Norah Jones is celebrated for her smooth, soulful voice and her unique ability to blend jazz, blues, folk, and pop into a sound that is both timeless and deeply emotive. Her music has a calming, introspective quality that resonates with listeners who appreciate heartfelt lyrics and rich, acoustic melodies.
If you’re a fan of Norah Jones and are looking for more artists who offer a similar blend of soothing vocals and genre-defying music, you’re in the right place.
In this article, we explore a selection of singers like Norah Jones, each bringing their own unique touch to the same soulful, introspective style that has captivated audiences around the world.
21 Incredible Singers Similar to Nora Jones to Add to Your Playlist
Contents
- 1 21 Incredible Singers Similar to Nora Jones to Add to Your Playlist
- 2 #1 Diana Krall
- 3 #2 Madeleine Peyroux
- 4 #3 Alicia Keys
- 5 #4 Corinne Bailey Rae
- 6 #5 Katie Melua
- 7 #6 Eva Cassidy
- 8 #7 Joss Stone
- 9 #8 Feist
- 10 #9 Melody Gardot
- 11 #10 Adele
- 12 #11 Beth Orton
- 13 #12 Amy Winehouse
- 14 #13 Lizz Wright
- 15 #14 India Arie
- 16 #15 Vanessa Carlton
- 17 #16 Rachael Yamagata
- 18 #17 Ingrid Michaelson
- 19 #18 Regina Spektor
- 20 #19 Sarah McLachlan
- 21 #20 Cat Power
- 22 #21 Brandi Carlile
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
- 23.1 What genre do singers like Norah Jones typically perform in?
- 23.2 How do singers like Norah Jones differ from mainstream pop artists?
- 23.3 What themes are commonly explored by artists similar to Norah Jones?
- 23.4 Why are artists like Norah Jones often associated with a relaxing or soothing musical style?
These artists share a similar vibe to Norah Jones, combining elements of jazz, soul, and pop with rich, emotive vocals and introspective songwriting.
Here’s a list of 21 singers similar to Norah Jones, known for their smooth vocals, blend of jazz, blues, and folk influences, and a mellow, soulful sound:
#1 Diana Krall
Diana Krall, a Canadian jazz pianist and singer, is renowned for her sultry, sophisticated voice and masterful piano playing. Born in 1964, Krall’s music career began in the early 1990s, and she quickly established herself as one of the leading figures in contemporary jazz. Her 1996 album All for You: A Dedication to the Nat King Cole Trio brought her critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination, solidifying her place in the jazz world. Krall’s style is characterized by a blend of jazz standards and contemporary pop, delivered with a smooth, laid-back elegance that has drawn comparisons to Norah Jones.
Krall’s commercial breakthrough came with her 1999 album When I Look in Your Eyes, which won her a Grammy Award and became the first jazz album in 25 years to be nominated for Album of the Year. Over the years, she has continued to release successful albums, such as The Look of Love (2001) and Quiet Nights (2009), while maintaining a dedicated fanbase. Krall’s ability to interpret classic songs with a fresh, contemporary feel has made her one of the most celebrated jazz artists of her generation.
#2 Madeleine Peyroux
Madeleine Peyroux is an American jazz and blues singer-songwriter known for her rich, evocative voice that often draws comparisons to the legendary Billie Holiday. Born in 1974, Peyroux began her music career busking on the streets of Paris, where she honed her craft by performing classic jazz standards. Her debut album, Dreamland (1996), was released to critical acclaim and showcased her ability to blend jazz, blues, and folk influences into a cohesive, emotionally resonant sound. Peyroux’s music is marked by its intimate, understated style, often featuring acoustic arrangements that highlight her unique vocal timbre.
After a brief hiatus, Peyroux returned to the music scene with her 2004 album Careless Love, which became a commercial success and introduced her to a wider audience. The album’s mix of jazz standards, blues, and contemporary covers, delivered with Peyroux’s signature melancholic touch, resonated with listeners worldwide. Throughout her career, Peyroux has continued to explore a wide range of musical genres, while staying true to the soulful, introspective style that has made her a beloved figure in the jazz and blues communities.
#3 Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist whose blend of R&B, soul, and jazz influences has made her one of the most successful and critically acclaimed artists of her generation. Born in 1981, Keys began playing piano at a young age and was classically trained, which is reflected in the intricate, emotive piano arrangements that characterize much of her music. Her debut album, Songs in A Minor (2001), was a massive commercial success, featuring the hit single “Fallin'” and earning her five Grammy Awards. Keys’ music is known for its powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and seamless fusion of classical and contemporary sounds.
