21 Incredible Singers Like Beyonce You Need to Hear

Beyoncé, with her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and influential artistry, has set a high standard in the music industry. Her ability to blend pop, R&B, and hip-hop with themes of empowerment and social justice has inspired many artists across genres.

Just as Beyoncé has captivated audiences worldwide, there are other singers who share her passion for innovation, versatility, and cultural impact.

In this article, we explore a selection of singers who, like Beyoncé, have made significant contributions to music and continue to shape the sound and spirit of contemporary pop and R&B.

21 Talented Singers Similar to Beyonce to Add to Your Playlist

These artists are known for their powerful vocals, dynamic performances, and significant impact on the music industry, much like Beyoncé.

Here’s a list of 23 singers who share similarities with Beyoncé, whether in their vocal style, stage presence, or influence in the music industry:

#1 Rihanna

Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in 1988, is a Barbadian singer, songwriter, and businesswoman who has become one of the most successful and influential artists in contemporary music. She first gained international fame with her 2005 debut album Music of the Sun, featuring the hit single “Pon de Replay.” Rihanna’s ability to seamlessly blend genres like pop, R&B, reggae, and dancehall quickly made her a global superstar. With subsequent albums such as Good Girl Gone Bad and Anti, she solidified her place as a pop icon, producing numerous chart-topping hits like “Umbrella,” “We Found Love,” and “Diamonds.”

Beyond her music career, Rihanna has made significant strides in the fashion and beauty industries, launching successful brands like Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty. Her influence extends beyond music, making her one of the most powerful and recognizable figures in the entertainment world.

#2 Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys, born in 1981, is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who has been a dominant force in the music industry since her debut. She first rose to prominence with her 2001 album Songs in A Minor, which included the hit single “Fallin’.” The album’s blend of classical piano influences with soul and R&B earned Keys critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Grammys. Known for her powerful voice, emotive songwriting, and exceptional piano skills, Keys has released several successful albums, such as The Diary of Alicia Keys and As I Am, producing hits like “No One” and “If I Ain’t Got You.”

In addition to her music career, Keys is also an activist, advocating for issues such as racial equality and women’s rights. Her influence in music and her dedication to social causes have made her one of the most respected artists of her generation.

#3 Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey, born in 1969, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Carey’s career took off in 1990 with her self-titled debut album, which produced four consecutive number-one singles, including “Vision of Love.” Known for her five-octave vocal range, melismatic singing style, and ability to effortlessly navigate between genres, Carey became a dominant figure in the music industry throughout the 1990s and beyond. Her holiday classic “All I Want for Christmas Is You” remains one of the best-selling singles of all time.

Carey has achieved numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and Billboard chart records, solidifying her status as a pop legend. Her influence on vocal techniques and modern pop music is undeniable, and she continues to inspire new generations of artists.

#4 Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez, born in 1969, is an American singer, actress, and dancer who has achieved remarkable success across multiple entertainment fields. Lopez, often known as J.Lo, first gained widespread attention as a dancer on the television show In Living Color and later transitioned to acting, starring in films like Selena and Out of Sight. Her music career took off with her 1999 debut album On the 6, which included the hit single “If You Had My Love.” Lopez’s ability to fuse Latin, pop, and R&B influences has made her a dominant force in music, with hits like “Jenny from the Block” and “On the Floor.”

In addition to her music and acting careers, Lopez is a successful entrepreneur, with ventures in fashion, fragrance, and television production. Her versatility and business acumen have established her as one of the most influential Latinas in entertainment.

#5 Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston, born in 1963, was an American singer and actress who is widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists in music history. Houston’s career began in the mid-1980s with her self-titled debut album, which included iconic hits like “How Will I Know” and “Greatest Love of All.” Her powerful voice, characterized by its range, clarity, and emotional depth, made her an instant star. Houston’s 1992 rendition of “I Will Always Love You” from the soundtrack of The Bodyguard became one of the best-selling singles of all time, further solidifying her status as a pop legend.

Houston’s influence on contemporary music is profound, inspiring countless artists with her vocal technique and stage presence. Despite personal struggles later in life, her legacy as a musical icon endures, with her contributions to pop and R&B remaining unparalleled.

#6 Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson, born in 1966, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who has been a key figure in the evolution of pop and R&B music. Jackson’s career took off in the mid-1980s with the release of her breakthrough album Control, which showcased her ability to blend pop, funk, and R&B with socially conscious lyrics. Hits like “Nasty,” “What Have You Done for Me Lately,” and “Control” established her as a pop powerhouse. Her 1989 album Rhythm Nation 1814 further solidified her status, featuring a mix of socially relevant themes and danceable tracks.

