My Favorite Celebrity Singing Voices [Archive]

Gideon58

11-16-17, 09:18 PM

https://udemy-images.udemy.com/course/750x422/450918_4af0_3.jpg

Regular followers of my ramblings on this site are more than aware of my love for movie musicals, but that love sprung from a general love of music that began as a childhood passion where I discovered my own ability to sing and my admiration of great singers flourished as weli. The following is a list of my favorite celebrity singers and I will be covering a lot of ground here...not just the stars of movie musicals, but television, Broadway, rock, rhythm and blues, opera, etc. These are the people I can listen to all day long. I will NOT be discussing anyone's looks or their personal lives, I will be talking about their vocal abilities and their individual instruments and the music they produce and how it has moved and influenced me over the years. Get ready for my list of my favorite celebrity singers:

matt72582

11-16-17, 09:21 PM

Keith Carradine - I'm Easy

Saunch

11-16-17, 10:37 PM

Posting this because I doubt he’s actually in Gideon’s list (if he is, kiddos).

Oscar Isaac (Inside Llewyn Davis):

https://youtu.be/BCiQZcMLFHo

lenslady

11-16-17, 11:31 PM

I love this thread! I tried posting here, minute ago, and it didn't come out, so I hope I m not repeating myself.

Haven't heard I m Easy in years; found it on YouTube and really enjoyed the song and that acoustic style of music. But I like you Gideon relish so many different types of music.

Also enjoyed Llewyn Davis and the music and especially - hearing, at the end of the movie, my fave music celebrity/actor(better known as a brilliant songwriter, and deservedly so):

Bob Dylan: Knocking on Heavens Door from the Pat Garrett movie. Well that s my 2 cents, and I m eagerly waiting for Gideon's list . Which is why we're all here😜

Gideon58

11-18-17, 11:13 AM

Let's get something out of the way right now...I can't stand Bob Dylan's voice and he will not be on this list. And I've never even heard of Llewelyn Davis.

Gideon58

11-18-17, 12:58 PM

100.

Davy Jones

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTIwNjA4NjMzNjY5NzgxMDA0/davy-jones-377858-3-402.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29qrRiF9t-M

Go ahead and laugh, but I loved Davy's voice...here's his guest shot on The Brady Bunch singing the classic "Girl". RIP, Davy.

Gideon58

11-18-17, 01:04 PM

99.

Marilyn Horne

https://media1.britannica.com/eb-media/28/10928-004-832C82AB.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnIz1roNMes

One of the greatest voices from the world of opera...the late Marilyn Horne was one of the most dramatic mezzos ever. Here she is singing the most famous aria from Carmen, "La Habenera", which she would get to re-think onscreen in 1954 when she did the singing for Dorothy Dandridge in the musical Carmen Jones. Television fans might even remember her guest spot on The Odd Couple as a painfully shy secretary who had a serious crush on Oscar Madison (Jack Klugman).

Gideon58

11-18-17, 01:10 PM

98.

Daryl Hall

http://yjdst3t2ce610lp8n38ginr6.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/DarylHall-312x312.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsHld-iArOc

Daryl Hall was the vocal magic behind Hall & Oates...I loved his voice because he had a tenor-like range but a more baritone sound, which was really sexy. This clip is of the record that also made my "Music that Makes Me Dance" list..."Kiss on My List."

Gideon58

11-18-17, 01:21 PM

97.

Shirley Jones

http://t2conline.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ShirleyJonescropped.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmyHZA4GAk8

Stage, screen, television, this Oscar-winning actress and singer has done it all...her beautiful lyric soprano first came to light during her impressive film debut in the 1955 musical Oklahoma!. She is observed here singing "What's the Use of Wondrin'" from the 1956 musical Carousel.

gbgoodies

11-19-17, 02:39 AM

99.

Marilyn Horne

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnIz1roNMes

One of the greatest voices from the world of opera...the late Marilyn Horne was one of the most dramatic mezzos ever. Here she is singing the most famous aria from Carmen, "La Habenera", which she would get to re-think onscreen in 1954 when she did the singing for Dorothy Dandridge in the musical Carmen Jones. Television fans might even remember her guest spot on The Odd Couple as a painfully shy secretary who had a serious crush on Oscar Madison (Jack Klugman).

I don't really know who Marilyn Horne is, but I remember her on "The Odd Couple", and she has a beautiful voice.

gbgoodies

11-19-17, 02:43 AM

97.

Shirley Jones

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmyHZA4GAk8

Stage, screen, television, this Oscar-winning actress and singer has done it all...her beautiful lyric soprano first came to light during her impressive film debut in the 1955 musical Oklahoma!. She is observed here singing "What's the Use of Wondrin'" from the 1956 musical Carousel.

Most people remember Shirley Jones from "The Partridge Family", but I loved her in the old musicals, Oklahoma!, Carousel, and The Music Man.

Gideon58

11-19-17, 02:43 PM

I don't really know who Marilyn Horne is, but I remember her on "The Odd Couple", and she has a beautiful voice.

That's so cool that you remember her from The Odd Couple...most people don't.

Gideon58

11-19-17, 06:39 PM

96.

Tony Martin

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/61/1953_Tony_Martin.JPG

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYK3QXMgyXA

His career at MGM might have been sporadic, but his velvety vocals were hard to resist. The clip of him singing "More than You Know" is from the 1955 musical Hit the Deck.

Gideon58

11-19-17, 06:41 PM

Keith Carradine - I'm Easy

"I'm Easy" is a great song and that scene is the best one in the movie, but Keith Carradine's singing voice is nothing special and he will not be appearing on this list.

Gideon58

11-19-17, 06:55 PM

95.

Al Green

https://liveforlivemusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/al-green.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVzYxqG9N1c

Green's rendition of "Let's Stay Together" is pretty much musical sex.

Gideon58

11-19-17, 07:08 PM

94.

Lea Solonga

https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/lesmiserables/images/5/58/Lea.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/345?cb=20130510023931

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCXgiflMp5A

This talented singer actress has appeared on Broadway in Les Miserables, Miss Saigon, and Flower Drum Song. She also provided the singing voice for Princess Jasmine in the Disney classic Aladdin. I have provided a vocal clip of her singing one of my favorite musical songs, "My Lord and Master" from The King and I.

Dani8

11-19-17, 07:36 PM

94.

[SIZE="7"][B]Lea Solonga

.

I dont know her but gee she's pretty .Video geoblocked so I shall google YT.

matt72582

11-19-17, 07:46 PM

"I'm Easy" is a great song and that scene is the best one in the movie, but Keith Carradine's singing voice is nothing special and he will not be appearing on this list.

My favorite moment in that movie is when the camera zooms in on Lily Tomlin's face, and she has that look... And those before, even the older lady who gives a certain peculiar smile, like she knows what's going on.

Dani8

11-19-17, 07:52 PM

Damn. I didnt know Davey died. Only 66. Vale.

gbgoodies

11-20-17, 01:35 AM

I don't really know who Marilyn Horne is, but I remember her on "The Odd Couple", and she has a beautiful voice.

That's so cool that you remember her from The Odd Couple...most people don't.

I watched "The Odd Couple" every night when I was younger. I remember almost everything from that show. :)

Gideon58

11-20-17, 07:22 PM

93.

Rosemary Clooney

https://www.otrcat.com/images/rosemary-clooney2.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpKRQWXYw5Q

One of the top-selling vocalists of the 1950's, Clooney's rich tones and crisp diction made her a vocalist to be reckoned with...I have included her finest musical moment in the 1954 musical White Christmas, "You Didn't Do Right By Me."

Gideon58

11-20-17, 07:34 PM

92.

Ted Neeley

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/f3/f5/60/f3f56093a5ce956deec0c60db1b46f7c.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyKDoivRdIo

One of the most underrated rock vocal instruments of the century, Neeley made his mark in cinematic history with one role...Jesus in the 1973 film version of the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar. Rarely have I heard a rock singer who had such control over his instrument. I have included his rendition of Gethsemane here, which is a voice lesson in itself.

