Top Female Singers of the 20th Century

Yes, where you belong "1". The most gorgeous voice ever. I'm confident that will never change. A real, honest, pure, person, a gift from God for Karen and for everyone to enjoy. The voice of an Angel. Thank you Karen !

#1 in my Book! If you are a young singer you must listen to Karen to learn about smooth.

So many wonderful vocalists, how can you possibly choose the greatest? Actually it's not that difficult, just pick Karen!

Karen should be #1----that's that...

to see karen here at number 3 vindicates what I have always said - she had the most beautiful voice ever recorded. third still doesn't do her justice. she had a way of singing ONLY TO YOU. I would say she was in a league of her own.

Should be about #20. Smooth voice, so smooth.

Karen's voice is so gorgeous; Her voice numbs the ears with a calm soothing presence, awhile delivering the true meaning of each song to the heart and soul with such warmth and clarity.

To put Karen Carpenter so high on the list, above singers like Billie Holiday and Edith Piaf is ridiculous. This whole list is clearly biased in favor of more recent singers. Yes, à chacun son goût ‎, but people who think that most of these singers will be on a imilar list in, say 20 years, are going to be disappointed. It will be loaded with singers who aren't even born yet.

Merry Christmas Karen! Thank you for all your beautiful Christmas songs.

Karen Carpenter was too pure and perfect for down here. Her voice bypassed the ears and went straight to the heart and soul. As close to Gods voice as we will ever experience as mortals.

Just listen to the way her voice resounds in the lower register. And she had technique by age twenty that most singer don't develop until much later if at all. She wasn't an acrobatic singer like Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston, Karen simply opened her mouth and lush, rich tones simply fell out. If Ella was number one, and I believe she was, then Karen was 1A.

For something different, listen to her sing "I Can Dream, Can't I." Incredible and unmatched.

Karen had the most incredibly beautiful, almost shockingly intimate voice that has ever been heard. It is like she is just inches from you, staring into your eyes as she sings without ever (I mean ever) missing a note. That deep beautiful contralto voice can reach right into your soul and hand you your heart. Many other great singers around but none can hold a candle to Karen when it comes to the intimacy of her voice. We all miss you Karen. When you left you left a huge hole that can never be filled, Rest sweet Angel...

Karen Carpenter's voice incredible! Just listen to the song Rode Ode from the Song for You album and that says it all. One thing know- one mentions is her harmony vocals. when she adds harmony tracks to her own lead its fantastic! Number 1 in my book !

The comedy of this is... Dionne Warwick called Karen Carpenter the best voice ever.

Her voice was truly a gift from the heavens. There was always a touch of heartbreak in her voice, something a little sad. One of the greatest female singers of all time.

not my style. But pleasant vocalist

Last post is on the money. I would like to add another vocalist: Mariah Carey. So many great songs in the 90's. Fantastic vocalist.

Problem is her music was only OK and her output was pretty low even considering her untimely demise. Her voice was pleasant but #2 in the last century?! Here is a quick list of more accomplished abc better singers that aren't ranked high enough : Barbara Streisand (The most obvious ) Toni Braxton Roberta Flack Natalie Cole Chaka khan Regina Belle Whitney Houston Celine Dion

soothing but not groundbreaking like most of the others here.

#2 is too high a ranking . Sade, Anita Baker, Toni Braxton,Vanessa Williams, Natalie Cole, Regina Belle, Celine Dion and Oleta Adams should be ranked much higher.

So true , lovely vocalist but #2?? Just because a singer dies young shouldn't catapult the ranking so high. No disrespect intentioned . But there are many sibgers still alive today that should be ranked this high. Too many to mention.

2 comments below states that a poster claims that Carpenter is irrelevant. I didn't see that comment. I don't think anyone claims that Karen Carpenter is forgotten or doesn't matter anymore. Just opinions about who was and is the greatest female vocalist of the last century, regardless of when a singer died. Whitney also died prematurely but that shouldn't rank her any higher than if she was alive. I think that was the point of that comment 3 below.

She had the most beautiful voice of all times, no one can hold a candle to her it was pure velvet!.

OMG, you can't be serious. Karen is now not relevant. You cant say Karen Carpenter and Aretha Franklin, in the same sentence.

I don't know why premature death deems someone the greatest female vocalist of the last century. Yes she had an easy listening type voice. But to be rankied higher than living legends like Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick, Barbara Streisand...... Not to mention the late great Whitney Houston, Dionne's first cousin. To me Whitney and Dionne are the best vocalist of the last century.

Every once in a great while, God blesses humanity with a gift so pure & precious that we are scarcely worthy of it. This was the voice of Karen Carpenter, unpretentious and reaching deep into the hearts & souls of her many fans worldwide; truly the best!.. RIP baby girl.

decent voice but not this high 10-20 more likely

Just a general comment about these vocalists. All are talented. Reasonable people can disagree about vocals. That said, I enjoy most of the vocalists on this list. My tops are Dionne Warwick, her cousin the late great Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin. Barbara Streisand and Donna Summer not far behind. All very different, but all had great vocals in their time.

Easily, effortlessly the best, with a silky, golden quality none of us will hear bettered. If you are in doubt, listen to ANY track, then imagine what other screachers would sound like in comparison. BTW I once met her and she was lovely.

Lovely singer, but not #1.

I one time heard her voice described as haunting. When she hits low notes it chills your bones and makes me shiver. I remember being in the gym class in middle school on certain days they wanted to teach us how to dance and it was the carpenters the whole lesson. The Female gym teacher would always dance with the male gym teacher. She was infatuated with the carpenters. Years later I heard they got married. She is the voice.

Decen tVoice but No way This High

Pretty voice, but not much range compared to the greats like Aretha, Dionne , Whitney and Barbara.. I would rank her in the top 20 but certainly not #1. The aforementioned singers should be ranked higher than Karen.

there has not been anyone who could hold a candle to her ability to bring out the raw emotions in a person and make them feel like she was singing in a way that made them think she could see into their minds and heart

Karen had an armor-piercing sincerity. In one verse she could deliver the lowest of despairs AND promise the highest of joys—simultaneously. And somehow she intuitively knew that EVERYONE'S life was REALLY just like that! She connected to that universal vulnerability, that full scale of complex emotions, surrounding situations, mixed feelings, that EVERYONE eventually identified with. Nothing at all is faked in her voice, with bone-chilling talent that borders, if not enters into, the miraculous! Time only reproves any doubts of how truly unique their sound was! Karen MUST be accepted as one of the most undeniably gifted voices: to be able to DIRECTLY touch, cross-over to people of ALL music tastes, even otherwise disparate generations. I probably wouldn't want to know anyone who couldn't appreciate the talent here—an ability to evoke such tender, readily genuine, powerful emotion, acknowledged as it is, from so many of us mere mortals!

Only one thing I'd like to offer...: AMEN! & AMEN!! She is in he Heavenly Place now instructing Angels how to make RIGHTEOUS SOUND. Yes, Teaching the Angels on High Just how to make sound close to hers! Forever AND Ever AND Ever I Miss You Karen, I Love You and My Deepest Thanks. Darling, You are the Very Best . . . THE VERY, VERY, VERY BEST. xx

Judging voices is very objective. A beautiful voice to some may be mediocre to others. Case in point Karen Carpenter. I find her no better than most on these pages, yet she ranks #1. Suprised Sarah Mclachlan didn't place higher.

d ecent drummer,agree top 30 vocally

Top 30, never #1.

Voice of an ANGEL and in a class all by herself.

Phenomenal voice - pure and unique; quite unlike any other vocalist. Amazing she was a "reluctant" vocalist; she always considered herself a drummer first...

Excellent, awesome, no top female singer list means anything without Karen Carpenter in it.