Jackson’s influence extends beyond music to include groundbreaking music videos, choreography, and stage performances, making her a pioneer in the industry. Her ability to continually reinvent herself and push boundaries has earned her a lasting legacy as one of the most influential female artists in pop music.

#7 Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige, born in 1971, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.” Blige rose to fame in the early 1990s with her debut album What’s the 411?, which blended R&B with hip-hop beats, creating a new genre that resonated with a wide audience. Her raw, emotive voice and lyrics that spoke to personal struggles and empowerment connected deeply with listeners. Hits like “Real Love,” “No More Drama,” and “Be Without You” established her as a dominant force in R&B music.

Blige’s influence extends beyond music, as she has also enjoyed success as an actress, earning critical acclaim for her roles in films like Mudbound. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her music and her contributions to the blending of R&B and hip-hop have solidified her legacy as one of the most influential artists of her generation.

#8 Tina Turner

Tina Turner, born in 1939, is an American-born Swiss singer, songwriter, and actress who is widely regarded as one of the greatest performers in music history. Turner first gained fame in the 1960s as part of the duo Ike & Tina Turner, delivering hits like “River Deep – Mountain High” and “Proud Mary.” After her tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner ended, she embarked on a solo career that catapulted her to global superstardom. Her 1984 album Private Dancer became a massive success, with singles like “What’s Love Got to Do with It” and “Private Dancer” becoming iconic.

Turner’s powerful voice, energetic stage presence, and resilience have made her a symbol of strength and empowerment. Her contributions to rock, pop, and soul music, along with her inspiring personal story, have left an indelible mark on the music industry.

#9 Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland, born in 1981, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who first gained fame as a member of Destiny’s Child, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. As a key member of the group alongside Beyoncé, Rowland contributed to hits like “Say My Name,” “Survivor,” and “Bootylicious.” Following the group’s hiatus, Rowland launched a successful solo career, with her 2002 debut album Simply Deep featuring the hit single “Dilemma,” a duet with Nelly that topped charts worldwide.

Rowland has continued to release successful albums, including Ms. Kelly and Here I Am, exploring various musical styles from R&B to dance-pop. In addition to her music career, Rowland has also pursued acting and served as a judge on talent shows like The X Factor. Her versatility and ongoing influence in the music industry have established her as a respected and enduring artist.

#10 Ciara

Ciara, born in 1985, is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer known for her smooth vocals and dynamic dance abilities. Ciara burst onto the music scene in 2004 with her debut album Goodies, which featured hit singles like “Goodies,” “1, 2 Step,” and “Oh.” Her music, characterized by a blend of R&B, hip-hop, and crunk, quickly made her a favorite in the early 2000s. Ciara’s ability to combine catchy melodies with high-energy choreography has made her one of the most captivating performers in the industry.

Over the years, Ciara has continued to release successful albums, including The Evolution and Basic Instinct, while also exploring acting and fashion. Her influence on dance-pop and R&B, along with her consistent presence in the entertainment world, has solidified her place as a significant figure in modern music.

#11 Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande, born in 1993, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who has become one of the biggest pop stars of her generation. Grande first gained attention as an actress on Nickelodeon before transitioning to a music career with her 2013 debut album Yours Truly, which featured the hit single “The Way.” Her powerful voice, reminiscent of Mariah Carey, and her ability to blend pop, R&B, and soul quickly earned her critical and commercial success. Subsequent albums like My Everything and Sweetener solidified her status, producing hits like “Problem,” “Thank U, Next,” and “7 Rings.”

Grande is known for her vocal range, intricate melodies, and ability to tackle a variety of musical styles. Her influence on contemporary pop music, combined with her activism and public persona, has made her one of the most influential and admired artists in the industry.

#12 Solange

Solange, born in 1986, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her innovative approach to music and her unique artistic vision. The younger sister of Beyoncé, Solange first entered the music industry in the early 2000s but gained widespread critical acclaim with her 2016 album A Seat at the Table. The album, which features themes of identity, empowerment, and social justice, was praised for its thoughtful lyrics, genre-blending production, and Solange’s soulful vocals. Hits like “Cranes in the Sky” showcased her ability to create deeply personal yet universally resonant music.