Gideon58

11-25-17, 02:38 PM

91.

Carol Burnett

http://thelongcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Carol-Burnett_On-Sale-Blog.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxIHU9Hdx_c

Carol Burnett is world renowned as one of the funniest women in show business. People forget that Burnett is an accomplished singer, having started her career on Broadway in the musical Once Upon a Mattress. Burnett not only has monster pipes, but she knows how to sell a song and tell a story with a song. She also knows how to build a song without blowing her wad from the beginning. I have enclosed a clip of Burnett in rehearsal and onstage for the 1986 concert version of the Stephen Sondheim musical Follies performing "I'm Still Here."

Gideon58

11-25-17, 02:54 PM

90.

Gordon MacRae

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5a/Gordon_MacRae_1953.JPG

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIgNFRxR7GY

The handsome baritone began as a musician who played multiple instruments who soon found a career on Broadway and made his first impression in Hollywood starring in three different musicals with Doris Day, but made his biggest impact playing the leading roles in the film versions of two of Rodger and Hammerstein's biggest musicals, Oklahoma! and Carousel. I have included a clip of MacRae performing "Soliloquey" from Carousel.

Gideon58

11-25-17, 05:39 PM

89.

Len Cariou

http://i.lv3.hbo.com/assets/images/movies/into-the-storm/characters/franklin-delano-roosevelt-1024.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4z9i3R7UAQ

Before he became Tom Selleck's dad on the CBS series Blue Bloods, Len Cariou was a Broadway star whose rich baritone got him leads in the original broadway casts of Applause, A Little Night Music, and Sweeney Todd, for which he won a Tony Award. I have enclosed a clip of Cariou reuniting with his Sweeney Todd co-star, Angela Lansbury, to reprise their acclaimed duet from the show "A Little Priest."

Gideon58

11-25-17, 06:06 PM

88.

George Michael

http://img.wennermedia.com/social/george-95a2eecf-f9d8-4619-a543-6dd62bb9b226.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yf_Lwe6p-Cg

Despite a troubled personal life, George Michael had one of the most underrated singing voices in the business. Here'a clip from when he was still pretending to be part of Wham performing "Everything she Wants".

cat_sidhe

11-25-17, 06:10 PM

All I want from this thread is Sexy Celebrity singing. :D

Gideon58

11-26-17, 03:07 PM

87.

Ann Wilson

https://twt-media.washtimes.com/media/image/2017/03/25/ann-wilson-heart-sisters1.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Cw1ng75KP0

If there was one word to describe the lead singer of Heart's voice it would be "powerful"...one of the most powerful female vocalists in the business. This woman's voice is almost chilling in its power. I have included one of Heart's biggest hits, "Alone."

Gideon58

11-26-17, 03:16 PM

86.

Stephanie Mills

http://www.bbkingblues.com/inc/artists/380.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNQCgIZTBqk

Mills is best known for originating the role of Dorothy in the Broadway musical The Wiz. She also played Aunt Em in NBC's remake last year. I love Mills' voice because she is one of those singers whose voice is so unique she doesn't sound like ANYONE else...Mills has never been mistaken for any other singer. I have included the video for her top 40 disco hit "Pilot Error."

Gideon58

11-27-17, 07:42 PM

85.

Billy Ocean

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/B1RQceUzcQS._SL1000_.png

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEF_eU95ypw

His movie-star good looks, his steamy vocal abilities, and that very sexy accent combined to make Billy Ocean one of the biggest musical stars of the 80's with hits like "Carribean Queen" and "Get Out of My Dreams (And into my car)" I have included the video of my favorite Ocean offering...the beautiful and hainting "Suddenly".

Gideon58

12-02-17, 02:43 PM

84.

Luciano Pavarotti

https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/images/luciano-pavarotti-3.png

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdTBml4oOZ8

This grizzly bear of an opera singer had such crossover success at one point that he actually made being an opera singer cool. I have included a clip of him singing the aria he is most associated with "Nessum dorma".

Gideon58

12-02-17, 02:51 PM

83.

Eydie Gorme

https://peopledotcom.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/eydie-gorme-3-300.jpg?w=300

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wz67AlpAz1U

Gorme, alone with hubby Steve Lawrence, was a frequent guest on The Carol Burnett Show and was one of the greatest Tin Pan Alley belters in the business. She passed away in 2013. I have included a clip of Gorme from The Ed Sullivan Show singing one of the most popular songs from the Broadway musical Mame.

Gideon58

12-02-17, 04:12 PM

82.

Roger Daltrey

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE1ODA0OTcxMjQ1Mjc0NjM3/roger-daltrey-391574-2-402.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbQ3JUA-af0

He first caught my attention in the 1975 musical Tommy and learned that Daltrey has one of the most powerful rock and roll voices I have ever heard. I have included a clip of Daltrey doing a live version of a song he introduced in Tommy, "I'm Free."

Gideon58

12-02-17, 04:21 PM

81.

Olivia Newton-John

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE5NDg0MDU0NzI1MTAxMDcx/olivia-newton-john-201393-1-402.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0Sz6g76cac

Her fresh-scrubbed good looks and her lilting voice were a perfect fit for the love songs she recorded in the 70's that even led to a brief movie career. I have included a clip of her top 40 hit from the movie Grease, "Hopelessly Devoted to You."

Gideon58

12-02-17, 04:31 PM

80.

John Raitt

http://cdn.smehost.net/masterworksbroadwaycom-45pressprod/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/RAITT_John_phE.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfCyUugiWm8

The late legendary baritone created two of the greatest leading men in Broadway history...Billy Bigelow in Carousel and Sid Sirokin in The Pajama Game. He is also the father of singer Bonnie Raitt. I have included the "If I loved You scene from the original Broadway production of Carousel.

Citizen Rules

12-02-17, 04:38 PM

Neat thread Gideon! And I just now seen it. I repped the singers I like and are familiar with. OK, I'll keep following along:)

Dani8

12-02-17, 05:41 PM

One of the most underrated rock vocal instruments of the century, Neeley made his mark in cinematic history with one role...Jesus in the 1973 film version of the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar. Rarely have I heard a rock singer who had such control over his instrument. I have included his rendition of Gethsemane here, which is a voice lesson in itself.

I dont recall him but just listened to that YT you posted. Was he classically trained? Hooley dooley you are right - what control. Goosebumps!

SeeingisBelieving

12-02-17, 05:50 PM

Charlotte Ritchie has a nice singing voice. It only occurs to me as I've just – after quite a long wait – got round to watching the final series of Fresh Meat. The fact that her character has some ability in that area comes as a surprise to her housemates, in Series 2 if I remember rightly.

Wasn't mad keen on Series 4 but I thought the final episode was a great success, and better than the equivalent in Peep Show.

gbgoodies

12-02-17, 06:08 PM

91.Carol Burnett

I love Carol Burnett as both a singer and a comedienne. I'm looking forward to her Anniversary special on TV tomorrow night.

90.Gordon MacRae

IMO, Gordon MacRae should be much higher on this list. He had an incredible voice.

89.Len Cariou

I saw Len Cariou on Broadway in "Sweeney Todd" many years ago. He was amazing.

88.George Michael

While I'm not a big fan of Wham!, I agree that George Michael had a great voice.

85.Billy Ocean

I love Billy Ocean's voice, and I agree that "Suddenly" is his best song.

Dani8

12-02-17, 06:11 PM

gbgoodies

12-02-17, 06:16 PM

Yeah gb I was only a lil kid when Carol had her show but it was a saturday night infront of the tv. She was amazing. Pretty crude from what I can remember?

Oh and listening to Billy ocean with my besties brings back memories.

And yes, George Michael - what an amazing voice.

I don't think I'd use the word "crude" to describe "The Carol Burnett Show", but she definitely didn't shy away from anything.

There used to be some episodes of her show on YouTube, but I haven't checked recently to see if they're still there. If they are, you should watch them when you get a chance. It's still one of my all-time favorite shows.

SeeingisBelieving

12-02-17, 06:19 PM

Oh and listening to Billy ocean with my besties brings back memories.

