Top 10 Singers with Unique Voices

Top 10 Singers with Unique Voices

Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the most original-sounding voices in music.

#10: Joni Mitchell

Among the most gifted songwriters of her generation, Joni Mitchell comes with a unique sound all her own. The Canadian-born folk singer started her career in the 1960s with a range that spanned low notes and falsettos. Her ability to climb to staggering highs is one the signatures of her catalog. And this is all aside from her songwriting on classics like “Both Sides, Now,” which spotlight her emotional delivery and songwriting abilities. There’s also the legendary tracks off her “Blue” album, which further showcase her talents as a poet and performer. Even in her later years, Mitchell has continued to perform with a richly-toned voice that’s deeper and just as effective.

#9: Amy Winehouse

Powered by a throwback sound, Amy Winehouse fused together the finest aspects of R&B, pop, and more. Her voice had a resonance and power that few artists could match. In only two studio albums, Winehouse managed to conquer the mainstream with her richly-textured tones. She sang songs that often explored the depths of the human psyche, such as the hit “Rehab.” Bringing emotion to each record, she didn’t leave anything up to interpretation. Her vocal work on the likes of “Back to Black” remains an amazing example of updating older influences for a new audience.

#8: Freddie Mercury

What was your reaction the first time you heard Freddie Mercury? His band made a name for themselves with their elaborate compositions, featuring Mercury as their fearless and talented leader. His operatic voice could’ve been fit for the most esteemed stage in the world, but he chose instead to rock out. We think he made the right choice given his acrobatic vocals on songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody.” With an enviable range, Mercury soared above most male registers without missing a beat. He also had the pipes to deliver an intimate ballad or fill an entire arena with glorious sound.

#7: Tina Turner

Through multiple decades of impressive work, Tina Turner established herself as one of the most enduring artists of any era. Her early work with Ike gave her a national spotlight, with performances like “Proud Mary” making it clear she was a distinct vocal talent. Providing intensity in every track, she went solo with a voice as powerful as ever. With “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” she showed she could sing a pop song as well as any star, and do so with a tone nobody else possessed. Turner had an unrivaled stamina, with the ability to maintain complete control over said unique voice while also showing off her dance moves.

#6: Johnny Cash

Whether he’s considered an outlaw or the “Man in Black,” Johnny Cash will forever be known as an original. The country star lived a complicated life that came out in every one of his performances. His deep voice feels like a window to his soul, perfectly paired with the darkness and vulnerability of his lyrics. Cash’s style was so self-assured that it felt completely different in country music. He was among the most recognizable voices in the genre, especially thanks to the direct nature of his presentation. Any time he sang, the artist made us feel like he was sitting us down and telling a story as a trusted friend.

#5: Björk

One of Iceland’s most famous singers became a sensation after going solo in the 1990s. With every album, she has set herself apart from others in the industry with her delivery. She doesn’t match a typical mainstream sound, creating art pop and alternative music all her own. This is bolstered by her one-of-a-kind voice, which she uses to do everything from shrieking to screaming to hitting glorious high notes. Her records may range from electronic to avant-garde and experimental but one thing remains constant: you’ll know it’s Björk behind that mic. Some may try to imitate her, but few can match her in terms of originality.

#4: Kate Bush

Boldly going her own way, Kate Bush began her singing career as a teenager in the late 1970s. She arrived fully-formed with hits like “Wuthering Heights,” which showcased her unique style. Mixing together various theatrical and experimental techniques, Bush threw the pop world for a loop with her dynamic works and unique sound. Her staggering voice paved a new way for female singers that didn’t bother with specific labels. Inventive records followed and so did more critical praise, including recognition for classics like “Hounds of Love.” Each step of the way, her ability to convey anger, love, and wonder through her voice have made her an icon.

#3: Louis Armstrong

Among the great legends of the 20th century, Louis Armstrong was one of the most famous trumpeters of his time. He also had an identifiable voice that you can’t mistake for anyone else. Equal parts raspy and refined, Armstrong performed from the heart every time. Many probably know him best as the singer of “What a Wonderful World.” In reality, he was a much more nuanced artist who was deeply important to the jazz world. The musician was as adept with his trumpet as he was with his vocal chords. Up until his final years, Armstrong continued to remind people of his gift for exceptionally original performances.

#2: Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan’s voice might throw the casual music fan off. But those listeners would be missing out on his gritty tones, and the way they elevate his songs. His everyman vocals might not be conventional, but they are special. Plus, his lyrics are exceptional in every way. He was at least partly inspired by folk heroes before him, who never let an unorthodox voice keep them from performing, and has blazed his own trail. Unique in every way, Dylan’s raw portraits of American life need his unrestrained delivery to feel complete. Instead of worrying about becoming the next pop star, the man followed his instincts and became a legend.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Brian Johnson
With His Trademark Shriek, the Rocker Revitalized AC/DC for a New Era

Cher
The Pop Star Made Waves with Her Contralto & Use of Auto-Tune

Axl Rose
With a Searing Voice, Axl Rose Conquers the World as a Rock Frontman

Janis Joplin
The Gritty Rocker Had a Range to Behold

Macy Gray
The Throwback Soul Singer Gives Hits Like “I Try” a Unique Spin

#1: Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen always played by his own rules. The troubadour started as a writer and a poet, eventually moving to singing as another outlet for his artistic vision. What followed was a decade of work closely tied to folk tradition. His earthy voice was a warm and welcome guide through memorable tunes such as “Suzanne.” With the 1980s came a new era for the artist and a deeper voice. His later era sounds unconcerned with conforming to any movement or popular technique. Instead, Cohen blended the art of speaking and singing into one signature form of storytelling using the voice only he possessed.

Did we forget one of your favorite voices? Let us know in the comments below.