Solange’s influence extends beyond music to include fashion and visual art, making her a multifaceted artist whose work transcends traditional genre boundaries. Her contributions to contemporary music and culture have earned her a devoted following and critical acclaim as one of the most innovative artists of her generation.

#13 Brandy

Brandy, born in 1979, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame in the 1990s and is often referred to as the “Vocal Bible” for her distinctive voice and intricate vocal arrangements. Brandy’s self-titled debut album, released in 1994, included hits like “I Wanna Be Down” and “Baby,” establishing her as a leading figure in R&B. Her 1998 album Never Say Never further solidified her success, with the single “The Boy Is Mine,” a duet with Monica, becoming one of the best-selling songs of the year.

In addition to her music career, Brandy has also enjoyed success as an actress, starring in the popular television show Moesha and the TV movie Cinderella. Her influence on R&B, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s, has made her a significant figure in the genre, and she continues to be celebrated for her vocal talent and contributions to music.

#14 Toni Braxton

Toni Braxton, born in 1967, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her deep, sultry voice and her impact on the R&B genre. Braxton first gained fame in the early 1990s with her self-titled debut album, which included hits like “Another Sad Love Song” and “Breathe Again.” Her powerful vocals and emotional delivery quickly established her as one of the leading voices in contemporary R&B. Braxton’s success continued with her second album, Secrets, which featured the smash hit “Un-Break My Heart,” solidifying her status as a global superstar.

Throughout her career, Braxton has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and has sold millions of records worldwide. Her influence on R&B and pop music, combined with her distinctive voice and timeless hits, has made her one of the most iconic and respected artists in the industry.

#15 SZA

SZA, born Solána Imani Rowe in 1989, is an American singer and songwriter known for her unique blend of R&B, neo-soul, and hip-hop. SZA first gained attention with her EPs See.SZA.Run and S in the early 2010s, but her breakthrough came with the release of her debut studio album Ctrl in 2017. The album, featuring hits like “Love Galore” and “The Weekend,” received widespread critical acclaim for its honest lyrics and innovative production, earning SZA multiple Grammy nominations and establishing her as a leading voice in contemporary R&B.

SZA’s music often explores themes of self-discovery, love, and empowerment, resonating with a wide audience. Her distinctive sound and ability to convey deep emotion through her music have made her one of the most influential artists in the modern R&B landscape.

#16 Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe, born in 1985, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her eclectic musical style and innovative concepts. Monáe’s music blends R&B, funk, soul, and pop with futuristic themes, creating a sound that is both unique and socially conscious. She gained widespread recognition with her 2010 debut album The ArchAndroid, which received critical acclaim for its ambitious narrative and genre-blending tracks like “Tightrope.”

Monáe’s subsequent albums, including The Electric Lady and Dirty Computer, further established her as a powerful force in music and culture, with the latter earning a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year. In addition to her music career, Monáe has also made a significant impact in film, with roles in critically acclaimed movies like Moonlight and Hidden Figures. Her ability to seamlessly blend music, film, and activism has made her one of the most dynamic and influential artists of her generation.

#17 Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera, born in 1980, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her powerful voice and vocal versatility. Aguilera first rose to fame with her self-titled debut album in 1999, which included hit singles like “Genie in a Bottle” and “What a Girl Wants.” Her ability to effortlessly transition between pop, R&B, and soul, combined with her vocal range, quickly established her as one of the leading pop stars of the early 2000s.

Aguilera’s subsequent albums, including Stripped and Back to Basics, showcased her ability to reinvent herself, with hits like “Beautiful” and “Fighter” further solidifying her status as a pop icon. In addition to her music career, Aguilera has also served as a coach on The Voice and has pursued acting, demonstrating her versatility as an entertainer. Her influence on pop music and vocal performance continues to be celebrated, making her one of the most enduring figures in the industry.

#18 Aaliyah

Aaliyah, born Aaliyah Dana Haughton in 1979, was an American singer, actress, and model who became a defining voice in R&B before her tragic death in 2001. Aaliyah first gained attention in the mid-1990s with her debut album Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number, which featured the hit single “Back & Forth.” Her innovative blend of R&B, pop, and hip-hop, combined with her smooth, sultry vocals, set her apart from her contemporaries and earned her the nickname “Princess of R&B.”

Aaliyah’s follow-up albums, One in a Million and her self-titled Aaliyah, solidified her status as a trailblazer in the music industry, with hits like “Try Again” and “Are You That Somebody?” Despite her life being cut short, Aaliyah’s influence on music, fashion, and culture remains profound, and she is remembered as one of the most iconic figures in R&B.