Over the years, Keys has released several successful albums, including The Diary of Alicia Keys (2003) and As I Am (2007), each of which showcased her growth as an artist and songwriter. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also known for her activism and philanthropy, particularly in the areas of education and HIV/AIDS awareness. Her ability to blend different genres with a deep sense of emotional honesty has made Alicia Keys a defining voice in modern R&B and soul music.
#4 Corinne Bailey Rae
Corinne Bailey Rae is a British singer-songwriter known for her smooth, soulful voice and blend of R&B, jazz, and pop influences. Born in 1979, Bailey Rae gained widespread recognition with her self-titled debut album in 2006, which featured the hit single “Put Your Records On.” The album was a commercial success and earned her three Grammy nominations, establishing her as one of the most promising new voices in soul and R&B. Her music is characterized by its warm, laid-back vibe, often infused with elements of jazz and blues, creating a sound that is both contemporary and timeless.
After the success of her debut album, Bailey Rae’s career was marked by personal tragedy, but she returned with the critically acclaimed album The Sea in 2010, which was inspired by her experiences and showcased a deeper, more introspective side of her artistry. Her ability to convey complex emotions through her music, coupled with her distinctive voice, has earned her a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim. Corinne Bailey Rae continues to evolve as an artist, exploring new musical territories while maintaining the soulful essence that has defined her career.
#5 Katie Melua
Katie Melua is a Georgian-British singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and a musical style that blends jazz, blues, and folk influences. Born in 1984, Melua moved to the UK as a child and began her music career in the early 2000s. Her debut album, Call Off the Search (2003), was an instant success, reaching the top of the UK charts and featuring the hit single “The Closest Thing to Crazy.” Melua’s music is characterized by its melodic, acoustic arrangements and her soothing, emotive voice, which has drawn comparisons to Norah Jones and other contemporary jazz-influenced artists.
Melua’s subsequent albums, including Piece by Piece (2005) and Pictures (2007), continued to build on her early success, earning her a reputation as one of the most popular and versatile artists in the UK. Her ability to blend different genres while maintaining a distinctive, personal style has endeared her to a wide audience. Melua’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and introspection, delivered with a gentle, understated elegance that has made her a beloved figure in the music world.
#6 Eva Cassidy
Eva Cassidy was an American singer and guitarist known for her emotive interpretations of jazz, blues, folk, and gospel standards. Born in 1963, Cassidy’s music career was marked by her ability to imbue well-known songs with a deep sense of emotion and personal connection, often transforming them into something entirely new. Although she was relatively unknown during her lifetime, Cassidy gained posthumous fame after the release of the album Songbird in 1998, which featured her stunning renditions of songs like “Fields of Gold” and “Over the Rainbow.” Her music is characterized by its pure, soulful voice and her ability to convey deep emotion with simplicity and grace.
Cassidy’s story is one of incredible talent that went largely unrecognized until after her untimely death in 1996 from melanoma. Since then, her music has touched millions of listeners around the world, and she is now considered one of the greatest interpreters of popular song. Her posthumous success has led to the release of several more albums, each showcasing her remarkable ability to breathe new life into the songs she performed. Eva Cassidy’s legacy continues to grow, with her music cherished for its beauty, sincerity, and emotional depth.
#7 Joss Stone
Joss Stone is a British soul singer and songwriter known for her powerful, emotive voice and her ability to infuse contemporary pop with classic soul and R&B influences. Born in 1987, Stone rose to fame as a teenager with her debut album The Soul Sessions (2003), which featured covers of classic soul songs and showcased her rich, mature vocals. The album was a commercial success, earning her critical acclaim and comparisons to legendary soul singers. Stone’s follow-up album, Mind, Body & Soul (2004), solidified her place in the music industry, with hits like “You Had Me” reaching the top of the charts.
Throughout her career, Stone has continued to explore a wide range of musical styles, from reggae and funk to blues and pop, while maintaining her soulful roots. Her versatility and vocal prowess have earned her numerous awards and a loyal fanbase worldwide. In addition to her music, Stone is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of human rights and animal welfare. Joss Stone’s ability to blend different genres with soul music’s emotional depth has made her one of the standout voices of her generation.
#8 Feist
Feist, born Leslie Feist in 1976, is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her introspective lyrics, indie-pop sensibility, and distinctive, soothing voice. Feist’s music career began in the indie rock scene, where she gained recognition as a member of the Canadian collective Broken Social Scene. Her solo career took off with the release of Let It Die (2004), which featured the hit single “Mushaboom” and showcased her ability to blend indie rock with elements of jazz, folk, and pop. Feist’s breakthrough album, The Reminder (2007), brought her international fame, particularly with the single “1234,” which became a major hit and earned her several Grammy nominations.