Have to agree - she wasn't the coolest or a diva, but in my heart of hearts I have to agree that Karen carpenter is the greates female singer who has ever lived.

good but with very limited vocal range

Good choice for No 1

Seeing her name here just brought tears to my eyes. And I'm a pretty tough bloke in my mid-30's! She wasn't human. No human voice can be that beautiful. Truly an angel. The best female singer of all time and only about a million miles ahead of anyone else. Period.

Finally!!! I see someone agrees with me!

Undoubtedly the greatest voice I've ever heard, bar none. Every time I listen to her it sounds as if she's singing just to me and nobody else and I cry like a baby.

Perfection at its very best.

Thank god surprised and can't agree more.I mean totally agree.Most beautiful voice ever.As someone said even if she had sung phone book it would have been amazing.

By all means Karen Carpenter had a perfectly pure voice. Definitely the most beautiful voice I have ever heard.

Karen is in a class by herself. Pure perfection. Lots of great singers in this list, but no question Karen is #1.

Best singer of all time in my opinion. No one comes close.

Interesting List. Music is subjective. I think most I would consider great singers. Every list has a different order. Whitney was the best package with the looks and the voice she made such an impression. RIP Whitney.

Karen was such an amazing singer. may she rest in peace.

Karen Carpenter definitley deserves to be Number 1.

Karen had such a beautiful voice and will always live in our hearts.

No way is Karen average! Quite simply the best, any negative comments are either by jealous or tone deaf people.....

Karens voice is hauntingly beautiful and send shivers down my spine when she sings. Wasted talent, she died too soon and to all you young anorexics, u probably all have no bloody idea that this woman practically put anorexia nervosa on the map.

Anybody who has ever had professional voice lessons must be in awe of Karen!. great voice!

I feel Karen Carpenter is, without a shadow of a doubt, the greatest female vocalist of all time!

Karen and Ann Wilson a tie. Obviously two completely different styles but...

No, Karen actually had talent. She was hardly overrated and one only has to watch the VH-1 special on Top 100 female vocalists. Karen is paid homage to by no less than Melissa Etheridge, Dione Warwick, and kd lang.

I agree 100% #1

Simply the best!!

It's a pity she left us to only 33 years old cause of anorexia nervosa. One of my favourite female singers and probably the No.1 female voice during the beginning of 70's with Mina (Italy) and Barbra Streisand.

Karin vocals are very pleasant to the ear. This said, it must also be mentioned that her brother was a recording wizard and really got the most out of her recording sessions.

Absolutely LOVE this woman!

Voice of an angel. Gone way to soon!!

WTF? I think Karen has an amazing voice and deserves her spot at least in the Top 5 all time greats, so I have been voting for her and seen her gradually moving up the ranks. But to go from position #32 to #18 overnight must have taken some serious voting.

The previous poster is so full of codswallop. A voice is not determined by the material sung.

Karen had the best natural gift of all

I dont know with these people who dont believe that Karen Carpenter deserved being in the top ten list. These are obvius fans of other artists who cant accept the fact that Karen carpenter had the graetest singing voice this world has ever had!!!!!!!!!! She deserved the #1 spot here people!

Karen Carpenter not only had a beautiful voice, but she had a producer and writer (Richard)who knew how to write songs for her voice. She also has a decent range. I would put her in the top 10 and better than any current female vocalist.

Karen Carpenter has such a perfect voice that you can listen to it for hours and never get tired of it. She is definitely one of the best singers of the 20th century, A travesty that she is so low down on this list, she should easily be in the top 3.

No hype, no fuss, no smoke and mirrors, just an amazingly engaging and warm voice that expresses every emotion imagineable. Karen Carpenter and her music will live forever.

I cannot believe Karen Carpenter is so low on this silly list. She must have the purest, most expressive and richest voice I have ever heard. The type of music she sings is completely irrelevant, this poll is only about the quality of the artist's voice, and Karen carpenter's voice is exceptional. She sings simply with no tricks or vocal gymnastics involved. I am not a particular fan of the type of music she sings but I could listen to her singing any type of song forever.

Top 10. Hands down. Go on You Tube and listen to her rendition of Solitaire. Crystal clear angelic voice. No hype. Did not appeal by dressing (or as it is now common 'undressing' to appeal to prurient interests. No fancy bands to enhance her voice. We have lost all appreciation of of quality and bought into hype. Long live Karen Carpenter. Hope to hear her sing in heaven.

Very pleasant voice and she had lots of fans, but she wasn't much of a stylist. She could really put me to sleep.

Without question, Karen Carpenter is the best female vocalist of all time. This girls sang with such emotion, clarity that you become hypnotized by her. My favorite of all time.

stan and jack are clearly lacking in maturity and are spending too much time smurfing around worrying about what others think. plus their spelling is terrible. get a clue: one's viewpoint can only be considered correct when justified by verifiable fact. arguing about who is right is childish. opinions are like armpits... we've all got two. comparing specific voices from discrete genres of the music industry is like comparing apples and dishwashers. any ranking list can only be a popularity contest unless specific criteria like sales figures and awards are adhered to. karen did not have big lungs or big range and didn't belt like barbra or aretha. she didn't die on stage and exploit her tremolo like judy. could you just picture karen trying to scat like ella? karen unamplified could not stand on the same stage with some of the women on this list. but we're not here to talk about opera, are we? all the women on this list are remarkable for different combinations of similar qualities. karen's pitch, rhythm, sensitivity, phrasing, and diction plus richard's arrangements and studio orchestration [his contributions to their success cannot be disregarded] are the reasons her fans are devoted to her. i grew up listening to the carpenters and wholeheartedly believe karen should be higher in this ranking. and i know that will only happen when she gets more votes.

NOBODY"S voice can be duplicated - meaningless

Her voice is ok, to me a little above average, but I HATE her music !

I love Karen.

Can't find any refference to nor find any peers who refered to Karen as "the voice".It's great that you like her, many people do, many others don't. Your statement should have concrete references though to show its not just rumor or hearsay.

I totally agree with guest 1, how do you compare one singer to another. In my opinion she is top ten. But again my opinion. Just because A&M did not like her solo album does not deter from her ability to sing and be ranked among the best. Her album was released much later and yes did not sell that well. My guess is Richard and A&M they did not want her to go solo at all. I like how no other artist on this list has attracted more attention.

From wikipedia concerning a solo project for Karen: "the project met with tepid response from Richard and A&M executives early in 1980. The project was shelved by A&M CEO Herb Alpert in spite of Quincy Jone's attempt to talk Alpert into releasing the record after some tracks had been remixed. A&M made the Carpenters pay $400,000 to cover the cost of recording Karen's unreleased solo album, which was to be charged against the duo's future royalties." . Everything you said above is your own opinion and you have not shown in the least how industry professionals "people in the music business" , not fans, rate Karen above most on this list.

I'm really interested to know what industry professionals put Karen above singers like Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Barbra Striesand (though not my music pick I can't argue about her voice) Linda Ronstadt, and many others on this list.

What industry people would they be? Please list. And ( if you can list any ) how many other artists have those 'people' said the same thing about ?

Mean Peter?, my only comment about her was that I think her voice (as a professional) was mediocre. That's my opinion, yours is different so god bless you, but you go to your room and think about why you think your opinion is so much more valuable than someone elses, and perhaps you should wonder why you didn't attack any other comment about any other artist here. That's a big problem with this site, no equality of opinion, and, if you disagree at all about an artist and then prase another, that artist is likely to get down voted by someone who didn't like one of your comments.

I'm a male and when I ask female singers what female singers they admire purely for the singing, rather than the songs, they have mentioned Karen Carpenter in the first three names quite often. It's no wonder; KC was highly engaged, expressive and intriguing with a voice of outstanding expressive range and an easy and diamond clarity.

Three Grammys, none on her own.

