These are the greatest Black female singers of all time, from Aretha and Whitney Houston to Mariah Carey and Sade, as ranked by music enthusiasts like you. The women featured here are standouts in a number of genres. Some famous Black female singers sing the blues while other top Black woman artists are pop superstars. Many of the best Black female singers have reached the top of the charts with their catchy tunes. They have careers that span the old guard of the '50s and '60s, on into the disco-dominated '70s and '80s, and through '90s, 2000s, and modern day. Many of the more recent entries on this list may have looked up to the older artists as legends when they were young girls, but today, they stand together as musical superstars. From legendary icons to new faces, this list features the most popular Black female singers ever. What artist will you vote to the top of this list of the best Black female singers? Maybe you're one of the millions of Beyonce fans. The R&B singer's powerful voice and dynamic dance moves have earned her plenty of acclaim as one of the best Black singers, but listeners also love her for her way of redefining pop music with her innovative hits. Lauryn Hill's soulful vocals helped the singer take home five Grammy awards for her iconic album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Other artists featured on this list include Tina Turner, Ella Fitzgerald, and Erykah Badu. Do you have a favorite Black female singer? This list includes African American women as well as Black female vocalists from other countries. Vote up the very best Black female singers.
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A legendary powerhouse vocalist who possessed an incredible range, control, and technical ability, she remains one of the best-selling music artists of all time with over 200 million records sold worldwide. One of the most awarded singers ever, her powerful emotive delivery on songs like "I Will Always Love You" and "Greatest Love of All" solidified her as a global icon with timeless, unforgettable performances.
The undisputed "Queen of Soul," her powerful, emotionally charged voice coupled with her unique gospel-inspired style transformed popular music throughout her six-decade-long career. With hits such as "Respect" and "A Natural Woman," she not only achieved commercial success but was also an inspiration for countless artists across generations, becoming the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The "First Lady of Song" and jazz icon, she not only possessed flawless vocal technique but also had impeccable diction and sophisticated phrasing that set her apart from other singers. Her improvisational scat singing and breathtaking renditions of standards like "Summertime" and "Misty" earned her 13 Grammy Awards and a lifetime of acclaim as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
A trailblazing pioneer of R&B and soul, her raw, emotive voice and powerful stage presence captivated audiences throughout her five decades in the industry. With hits like "At Last" and "I'd Rather Go Blind," she became a critically acclaimed artist who pushed boundaries and fearlessly bared her soul through her music.
A groundbreaking performer known for her explosive stage presence, boundless energy, and raspy, powerful voice, she became an international superstar with hits like "Proud Mary" and "What's Love Got to Do with It." With a career spanning over six decades, she pushed boundaries and broke barriers as a fierce, trailblazing woman in the male-dominated music industry.
A pioneering jazz legend whose distinct, emotive voice was characterized by its raw vulnerability and ability to convey complex emotions, she captivated listeners with her poignant storytelling through song. Her haunting renditions of classics like "Strange Fruit" and "God Bless the Child" immortalized her as a true artist who used her distinctive vocal style to break the boundaries of the music world.
A mesmerizing performer known as the "Empress of Soul," her smokey, sultry voice and timeless hits with the Pips like "Midnight Train to Georgia" and "Neither One of Us" secured her place in music history. Her remarkable vocal range, remarkable longevity, and incomparable stage presence have made her one of the most respected and revered names in the industry.
As the lead singer of The Supremes and later a successful solo artist, her glamorous image, silky smooth voice, and undeniable star quality made her one of Motown's most enduring legends. With chart-topping hits like "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "Endless Love," she earned numerous accolades and influenced generations of artists, solidifying her status as one of the greatest female singers in history.
The undisputed "Queen of Disco," her powerful mezzo-soprano voice and infectious dance beats made her the defining voice of the disco era. With timeless hits like "Hot Stuff" and "I Feel Love," her groundbreaking fusion of R&B, electronic, and pop music laid the foundation for contemporary dance music and cemented her status as a pop culture icon.