Feist’s music is characterized by its delicate balance of acoustic instrumentation, catchy melodies, and introspective lyrics that often explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Her ability to create deeply personal yet universally relatable music has resonated with a wide audience, making her one of the most respected artists in the indie and alternative music scenes. Feist continues to evolve as an artist, with each album offering new insights into her creative world.
#9 Melody Gardot
Melody Gardot is an American jazz singer-songwriter known for her sultry voice, sophisticated songwriting, and blend of jazz, blues, and bossa nova influences. Born in 1985, Gardot’s music career began after a life-changing accident left her with serious injuries, leading her to use music as a form of therapy. Her debut album, Worrisome Heart (2006), introduced her unique blend of jazz and blues, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Gardot’s music is marked by its intimate, atmospheric sound, often featuring lush arrangements and her distinctive, smoky vocals.
Her second album, My One and Only Thrill (2009), further established Gardot as a major talent in the jazz world, with songs like “Baby I’m a Fool” and “Who Will Comfort Me” showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Gardot’s work often reflects her personal experiences, particularly themes of resilience and healing, making her music both deeply personal and universally resonant. Her ability to blend different genres with jazz’s emotional depth has made Melody Gardot one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music.
#10 Adele
Adele, born Adele Laurie Blue Adkins in 1988, is a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and deeply emotional ballads that blend soul, pop, and jazz influences. Adele burst onto the music scene with her debut album 19 (2008), which featured the hit singles “Chasing Pavements” and “Hometown Glory.” Her music, characterized by its raw, emotive vocals and poignant lyrics, quickly resonated with audiences worldwide, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Adele’s follow-up album, 21 (2011), became a global phenomenon, with hits like “Rolling in the Deep” and “Someone Like You” solidifying her status as one of the most successful artists of her generation.
Adele’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and self-reflection, delivered with a vocal intensity that has drawn comparisons to legendary soul singers. Her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level has made her one of the best-selling music artists in history, with millions of albums sold worldwide. Despite her massive success, Adele remains grounded, often reflecting her personal experiences and emotions in her music, making her a relatable and beloved figure in the music industry.
#11 Beth Orton
Beth Orton is a British singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of folk, electronica, and acoustic music, often referred to as “folktronica.” Born in 1970, Orton’s music career began in the mid-1990s, when she collaborated with artists like William Orbit and the Chemical Brothers, blending traditional folk melodies with electronic beats. Her breakthrough album, Trailer Park (1996), featured the hit single “She Cries Your Name” and earned her critical acclaim for her innovative approach to songwriting. Orton’s music is characterized by its ethereal, haunting quality, with her distinctive voice delivering introspective lyrics over a mix of acoustic and electronic instrumentation.
Over the years, Orton has continued to explore the intersection of folk and electronic music, with albums like Central Reservation (1999) and Daybreaker (2002) further solidifying her place in the alternative music scene. Her ability to seamlessly merge different genres while maintaining a strong, personal songwriting style has earned her a loyal fanbase and widespread respect in the music industry. Beth Orton’s influence on the folktronica genre and her willingness to experiment with new sounds have made her one of the most innovative artists of her time.
#12 Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse was a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice, eclectic mix of musical genres, and deeply personal lyrics. Born in 1983, Winehouse’s music career took off with her debut album Frank (2003), which blended jazz, soul, and R&B influences, earning her critical acclaim and a Mercury Prize nomination. However, it was her second album, Back to Black (2006), that catapulted her to international fame, featuring hit singles like “Rehab” and “Back to Black.” Winehouse’s music was characterized by its raw emotional honesty, vintage sound, and her unique vocal delivery, which drew comparisons to classic soul and jazz singers.
Despite her immense talent, Winehouse’s career was marred by personal struggles, including substance abuse and mental health issues, which ultimately led to her untimely death in 2011. Nevertheless, her influence on modern music remains profound, with her work inspiring a new generation of artists who seek to blend retro and contemporary sounds. Amy Winehouse’s legacy as one of the most gifted and troubled artists of her generation continues to resonate, with her music remaining a powerful testament to her talent and vulnerability.
#13 Lizz Wright
Lizz Wright is an American jazz and gospel singer-songwriter known for her rich, soulful voice and her ability to blend jazz, gospel, blues, and folk influences into a cohesive, deeply spiritual sound. Born in 1980, Wright began her music career in the early 2000s, quickly gaining recognition for her warm, emotive vocals and her unique approach to interpreting classic songs. Her debut album, Salt (2003), introduced her to a wider audience, featuring a mix of original compositions and covers that showcased her ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Wright’s music is characterized by its introspective lyrics, lush arrangements, and her ability to seamlessly move between genres.