Ugly or not ugly has nothing to do with anything Jack, your problem is that you have no intelligent way to voice an objective comment about a subjective viewpoint. All you can do is try to spout out some type of sensational criticisim (crap) about an artist as if it will affect anyone. And your sad comments are merely a mirror reflection of your own pittiful sense of being, of course your probably not educated enough to even know what mirror image is so I fell bad for you.

STAN the sad old man . I still stand by saying BJORK is an "ugly little diva". If you think is she pretty , get an eye test . !!!!!!

Comments from Jack such as "ugly littles diva" and Jack who is Mr. Boring should be taken seriously - NOT

Boy, you're sure unaware of his reputation...this has to be your funniest entry yet. Good going! Love it.

"they are wrong" andrewh? Only your opinion is RIGHT ? What an ego, what an idiot you are!

Papasmurf is making similar comments under People in the Best Actors Ever list. He thinks his opinion is the only one that counts apparently!

papasmurf !!!! EVERYONE is entitled to their opinion !!!

I stand by my first response, to say she is mediocre is obviously without merit.

Now, Now , Girls !!

excuse me but he criticised my opinion, try reading back

Hey Stan, what gives you the right to criticise someone else's opinion? Karen Carpenter had a wonderful, effortless voice. She was one of the best vocalists I've ever heard. Certainly better than the shrieking and yelling by the likes of Aretha Franklin that so-called experts try and pass off as outstanding.

If you think that she has one of the top 2 voices on this list, much less ever, you obviously have no idea what vocal quality is.

obviously you have no idea what a great singers sounds like, this lady is constantly cited as one of the best.

her voice is only mediocre - shouldn't even be in the top 50

The clearest most incrediable voice to hit the airwaves. Karen Carpenter's talents are always under rated. Top 2 voices ever.

Shocked that Aretha Franklin isn't ranked #1 . But Dionne Warwick is fantastic as well. Diana Ross should be ranked higher. She has a beautiful voice and stellar singles.

Appropriate ranking, on account of her being the second most popular (most charted singles) of the last century! Aretha was first.

Your My World, Here I Am, Make It Easy On Yourself, No One In the World, I Didn't Mean To Love You, Fragile, Keeping Your Head Above Water, Your Gonna Need Me, After All, All This Time. That's 10 underrated songs - either not released as singles or were and didn't perform well. I could list countless more.

Some of my favorites of hers were not big hits. Funny thing is I read Dionne didn't like her some of her biggest hits at first. Then Came You hit #1 in 1974, not among her favorites. Do You Know The Way To San Jose a huge hit for her in the 60's but Dionne didn't like it.

Dionne appeared on The Masked Singer in late February 2020. She was easily recognized because of her distinctive voice said the panelists. That says it all.

Luther Vandross's favored A House Is Not a Home. He even recorded it and made it his own.

Stevie Wonder's favorite Dionne song was Are You There With Another Girl.

Prolific, Versatile, Multi faceted, Melodic.... These are just some of Dionne's attributes. One just has to listen to t a few of her classics to be enamored by her unique vocals and songs. My favorite wasn't even a hit , it is on her amazing On Stage and in the Movies album, the track is "Summertime" Her vocals were never better.

Still performing and recording today as she nears 80!!! Living legend indeed. Too bad her younger cousin Whitney Houston couldn't even reach 50 (RIP) Dionne is probably the most prolific singer we have plus Dionne is second to Aretha having scored more charted hits than any other female solo vocalist during the last century. Impressive indeed. Lovers of quality music should check out her amazing catalogue not just the hits. TRUST ME!!!

Surprised Aretha didn't climb up to #1 after her death. Usually the departed artists rise up the charts and rakings. In any case I like seeing Dionne Warwick up here.

Well deserved.

Wow, didn't realize she still performs live! Well over a half a century of performing is miraculous.

Dionne may not have the strongest vocals. Aretha, Ella, Chaka , Patti and her very own cousin the late great Whitney handily will knock her out. Dionne may not have the most tender vocals, Diana Barbara, Minnie or again Whitney (RIP) would win that battle too. What Dionne does posses that most others don't is a most unique magically melodic voice and a huge catalogue of some of the most impressive bodies of work from well over 50 years of performing and recording. From the last century in the early 60's until today she is still doing her thing. Her interpretation of song is oh so beautiful and classy to the extreme. Nobody ever sounded anything like her and likely nobody ever will. Prolific yet high quality output 50+ years and running. Hmm, how many artists have managed that?

Living icon indeed.

If not #1 maybe #2. Dionne scored the second most charted singles than any other female solo artist in the 20th century. Only Aretha had more. But its not just the quantity that makes these great artists legends. Its the quality of their songs.

Very well respected songstress with numerous hit records , however #1 might be pushing it.

Lovely singer, no matter what ranking. Beautiful voice and songs for over a half a century! Dionne's first hit the scene in the early 60's and never stopped since. Still performing and recording today and she's well over 70!

Vanessa Williams did a fine job covering several Dionne classics over the years. But nobody has the unique voice that Dionne possesses.

cont.... This very thorough concert is almost an hour and also on You Tube. But online you can also see her interviewed.

Dionne performed a stellar concert for PBS/Soundstage in 1980 along with a light interview. My cousin (another huge fan) declares this to be among her very best. I would agree. Her vocals were superb and she was interplaying with the crowd so well. Any fan should check this out online. Dionne on PBS/Soundstage circa 1980. Look for it!!

In the next year or so a movie based on Dionne's life will be released. Former Destiny Child vocalist Letoya Luckett will portray Dionne. Hope she does the living legend justice. Lady Gaga is rumored to play her nemesis British singer Cilla Black. Should be fun!!

This is one legend that just listening to her hits is just not sufficient. I started with her greatest hits CD over 20 great songs from the 60's and early 70's. I loved it but something was missing. So I bought her Hidden Treasures CD- mostly album track and B-sides from the same era. I was even more impressed. Some of the non hits were better than the hits! Then I delved into some underrated songs of the 70's, 80s and 90's. These most definitely were better than her hits of this later period. This is one of the most prolific artists of the last century. Non stop recording and performing from the 60's till even today!

Winning multiple Grammies and other musical awards, having the second most amount of charted singles of the last century (Aretha is #1) and churning out terrific songs and live performances in the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and even now in the 21st century is enough to declare Dionne as a genuine living legend . Whether she is ranked #1, #2 or whatever, she is a standout amongst the hundreds of competing female vocalists of the 20th century

Not just a top ranked female vocalist, but a classy one. Today I would say that Beyoncé is the top one . Some would argue that Adele is but they are both great. As for classy Adele has the edge.

Like her younger cousin Whitney Houston (RIP) Dionne experienced a vocal change after her peak years in the 60's. By the late 70's (her huge comeback album DIONNE-1979) Dionne sounded different. She sounded older (she was almost 40) than how she sounded in the 60's when she was in her 20's. However she gained new fans with that album and more throughout the 80's with her best selling Friends album (1985). I remember loving her in the 80's unaware of the massive success she had in the 60's. It's like 2 completely different voices. Love them both.

Crazy how Dionne is still releasing albums after all these years!! Her work is so consistent and heartfelt. Well over 50 years now of recording and performing wonderful music.

Actually both Aretha and Dionne scored some charted singles in the 90's as well. Amazing!

Recently listened to some marvelous duets with Dionne's late great cousin Whitney Houston. Love Will Find a Way is the best by far. Recorded in the early 90's on a Dionne album. Both sound gorgeous. Such beautiful voices and mannerisms.The song is a lost gem.

RIP Natalie Cole. She's currently #14 on this very long list. Whatever ranking she places, she is extremely well respected. Beautiful voice and music for over 40 years.