And yes, George Michael - what an amazing voice.

Oh yeah, both really good.

Dani8

12-02-17, 06:54 PM

There used to be some episodes of her show on YouTube, but I haven't checked recently to see if they're still there. If they are, you should watch them when you get a chance. It's still one of my all-time favorite shows.

My mum's bestie would come over for it. I just remember her saying something about Carol taking it over the edge or something like that. She was very different back inthe day.

And she was always first name basis like she came over for a roast dinner every saturday night. My mum was a total fangirl.

Thanks for the YT heads up.:up:

gbgoodies

12-02-17, 09:25 PM

83.Eydie Gorme

I grew up listening to Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, so most of my favorite Eydie Gorme songs were their duets. I think they both have great voices, and they sound terrific together.

81.Olivia Newton-John

I'm not a fan of some of Olivia Newton-John's pop hits, like her song "Physical", but I think she has a beautiful voice, and I love listening to her sing a good ballad. BTW, "Hopelessly Devoted to You" is one of my favorite Olivia Newton-John songs.

80.John Raitt

John Raitt was practically a legend on Broadway, but it's too bad that he didn't make more movies. I loved him in The Pajama Game.

Does anyone else remember seeing (and hearing) him sing on the TV show "Third Rock from the Sun"?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXBc764h5-Q

Gideon58

12-03-17, 06:52 PM

79.

Michele Lee

https://i.pinimg.com/736x/30/a2/47/30a24761d16e61f400d13dc62c39c6d3--michele-lee-knots-landing.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmV74kOzK1Y

Before she became a prime time soap queen, Michele Lee was a Broadway star...I have included a clip of her singing "I Believe in You" from the film version of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.

Gideon58

12-03-17, 07:02 PM

78.

Donald O'Connor

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/c6/fb/e3/c6fbe34032aa62393a46e9e55326e49f.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LAijDQ2cIE

Donald O'Connor was primarily known as a dancer, but Donald had a lovely singing voice as well...listen to him in this duet with Ethel Merman from the musical "Call Me Madam."

Gideon58

12-03-17, 07:18 PM

77.

Rod Stewart

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE5NTU2MzE2Mzc4MDcyNTg3/rod-stewart-9494977-1-402.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sY2WIFGQttE

That raspy thing that Stewart had going with his voice was hard to resist, it added an unexpected layer of emotion to his voice...I have included the video for "Some Guys Have All the Luck."

Gideon58

12-09-17, 02:44 PM

76.

Dolly Parton

https://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_500/MI0004/303/MI0004303970.jpg?partner=allrovi.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvK1F6bUrzU

Originally a country western star, Parton's movie career helped her become a crossover star...not to mention her velvety singing voice. Enclosed here is a video for "Hard Candy Christmas", a song first introduced in her film The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.

Gideon58

12-09-17, 03:02 PM

Gideon58

12-09-17, 03:18 PM

74.

Larry Kert

http://hipe.historicimages.com/images/dfpy/dfpy88873.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOXHWODWqPw

Kert's gorgeous tenor voice first enthralled Broadway audiences when he originated the role of Tony in West Side Story. He also played Robert in the OBC of Company when original star Dean Jones left after a month. Fans of the 1977 musical New York New York also might remember him as Liza Minnelli's leading man in the "Happy Endings" sequence. I found a clip of his West Side Story co-star, Chita Rivera, introducing him as he performs "Being Alive" from Company.

Gideon58

12-09-17, 03:21 PM

73.

Gladys Knight

http://static.oprah.com/2015/10/20151022-laa-101-1-gladys-and-the-pips-2-949x534.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_Lh4MFiw08

One of the leading Motown icons for almost half a century, with and without the Pips, Knight is in possession of one of the most soulful and emotional voices out there. I have enclosed a clip of her and the Pips doing one of her most underrated tunes, "Neither One of Us."

Gideon58

12-09-17, 03:28 PM

72.

Ray Charles

http://cdn.ppcorn.com/us/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2015/02/Ray-Charles-The-Top-Ten-Greatest-Soul-Singers-of-All-Time-FDRMX.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRgWBN8yt_E

Charles' influence on my life started long before the 2004 movie with Jamie Foxx. My parents owned every single album that Ray Charles ever recorded so I grew up with the sound of his voice and his way with a ballad has definitely been an influence on my own musical training. The clip here is one of his biggest hits "Georgia on my Mind."

Gideon58

12-09-17, 03:33 PM

71.

Michael McDonald

http://angularjsdevelopment.com/LoveOldMusic/wp-content/uploads/michael-mcdonald2.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKYQNtF11eg

Michael McDonald had an amazing career as the lead singer of the Doobie Brothers and continues to write and perform today. What I loved about McDonald's voice is not only did no one else sound like him, but the first time I heard the Doobie Brothers, you couldn't tell me this guy wasn't black.

Gideon58

12-09-17, 05:01 PM

70.

Phillip Bailey

http://www.homdrum.net/ewf/images/pers_philip_bailey1_400.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Qz_b1di3i8

One of the lead singers for Earth, Wind, & Fire, I was always jealous of his sultry falsetto, which was the highlight of many songs for the group, primarily "Reasons", a live performance of which I have included here.

Gideon58

12-09-17, 05:07 PM

69.

David Cassidy

https://www.billboard.com/files/media/23-david-cassidy-timeline-billboard-1548.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YU1btEs2KIg

Still trying to wrap my head around his recent passing, I had to include Cassidy's hard rocking vocals on this list. I have included a live performance of "How Can I be Sure?", a top 40 hit he had after the cancellation of The Partridge Family. RIP, David.

Gideon58

12-09-17, 05:13 PM

68.

Christine Ebersole

https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/disney/images/9/95/Christine-Ebersole.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20170918212417

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J10siEU5ofQ

This veteran two time Tony Award winning actress and singer has been gracing Broadway audiences with her talent for over 30 years , most notably in the original productions of 42 nd Street and Grey Gardens. I have included a clip of her performing "I Cain't Say No" from the 1979 revival of Oklahoma!.

Gideon58

12-09-17, 05:20 PM

67.

Luther Vandross

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE5NDg0MDU1MjQ5MTI2OTI3/luther-vandross-15423714-1-402.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gu2JBMNBbKo

During the 1970's women were dropping their panties whenever Barry White came on the radio. In the new millenium, they were dropping them for Luther. One of the sexiest voices out there, here's Luther performing "A House is Not a Home."

Gideon58

12-09-17, 05:31 PM

66.

Chris Colfer

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7f/Chris_Colfer_2013.jpg/1200px-Chris_Colfer_2013.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12mnmxcv_3w

Six seasons on Glee documented the unique instrument that was Chris Colfer's voice, one of the great enigmas of this business...his range is unbelievable, a very high tenor that almost creeps into the range of a contratenor...this guy can belt notes that most male singers can only do in falsetto and this guy's falsetto is like nothing I've ever heard. I have included a clip of his cover of "Le Jazz Hot" from Victor/Victoria.

gbgoodies

12-10-17, 03:07 AM

75.

Jerry Orbach

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/GEW1F9kZ-UE/maxresdefault.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwX2NAoXzlM

Most people know him from his long running role on NBC's Law & Order, but long before that show premiered, Orbach was one of New York's most popular leading men in theater musicals, originating starring roles in The Fantastics, Carnival, 42nd Street, Promises, Promises and as the original Billy Flynn in Chicago There is a clip here from 42nd Street with Orbach performing "Lullaby of Broadway".

Jerry Orbach sang my favorite version of "Try to Remember" from The Fantastics. (Coincidentally, the top image that you posted is from the video clip of him singing this song.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEW1F9kZ-UE

gbgoodies

12-10-17, 03:19 AM

Gideon58

12-12-17, 06:54 PM

65.

Gene Kelly

https://www.biography.com/.image/c_fit%2Ccs_srgb%2Ch_406%2Cq_50%2Cw_620/MTE4MDAzNDEwNTg0NDM4Mjg2/gene-kelly-3-raw.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqsrVQfNYPc

Yeah, I know Gene Kelly is known as a dancer, director, and choreographer but I have always loved his singing voice, which Kelly himself referred to as "Irish Whiskey Tenor." I have enclosed a clip from Singin in the Rain with Kelly singing "You Were Meant for Me."