A masterful pianist and unique, expressive vocalist, she fearlessly used her music to address racial inequality and civil rights issues, leaving an indelible mark on American culture. With songs like "Feeling Good" and "I Put a Spell on You," her genre-defying artistry encompassed jazz, blues, and soul, making her a true musical icon.
Known for her soaring, gospel-tinged voice and flamboyant stage presence, she became an R&B icon with hits such as "Lady Marmalade" and "On My Own." Her unparalleled vocal range, emotional depth, and passionate performances have earned her countless awards and a reputation as one of the most electrifying live performers in the industry.
Boasting an impressive five-octave vocal range and an unparalleled ability to navigate multiple genres, she is an indisputable pop icon with over two decades of chart-topping success. Her innovative incorporation of hip-hop into her music, catchy hooks, and powerhouse ballads like "Hero" and "We Belong Together" have made her one of the best-selling female artists of all time.
A soulful and sophisticated singer-songwriter known for her warm, velvety voice and intimate songwriting, she captivated audiences with hits such as "Sweet Love" and "Caught Up in the Rapture." Her effortless, sensual style and unparalleled control placed her firmly among the greatest R&B vocalists of her time.
A sophisticated chanteuse with a smooth, elegant vocal style, she dominated the pop charts in the '60s and '70s with Burt Bacharach and Hal David penned hits like "Walk On By" and "I Say A Little Prayer." Her effortless ability to blend pop, gospel, and R&B influences have made her a pioneering artist and enduring music icon.
A classically trained pianist with a powerful, soulful voice, she burst onto the scene with her Grammy-winning debut album Songs in A Minor. Her smooth, emotional delivery on hits like "Fallin'" and "If I Ain't Got You" have earned her numerous accolades and solidified her place as a true musical prodigy.
With a distinctive deep contralto voice and sensual, emotive delivery, she became an R&B powerhouse in the '90s with hits such as "Un-Break My Heart" and "Breathe Again." Her sultry, soulful sound combined with her skillful command of her instrument has earned her numerous accolades and a place among the greats.
A powerful vocalist who seamlessly blended soul, funk, disco, and R&B, she became a musical force to be reckoned with during her time as the lead singer of Rufus and later as a solo artist. Her electrifying performances and hits like "Ain't Nobody" and "I'm Every Woman" have solidified her status as the "Queen of Funk" and a music legend.
A versatile and soulful artist, her enchanting voice has effortlessly conveyed raw emotion and vulnerability throughout her illustrious career. With timeless hits like "Killing Me Softly with His Song" and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," her unwavering ability to connect with listeners through her music has made her a beloved and respected figure in the industry.
An extraordinary talent who combined soul-stirring vocals and fiercely intelligent lyrics, she became a critical and commercial success with her groundbreaking album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. As part of the Fugees and later as a solo artist, her enveloping, emotive voice and knack for storytelling solidified her as one of the most influential artists of her generation.
A trailblazer for African American women in entertainment, her beautiful, evocative voice and captivating presence made her a star of stage, screen, and recording studios. Her masterful interpretations of songs like "Stormy Weather" and "Love Me or Leave Me" solidified her reputation as an artist of exceptional talent and grace.
As the sultry, enchanting voice behind the band Sade, her silky-smooth vocal delivery and intimate lyrics have captivated audiences for decades. With hits such as "Smooth Operator" and "No Ordinary Love," her sophisticated, timeless sound has earned her legions of devoted fans and endless critical praise.
Known for her angelic soprano voice and extraordinary five-octave range, she effortlessly switched between soul, pop, R&B, and jazz throughout her career. Her most famous song, "Lovin' You," showcases her remarkable ability to use her whistle register, earning her a place among the most talented vocalists in history.