I recently entered Top female singers of the last century and was brought here. Having never heard Dionne's voice (I'm quite young) I decided to delve right in. Started with her 60's classics, boy am I impressed. Not just her melodic voice but the top quality songs. Even heard some 70's tracks. Some great too, but no match to the 60's. Most artists that started in the 60's peaked there. Didn't have chance to listen to her 80's ,90's and more recent work, but I will and will report back. Wow, today's so called artists don't compare. Figures that Dionne was the late great Whitney's old cousin.

Never knew living legend Dionne Warwick and the late great Whitney Houston were first cousins!! Dionne's mom Lee (no longer with us) and Whitney's mom Cissy are sisters! What a talented family!

By far my favorite female vocalist of the last century. Countless songs spanning many decades. Such a unique voice coupled with great music.

Most likely one of the most prolific artists on this list. Landmark songs from the past 50 + years. Others here have listed the many hit singles and fine album cuts. But what about the beautiful remakes over all of these years. Many of them live during concerts. And how about all those great songs with some of the best male singers EVER: Sacha Distel (a European legend) Frank Sinatra (Live on Solid Gold with Dionne), Spinners, Isaac Hayes, Barry Manilow, Bee Gees, Luther Vandross, Johnny Mathis, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Howard Hewett. Jeffery Osbourne , Kashif, and so many others.. Simply go to You Tube and enter her name with these fine artists. And you will be entertained for endless hours. Or just type her name alone and spend a lifetime hearing some of the greatest songs from the studio and many amazing live performances from the last half of century +. Early 60's until today. A living legend.

At her peak years 60's-underrated 70's., Dionne was flawless. Gorgeous voice and amazing material . Even now in the twilight of her very accomplished life she sounds soothing and beautiful. She obviously can't hit the notes she used to effortless manage back in the days , but she still has it.

This #1 ranking is a very lofty claim. However most who listen to Dionne at her best will agree that she deserves the position.

Soft, Soothing, Melodic, Powerful, Low, Deep, High, Soaring, Majestic, Sophisticated, Mature, Playful......Any of those aforementioned attribute accurately defines Dionne Warwick. Warwick possesses a unique voice that deems her an amazing vocalist.. So many different textures embody her beautiful voice.

Continued from last post, I have recently listenerd to Dionne's more recent catalogue from the 80's and 90's and can now firmly attest that Dionne is among the greatest female singers of the last century. Yes some singers hit higher notes , others lower and deeper, however Dionne possesses a fully rounded voice and has an amazing song catalogue to back it up.

I was born after Dionne was first hitting the charts. I now caught up with her great works of the 60's and even 70's. Very impressive vocals AND music. I haven't listened to her more recent 80s -90's material yet. But plan on soon.

Last comment should state rank not tank.

So many greats the last century. Difficult to tank them . But Judy Garland and Doris Day certainly were great singsrs.

The last poster's random comment about a psychic network has no place here. This site is about great singers and Dionne is certainly among the best .

Not even in the top 40 of good female singers! You are all too young to remember the best ones! Rosemary Clooney probably had the clearest and most beautiful tone of anyone! I loved her voice! The Lone Haranguer

One look at her illustrious career confirms that Dionne is more than worthy of this #1 ranking . Probably the most prolific diva EVER! But it's not just the quantity , her output was and is of the highest quality . She has worked with tbe best in the business and her talent is remarkable .

Even her unissued songs are impressive. Warner recently released a 19 track CD featuring tracks recorded but not released throughout the 70's. Some of those songs are even better than the hits!

Well deserved. Best all around female vocalist in memory. EXTREMELY versatile. From Soul,/R&B - Easy Listening , pop, Jazz,, Rock etc... Her very long career covered it all and rather well. Countless albums and songs.

Not just a unique voice . Also an amazing amount of great songs from the early 60's until today! Over 50 years. Just to put this into perspective: The Beatles just celebrated a 50th. They have been gone for over 40 years. How many vocalists /groups of any sex or genre can claim 50 + years of recoding and performing? Most of the singers here don't have the magic combination : great voice paired with a multitude of great songs. .

Dionne's latest new recording album NOW was nominated for a Grammy , best traditional album. Featuring the 70+ legend singing her classics and several newer compositions by Bacharach . Expect much deeper and huskier vocals than much of older recordings . However her sense of melody and smoothness is unchanged.

Many here comment about Dionne's prolific career. True that so few female solo artists (if any) have recorded or performed the amount of songs Dionne has amassed over the last 50 + years. But it's also the quality of the material that outshines most of her peers. Each decade since her commercial and some say artistic apex(60's)have brought great music to the world . Dionne possesses a melodic instrument , it's almost insulting to call it a voice. Her humming alone is a marvel. Not to mention her soaring highs (her youthful 60's - 70's) her deepest lows (perfected in the 80's until today)and everything in between. Soothing , melodic ,provocative, complex, soaring, affecting etc..... Just about any adjective can apply to the great Dionne. From her most simple tunes (Much of her 80's efforts ) to her most creative (60's and a sone of 70's Bacharach /David produced tracks) she mastered it all. She has worked with top producers and writers for many decades with varying success , but Dionne's performances and recordings always impress.

Forgot to mention Dionne's popular I'll Never Fall In Love Again album from 1970. Her second to last album (preceded Very Dionne 71) on Scepter. This album features the hit title song and has many other great songs .

Warner recently released a Dionne Warwick 19 track CD featuring unreleased tracks from the 70s. Titled We Need To Go Back.... Most of the songs are of very high quality and should have been released many years ago. Some of the best writers and producers worked with Dionne in the 70s and their masterpieces are on full display here. A must for an Dionne fan. It will complete your 70s Dionne collection assuming you have her original albums. If not Warner also released her singles from the 70s. But I highly recommend any fan to seek out the original complete albums. In many cases the album tracks are very impressive. Here is a list of her 70's albums on Warner: Dionne (72), Just Being Myself (73), Then Came You (75),Track of the Cat (76) and Love At First Sight (77). Her non Warner albums were Very Dionne (71) A Man and a Woman with Isaac Hayes (77) and Dionne (79). Her voice was at or near her peak greatness throughout this decade. The often ignored decade of this living legend deserves much more attention . It seems her 60's and 80's material is best remembered . Most fans wi agree that the 70's was a very creative period for Dionne. A very different sound musically and vocally from the previous and post decades.

Yes, Natalie Cole is great singer. But she really only shined when she sang duet with her father. Her solo songs are well done and beautifully performed but not in the same league as her dad.

Dionne is epitome of a living legend. However there is another younger great singer that seems to overlooked because her father is widely considered to be among the best male vocalists of the last century. Natalie Cole. Just hearing her song her dad's songs make me quiver. Not to mention her great songs from the 70-s until today .

An ICON.

For more recent (late 70's - 90s)Dionne material seek out LEGENDS. A 3 disc box set featuring hit singles and modest performing hits and great album tracks. Most of the songs featured here are from the 80's, a fairly lucrative decade for Dionne. She enjoyed her second #1 single (That's What Friends Are For) and so many more very good songs such as: No Night So Long, Heartbreaker, How Many Times Can We Say Goodbye, Love Power and Reservations For Two and even more .

If there is any doubt about Dionne's greatness. Try sampling any of the albums/songs listed below. Yes there are other great singers, but Dionne has the perfect package: Exceptional voice, Classic songs (some of the non hits are even more impressive than the well know songs) and worked with the finest producers and writers for over 50 years!! How many female solo singers can even come close? I also love Dionne's cousin Whitney. However she wasn't nearly as prolific (even when she was alive) and her songs weren't as transcending. But vocally Whitney was amazing at her vocal peak (80's and 90's) and still a very good singer in her last years. So sad.

