspiring audiences with their powerful voices and heartfelt performances.

Here’s a list of 21 famous female gospel singers:

#1 Mahalia Jackson

Mahalia Jackson, born on October 26, 1911, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is often hailed as the “Queen of Gospel.” Jackson’s powerful contralto voice and deeply emotive style revolutionized gospel music. She began her singing career in church and quickly gained national attention with her rendition of “Move On Up a Little Higher,” which became a best-selling gospel record. Jackson’s influence extended beyond music; she was an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement, often performing at rallies, including the 1963 March on Washington where she sang before Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

Her extensive discography includes classics like “How I Got Over” and “Take My Hand, Precious Lord.” Jackson’s contributions to gospel music earned her numerous accolades and cemented her legacy as a foundational figure in the genre.

#2 Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin, born on March 25, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee, is renowned as the “Queen of Soul” but also made significant contributions to gospel music. Franklin began her career singing gospel at her father Reverend C.L. Franklin’s church in Detroit. Her gospel roots are evident in her powerful vocal delivery and emotional depth. In 1972, she returned to gospel with the album “Amazing Grace,” which became one of the best-selling gospel albums of all time.

Tracks like “Precious Memories” and “How I Got Over” showcased her ability to blend gospel fervor with soul and pop sensibilities. Franklin’s influence spans multiple genres, and her gospel recordings remain some of the most celebrated in the genre.

#3 Shirley Caesar

Shirley Caesar, born on October 13, 1938, in Durham, North Carolina, is known as the “First Lady of Gospel Music.” She began her career at the age of 12, joining the legendary gospel group The Caravans. Caesar later pursued a solo career, becoming known for her powerful voice and theatrical storytelling style.

Her hits, including “No Charge” and “Hold My Mule,” are celebrated for their inspirational messages and emotional delivery. Over her career, Caesar has released over 40 albums and won multiple Grammy Awards. She has also been an active pastor and humanitarian, using her platform to advocate for social justice and community empowerment. Caesar’s contributions to gospel music have made her a beloved figure in the genre.

#4 Yolanda Adams

Yolanda Adams, born on August 27, 1961, in Houston, Texas, is a contemporary gospel singer known for her versatile voice and uplifting music. Adams began her career as a schoolteacher before transitioning to music full-time. Her breakthrough came with the 1999 album “Mountain High…Valley Low,” which included the hit single “Open My Heart.” Adams is known for blending gospel with R&B and jazz influences, creating a crossover appeal that has won her a broad audience.

She has won multiple Grammy Awards and is celebrated for her dynamic vocal range and ability to convey deep emotion. Adams has also been a radio host and advocate for education and health awareness. Her influence extends beyond music, making her one of the most prominent figures in contemporary gospel.

#5 CeCe Winans

CeCe Winans, born Priscilla Marie Winans on October 8, 1964, in Detroit, Michigan, is a member of the famous Winans gospel family. She first gained fame as part of the duo BeBe & CeCe Winans, alongside her brother BeBe. The duo produced hits like “Heaven” and “Addictive Love,” blending gospel with R&B and pop elements. CeCe launched her solo career in the 1990s, achieving success with albums like “Alone in His Presence” and “Everlasting Love.”

Her music is known for its smooth vocal delivery and uplifting spiritual messages. CeCe Winans has won multiple Grammy Awards and is respected for her contributions to gospel music and her ability to reach audiences across different genres. She is also a pastor and author, continuing to inspire through her faith and artistry.

#6 Tamela Mann

Tamela Mann, born on June 9, 1966, in Fort Worth, Texas, is a gospel singer and actress known for her powerful voice and emotive performances. Mann began her career as a member of Kirk Franklin’s vocal ensemble, The Family, contributing to hits like “Lean on Me” and “Now Behold the Lamb.” She later launched a solo career, gaining widespread acclaim for her album “Best Days,” which included the chart-topping single “Take Me to the King.”