Gideon58

12-12-17, 07:02 PM

64.

Jose Carerras

https://melbournesymphonyorchestra-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/Image/3815-fitandcrop-486x486.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZPA8fwp7PE

He was one third and probably the least famous member of the "Three Tenors" tour. His thick accent sometimes distract from the beauty of his instrument, but not enough to disguise the incredible pipes the man has. The clip I have included is from Leonard Bernstein's re-recording of the score of West Side Story sung completely by opera stars. This is Carerras singing "Maria" being conducted by the maestro himself.

Gideon58

12-12-17, 07:07 PM

63.

Chaka Kahn

https://cdn-img.essence.com/sites/default/files/styles/1x1_lg/public/1490299004/1376393-chaka_khan.jpg?itok=Cny5kntl

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hX9E44mClKs

A winner of ten Grammy awards, this powerhouse vocalist was a dominating music force in the 70's and 80's. I have included the video of my favorite Chaka tune, "I Feel for You."

gbgoodies

12-13-17, 01:34 AM

Gideon58

12-15-17, 06:57 PM

62.

Karen Carpenter

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTM4MjY3NzkzNTc2NDM3MTc5/karen-carpenter-gettyimages-160068606_1500x1500jpg.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lV5ENWOQ6d8

Before you scoff or giggle think about it...most people considered Karen and her brother Richard bubble gum, put that all aside and just think about the vocal instrument of the late Karen Carpenter...this singer had one of the richest, fullest voices, producing beautifully rounded vowel sounds and absolutely impeccable diction. Think about it...is there a Carpenters song that you don't know ALL the words to? That's no accident. I have included a clip of her singing "Merry Christmas Darling", another song where brother Richard wrote the music. RIP, Karen.

Gideon58

12-26-17, 05:39 PM

61.

Toni Tenille

http://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/celebrities/mfkrlj/picture73072242/alternates/FREE_960/Toni%20Tennille%20blue%20black%20top%20left

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QNEf9oGw8o

They came out of nowhere but with the sweetest clearest voice since Karen Carpenter, Toni Tenille and husband Daryl Dragon rocked the music world with the # 1 hit record of 1975. Enclosed is the official video for the monster hit classic "Love Will Keep us Together."

Gideon58

12-26-17, 05:46 PM

60.

Johnny Mathis

https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/130/590x/22f24main-461185.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEH3uqbpsm8

After almost half a century in the business, it is probably the only singing voice out there completely recognizable by his vibrato...no other singer on the planet has a vibrato like his and therefore he is another one of those singers that nobody sounds like, but many people love to imitate. He and Deneice Williams sang the theme song for the NBC sitcom Family Ties and he and Jane Olivor sang the theme to the 1978 comedy Same Time Next Year, but he is best known for his way with Christmas songs and the song I have included here, "Chances Are."

Gideon58

12-26-17, 05:54 PM

59.

Mickey Rooney

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c5/Mickey_Rooney_still.jpg/1200px-Mickey_Rooney_still.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCbnJeMSGZ4

Even though he was primarily known as a movie clown, Rooney and Judy Garland made a series of "backstage" musicals together where Rooney proved to be quite the crooner. I have included he and Garland performing "Good Morning" from their most famous film together, Babes in Arms.

Gideon58

12-26-17, 05:58 PM

58.

Carl Anderson

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WB3UJtu7IxA/TnjrDnmOEjI/AAAAAAAABXs/x-IpadwLcwU/s1600/JesusChristSuperstar+Carl+Anderson.JPG

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-voeq7Cebo

Just like his co-star Ted Neeley, the late Carl Anderson made a place in music history with one role...when he played Judas Iscariot in the 1973 film version of Jesus Christ Superstar...this powerhouse vocalist was taken from us much too soon...I have, of course, included "Heaven On Their Minds" from Superstar.

Gideon58

12-26-17, 06:07 PM

57.

Nat King Cole

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE5NDg0MDU0OTI5NjM4OTI3/nat-king-cole-9253026-1-402.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwacxSnc4tI

Flawless diction and a voice like butter, my first exposure to Cole was when he and Stubby Kaye played the balladeers in the 1965 comedy Cat Ballou, but soon I learned this was a musical artist to be reckoned with, and like Johnny Mathis, this guy really had a way with Christmas music, evidenced in the clip I have included...his dreamy rendition of The Christmas Song."

Gideon58

12-26-17, 06:17 PM

56.

Robert Goulet

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bf/Robert_Goulet_photo.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xL52hEArSfM

He got his big break playing Sir Lancelot in the original Broadway cast of Camelot and was a fixture on variety television, movies, and nightclubs for another four decades before passing away. His rich baritone, once heard, can hardly be forgotten. I have included a clip from the original production of Camelot with Goulet singing what would become his signature song, "If Ever I Would Leave You."

Gideon58

12-26-17, 07:28 PM

55

Toni Braxton

https://www.grammy.com/sites/com/files/styles/image_square_teaser/public/news/toni_braxton.jpeg?itok=rBGmjo_V

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2Rch6WvPJE

Whether she's working a romantic love song or belting out a Broadway tune in Beauty and the Beast, Braxton always delivers. I have included the video for my favorite Baxton tune, "Unbreak My Heart."

gbgoodies

12-27-17, 02:19 AM

Saunch

12-27-17, 08:56 AM

Nat King Cole

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE5NDg0MDU0OTI5NjM4OTI3/nat-king-cole-9253026-1-402.jpg

Great moment from Badlands (music at 1:40):

https://youtu.be/Az6--30U0xw

He also gave way to a great line from Malcolm Tucker in In the Loop - “in the words of the late, great Nat King Cole; you, my friend, are ‘unforeseeable’”.

Gideon58

12-31-17, 06:09 PM

54.

Melissa Manchester

https://54below.com/app/uploads/MelissaManchester.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYNjL9_rCJc

Few singers during the 70's and 80's had a handle on a love ballad the way Manchester did. The singer also had the power to be a Broadway belter if she had wanted to. There was actually talk of her doing a Broadway revival of Funny Girl at one time. I have included a clip of one of her biggest hist "Don't Cry Out Loud".

Gideon58

12-31-17, 06:15 PM

53.

John Cullum

http://encompassarts.com/documents/john-cullum-headshot.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeuaTpH6Ck0

TV fans might recognize him from recurring roles on Northern Exposure and Law and Order, but long before that, he was mesmerizing Broadway audiences in shows like Shenandoah and On the Twentieth Century with his powerful baritone voice. I have included a clip of him singing the haunting "Molasses to Rum" from the film version of 1776.

Gideon58

12-31-17, 06:21 PM

52.

Barbara Harris

https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/images/barbara-harris-2.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sTYt18NgDI

Before becoming a film actress, Harris starred on Broadway in On a Clear Day You Can See Forever and won a Tony for The Apple Tree. One of the great Broadway belters that everyone has forgotten about. I have included a clip from the original production of The Apple Tree with Harris singing "Gorgeous."

Gideon58

01-02-18, 06:22 PM

51.

Al Jarreau

https://media.npr.org/assets/img/2011/09/16/aljarreau_sq-87c7478cf30fe060fb5316aa826ee12fb2582081-s300-c85.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzXNdLVZs3k

The last true jazz crooner, Jarreau velvety stylings meshed jazz with R&B like no other artist. I have included the video for "Mornin."

Gideon58

01-06-18, 12:25 PM

50.

Stevie Nicks

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6f/StevieNicks2.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=py3w5fttedA

The lead singer for Fleetwood Mac since the mid 1970's, Stevie Nicks is another one of those musical legends who has a completely unique sound...no one on the planet sounds like Stevie Nicks. I have included a live performance of "Rhiannon."

Gideon58

01-06-18, 12:32 PM

49.