Now for some 70's highlights: Very Dionne- Her first album of the new decade. and last with the Scepter label. A well done album, but not as consistent as her 60's albums. Featuring the complex Check Out Time (similar to the earlier Promises Promises) with a constant change of melody. Green Grass Starts To Grow and other fine album tracks. Also features 10 live classics from a concert in the early 70's. The vocals are breathless. Very entertaining album. Imperfect though. Dionne- First album with Warner. Very consistent and calm. Nearly every song is captivating. Her most relaxing album. I go to this one often. Just Being Myself- Sounds more like a Motown style album. Very different from her previous work, but well done. A must for fans. I listen to this regularly. Then Came You- Her first #1 single is featured on this album. Many wonderful songs here. Track Of The Cat- No hits, but filled with great tracks. Ironically Dionne and critics ranked this album very highly however it was one of her least successful albums of her career. Love At First Sight- A very refreshing album. I think I listen to this more than any other 70's album. No hits. though. Another very poor seller. Dionne- First album for Arista and last album 70's. Her biggest album of her career up to this point. Huge hits like I'll Never Love This Way Again and Deja Vu. Plus terrific songs such as, After You and All This Time. Vocally Dionne voice deepened some by this facet of her career she was around 40 years old .However still as soothing and melodic as ever. For her best 80's material there is a great 3 disc box set titled LEGENDS. It features hits and great album tracks of her huge Dionne (1979 album) and all of her 90's and early 90's songs. Her voice continued to mature through the decades, however most fans agree that she is a true living LEGEND.

Here is a list of some of her most notable albums: Presenting Dionne Warwick- her very first album featuring Don't Make Me Over and Make It Easy On Yourself among many other great tracks. Anyone Who Had A Heart- hit title track and other beautiful songs. Make Way For Dionne- Her most respected song Walk On By is on this amazing album. Also Close To You later remade by The Carpenters. Sensitive Side of Dionne- No hits, but a very well done record. Here I Am- Again, no hits very consistent and probably her best album of her career. Here Where There Is Love- Now this album had hits! Alfie, Trains and Boats and Planes, I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself and her version of What The World Needs Now. Great album indeed. Windows Of The World- Another hit filled album. Say A Little Prayer is among one of her biggest hits. Valley Of The Dolls- Her biggest album of the 60's. Hit theme song made it to #2 on the charts (highest charting single thus far) , Do You Know The Way To San Jose? Very good album tracks here as well. On Stage And In The Movies- Featuring Summertime (perhaps her greatest vocal) and many other classic remakes. A lost treasure. Soulful Plus- another album of remakes. This time 60's and early 70's classics. Featuring " You Lost That Loving Feeling and around 20 more great songs! Change of pace for Dionne. Her vocals are much more soulful here. Very interesting another overlooked lost treasure. Promises Promises- Hit title track and This Girl Is In Love. Beautiful ballads on this very good album. I'll Never Fall In Love Again- Last album of 60's and the title track was a hit. Also fine songs like Paper Mache and so many others. Yet another very good album. As most anyone can see the 60's was a very good decade for the great Dionne. She was the second most successful female solo singer at this time, second to the great Aretha.

This #1 ranking should be followed by Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin. All superb vocalists. Alll very different.

I have been listening to the 60s station on Sirius/XM radio. They don't play nearly enough of Dionne's songs. I don't think I ever heard any Aretha either. I did hear an inferior version of What The World Needs Now Is Love that was a big hit for another singer. Dionne's version is infinitely better. And the lack of Aretha tracks is appalling. Both Aretha and Dionne were the 2 most popular female solo vocalists of the 20th century.

Bought Dionne's latest album. Very impressed with her vocals . Very soothing . Her reinterpretation of her songs were well done. Obviously her soaring vocals were at the heavenly heights in the 60's and 70's. her beautiful voice began maturing in the late 70's. Some fans loved that period the best (1979 album Dionne). Much of her 80's vocals, while deeper , still resonated with listeners. How amazing that Dionne performed fantastically from the 60's till today at age 73!

Living legend Her songbook speaks for itself One of the best female vocalists of all time. Her late great cousin Whitney Houston should be ranked much higher by the way.

Other hits after 1972, DEJA VU and LOVE POWER.. But previous poster is correct , Dionne had many more hits in the 60's . Crazy that she doesn't get compensated for her classic work. No wonder she always remakes her classics. The remakes she gets paid. But still oldies stations on celestial radio and satellite play her classics.

Legendary artists don't get paid for their classic songs recorded before 1972. Such a damn shame because Dionne was at her peak in the 60's. So classics like Walk On By, Say A Little Prayer, Do You Know The Way To San Jose, Theme to Valley Of The Dolls,, I'll Never Fall In Love Again, etc........... are not accounted for. At least Dionne has some big hits after 1972: Then Came You (her first #1) That's What Friends Are For (her last #1) , I'll Never Love This Way Again,, Heart Breaker etc......

The epitome of a living legend.

If Dionne is reading this, she would surely cry with happiness. She has accomplished so much in the past half of century. Countless classic songs , albums, collaborations, concerts etc..... Along with the great Aretha Diana,, Barbara, Dionne ranks among the very best of the last century.

I'm sure many will argue that she doesn't deserve the #1 position. However most will agree that she is a legend and has a very unique voice. Her music of the 60's until today inspire millions.

But why is her late great younger cousin Whitney ranked so low? Dionne certainly would want Whitney near her in these rankings.

I'm sure now that Dionne is ranked #1 there will be haters. But truth is if anybody took the time to sample her live performances and recordings (all eras) one can see why she is so respected. Like the poster below stated her vocal range was huge , especially in the 60's and 70's.

Super large vocal range, soulful, crystal clear and sophisticated voice, commanding stage presence, beauteous face and golden music she made...I can't see why Dionne shouldn't be No.1.

A living legend .

#1 wow! I'm gonna check out her music.

cont.. DON"T MAKE ME OVER, MAKE IT EASY ON YOURSELF, MAKE THE MUSIC PLAY, MAKE THE NIGHT A LTITLE LONGER, I CRY ALONE, CLOSE TO YOU, YOU'LL NEVER GET TO HEAVEN, HERE I AM, THEME: VALLEY OF THE DOLLS, WHERE AM I GOING? WHOEVER YOU ARE, I LOVE YOU, L.O.V.E. UNCHAINED MELODY, I'VE BEEN LOVING YOU TOO LONG, YOU'VE LOST THAT LOVING FEELING, SURE THING, I DIDN"T MEAN TO LOVE YOU

Well deserved # 1 position. Not the flashiest vocals , but very melodic , magical , unique voice. Not to mention the myriad songs (many classics) she has recorded and performed for over 50 years. A living legend, simply put.

American Idol, X Factor etc.... have been featuring many of her songs. Just last week on the X Factor one of the over 25 singers (54 year old grandma) sang A House Is Not a Home. She did an amazing job with it. Last year on Idol all of the finalists sang several of her songs in one show. This is a testament to her greatness.

Here are some rare cuts (not sure of exact recording date) that prove Dionne's greatness: For The Rest of My Life- (late 60's) Your My World (late 60's) Wine Is Young ( Late 60's - early 70's) I Didn't Mean To Love You (mid- to late 70's) Fragile (early 90's)

One listen and most will understand. The Definitive Collection is a great place to start. Covers some of her biggest hits (and a few key album tracks) from the 60s- 80's. For more comprehensive collections, DIonne Warwick Collectuion (Best of) covers most of hits and some minor but worthy cuts from the 60's and very early 70's. Hidden Gems (best of part 2) covers the underated singles and album cuts (some minor hits) of the 60's and early 70's. If you like all of this, her individual albums were impressive, especially the 60's and 70's work

cont.. I Smiled Yesterday,, WIshin and Hopin,Unlucky, Make the Music Play,They Long To Be Close To You, In The Land of Make Believe, How Many Days of Sadness, This Little Light, Let Me Be Lonely, Who Is Gonna Love Me Any Old Time Of The Day, Who Is Gonna Love Me? Slaves, Check Out TIme, The Green Grass Starts To Grow...... She is not known for most of these track, they weren't hits like some of the previous track mentioned, however they are all wonderful .

cont.... Make the Music Play, I Cry Alone, Make the Night A Little Longer, Forever My Love, I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself, Trains and Boats And Planes, What The World Needs Now, Theme of Valley Of the Dolls, This Girl Is In Love,, Do You Know the Way to San Jose, Your My World, Silent Voices, You've Lost That Loving Feeling, I've Been Loving You Too Long, Paper Mache, Then Came You, I'll Never Love This Way Again, Deja Vu, ...........