Mann is known for her rich vocal tone and ability to convey deep emotion through her music. In addition to her music career, she has starred in Tyler Perry’s stage plays and films, including her role as Cora Simmons. Mann’s work in both music and acting has earned her numerous awards and a dedicated fan base.

#7 Karen Clark Sheard

Karen Clark Sheard, born on November 15, 1960, in Detroit, Michigan, is a renowned gospel singer and member of the legendary gospel group The Clark Sisters. She began singing with her sisters at a young age under the guidance of their mother, gospel musician Mattie Moss Clark. The Clark Sisters achieved significant success with hits like “You Brought the Sunshine” and “Is My Living in Vain,” blending contemporary gospel with elements of R&B and jazz.

Karen Clark Sheard launched her solo career in the 1990s, with her debut album “Finally Karen” earning critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination. Known for her powerful vocal range and distinctive tone, Sheard has become a respected figure in gospel music. She has won several awards, including multiple Stellar Awards and a Grammy. Sheard is also a minister and has been involved in various charitable activities.

#8 Tasha Cobbs Leonard

Tasha Cobbs Leonard, born on July 7, 1981, in Jesup, Georgia, is a contemporary gospel singer and songwriter known for her powerful worship anthems. Cobbs Leonard gained national attention with her 2013 breakout single “Break Every Chain,” which topped the Billboard Gospel chart and won a Grammy Award. Her debut album, “Grace,” showcased her dynamic vocal ability and passionate delivery, solidifying her as a leading voice in modern gospel music.

Cobbs Leonard’s follow-up albums, including “One Place Live” and “Heart. Passion. Pursuit,” have continued to receive critical acclaim and commercial success. She is known for her heartfelt worship style and ability to connect with audiences through her music. In addition to her recording career, Cobbs Leonard serves as a worship leader and pastor, further extending her influence in the Christian community.

#9 Dorothy Norwood

Dorothy Norwood, born on November 29, 1935, in Atlanta, Georgia, is a veteran gospel singer and songwriter known as the “World’s Greatest Gospel Storyteller.” Norwood began her career as a member of The Caravans, one of gospel music’s most famous groups, alongside Shirley Caesar and Albertina Walker. She launched her solo career in the early 1960s, achieving success with albums like “Johnny and Jesus” and “Denial of Death.”

Norwood is known for her narrative style, often incorporating storytelling elements into her music. She has released over 50 albums and has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards. Norwood’s contributions to gospel music span over six decades, making her a revered figure in the genre. She continues to perform and record, inspiring new generations of gospel artists.

#10 Vickie Winans

Vickie Winans, born on October 18, 1953, in Detroit, Michigan, is a gospel singer known for her dynamic stage presence and vocal versatility. She married into the famous Winans family and began her career in the 1980s, achieving success with her debut album “Be Encouraged.” Winans’ music often blends traditional gospel with contemporary elements, and she is known for her ability to convey deep emotion and inspire audiences.

Some of her notable songs include “As Long As I Got King Jesus,” “Shake Yourself Loose,” and “Safe in His Arms.” Winans has received numerous awards, including Stellar Awards and Grammy nominations. She is also known for her comedic talent and has worked as a producer and television host, further showcasing her multifaceted talents in entertainment.

#11 Le’Andria Johnson

Le’Andria Johnson, born on January 23, 1983, in Palatka, Florida, is a gospel singer who gained national attention after winning the third season of the gospel singing competition show “Sunday Best” in 2010. Her debut album, “The Awakening of Le’Andria Johnson,” quickly climbed the Billboard Gospel charts, featuring the hit single “Jesus.” Johnson’s music is known for its raw emotion and honest portrayal of her personal struggles and triumphs.

She has released several successful albums, including “The Experience” and “Bigger Than Me,” and has won Grammy and Stellar Awards. Johnson’s powerful voice and authenticity have made her a standout artist in contemporary gospel music. In addition to her music career, she has served as a pastor and has been involved in various outreach and ministry efforts.