Bruno Mars

http://www.brunomars.com//sites/g/files/g2000006216/f/201611/BrunoMars_Site_NewSite_Assets_FBOG.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPf0YbXqDm0

This insanely talented young man not only is a terrific singer and dancer, but, as he demonstrated on an episode of SNL, can actually do impressions of other singers that are on the money. I have included the video for his latest smash "Uptown Funk".

Gideon58

01-07-18, 04:08 PM

48.

Usher

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B50GCfgCcAAKUt3.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIpQ4AZSAf8

He's more than a pretty face and buff body...there was a time I thought he was going to be the next Michael Jackson and I'm not sure what happened to him, but it doesn't change the fact that he is a major talent with solid vocal abilities. I have enclosed the video for "You Got it Bad."

Gideon58

01-07-18, 04:13 PM

47.

Jane Powell

http://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/62/20/33/13174482/5/1024x1024.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohYvJIhW2H4

She came to MGM as a teenager in the early 40's and was major star at MGM for more than two decades. Her onscreen personality was a little sugary, but her beautiful lyric soprano was completely irresistible. I have included a clip of her singing "Musetta's Waltz" in the 1953 musical Nancy Goes to Rio

Gideon58

01-07-18, 07:09 PM

46.

Bobby Vinton

https://i.pinimg.com/736x/9c/58/d6/9c58d612ad728c5ae1534de11f379dce--bobby-vinton-famous-singers.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeLBkoW1-Ow

One of the biggest teen idols of the 50's, he had a voice like butter. Here's a clip performing one of his biggest hits "Blue Velvet."

Gideon58

01-07-18, 07:15 PM

45.

Marni Nixon

https://www.billboard.com/files/media/Marni-Nixon-1962-billboard-1548.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7BQRGXFLJs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbebD653agE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsVTj6LNGFU

You may not know the face, but you know the name and you know the voice. Nixon was a lyric soprano who not only played one of the nuns in The Sound of Music, but sang for three of movie musicals' most popular heroines. These three clips from West Side Story, My Fair Lady, and The King and I all feature Marni Nixon's voice coming out of these actresses' mouths.

Gideon58

01-11-18, 04:18 PM

44.

Deniece Williams

http://www.soulmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/DenieceW.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gI7YHZVc7mM

She has a sound like Whitney Houston but a range like Beverly Sills...just like Minnie Riperton and Mariah Carey. this girl has an affinity for the high notes. Of course, She dueted with Johnny Mathis on the theme song for the NBC sitcom Family Ties but is most famous for her smash, "Let's Hear it for the Boy", which I have included here.

Gideon58

01-11-18, 04:26 PM

43.

Sheryl Crow

https://media.thehypemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/SherylCrow-620-620x350.jpeg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syGKmOwFPGI

A smoldering and sexy New Millenium Carly Simon, Sheryl brought a definite funk to the pop diva scene, made all the more impressive by the fact that she wrote most of the songs she recorded. I have included the one that made me sit up and take notice "All I Wanna Do."

Gideon58

01-13-18, 01:07 PM

42.

Brian Stokes Mitchell

https://dlwsd4gyk2o60.cloudfront.net/11/a9/fafc373641d8bf5652cf62833053/brianstokesmitchell-headshot-hr.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQmxLr5IYLk

Most of you probably remember Brian from his role on the CBS drama Trapper John MD, but after that show went off the air, he became one of Broadway's busiest leading men. His commanding stage presence and rich baritone has allowed him to play roles like Fred/Petruchio in Kiss Me Kate, Coalhouse Walker in the musical version of Ragtime, Don Quixote in Man of La Mancha and a recent stage version of the MGM musical The Band Wagon. He also starred as Emile De Beque in a concert version of South Pacific from Carnegie Hall. I have included a clip of Stokes Mitchell from that concert singing "This Nearly was Mine."

Gideon58

01-13-18, 01:25 PM

41.

Lea Michele

https://assets.teenvogue.com/photos/55bfcad1950ffe746eb4aaa3/master/pass/beauty-evolution-lea-michele-01.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLTYh2RM4pA

Possibly the best belter since Patti Lupone, Michele got her big break in the Broadway musical Spring Awakening before becming an official star on Glee. I have included a clip of her startling cover of Don't Rain on My Parade.

gbgoodies

01-14-18, 04:09 AM

42.

Brian Stokes Mitchell

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQmxLr5IYLk

Most of you probably remember Brian from his role on the CBS drama Trapper John MD, but after that show went off the air, he became one of Broadway's busiest leading men. His commanding stage presence and rich baritone has allowed him to play roles like Fred/Petruchio in Kiss Me Kate, Coalhouse Walker in the musical version of Ragtime, Don Quixote in Man of La Mancha and a recent stage version of the MGM musical The Band Wagon. He also starred as Emile De Beque in a concert version of South Pacific from Carnegie Hall. I have included a clip of Stokes Mitchell from that concert singing "This Nearly was Mine."

Brian Stokes Mitchell has an incredible voice. That's my favorite version of "South Pacific". BTW, he was also in a few episodes of the TV show "Frasier". He played Frasier's neighbor Cam Winston.

Gideon58

01-14-18, 02:17 PM

Brian Stokes Mitchell has an incredible voice. That's my favorite version of "South Pacific". BTW, he was also in a few episodes of the TV show "Frasier". He played Frasier's neighbor Cam Winston.

He also appeared on Glee as Rachel's gay dad.

Gideon58

01-18-18, 06:52 PM

40.

Kathryn Grayson

http://www.doctormacro.com/Images/Grayson,%20Kathryn/Annex/NRFPT/Annex%20-%20Grayson,%20Kathryn_NRFPT_09.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C3OxlpoIRI

The sultry brunette with the magnificent soprano was one of MGM's biggest musical stars, best known for her three film appearances with Howard Keel. I have included a clip of Grayson from one of those three films, Lovely to Look at, singing the classic "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes."

Gideon58

01-18-18, 06:58 PM

39.

Teddy Pendergrass

http://cdn2us.denofgeek.com/sites/denofgeekus/files/2017/02/teddy-pendergrass.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSrEdpW3PoM

Another singer who gave Barry White a run for his money where getting women to drop their panties was concerned. This sexy R&B King didn't even let a horrible accident that paralyzed him from the waist down slow him down. There's a clip here of a live performance of one of his biggest hits, "Turn off the Lights".

Gideon58

01-18-18, 07:02 PM

Gideon58

01-18-18, 07:10 PM

37.

Peabo Bryson

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1617045126/710-0_400x400.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgYEJHJXFB4

One of the sexiest singers out there who has no problem sharing the spotlight. I have included the official video for his teaming with Celine Deon on the theme song from Beauty and the Beast.

Gideon58

01-18-18, 07:20 PM

36.

Laurence Guittard

http://cdn.smehost.net/masterworksbroadwaycom-45pressprod/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/GUITTARD_Laurence_phD.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52vVXc1RpZ8

One of the most gorgeous tenors in the history of musical theater who never achieved the fame he should have. Guittard is most famous for creating the role of Count Carl Magnum in the original Broadway cast of A Little Night Music, a role he reprised in the 1977 film version. He later played Curly in a Broadway revival of Oklahoma! in the early 80's but haven't seen much of him since then. I couldn't find a video clip, but I did find an audio clip of his GORGEOUS solo from A Little Night Music called "In Praise of Women."

Gideon58

01-18-18, 07:36 PM

35.

Donna Summer

https://www.billboard.com/files/media/01-donna-summer-portrait-1976-billboard-1548.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWFHVBnR7G0

The 70's Disco Queen ruled the charts during the late 1970's. I debated which one of her songs to include here because I wanted to pick the tune that best showed off her powerhouse pipes and I finally decided on "MacArthur Park". RIP, Donna.

gbgoodies

01-19-18, 01:27 AM

40.

Kathryn Grayson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C3OxlpoIRI

The sultry brunette with the magnificent soprano was one of MGM's biggest musical stars, best known for her three film appearances with Howard Keel. I have included a clip of Grayson from one of those three films, Lovely to Look at, singing the classic "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes."