Effortlessly sang some ot the best songs of the last century. Don't Make Me Over, Make It Easy On Yourself, Anyone Who Had A Heart, Walk On By, Say A Little Prayer,Here I Am Summertime ,Alfie., Promises Promises,I'll Never Fall In Love Again and dozens more.

I'm sure Dionne is satisfied with her #2 status. She certainly was when she was ranked the #2 the last century. Only Aretha had more charted singles during the 20th century..

Wonder if Dionne would agree wth her current #2 position. I read somewhere that her faves were Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn. All wonderful., but Dionne has that special indescribal quality in her vocals thant simply can't be duplicated. You see Natalie Cole sounded much like Aretha in the mid 70's. But NOBODY sounded like Dionne.

If this ranking system is based on artists at their peak period than Dionne Warwick of the 60's and 70's certainly ranks at or near #1 . Her rivals at the time were Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Barbara Streisand, Dusty Springfield, and many more. While all fantastic, I prefer Dionne's vocals and music.

At her vocal peak (60' s and early 70's) nobody has such a versatile voice. She sang with such depth and authenticity. Her highs were soaring and crisp, her lows were deep and moving. And every vocal nuance in between was voiced to perfection. Even as her voice slowly matured (mid-llater 70's until today, she still impresses.

Dionne Warwick's: Collection, Hidden Gems, Very Best Of, Love Songs and Definitive Collection in descending order are some of the more comprehensive compilations. But even with all of these albums you'll be missing some essential tracks from the 60's, 70's and 80's.

One listen and most people will be hooked. Just pick a random album: Presenting Dionne- her very first album featuring some hits, Anyone Who Had A Heart- more hits, Make Way For Dioone- featuring the classic Walk On By, Sensitve Dionne- No hits but a classic, Here I Am - No hits again but an even greater classic, Here Where There Is Love- Huge hit album, On Stage and At the Movies- Not a hit, but great vocals and songs, Windows Of The World- An album filled with hits, Valley Of The Dolls- Another great album , bigger that the last one, Promises Promises Yet another great album with hits, Souful- a change of pace album that did very well, but not many hits this time. I'll Never Fall In Love Again- Hit album with some hits again., Very Dionne- Inconsistent album but some great songs on it. Dionne- No hits but her greatest album of the 70's. Another change of pace album. Just Being Myself- Dionne totally not herself, but great tracks an no hits again. Then Came You- featuring her first #1. Solid album cuts as well. Track Of The Cat- No hits, terrible title track, but great songs on it. Love At First Sight- addicting album. Love every cut . Very upbeat. NO hits again though. Dioone (79( HUGE album with hits again. The 80''s albums are fine, but many compilations cover the hits and sterling album cuts.

Her vocals are intoxicating. Regardless of era. Obviously soaring vocals in the 60's and most of the 70's. Later 70's her vocals deepened and continued to deepen in the 80's until today. Yet her nuance resonated with fans regardless.

Dionne can reach extremely high w/o being annoying like so many other vocalists. She can also get down real low, especially in her later years. When I heard Promises Promises for the very first time, I was amazed.

Extremely prolific artist. It is well publicized that Dionne scored the most hits by a solo female artist in the 60's. AND second most of the century . However what is not well known is the amount of albums and track she recorded regardless of hit/single status. Not just quantity but quality. I actually enjoy listening to random album tracks than her qualified hit singles. Can't say that about many artists.

Some of Dionne's sterling remakes: Make It Easy On Yourself, What the World Needs Now, Alfie,This Girl is In Love, I've Been Loving You Too Long, You've Lost That Lovin Feeling, Somewhere, People, Summertime,, We've Only Just Begun and One Less Bell To Answer. Some classic Dionne originals remade by other artists: Don't Make Me Over Close To You,,Walk On By, A House Is Not A Home and Say A Little Prayer

One of the few artists that covered songs as good or better than the original artists. One of the few artists that originated songs that rarely were improved upon .

In France, critics declared Dionne The Black Pearl. A huge compliment form a extremely discerning nation.

ARE YOU THERE WITH ANOTHER GIRL was a fantastic single. Stevie Wonder's favorite. With the all of the aforementioned singles and albums listed , is there even a doubt the Dionne is among the greatest of all time?

The last comment was 2 albums worth of songs. Most of those were never singles or if they were not among her hits. I can probably name another couple of albums worth of great tracks that never got the attention they deserved.

Some of Dionne's most impressive vocals were from songs that were never released as singles: From the 60's: SOMEWHERE, PEOPLE, UNCHAINED MELODY, HOUSE IS NOT A HOME, L.O.V.E,, YOUR MY WORLD and I'VE BEEN LOVING YOU. From the 70's: ONE LESS BELL TO ANSWER, SURE THING,I DIDN"T MEAN TO LOVE YOU DO I HAVE TO CRY, SINCE YOU STAYED HERE and HIS HOUSE AND ME. From the 80's HOW MANY TIMES CAN WE SAY GOODBYE,WILL YOU STILL LOVE ME TOMORROW, SO AMAZING, and NO ONE IN THE WORLD. From the 90's: FRAGILE.

Best all-around singer here.

Very unique vocalist and even more unique artist. Difficult to classify. Not exactly a Soul/R&B artist like many of her contemporaries.

Voice preference is very subjective. But the soothing vocals of Dionne are unquestionable. At her vocal peak (late 60's early 70's) she was the best out there. Some preferred Diana Ross or Aretha but the former's voice was more timid and the latter too bombastic.. Dionne was perfect. Even in her later years, despite a deepening voice, Dionne's melodic voice still impressed millions of fans.

Living Legend. No question about it. Whether she is ranked #2 or #1. Doesn't matter much.

Some of Dionne's most impressive vocals have been with songs that weren't hits. YOUR MY WORLD from the very popular VALLEY OF THE DOLLS album is perhaps her most powerful vocals of the 60's. I DIDN"T MEAN TO LOVE YOU a sterling track found on the LOVE SONGS album is her most stirring of the 70's. HOW MANY TIMES CAN WE SAY GOODBYE from the 80's certainly is a simply amazing track from the Luther Vandross produced album of the 80's. FRAGILE the Sting remake from her 90's period. Obviously there are many other equally great performances from the last century, but these mentioned are under the radar and need to publicized.

Other fine albums of Dionne: Anyone Who Had A Heart, Make Way For Dionne, Sensitive Sound Of Dionne, Here I Am, Here Where There Is Love, Windows Of The World On Stage and In The Movies,, Valley Of The Dolls, Promises, Promises, Soulful, I'll Never Fall In Love Again, Very Dionne, Dionne,(1972) Just Being Myself, Then Came You, Track Of The Cat, Love At First Sight, Dionne (1979). After the 70's, Dionne has a 3 CD compilation of most of the her late 70's -90's material.. Added up there are 100s of tracks worth listening. Even her filler is entertaining.