Over the years, Wright has continued to explore a wide range of musical styles, with albums like The Orchard (2008) and Grace (2017) reflecting her deep connection to her Southern roots and her spiritual upbringing. Her music often explores themes of love, faith, and self-discovery, delivered with a vocal depth and sincerity that has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Lizz Wright’s ability to blend different musical traditions into a unique, soulful sound has made her one of the most respected voices in contemporary jazz and gospel music.
#14 India Arie
India Arie is an American singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice, introspective lyrics, and her blend of neo-soul, R&B, and acoustic music. Born in 1975, Arie’s music career began in the late 1990s, with her debut album Acoustic Soul (2001) earning her critical acclaim and multiple Grammy nominations. The album featured the hit single “Video,” which became an anthem for self-acceptance and empowerment. Arie’s music is characterized by its positive messages, acoustic arrangements, and her ability to fuse elements of folk, soul, and R&B into a cohesive, uplifting sound.
Over the years, Arie has released several successful albums, including Voyage to India (2002) and Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship (2006), each of which has further solidified her place in the music industry as a voice of wisdom and empowerment. Her ability to address social and personal issues with grace and authenticity has earned her a loyal fanbase and widespread respect. India Arie’s commitment to using her music as a tool for healing and self-expression has made her one of the most influential and beloved artists in contemporary soul music.
#15 Vanessa Carlton
Vanessa Carlton is an American singer-songwriter and pianist known for her emotive, piano-driven pop music. Born in 1980, Carlton gained widespread fame with her debut single “A Thousand Miles” in 2002, a song that became an instant hit and is now considered a classic of the early 2000s. Her debut album, Be Not Nobody (2002), showcased her classical training and ability to craft catchy, heartfelt pop songs with intricate piano arrangements. Carlton’s music is characterized by its introspective lyrics, melodic sensibility, and her distinctive voice, which conveys a deep sense of emotion and vulnerability.
Following the success of her debut, Carlton released several more albums, including Harmonium (2004) and Heroes & Thieves (2007), each exploring different aspects of her artistry and personal experiences. Although she never replicated the massive commercial success of her debut single, Carlton has continued to evolve as an artist, exploring more experimental and indie-oriented sounds in her later work. Her ability to blend pop, folk, and classical influences with honest, reflective songwriting has earned her a dedicated fanbase and critical respect.
#16 Rachael Yamagata
Rachael Yamagata is an American singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and emotionally charged ballads that blend elements of rock, folk, and blues. Born in 1977, Yamagata began her career as the lead singer for the band Bumpus before launching a solo career in the early 2000s. Her debut album, Happenstance (2004), was met with critical acclaim, featuring songs like “Be Be Your Love” and “Worn Me Down” that showcased her ability to write deeply personal, introspective lyrics paired with lush, evocative melodies. Yamagata’s music is often compared to that of Norah Jones due to its intimate, emotional depth and blend of genres.
Throughout her career, Yamagata has continued to release albums that explore themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, with a focus on raw, honest songwriting. Albums like Elephants… Teeth Sinking into Heart (2008) and Chesapeake (2011) further cemented her reputation as a powerful, evocative storyteller in the singer-songwriter genre. Yamagata’s music resonates with listeners who appreciate her ability to convey complex emotions through her rich, soulful voice and haunting melodies.
#17 Ingrid Michaelson
Ingrid Michaelson is an American singer-songwriter known for her catchy, heartfelt indie-pop songs that often feature themes of love, relationships, and self-empowerment. Born in 1979, Michaelson gained attention with her 2006 album Girls and Boys, which included the hit single “The Way I Am.” The song’s success was boosted by its use in a commercial, bringing Michaelson’s music to a wider audience. Her music is characterized by its catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and a blend of folk, pop, and indie influences, delivered with a warm, engaging vocal style.
Michaelson’s subsequent albums, including Be OK (2008) and Everybody (2009), continued to build on her success, showcasing her ability to write songs that are both relatable and emotionally resonant. She has remained an independent artist throughout her career, known for her strong DIY ethic and her ability to connect with fans through her music and live performances. Ingrid Michaelson’s blend of indie-pop sensibilities with heartfelt, accessible lyrics has made her one of the most beloved artists in the contemporary singer-songwriter scene.