#12 Kim Burrell

Kim Burrell, born on August 26, 1972, in Houston, Texas, is a gospel singer known for her unique vocal style that blends jazz, gospel, and R&B influences. Burrell began her career singing in church and gained recognition with her debut album “Try Me Again” in 1995. Her breakthrough came with the release of “Everlasting Life” in 1999, which showcased her virtuosic vocal runs and improvisational skills. Burrell’s music often features complex harmonies and innovative arrangements, and she is celebrated for her ability to convey deep emotion through her singing.

She has collaborated with numerous artists across different genres, including Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, and Missy Elliott. Burrell has won multiple Stellar Awards and has been nominated for Grammy Awards. She is also a respected vocal coach and mentor to many young gospel artists.

#13 Dottie Peoples

Dottie Peoples, born on August 12, 1950, in Dayton, Ohio, is a gospel singer known for her powerful voice and traditional gospel style. Peoples began her career touring with gospel legend Dorothy Norwood and later joined The Edwin Hawkins Singers. She launched her solo career in the late 1980s, achieving success with her album “Live” in Memphis, He Said It.” Peoples is known for her commanding stage presence and ability to connect with audiences through her music.

Her hits include “On Time God,” “Testify,” and “He’s an On Time God.” Peoples has won numerous awards, including Stellar Awards and Gospel Music Excellence Awards. She is also an accomplished songwriter and producer, contributing to the rich tradition of gospel music with her heartfelt and inspirational songs.

#14 Vanessa Bell Armstrong

Vanessa Bell Armstrong, born on October 2, 1953, in Detroit, Michigan, is a gospel singer known for her powerful vocal range and dynamic performances. Armstrong began her career in the 1980s, gaining attention with her debut album “Peace Be Still,” which featured the hit title track. She is celebrated for her versatile voice, capable of delivering both soulful ballads and upbeat, contemporary gospel tunes. Armstrong has released several successful albums, including “Chosen” and “The Secret Is Out,” and has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards.

She has also performed on Broadway, showcasing her talents in the musical “Don’t Get God Started.” Armstrong’s contributions to gospel music have earned her a loyal fan base and recognition as one of the genre’s leading vocalists.

#15 Tramaine Hawkins

Tramaine Hawkins, born on October 11, 1951, in San Francisco, California, is a gospel singer known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery. Hawkins began her career singing with the Edwin Hawkins Singers, gaining national attention with their hit “Oh Happy Day.” She later pursued a solo career, achieving success with albums like “Tramaine” and “The Search Is Over.” Her hits include “Changed,” “I Never Lost My Praise,” and “The Potter’s House.”

Hawkins is known for her ability to blend traditional gospel with contemporary sounds, appealing to a wide audience. She has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and Stellar Awards, and is celebrated for her impactful performances and contributions to gospel music.

#16 Beverly Crawford

Beverly Crawford, born on August 31, 1963, in Gainesville, Florida, is a gospel singer known for her energetic performances and powerful voice. Crawford began her career as a lead singer in the New Birth Church Choir and later joined the Bobby Jones Gospel television show.

She launched her solo career in the 1990s, gaining recognition with her debut album “Jesus, Precious King.” Crawford’s music is characterized by its traditional gospel roots and soulful delivery, with hits like “He’s Done Enough” and “It’s About Time for a Miracle.” She has released several successful albums and has been nominated for multiple Stellar Awards. Crawford is known for her passionate worship style and has been a prominent figure in gospel music for over two decades.

#17 Mandisa

Mandisa Lynn Hundley, known professionally as Mandisa, was born on October 2, 1976, in Citrus Heights, California. She gained national fame as a contestant on the fifth season of “American Idol,” where she finished in ninth place. Mandisa’s powerful voice and uplifting music have made her a leading figure in contemporary Christian music. Her debut album, “True Beauty,” was released in 2007 and earned her Grammy nominations. Mandisa’s music often addresses themes of faith, overcoming adversity, and self-empowerment.

Her hit single “Overcomer” became an anthem for resilience and won a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album. Mandisa continues to inspire audiences with her positive messages and soulful voice, making her a beloved artist in the Christian and gospel music communities.