#19 Tamar Braxton

Tamar Braxton, born in 1977, is an American singer, songwriter, and television personality known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence. Braxton first gained attention as a member of The Braxtons, a group she formed with her sisters, including the famous Toni Braxton. However, it was her solo career that truly showcased her talents, particularly with the release of her 2013 album Love and War. The album’s title track became a major hit, earning Braxton critical acclaim and several award nominations.

In addition to her music career, Braxton has become a well-known television personality, starring in reality shows like Braxton Family Values and Tamar & Vince. Her ability to balance her music career with her television work has made her a versatile and influential figure in entertainment.

#20 Chloe Bailey

Chloe Bailey, born in 1998, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who first gained fame as one half of the sister duo Chloe x Halle. The duo, signed by Beyoncé’s Parkwood Entertainment, gained recognition with their debut album The Kids Are Alright and later with Ungodly Hour, which featured hits like “Do It.” Chloe’s powerful voice, impressive range, and dynamic performances quickly set her apart as a rising star in the music industry.

In 2021, Chloe began her solo career with the release of her debut single “Have Mercy,” showcasing her versatility and confidence as a solo artist. Her ability to blend R&B, pop, and hip-hop elements, combined with her strong stage presence, has made her one of the most promising young artists in the industry today.

#21 Tinashe

Tinashe, born in 1993, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her genre-blending music and impressive vocal abilities. Tinashe first gained attention with her self-released mixtapes In Case We Die and Reverie, which led to her signing with RCA Records. Her debut studio album, Aquarius, was released in 2014 and received critical acclaim for its experimental production and hit single “2 On.” Tinashe’s music often fuses R&B, pop, and electronic influences, creating a sound that is both innovative and accessible.

In addition to her music career, Tinashe has pursued acting and dance, further showcasing her versatility as an artist. Despite facing challenges in the music industry, she has continued to push boundaries and maintain creative control over her work, earning respect and admiration for her artistry.

#22 Keri Hilson

Keri Hilson, born in 1982, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who made a significant impact in the late 2000s with her blend of R&B and pop music. Before launching her solo career, Hilson was a successful songwriter, penning hits for artists like Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, and Usher. She stepped into the spotlight with her debut album In a Perfect World… in 2009, which included hits like “Knock You Down” and “Turnin Me On.” Hilson’s smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and confident persona quickly earned her a dedicated fanbase.

In addition to her music career, Hilson has also ventured into acting and philanthropy, advocating for various social causes. Though she has taken a step back from the music industry in recent years, her contributions to R&B and pop music continue to be celebrated.

#23 Normani

Normani, born in 1996, is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who first gained fame as a member of the girl group Fifth Harmony. After the group went on hiatus, Normani embarked on a solo career, quickly establishing herself as a formidable talent in the music industry. Her 2018 collaboration with Khalid on “Love Lies” became a major hit, showcasing her smooth vocals and star potential. Normani’s 2019 single “Motivation” further solidified her status as a rising pop and R&B star, with its catchy hooks and impressive choreography earning widespread praise.

Normani’s ability to blend pop, R&B, and hip-hop influences, combined with her dynamic stage presence and dance skills, has made her one of the most exciting young artists in the industry. Her growing influence and potential suggest a bright future as she continues to carve out her own path in music.

Frequently Asked Questions

How has Rihanna influenced pop and R&B music like Beyoncé?

Rihanna has influenced pop and R&B by blending different genres like dancehall, hip-hop, and electronic music, creating a unique and versatile sound. Her bold fashion choices and business ventures, similar to Beyoncé, have also made her a cultural icon.

What makes Alicia Keys’ music career comparable to Beyoncé’s?

Alicia Keys, like Beyoncé, is known for her powerful vocals, songwriting skills, and ability to blend classical elements with contemporary R&B. Both artists have used their platforms to address social issues and have remained influential figures in the music industry.

How did Jennifer Lopez achieve success across multiple entertainment fields similar to Beyoncé?

Jennifer Lopez, much like Beyoncé, has successfully balanced careers in music, film, and fashion, becoming a multi-talented entertainer. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences through her Latin heritage and mainstream appeal mirrors Beyoncé’s widespread influence.

In what ways has Solange differentiated her music from Beyoncé’s while still achieving success?

Solange has differentiated her music by embracing a more experimental and artistic approach, focusing on themes of identity and empowerment. While less mainstream than Beyoncé, her critically acclaimed work has earned her respect as a unique voice in contemporary music.