Who are the best male singers that left an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners worldwide? Read this guide, as we've ranked the greatest male singers of all time!
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About this galery...
Of course, it's ridiculous to think you can be perfectly objective in a ranking like this, but these are who we think the 25 best male singers of all time are. Are we stupid? Have we forgotten any classics? Let us know in the comments!
25. The Weeknd
The Weeknd is an output machine, and although shy, apparently a really nice guy to meet in person. His true strength however isn't his lyrics, but the ability to create cinematic aesthetic-driven albums that always top the charts.
24. Kanye West
Kanye West is one of the most ambitious and passionate singers when it comes to music. Kanye has amazing talent in sound production, synthesizing, and getting the right people for collaboration. He won 24 Grammy Awards, outnumbering other rap artists.
23. Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran is one of the most successful male singers of all time, and unlike many on this list he's a solo artist. We love his relatable storytelling and down-to-earth personality, and naturally, we're a fan of many of his chart-topping hits like "Shape of You" and "Thinking Out Loud".
22. Chris Martin
It's easy to hate Coldplay, but we unironically love Chris Martin. Besides his great talent, the lead vocalist of Coldplay is very funny and warm, and the way he expresses his feelings through music is unique.
21. Rod Stewart
Although a bit of a laughingstock, Rod Stewart is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in rock and pop thanks to his monstrously powerful voice. And he also has an incredible talent for finding proper material to sing.
20. Till Lindemann
Although Till Lindemann's voice doesn't work well in English, he has great bass-baritone in German. Till is the face of Rammstein, and for he's been essential to their influence and success.
19. Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars might not be the coolest kid on the block, but his voice is smooth, and his real emotions flow through the music. As a retro artist, his music carries hints of the 70s, 80s, and 90s while infusing a fresh modern style. One of the greats of modern pop.
18. Eminem
Eminem is one of the best-selling male singers ever (we're counting rappers), and he stands out for his ridiculous breath control. He set the Guinness world record with the song "Rap God," clocking 1,560 words in six minutes. And it's not only about speed, he has thoughtful, affecting lyrics as well.
17. Justin Timberlake
Justin Timberlake has a fantastic voice, which brought him to the top of the charts from the early days of his impressive solo career. He's also a very charismatic and well-rounded talent (honestly, his acting is not that bad).
16. Van Morrison
Van Morrison is a talented man, a good songwriter with high standards and the record to back it up. His voice effortlessly blends soul, blues, rock, and Celtic folk. Unfortunately, he's reportedly unbearable in-person, but this isn't a ranking about being kind or humble.
15. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is a very interesting artist. He's actually a classically-trained pianist, as well as a wonderful vocalist. And despite being 75, he's still performing!
14. Tom Petty
Tom Petty is a good songwriter who has written numerous recognizable songs. He was a masterful storyteller and rock icon whose classic hits resonate with fans even nowadays. Fun fact: The GTA 6 trailer music is a Tom Petty track!
13. Ray Charles
Ray Charles was one of the greatest personalities among male singers. He is a pioneer of soul, blues, and gospel music whose innovative style left a significant impact on modern music. Definitely the coolest singer on the list.
12. Bob Marley
Bob Marley used his popularity to spread messages against oppression and violence. And for that alone, you have to love the guy. But he was also a dope singer. Marley's unique voice and powerful lyrics continue to resonate worldwide, making him the reggae artist.
11. David Bowie
David Bowie did incredible work in the 1970s and 80s, and many of his songs will still send a chill down your spine. One of a kind, and incredibly influential.
10. Otis Redding
Otis Redding's voice could send a baby to sleep. His classic hits showcase a unique ability to convey deep emotion whilst remaining ever calm. This marks him as one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
9. Kurt Cobain
The man, the myth, the maverick. Kurt Cobain was an incredible songwriter whose drawling voice was perfect for Nirvana. Of course, he faced a tragic end, but we'll always have the music.
8. Mick Jagger
Mick Jagger is an interestingly underrated singer. A lot of people see him simply as the crazy rockstar who slept with groupies and took all kinds of drugs. But he was also a great guitarist and virtuoso, whose dynamic performances and commitment on the stage made him one of the most enduring figures in the rock industry.
7. Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan's voice is neither smooth nor sweet, but it's the voice of the 60s, of revolution and change, and fore that alone he deserves a place on this list. We've rated him this highly because as well as singing, he's also one of the greatest songwriters of all time.
6. Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye was a genius, renowned for singing some of the best love songs in history, and for the beautiful transitions in his albums. He brought emotional depth to pop music.
5. John Lennon
Yes, of course, it had to be done. John Lennon is the true poet of the Beatles, and one of the best songwriters in British history. Lennon wrote countless iconic songs that millions of people still to listen today.
4. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is a true pioneer in soul and R&B and one of the greatest pianists with an extraordinary talent for blending genres and his emotions. His lyrics railed against racial injustice and explored details of black life in the city. An important, brilliant artist.
3. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson was a remarkable artist who created so many timeless, catchy pop songs. He could also could music for almost every instrument, and worked unbelievable hard at his peak.
2. Elvis Presley
Although Elvis Presley had an amazing voice, it was his vibe and stage presence that really set him apart. Few other artists have had such an impact as this legend, and it's fair to say he helped usher in modern music as we know it today.
1. Freddie Mercury
The iconic frontman of Queen, Freddie Mercury, had an astonishing technique that revolutionized rock music. He sang with an incisive sense of rhythm, combining opera, rock, and pop, blending highs, lows, and mid-range notes cohesively. And if anyone is arguing that Freddie shouldn't be number one, you need to go an get your ears checked.
Who are the best male singers that left an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners worldwide? Read this guide, as we've ranked the greatest male singers of all time!