She has some fairly comprehensive collections available. The Very best of Dionne Warwick, Dionne Warwick Collection, Hidden Gems, Love Songs and many more. Those collections are a good starting point. However her albums reveal many fine tracks that aren't on those collections. Start with Presenting Dionne Warwick, her very first album, loaded with hit singles and some fantastic album tracks.

No disrespect to any of the fine artists listed. But Dionne Warwick is #1 for me. I have massive collections of many of the artists listed. But Dionne is my GO TO almost every time.

Some may question her #2 status on this chart. However she has racked more charted hits than ANY female artist of the last century ,EXCEPT for the great Aretha. In terms of sheer vocal power, yes Aretha would be #1. But this ranking is about all around greatest vocalist. Dionne has hit the highs lows and everything in between, sometimes in one song! Listen to I DIDN"T MEAN TO LOVE YOU or SURE THING from the 70's. To me her vocal peak was the 70's. Of course her greatest songs were from the 60's.

Perhaps the best description of Dionne is her wonderful interpretation of song. From the 60's until today. Marvelous vocalist. Doesn't matter how high she is ranked. She has more than earned my respect.

The wonderful thing about Dionne is her honesty. She admits that if she was just starting today in her early 20's (like she was in the early 60's, she wouldn't have a career. With all of her talent, and all of her hits (2nd to the great Aretha among solo female artists of the last century), Dionne still doesn't recognize her greatness. Her vocals are so unique from the 60's until even today. I have her latest album. She STILL sounds great. Not as powerful or high, but she has such control and grace..

Whitney should have ranked higher on this list. But I am very pleased with Dionne's #2 ranking. She will be #1 one day.

Dionne and Whitney (obviously closely related) have the best vocals. Dionne was much more versatile and prolific. But Whitney at her peak was UNSTOPPABLE. Now Dionne of the 60's and early 70's vs Whitney of the 80;s and early 90's is tough contest. Both were simply AMAZING. When Whitney sang Didn't We Almost Have It All from the 80's she sounded very much like Dionne's Didn't We from the early 70's. Especially when Dionne went high at the end.

I hope it doesn't happen anytime soon, but when she eventually passes on to greener pastures, she will probably earn the #1 position on this chart. Surprised that he very talented cousin didn't rank higher. True that Whitney wasn't as prolific as many on this chart including her cousin Dionne. But Whitney's soaring vocals more than make up for that.

What will it take for Dionne to make it to #1 on this chart. She is currently #2. She is also #2 behind the great Aretha Franklin for the most charted hits by a female solo singer in the last century.

The breadth of material Dionne has performed over the last half of century or so is very impressive. Perhaps more impressive than just about any artist on this list. The last 2 posts covered just about every charted single and worthwhile album track. Here are some other tracks that I enjoy: SUMMERTIME, APRIL FOOLS, DIDN'T WE, THEY SAY IT'S WONDERFUL, LITTLE GREEN APPLES,WHERE IS LOVE,, WHO'S GONNA LOVE ME?, WHOEVER YOU ARE, I LOVE YOU, WHERE AM I GOING, LONELY IN MY HEART,(I NEVER KNEW) WHAT YOU WERE UP TO,MY FAVORITE THINGS,SOMETHING WONDERFUL,ONE HAND, ONE HEART/WITH THESE HANDS,THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT,YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE,(THEIR'S) ALWAYS SOMETHING THERE TO REMIND ME,ANOTHER NIGHT,BEGINING OF LONLINESS,SOMEWHERE,PEOPLE, UNCHAINED MELODY,WHO CAN I TURN TO(WHEN NOBODY NEEDS ME)HOW MANY DAYS OF SADNESS, FOREVER MY LOVE, FRAGILE,, and yes there are even more..... So these last 3 posts add up to around 100 tracks or so. that would make a really comprehensive box set. Believe it or not I can list another 100 tracks that I love., but that will be for another time. If I can convince just 1 person to sample these tracks, my, I would be happy.

cont.... THAT'S WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR, DE JA VU, AFTER ALL, ALL THIS TIME, FEELINGS OLD FEELINGS, NO NIGHT SO LONG, HEARTBREAKER, TAKE THE SHORT WAY HOME, ALL THE LOVE IN THE WORLD,HOW MANY TIMES CAN WE SAY GOODBYE,YOU'LL NEVER GET TO HEAVEN (IF YOU BREAK MY HEART), MESSAGE TO MICHAEL, WINDOWSOF THE WORLD,, YOUR MY WORLD,, YOU'VE LOST THAT LOVIN FEELING,I'VE BEEN LOVING YOU TOO LONG,PAPER MACHE,LONLINESS REMEMBERS WHAT HAPPINESS FORGETS,MY WAY,CHECK OUT TIME, WE'VE ONLY JUST BEGUN,THE GREEN GRASS STARTS TO GROW,GOING OUT OF MY HEAD,,I JUST HAVE TO BREATHE, BALANCE OF NATURE,ONE LESS BELL TO ANSWER,BE AWARE,YOUR GONNA NEED MEYOU ARE THE HEART OF ME,I'M JUST BEING MYSELF,JEALOUSY,HIS HOUSE AND ME,KEEPIN MY HEAD ABOVE WATER,DO I HAVE TO CRY,EARLY MORNIING STRANGERS,DO YOU BELIEVE IN LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT,, DON'T EVER TAKE YOUR LOVE AWAY,SINCE YOU STAYED HERE,RESERVATIONS FOR TWO,LOVE POWER, NO ONE IN THE WORLD........and so many more worthy selections.

DON"T MAKE ME OVER, MAKE IT EASY ON YOURSELF, ANYONE WHO HAD A HEART,CLOSE TO YOU, A HOUSE IS NOT A HOME,,WALK ON BY, HERE I AM, WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW,I JUST DON"T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH MY SELF, TRAINS AND BOATS AND PLANES, ALFIE, SAY A LITTLE PRAYER, DO YOU KNOW THE WAY TO SAN JOSE, THEME FROM VALLEY OF THE DOLLS,, PROMISES, PROMISES, THIS GIRL IS IN LOVE, I'LL NEVER FALL IN LOVE AGAIN, THEN CAME YOU, I'LL NEVER LOVE THIS WAY AGAIN and much more. A sterling catalogue of songs from over 50 years of performing!

While I respect most of the artists here, Dionne is t my favorite one. Not just her beautiful voice, but the breadth of material is impressive. Second most charted female artist of the last Century! Only Aretha surpasses her. But I prefer Dionne's music.

cont... Forgot to add that perhaps Dionne has the most versatile vocals of just about anyone on this list. Her vocal range is very impressive, especially 60's-70's.. Her cousin Whitney Houston was amazing as well

DIONNE sounds different through out all the phases of her career. In the 60's she had a higher pitch and used it well. She did get deep at times later in the decade and early 70's but the sweet tenderness of her vocals took top billing. By the mid to late 70's her vocals were noticeably deeper, but she did sing high as well. The 80's and on was a time when she rarely sang with the higher pitch, but when she did it sounded powerful. Probably because she was singing much lower so a high pitch would be very noticeable. In the early days she was singing high all the time so most took it for granted.

Dionne has sung some of the greatest songs of all time. Sweet tender-Powerful raspy vocals enhanced all of her beautiful songs from the last 50 years or so. Although her voice has deepened since the earlier years, she still sounds wonderful to me. I have all of material from the early 60's until today.

Love her voice and lots of greats songs too. happy she is ranking so high.

Certainly one of the greatest female vocalists of the last century. She sang some othe best songs in the 60's and early 70's. I also enjoyed her mid - late 70's and 80's period records. Yes they weren't transcendent but quite enjoyable anyway.

The living legend Dionne ranks #2 right behind Aretha.; in terms of most charted Bilboard singles for a female solo singer of the century. Her range and music diversity was unmatched. Just listen to her numerous albums and singles from the 60's until today.