Kathryn Grayson has a beautiful voice, and I love her version of "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes". :up:

gbgoodies

01-19-18, 01:31 AM

38.

James Ingram

https://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_400/MI0001/331/MI0001331540.jpg?partner=allrovi.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glO1wKS1Fq4

One of the biggest R&B stars from the 80's and 90's, I've included his classic "One Hundred Ways".

I've always felt that James Ingram is very underrated. His song "Just Once" is one of my all-time favorite songs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SsXfQ3qoiA

Gideon58

01-20-18, 02:09 PM

34.

Meryl Streep

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE1ODA0OTcxNzk1NjQ1OTY1/meryl-streep-9497266-1-402.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrV1KvlbXmc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JVaOhRztdw

Is there anything this legendary actress can't do? In films like Postcards from the Edge, Into the Woods, and Prairie Home Companion, the Oscar winner has proved to be as competent a vocalist as an actress. This was the first entry on this list where I couldn't post just one clip of her vocal talent. I waffled but couldn't decide, so I have posted "Stay with Me" from Into the Woods and "The Winner Takes it All" from Momma Mia.

Gideon58

01-20-18, 02:43 PM

33.

Howard Keel

https://i.pinimg.com/736x/40/62/3e/40623e1091fd71d077c6dd97c9f81787--howard-keel-vintage-hollywood.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0unnUHphLt8

Keel's powerhouse baritone was a major selling point of several classic musicals including Show Boat, Calamity Jane, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and Lovely to Look at. Decades later, CBS turned to Keel when Jim Davis passed away and Barbara Bel Geddes needed a romantic interest on Dallas. I have included a clip of "Where is the Life that Late I Led?" from Kiss Me Kate.

Gideon58

01-20-18, 02:56 PM

32.

Betty Buckley

http://images.fandango.com/ImageRenderer/0/0/redesign/static/img/default_poster.png/0/images/masterrepository/performer%20images/p9345/bettybuckley-3.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mlllRdIfqw

A lot of people just know her as Abby on Eight is Enough or as Sissy Spacek's gym teacher in Carrie, but Betty Buckley is actually one of Broadway's greatest belters, starring as Martha Jefferson in 1776 and Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard, and her most famous role, Grizabella in Cats and I have included a clip of Buckley performing the iconic "Memory" at the 1983 Tony Awards.

gbgoodies

01-21-18, 04:19 AM

34.

Meryl Streep

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrV1KvlbXmc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JVaOhRztdw

Is there anything this legendary actress can't do? In films like Postcards from the Edge, Into the Woods, and Prairie Home Companion, the Oscar winner has proved to be as competent a vocalist as an actress. This was the first entry on this list where I couldn't post just one clip of her vocal talent. I waffled but couldn't decide, so I have posted "Stay with Me" from Into the Woods and "The Winner Takes it All" from Momma Mia.

I liked Meryl Streep in Into the Woods, but I loved her in Mamma Mia!. She's a big part of the reason why I love that movie so much, and why it will probably place very high on my list for the Directed By Women Countdown.

Citizen Rules

01-21-18, 02:23 PM

33. Howard Keel

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0unnUHphLt8

Keel's powerhouse baritone was a major selling point of several classic musicals including Show Boat, Calamity Jane, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and Lovely to Look at. Decades later, CBS turned to Keel when Jim Davis passed away and Barbara Bel Geddes needed a romantic interest on Dallas. I have included a clip of "Where is the Life that Late I Led?" from Kiss Me Kate.Howard Keel! one of my all time favorites. Not just for his singing but for his on-screen prescience too. He was so great in so many musicals. I read that he had to beg the studio to let him play the role in Kiss Me Kate as it was against his casting type. That movie is also my favorite Kathryn Grayson performance.

Gideon58

01-21-18, 02:27 PM

Howard Keel! one of my all time favorites. Not just for his singing but for his on-screen prescience too. He was so great in so many musicals. I read that he had to beg the studio to let him play the role in Kiss Me Kate as it was against his casting type. That movie is also my favorite Kathryn Grayson performance.

I don't get that Kiss Me Kate was casting Keel against type...he seemed like he was born to play that role.

Gideon58

01-21-18, 02:27 PM

I liked Meryl Streep in Into the Woods, but I loved her in Mamma Mia!. She's a big part of the reason why I love that movie so much, and why it will probably place very high on my list for the Directed By Women Countdown.

Meryl was the best thing about Momma Mia

Gideon58

01-23-18, 07:08 PM

31.

Angela Lansbury

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTQyMzA0ODcxNDQwMTk3NDYx/angela_lansbury_photo_by_ron_galellawireimage_getty_images_105913765_croppedjpg.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gF51IQiLbQ

After almost three decades of making movies, earning three Oscar nominations along the way, the iconic actress was approached by Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim to star in a musical he had written called Anyone Can Whistle and even though that show was a flop, it opened up a whole new career on Broadway for Lansbury that earned her four Tony Awards, including one for the show from which I have included a clip here, Sweeney Todd.

Gideon58

01-23-18, 07:38 PM

30

Michael Jackson

http://bullmurph.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Michael-Jackson-33-young-michael-jackson-15045750-640-442.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0LiYT1tXhA

OK, calm down and hear me out...some may consider this rating a little on the low side, but let me explain, starting with the photograph I have posted above. This is the way I like to remember Michael...I like to remember Michael before the freak show that his life became. Also, when Michael was a teenager, he had one of the most beautiful and lyric voices I have ever heard, crisp clear diction and amazing breath control. Think about his singing on "I'll Be There" or "Never Can Say Goodbye". You understood every word Michael sang and his tone was clear as a bell...no made up words, no allegedly sexy gasps and moans. Now think about everything Michael recorded after "Off the Wall"...his personal life aside, his songs became about being pure dance music and his obsession with making the most original videos and providing the flashiest choreography for said videos. His musicianship just fell by the wayside and his diction? I can't think of a single song from "Thriller" on where I know every single lyric and you're talking to a guy who has entire Broadway musicals memorized. The Michael above is the Michael I want to remember and the Michael I felt deserved to be a part of this list and I have included one of his most beautiful vocal performances...the theme from the 1973 movie Ben. RIP, Michael

Gideon58

01-25-18, 07:22 PM

29.

Tom Jones

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/460709099382910976/7E1QZrkT.jpeg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGRZBa4cKWA

The handsome and sexy Welsh singer was such an overnight sensation during the 70's that he was actually given his own television variety show called This is Tom Jones that ran for three seasons on ABC. It should be no surprise that I have included a clip of Jones on The Ed Sullivan Show singing what would eventually become his signature song, "It's Not Unusual."

Gideon58

01-25-18, 07:31 PM

28.

Diana Ross

http://cdn-img.instyle.com/sites/default/files/styles/684xflex/public/1458250155/031716-Diana-Ross-Slide-01.jpg?itok=t3-N5BxA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEnKEcBvBvw

Personally, I've always felt Ross was slightly overrated. I think her enormous ego has had some negative repercussions on her career, not to mention her relationship with Svengali Berry Gordy, but she still managed to break away from the Supremes and become a superstar in her own right. If the truth be told, her voice is small and the magic of recording studios have made her voice seem a lot bigger than it is. Her brief fling with a movie career ended pretty quickly after Mahogany but she is still a big draw in places like Vegas and will always be considered a superstar. I have included a clip of a live performance from Vegas of Ross doing one of her biggest hits "Ain't No Mountain High Enough."

Gideon58

01-27-18, 05:33 PM

27.

Barbara Cook

https://media4.s-nbcnews.com/j/newscms/2017_32/2098986/170808-barbara-cook-ew-1215p_1adf93432adc91bec80c40ef80e712c9.nbcnews-ux-2880-1000.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_G4JNMURj4

This legendary performer created the role of Marian the Librarian in the original Broadway production of The Music Man and also originated the female leads in Candide and She Loves Me. She still continues to grace nightclub audiences with her gorgeous soprano stylings. I have included a clip of Cook performing "Losing My Mind" for the 1986 concert version of the Stephen Sondheim musical Follies.