#18 Regina Spektor
Regina Spektor is a Russian-American singer-songwriter and pianist known for her eclectic style, blending elements of classical music, folk, and indie pop with a quirky, often whimsical lyrical approach. Born in Moscow in 1980, Spektor emigrated to the United States as a child and began her music career in New York City’s anti-folk scene. Her breakthrough album, Soviet Kitsch (2004), introduced her unique blend of storytelling, humor, and emotion, earning her a dedicated following. Spektor’s music is characterized by its narrative lyrics, inventive piano arrangements, and a vocal style that ranges from tender and introspective to playful and experimental.
Spektor’s subsequent albums, such as Begin to Hope (2006) and Far (2009), brought her mainstream success, with hits like “Fidelity” and “Eet” showcasing her ability to craft catchy, yet deeply personal songs. Her music often explores themes of love, identity, and the human experience, delivered with a distinctive voice that is both emotive and versatile. Regina Spektor’s ability to blend different musical genres with a unique, artistic vision has made her one of the most innovative and influential singer-songwriters of her generation.
#19 Sarah McLachlan
Sarah McLachlan is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her ethereal voice, emotive songwriting, and her ability to blend pop, folk, and alternative music into a cohesive, deeply affecting sound. Born in 1968, McLachlan’s music career took off with the release of her album Fumbling Towards Ecstasy (1993), which featured the hit single “Possession” and established her as a major force in the adult contemporary genre. Her 1997 album Surfacing further solidified her place in the music industry, with hits like “Building a Mystery” and “Angel” earning her critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards.
McLachlan’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and introspection, delivered with a hauntingly beautiful voice that has captivated audiences worldwide. In addition to her music, she is also known for founding the Lilith Fair, a music festival that showcased female artists and helped to promote women in the music industry. Sarah McLachlan’s ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level, coupled with her dedication to empowering female musicians, has made her one of the most respected and influential artists in contemporary music.
#20 Cat Power
Cat Power, the stage name of American singer-songwriter Chan Marshall, is known for her raw, emotional voice and her ability to blend elements of folk, blues, and indie rock into a deeply personal, introspective sound. Born in 1972, Marshall began her music career in the early 1990s, gaining attention with her minimalist approach to songwriting and her haunting vocal delivery. Her breakthrough album, Moon Pix (1998), received critical acclaim for its sparse arrangements and Marshall’s ability to convey a deep sense of vulnerability and emotional intensity.
Over the years, Cat Power has continued to evolve as an artist, with albums like The Greatest (2006) and Sun (2012) showcasing her ability to blend different musical genres while maintaining a strong, personal connection to her music. Her work often explores themes of love, loneliness, and self-discovery, delivered with a raw, unfiltered honesty that has resonated with listeners worldwide. Cat Power’s influence on the indie and alternative music scenes is significant, with her unique voice and deeply personal songwriting earning her a dedicated fanbase and widespread critical acclaim.
#21 Brandi Carlile
Brandi Carlile is an American singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice, emotive lyrics, and her ability to blend folk, rock, and Americana influences into a compelling, authentic sound. Born in 1981, Carlile began her music career in the early 2000s, gaining attention with her 2005 self-titled debut album. However, it was her 2007 album The Story that brought her widespread acclaim, featuring the title track that became a defining song of her career. Carlile’s music is characterized by its honest, introspective lyrics, dynamic vocal range, and a deep connection to Americana and folk traditions.
Over the years, Carlile has continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including Bear Creek (2012) and By the Way, I Forgive You (2018), the latter of which earned her multiple Grammy Awards. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, coupled with her commitment to social activism and LGBTQ+ rights, has made her a powerful voice in contemporary music. Brandi Carlile’s blend of folk, rock, and country influences, combined with her compelling storytelling, has earned her a place as one of the leading voices in Americana and modern folk music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What genre do singers like Norah Jones typically perform in?
Singers like Norah Jones typically perform in genres that blend jazz, blues, folk, and pop, creating a mellow and soulful sound. Their music often features smooth vocals, intimate lyrics, and acoustic instrumentation.
How do singers like Norah Jones differ from mainstream pop artists?
Singers like Norah Jones tend to focus on more introspective, emotionally rich music with an emphasis on acoustic arrangements and nuanced vocal delivery. They often prioritize artistic expression over commercial trends, leading to a more timeless and intimate sound.
What themes are commonly explored by artists similar to Norah Jones?
Artists similar to Norah Jones often explore themes of love, heartbreak, self-reflection, and personal growth. Their lyrics tend to be poetic and introspective, resonating with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
Why are artists like Norah Jones often associated with a relaxing or soothing musical style?
Artists like Norah Jones are associated with a relaxing or soothing musical style because their music typically features soft, melodic arrangements, gentle vocals, and a laid-back, mellow atmosphere. This combination creates a calming effect that appeals to listeners seeking a tranquil listening experience.