Thrust into the spotlight as a finalist on American Idol, her jaw-dropping vocal range and undeniable stage presence quickly won her critical acclaim, an Oscar-winning role in Dreamgirls, and a successful recording career. With her powerhouse voice and emotive delivery, she continues to captivate audiences and cement her place as a vocal force to be reckoned with.
Widely hailed as the "Queen of Gospel," her powerful, soul-stirring voice and unique blending of blues and gospel influences made her a groundbreaking artist who inspired millions. Her passionate renditions of songs like "Move On Up a Little Higher" and "How I Got Over" not only earned her widespread acclaim but also played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement.
As one of the most prominent and influential artists of her generation, her vocal prowess, unmatched stage presence, and magnetic charisma have earned her the title "Queen Bey." With numerous chart-topping hits as a solo artist and a member of Destiny's Child, her iconic performances and genre-defying sound have solidified her status as a living legend.
Known as the "Queen of Hip Hop Soul," her emotive, husky voice and heartfelt, confessional lyrics have made her one of the most successful and influential female R&B artists of all time. With over 80 million records sold worldwide and timeless hits like "Real Love" and "No More Drama," her raw vulnerability and soulful sound continue to resonate with fans across generations.
The daughter of the legendary Nat King Cole, she carved her own path in the world of music with her powerful, expressive voice and undeniable talent. With hits such as "This Will Be" and "Unforgettable," her versatility and legacy of excellence made her one of the most respected singers of her generation.
A singer-songwriter with a distinctive voice and heartfelt, socially conscious lyrics, she became a prominent figure in the folk-rock scene with her captivating storytelling and powerful tunes. Her unforgettable hits, such as "Fast Car" and "Talkin' 'bout a Revolution," showcase her rare ability to blend raw emotion with evocative imagery, earning her widespread acclaim and numerous accolades.
A legendary vocalist with a lush, elegant style, she effortlessly bridged the gap between jazz, pop, R&B, and soul throughout her six-decade-long career. Her masterful interpretations of classics like "Guess Who I Saw Today" and "(You Don't Know) How Glad I Am" earned her numerous accolades and the title "Sweet Nancy."
As part of the Winans family dynasty, her powerful, emotive voice and deeply spiritual lyrics have made her one of the most successful and influential gospel artists of all time. With songs like "Alone In His Presence" and "I Surrender All," her mesmerizing performances and unwavering faith have touched the hearts of millions.
A disco diva with a powerful, resonant voice, she is best known for her enduring anthem "I Will Survive," which has become a symbol of empowerment and resilience for generations of listeners. Her ability to captivate audiences with her dynamic stage presence and iconic tunes has earned her a lasting place in music history.
A captivating entertainer and jazz-age icon, her dynamic stage presence and hypnotic voice helped break down racial barriers while enchanting audiences worldwide. As the first black woman to star in a major motion picture, her unique artistry and grace continue to inspire countless performers and solidify her status as a true pioneer.
With a warm, honey-toned voice and exceptional vocal technique, she rose to fame in the '90s as an R&B and pop sensation. Her skillful vocal runs and emotive performances on hits like "I Wanna Be Down" and "Have You Ever" have cemented her status as a gifted singer-songwriter and vocal inspiration to many.
A global icon and legendary performer, her distinctive voice and innovative blend of pop, R&B, and dance music have made her one of the most successful and influential artists in history. With hits such as "Rhythm Nation" and "That's the Way Love Goes," her impressive vocal range, magnetic stage presence, and groundbreaking visuals have transformed the world of music.
A gospel, soul, and R&B legend, her striking, husky voice and powerful presence have made her a beloved figure in American music for over six decades. As a solo artist and member of the Staple Singers, her passionate performances and uplifting messages have earned her numerous awards and a lasting legacy.
A poet and singer with a sultry, emotive voice, her unique blend of R&B, soul, jazz, and spoken word has made her a trailblazer in neo-soul music. With hits like "A Long Walk" and "Golden," her passionate performances and thought-provoking lyrics have made her an influential and empowering presence in the music world.