Gideon58

01-30-18, 07:19 PM

26.

Smokey Robinson

http://www.smokeyrobinson.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ep502-own-master-class-smokey-6-949x534.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLOB6B6vMTY

Along with the miracles, Smokey's velvet-like tones and his talent as a songwriter were the backbone of Motown for years. I have included a clip of his classic "Ooh Baby Baby."

Gideon58

01-30-18, 07:24 PM

25.

Lionel Ritchie

http://lionelrichie.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/LRBrand.jpg-559x553.jpeg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9XN48M-0XA

Before becoming a judge on American Idol, Lionel Richie was part of the Commodores, but wisely broke out on his own finding even bigger fame and fortune as a solo artists whose achievements include 2 American Music Awards, 2 Grammys and an Oscar. I have included a clip of him singing "Easy."

Gideon58

02-03-18, 12:11 PM

24.

Patti LaBelle

https://ticketcrusader.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/patti-labelle.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szhTtl6CuO8

She went from gospel singer to disco queen to one of the top selling R&B artists of all time. This is a powerhouse vocalist who sounds even better live than she does on vinyl. I have included a clip from the Motown 25 special where Patti brings down the house with "You'll Never Walk Alone."

Gideon58

02-03-18, 12:25 PM

23.

Harry Connick Jr.

https://www.mtishows.com/sites/default/files/profile/harryconnickjr1.jpg?download=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeWGELPKxHc

He's an award singer/songwriter/pianist who used his talents to jump start a thriving acting career which included a leading role on NBC's Will & Grace and the lead in a Broadway revival of The Pajama Game. But what it all comes down to for me is that Harry has one of the sexiest singing voices I have ever heard. I have included a clip of Harry's first big hit, his cover of "It Had to be You."

Gideon58

02-03-18, 12:36 PM

22.

Annie Lennox

https://tonedeaf.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/annie-lennox.png

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzFnYcIqj6I

Lennox and hubby Dave Stewart burst onto the 1980's music scene as The Eurhythmics and were the most powerful music duo since The Captain and Tenille, thanks primarily to Lennox's very sexy vocals. I have included a clip of "Here Comes the Rain Again."

gbgoodies

02-04-18, 01:30 AM

26.

Smokey Robinson

Along with the miracles, Smokey's velvet-like tones and his talent as a songwriter were the backbone of Motown for years. I have included a clip of his classic "Ooh Baby Baby."

Smokey Robinson sang the most amazing version of the National Anthem for the 1986 World Series.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZUoV_iw0II

Gideon58

02-05-18, 07:44 PM

21.

Steve Perry

http://img1.grunge.com/img/uploads/2016/12/why-we-don_t-hear-about-journey_s-steve-perry-anymore-780x438_rev1.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5pUOVC50Y8

As the lead singer for Journey, Steve Perry was the front man for some of the most romantic rock songs ever written. There is a raw emotion behind his voice that's impossible to resist. I have included a clip of a live performance of Perry performing a song that brought tears to my eyes the very first time I heard it, "Open Arms."

Gideon58

02-19-18, 01:08 PM

20.

Dick Van Dyke

http://cdn1-www.comingsoon.net/assets/uploads/2016/12/581370f219e879ffc3ec87dc5c131a36.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_CE7GqqrvY

Before he became a television icon, Van Dyke was a Broadway star, winning a Tony Award for creating the role of Albert Peterson in the OBC of Bye Bye Birdie. I have included a clip from the film version of that musical singing "Put on a Happy Face."

Gideon58

02-19-18, 02:08 PM

19.

Dean Martin

https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/mafiagame/images/2/29/Dean_Martin.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20121023024635

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lm76UTmlDg

He appeared in over 50 films, had a variety series on NBC that ran close to a decade but first and foremost, Dean Martin was a recording artist, one of the most popular singers ever. He's also one of those singers who sounds like NO ONE else. I have enclosed a clip of him sining "Ain't that a Kick in the Head."

Luis

02-19-18, 02:43 PM

Patti Labelle's vocals are insane! She can resonate and support a G#5 with vibrato with no problem.

Citizen Rules

02-19-18, 02:56 PM

Deano is one of my favorites! Love that song you choose too.

Gideon58

02-26-18, 03:26 PM

18

Aretha Franklin

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTQ1MTQwMzg4OTg0NzkyNTQ1/aretha-franklin---symbol-of-black-equality.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FOUqQt3Kg0

Over 50 years in the business and the Queen of Motown is still going strong. This musical icon has made such a strong impression that she was the favorite singer of a fictional television character. For several seasons, the CBS sitcom Murphy Brown featured an Aretha song playing over the opening credits. Aretha even made an appearance on the show. I'll give you three guess which song of hers I've included here.

Gideon58

02-26-18, 03:33 PM

17.

Beyonce

https://media.glamour.com/photos/5a05e1251467076cb14b0d66/master/pass/BEYONCE.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZelBd4k6k20

With the right song, this woman's voice can really be en pointe...sometimes I wish she would concentrate a little less on making money and a little more on her musicianship but her place on this list could not be denied. I have enclosed a clip of her on the Grammy Awards performing "Dangerously in Love".

Gideon58

02-26-18, 03:37 PM

16.

Frank Sinatra

https://is2-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Music/v4/28/80/ff/2880ff67-2fa1-4b2d-4452-ed48cf1d1a0e/source/1200x630sr.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnL2FK5wv6E

Not including him on this list would have been wrong, but, like Michael Jackson, I much prefer the younger Frank. I have included my favorite Frank musical moment, a number that has been cut from many prints of the 1945 musical Anchors Aweigh, "I Fall in Love Too Easily."

Luis

02-26-18, 03:39 PM

Beyonce is just the closest thing to perfect we have in the current music industry. She can fully support her voice up to an F#5, and she has gained complete control to nearly all of her registers, whether its her low voice, her mix, her falsetto, her head voice, her upper belts, she's the best. She is so versatile, yet she always finds a way to sing so successfully! Definitely a top 5 vocalist for me in this contemporary age. This thread appeals highly to me!

Gideon58

02-26-18, 03:42 PM

15.

Madonna

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/956209005331873792/Vdze36sL.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzAO9A9GjgI

She's a terrific singer who actually sounds better live than she does on records. i admire her ability to reinvent herself over and over again to accommodate changing tastes and mores. Like Michael Jackson, she redefinded the art of making videos and my favorite part of her voice is her chest voice, her lower range, unbelievably sexy to me, evidenced in the clip I have included, the video for "Live to Tell."

Gideon58

02-26-18, 03:43 PM

Gideon58

02-26-18, 03:55 PM

14.

Sammy Davis Jr.

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE5NDg0MDU0OTM5MjcyNzE5/sammy-davis-jr.jpg

ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gkAfqSRtpQ

For my money, the most talented member of the infamous Rat Pack. He started out in vaudeville as a child and eventually became one of our most beloved performers. A true triple threat, there wasn't much this guy couldn't do. I have included a live performance from Germany of the song most associated with him, "I've Gotta Be Me."

Gideon58

02-26-18, 04:18 PM

13.

Michael Buble

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/A154fbUCwiL._SL1000_.png

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AJmKkU5POA

Pretty sure this guy is Sinatra reincarnated...this guy's silky vocals make me weak in the knees. I have included the video for "Haven't met You Yet".

Gideon58

02-26-18, 04:49 PM

12.

Doris Day

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/897084529155944448/2CMv-dy9_400x400.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8P_p7dB2dw

A childhood injury crushed her first show business ambition, to become a prima ballerina, but she then discovered she had a lyrical voice that made her one of the most famous big band singers ever, leading to a successful movie career to which she said adieu in 1968 and never looked back. I have included a clip from Calamity Jane of this gifted songstress performing the Oscar winning Best Song of 1952 "Secret Love."

Gideon58

03-02-18, 05:43 PM

11.