#18 Lynda Randle

Lynda Randle, born on February 7, 1962, in Washington, D.C., is a gospel singer known for her rich, soulful voice and warm stage presence. Randle is best known for her work with the Gaither Homecoming series, where she has been a featured soloist for many years. Her signature song, “God on the Mountain,” has become a favorite among fans and showcases her powerful vocal delivery.

Randle has released several albums, including “I’m Free” and “Ageless Hymns,” which feature a mix of traditional gospel, hymns, and contemporary Christian music. She is also known for her work as a speaker and author, sharing her faith and personal testimony. Randle’s contributions to gospel music and her inspirational messages have made her a respected and beloved figure in the genre.

#19 Mary Mary (Erica Campbell and Tina Campbell)

Mary Mary is a gospel duo consisting of sisters Erica Campbell, born on April 29, 1972, and Tina Campbell, born on May 1, 1974. They rose to fame in the early 2000s with their debut album “Thankful,” which included the hit single “Shackles (Praise You).” The duo’s music blends gospel with contemporary R&B, hip-hop, and pop influences, appealing to a broad audience.

Mary Mary has released several successful albums, including “Incredible” and “The Sound,” and has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and Stellar Awards. Their dynamic vocal harmonies and inspirational lyrics have made them one of the most popular gospel acts of their time. In addition to their music career, both Erica and Tina have pursued solo projects and have been involved in television, with their reality show “Mary Mary” offering a glimpse into their lives and careers.

#20 Jessica Reedy

Jessica Reedy, born on July 12, 1988, in Saginaw, Michigan, is a contemporary gospel singer known for her rich alto voice and soulful delivery. Reedy gained national attention as the runner-up on the second season of the gospel singing competition show “Sunday Best.” Her debut album, “From the Heart,” was released in 2011 and featured the hit single “Put It On the Altar.”

Reedy’s music often explores themes of redemption, faith, and personal growth, and she is known for her emotional and heartfelt performances. She has continued to release music and perform, gaining a dedicated fan base and recognition in the gospel music community. Reedy’s unique voice and authenticity have made her a standout artist in contemporary gospel.

#21 Jekalyn Carr

Jekalyn Carr, born on April 22, 1997, in West Memphis, Arkansas, is a gospel singer, songwriter, and evangelist known for her powerful voice and inspirational messages. Carr began her music career at a young age, gaining recognition with her debut album “Greater Is Coming” at just 15 years old. Her hit single “You’re Bigger” topped the Billboard Gospel chart and earned her widespread acclaim. Carr’s music often focuses on themes of empowerment, faith, and spiritual growth, and she is known for her dynamic stage presence and passionate delivery.

She has released several successful albums, including “The Life Project” and “Changing Your Story.” In addition to her music career, Carr is a motivational speaker and author, using her platform to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is known as the “Queen of Gospel” and what is her most famous song?

Mahalia Jackson is known as the “Queen of Gospel,” celebrated for her powerful contralto voice and emotive performances. Her most famous song is “Move On Up a Little Higher,” which became a best-selling gospel record and a cornerstone of her legacy.

How did Aretha Franklin contribute to gospel music despite being widely known as the “Queen of Soul”?

Aretha Franklin made significant contributions to gospel music with her album “Amazing Grace,” one of the best-selling gospel albums of all time. Her gospel roots and powerful vocal delivery were evident in performances like “Precious Memories” and “How I Got Over.”

What is significant about Shirley Caesar’s contribution to gospel music?

Shirley Caesar, known as the “First Lady of Gospel Music,” has had a profound impact with her storytelling style and powerful voice. She has released over 40 albums, won multiple Grammy Awards, and continues to inspire through her music and ministry work.

What distinguishes Yolanda Adams in the contemporary gospel music scene?

Yolanda Adams is known for blending gospel with R&B and jazz influences, creating a unique and contemporary sound. She gained widespread acclaim with her album “Mountain High…Valley Low” and the hit single “Open My Heart,” earning multiple Grammy Awards for her work.