An enigmatic performer with a versatile, powerful voice, she was able to masterfully navigate multiple genres such as jazz, blues, R&B, and gospel throughout her career. With iconic hits like "What a Diff'rence a Day Makes" and "Teach Me Tonight," her magnetic presence and timeless sound continue to captivate listeners.
The "Princess of R&B," her smooth, sultry voice and innovative fusion of R&B, soul, and hip-hop made her a trailblazer in the '90s music scene. With timeless hits like "One in a Million" and "Are You That Somebody," her undeniable talent and tragically short career continue to influence and inspire artists today.
A jazz icon with a lush, velvety voice and spellbinding stage presence, she is often hailed as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Known for her sophisticated interpretations of classics like "Misty" and "Lullaby of Birdland," her impeccable technique and influential artistry continue to inspire countless singers.
An innovative singer-songwriter with a hypnotic voice and eclectic sound, she became a pioneer of the neo-soul movement with her groundbreaking debut album Baduizm. With songs like "On & On" and "Tyrone," she has infused her music with thought-provoking lyrics and a unique blend of R&B, jazz, and soul, earning her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
An exceptional gospel singer known for her soaring, crystal-clear vocals and uplifting musical messages, she has brought gospel music to the mainstream throughout her career. With songs like "Open My Heart" and "The Battle is the Lord's," her powerful voice and unwavering faith have earned her multiple awards and a devoted fan base.
A legendary entertainer with a seductive, sultry voice, her enchanting presence and mesmerizing performances transcended the worlds of music, film, television, and theater. With songs like "Santa Baby" and "C'est si bon," her distinctive vocal style and unforgettable charisma continue to influence and inspire artists today.
A powerhouse vocalist and international superstar, her unique, expressive voice and genre-defying sound have made her one of the best-selling and most celebrated artists of all time. With hit after hit, such as "Umbrella" and "We Found Love," her captivating performances and provocative style have firmly established her as a game-changer in the world of music.
A dynamic vocalist and member of the iconic group Destiny's Child, her sultry voice and commanding stage presence have made her a celebrated solo artist as well. With songs like "Motivation" and "Dilemma," her powerful performances and infectious sound have solidified her status as a talented singer and influential figure in the music world.
With an impressive four-octave range and unique, crystal-clear voice, she rose to fame with R&B and pop hits such as "Let's Hear It for the Boy" and "Silly." Her distinctive vocal style, which effortlessly blended gospel, soul, and pop influences, has made her a beloved figure in the world of music.
A powerhouse vocalist who rose to fame as the winner of the third season of American Idol, her emotional, soul-stirring performances and gospel-inspired sound have made her a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. With hits such as "Truth Is" and "I Believe," her undeniable talent and inspiring journey continue to captivate fans worldwide.
An inspiring singer-songwriter with a soothing, soulful voice, she is known for her authentic, introspective lyrics and ability to convey raw emotion through her music. With songs like "Video" and "I Am Not My Hair," her empowering messages of self-love and acceptance have resonated with listeners and solidified her status as a captivating, impactful artist.
With her smooth, emotive voice and powerful ballads, she became an R&B sensation in the '90s, earning numerous accolades and hit songs such as "Angel of Mine" and "The Boy Is Mine." Her ability to convey raw emotion through her music and captivate audiences with her soulful sound has made her a beloved figure in the music world.
With an evocative, powerful voice and a unique fusion of soul, gospel, and pop, she has made a lasting impression on the music world with hits such as "Get Here" and "Window of Hope." Her ability to convey complex emotions through her music and her enchanting presence have earned her a devoted fan base and critical acclaim.
A captivating performer with a powerhouse voice, her genre-defying sound and groundbreaking visuals have made her a trailblazer in the contemporary music scene. With hits such as "Tightrope" and "Make Me Feel," her innovative style and unique fusion of R&B, funk, and pop have earned her legions of fans and critical acclaim.
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