Stevie Wonder

http://www.ebony.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/stevie-wonder-getty-603x377.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9gXgiHSskk

He's been in the business since he was a child and half a century later he's still going strong. I saw him live at Radio City Music Hall once. Except for one five minute break to change his tux, the man sang for three straight hours. He is one of the best pianists ever. He has won an Oscar and 29 Grammys, and, oh yeah, he can't see a thing. Picking a song to post here was like a coin toss, the man has brought us so much classic music. I finally chose a performance of "Isn't She Lovely?"

Gideon58

03-02-18, 05:50 PM

10.

Liza Minnelli

http://media.graytvinc.com/images/liza-minnelli.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge7NiJuSpac

The daughter of movie legend Judy Garland and director Vincente Minnelli, Liza overcame being just Judy's daughter when she won her first Tony Award before she was old enough to drink. Her career reached its zenith with her Oscar winning performance in Cabaret, and sadly, her career did a slow downslide after that, but leaving her off this list is wrong. My first impulse was to post her singing "Cabaret", but I decided instead to post her dazzling performance of the title song from the 1977 musical "New York New York."

Gideon58

03-02-18, 05:57 PM

9.

Elton John

https://pmcvariety.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/elton-john.png?w=1000&h=563&crop=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wo1OwRTRKRk

One of rock and roll's greatest survivors, John has making records and filling concert halls since the 1970's. Even coming out of the closet did nothing to derail his career. He won an Oscar for his score to the movie The Lion King, not to mention 8 Grammys. I have included the video for my favorite Elton John song "Bennie and the Jets."

Gideon58

03-02-18, 06:07 PM

8.

Kristen Chenoweth

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQXJFFIk7o2RZceaxJrvU3a0NkuQvZGYczQg533ivwbbvJDLg1e

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVsLMxam21I

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXvShxx3Wss

People seem to be very passionate about this performer. They either really really love her or really really hate her. Count me in with the former, I could listen to this woman sing all day, one of the most unique and powerful vocal instruments in the business. One of those rare female singers who can belt or sing legit with equal veracity and mix the two effortlessly. I had to post two performances to fully demonstrate this amazing singer's versatility. I have posted her singing "Glitter and be Gay" from Candide and "Gorgeous" from The Apple Tree.

Gideon58

03-02-18, 06:14 PM

7.

Billy Joel

http://m.mlb.com/assets/images/3/3/6/213287336/cuts/billy_joel_gef48v97_n4lyl7se.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEea624OBzM

Like Elton John, Joel has been doing it since the 70's and still going strong. Another performer who IMO sounds better live than on his records. The winner of 9 Grammy Awards, this guy just gets better with age. I have included a video of my favorite Billy Joel song "Big Shot."

Gideon58

03-02-18, 06:19 PM

6.

Whitney Houston

https://www.grammy.com/sites/com/files/styles/image_landscape_hero/public/whitney_houston_hero_84761309.jpg?itok=OVzPQClC

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxYw0XPEoKE

A supremely gifted songstress whose career was really just in its infancy when she was taken from us much too soon. The daughter of Cissy Houston and niece of Dionne Warwick, her progression from church singer to disco queen to movie star to superstar was the stuff of dreams but then she married an idiot who destroyed her. I have included a clip of her haunting smash from The Bodyguard called "I Have Nothing." RIP, Whitney.

Gideon58

03-02-18, 06:26 PM

5.

Audra Mcdonald

http://news.mit.edu/sites/mit.edu.newsoffice/files/images/2017/2018-McDermott-Award-Audra-McDonald-MIT-00_0.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3HYCahNx7U

Before joining the cast of the ABC drama Private Practice, Audra McDonald was one of the biggest stars on Broadway, racking up 5 Tony Awards for her work. A voice that is a perfect blend of power and delicacy and perfect control, listening to this woman often makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up. I have included a clip of her at the 80th Birthday Concert for Stephen Sondheim singing a song he wrote for the film version of A Little Night Music called "The Glamorous Life."

Gideon58

03-03-18, 11:42 AM

4.

Julie Andrews

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTQxMDI3NDg3NzY4Mzg4Nzkx/julie-andrews-gettyimages-130044748_1600jpg.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RV-6qbUHVww

My first show business obsession. After seeing Mary Poppins, I thought she was the perfect woman and what every other woman aspired to be. A classical soprano who has been singing since her childhood who moved to Broadway where she played the leads in Cinderella, The Boyfriend, My Fair Lady, and Camelot. Her film debut in Mary Poppins won her an Oscar and the rest is history. Beautiful legitimate voice and perfect diction. I once had a choir director who used to tell us he needed "Julie Andrews diction." I have enclosed a clip of my favorite Julie musical moment, "I Have Confidence" from The Sound of Music.

Gideon58

03-03-18, 11:58 AM

3.

Bernadette Peters

http://celebrityabc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/How-rich-is-Bernadette-Peters.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_eD1btsIAE

My first exposure to this gifted vocalist was her frequent appearances on The Carol Burnett Show. She used to do this thing that fascinated me...she would sing these heartbreaking love ballads and just when she'd get to the climax of the song, she would make a single tear fall down her cheek. I don't know how she did it, but she did it very time she sang. It wasn't long after that Peters made her off-Broadway debut playing Ruby in Dames at Sea. She has since played leading roles on Broadway in Mack & Mabel, Sunday in the Park with George, A Little Night Music, and Gypsy. She won Tony awards for her performances in Song and Dance and Annie Get Your Gun and played Sally in the Kennedy Center revival of Follies. She recently replaced Bette Midler in Hello Dolly. I have included a clip that according to You Tube, is one of the ten greatest musical performances in Tony Award history..."Rose's Turn" from Gypsy.

Gideon58

03-03-18, 05:32 PM

2.

Judy Garland

https://www.biography.com/.image/t_share/MTE1ODA0OTcxNjQwNzE4ODYx/judy-garland-9306838-402.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzyPMRo8ZUQ

Hollywood's greatest creation and its greatest casualty. She ran on a stage at the tender age of 3 and sang "Jingle Bells" and the rest is history. She made her film debut in a short with Deanna Durbin called Every Sunday and became a superstar when Fox refused to loan Shirley Temple to MGM so that she could play Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, paving the way for Judy to play the role and become a star at 17. She was rich and famous and talented, but she was not happy and her unhappiness eventually destroyed her. I have included my favorite Garland musical moment, "The Man that Got Away" from A Star is Born.

Well, we're finally down to #2...needless to say, I do have some honorable mentions before my reveal of #1:

Gideon58

03-04-18, 02:49 PM

Honorable Mentions:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvXEQ4lZt8k

Patti Lupone

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ducG55pfCMQ

Mandy Patinkin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=450p7goxZqg

John Legend

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Omb2kItC-JY

Lena Horne

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LS0ckvngT0U

Donny Osmond

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRnv7Pp9T5Y

Ethel Merman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZcA3kiaQb0

Marilyn McCoo

OK, by this time, my # 1 should really be a no-brainer and anyone who has followed my review threads should already know who my #1 is. So, here we go...my # 1 celebrity singing voice:

Gideon58

03-04-18, 03:24 PM

1.

Barbra Streisand

https://www.billboard.com/files/media/Barbra-Streisand-THR-women-in-entertainment-billboard-1548.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aO3Gb5mkwTc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcdkjdAZHhI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hdlz6QzyAVA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGUDMOlhwug

Scoff if you will, but no singer has mesmerized me the way she has. No singer has influenced my own vocal technique as she has. There has been no singer who could do the vocal acrobatics that she could and absolutely no one sounds like her. Next month, she will be celebrating her 75th birthday and she is still packing venues all over the country. She started in Manhattan nightclubs then got cast in the Broadway show I Can Get it for You Wholesale, which led to her career-defining role as Fanny Brice in Funny Girl. Barbra is a top selling vocalist who has had 11 albums hit #1. She's won two Oscars, two Emmys, and 14 Grammys. She directed the 1983 film Yentl and the 1991 film The Prince of Tides which earned seven Oscar nominations. She is a show business legend whose voice may not be what it used to be, but she continues to reinvent herself to fit who she is today. I have included a few samples of her work here, couldn't narrow it down to 1.

Hope someone enjoyed the list.