I'm a big fan of all the big Divas of the last century: Aretha, Diana, Dionne, Barbara, Whitney, Mariah, Celine etc..... But Dionne Warwick is the one I go back to the most. Something about her voice paired with great songs of the 60's until today. Just picked up her latest album NOW. What a wonderful piece of work.

FM radio doesn't play much of Dionne anymore. I listen to the oldies station and they just play her #1 Then Came You from 74'. Why they don't play more of her classics listed below are beyond me. At a mininum: Walk on By, Say a Little Prayer, Do You Know the Way to San Jose, I'll Never Fall in Love Again, I'll Never Love this Way Again and Thats What Friends are For..

Don't Make Me Over, Make It Easy On Yourself, Close To You,Anyone Who Had A Heart, Walk On By, Say A Little Prayer,What The World Needs Now,Alfie, Do You Know The Way To San Jose, Theme From Valley Of The Dolls, Promises, Promises, This Girl Is In Love, I'll Never Fall In Love Again, ,Then Came You, I'll Never Love This Way Again, Deja vu, After You, All This TIme, No Night So Long, Heart Breaker, Thats What Friends Are For and Reservations For Two. That is just a short list of some of her more popular tracks. Too many more to list in this space.

Simply put: The most beautiful voice I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Not the highest voice (although she has hit the stratosphere in the 60's and the better part of the 70's) Not the deepest either. Just a perfect blend. Mutil Octave, amazing control. She sang some of the most complex songs in the 60's to PERFECTION. Listen to her version of SUMMERTIME (from On Stage and In the Movies). Not to mention her countless singles from her peak period (60's- early 70's)

Dionne Warwick has the most pleasant voice I have ever listened to. Even today , her soothing deep voice is alluring. Obviously in the 60's and 70's her vocal acrobatics AND lovely voice was unmatched by just about anyone. Just as impressive was her song collection. I counted over 100 very impressive songs.

Some may question her #2 status, even Dionne Warwick herself! However most clear minded music fans would agree that she is certainly among the greatest music interperters of the century. The complexities of her material are unmatched by anybody on these pages..

I disagree with the poster. One can not compare Warwick to Houston. Warwick voice at her peak surpassed that of Houston. Listen to Warwick sing "Summertime "on her On Stage and in the Movies album. Warwick's pure high octave went throguh the stratospere with that song.

Magical, Amazing, Enduring, this legend embodies just about every positive adjective. While she might not have the most powerful vocals (that description fits Aretha Franklin or Pattil Labelle) or the most pure (her cousin Whitney Houston owns that title) Dionne has something all together different. The unique voice for her unique music.

Dionne's classic albums are mostly out of print. But are available via Amazon.com . I discovered the legendary Dionne by purchasing her greatest hits compilations. But after a few months I I needed more. Her hits are wonderful, but her less popular songs on her albums are even impressive. I listen to Aretha, Diana, Barbara ,Celine, Whitney,.....,etc..... but Dionne is #1 for me.

Her best material: Presenting Dionne- Early hits like Don't Make Me Over and the classic Make It Easy On Yourself. Plus fun youthful album tracks. Anyone With A Heart-Classic title track and fantastic album tracks like above album. Make Way For Dionne-Includes her classic Walk On By and interesting album tracks The Sensitive Sound Of Dionne-No hits but wonderful album tracks Here I Am-Same as above, but even better. Here Where There Is Love-Filled with classic tracks and interesting filler. Dionne On Stage And In The Movies-Change of pace . beautiful remakes. Windows Of The Word- Classic album. Perhaps best of the 60's. Valley Of the Dolls-One of her most popular albums. Fantastic Promises Promises- Despite upbeat title track, mostly beautiful ballads. Soulful Plus- Includes great remakes of the 60-70's. Like On Stage And In The Movies but a different theme. I'll Never Fall In Love Again-Best of the 70's. Includes hit title track. Great album.. Very Dionne- Underated album tracks and Includes great live material at or near her vocal peak. Dionne (Warner) Her most underated album EVER! No hits here but a must buy for any Dionne fan. Just Being Myself- Very different than anything she has ever done. Very early 70's soul. Similar to Motown style. I love it, but no hits hits here either. Then Came You- Includes her first #1 (title track) and lovely album tracks. Track Of The Cat- Another underated album with no hits. Title track is disappointing, but most tracks are very well done. Love At First Sight- Nice late 70's entry. No hits, but very enjoyable. I go to this album when I want to feel good. More upbeat and positvie than most of her 70's work. Dionne (Arista 1979)- Huge comeback album. I'll Never Love This Way Again, Deja Vu, After All, All This Time and many other great tracks. After the hit 1979 album there are many greatest hits compliations that cover her best later period songs.

Dionne's voice is simply magical. Her vocal peak was in the early 70's however her greatest material was in the mid 60's. I also enjoy her later songs from the 80's until today. Her still beautiful voice gradually matured through the 70's until today. Check out her new album NOW. Very impressive considering she is over 70!

definately does not need to be number 1 more like about number 25

She is a legendary music icon.

lovely. classy singer. but no.2 ahead of streisand, ftzgerald, piaf, garland, holiday... think not.

Supreme song stylist.

Has had more chart hits than any female singer ,with the exception of Aretha Franklin

Dionne reflects on 50 years in entertainment.

Dionne is best known for her partnership with songwriters and producers Burt Bacharach and Hal David.

One of the most listenable voices I've ever heard. Seemingly effortless and has the ability to make a song become a mood and a message, she transcends the studio and stereo system, she's more spirit than singer, as great as she does sing.

Number one for me.

Penultimate means next to last, Mr. Fancy pants words.

Although I am not a huge fan (an admirer mostly) I much prefer Ella to the likes of Striesand any day of the week. Ella was pure (and without ego) to the core and long may her music live on.

The best of all time, no voting necessary, no doubts, no arguments or counterpoints. Forget about awards, quantifiable metrics - Ella was the best female singer the world has ever seen. She had complete vocal control, an incredible range, precise phrasing, and a sound that was pure yet unmistakable. She is the penultimate female vocal artist, and will live on forever. I had the wonderful experience of seeing her at Carnegie Hall as part of the Kool Jazz Festival in 1985 as a tribute to Charlie Parker. She was 68 years old, shuffled on stage, wore coke-bottle glasses, and appeared frail and old. But when she opened her mouth and sang...WOW! It still brings chills to my spine. Thank you Ella!

She is number one hands down!!

I was blessed to see Ella in concert. It was one of the most magical musical experiences I ever had. She was divine. Number 1 for me.

Talent of the highest ability and endurance, with an extremely likeable and highly energetic character. I listen to Ella for her love of life as much as for her outstanding projection of the song. Magnificent!

14 Grammys including the Lifetime Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Medal of Honor Award, etc.

No other singer will ever reach her level. She's a soprano assoluta with a supported range that is C3-F5-C6 and with a consistent range that is D3-Eb5-B5. On top of that, she has tremendous vocal power and the ability to hold notes for very long segments of time. Her versatility is mind boggling and her timber can be changed according to what she intends to do in terms of repertoire. She is the greatest singer of the last 100 years.

MINA is, without any doubt, THE greatest singer of all time. No one - and I repeat, NO ONE - can even come close to this extraordinary artist. She is THE greatest. The Queen. Period.

No one is like her! She's the TOP in the world!

No other singer in the world could ever come close to MINA. If Maria Callas, Liza Minnelli, Sarah Vaughan, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and Luciano Pavarotti defined her to be the GREATEST SINGER IN THE WORLD, then let us be humble and listen to her material.

Certainly the greatest female voice in the world. No doubt about it. Vocal range, power and an an innate ability to interpret the most various songs in every genre. Not to mention her incredible physical stage presence.

If you don't know her, please listen to the song "Brava" on youtube, the melody isn't so great, but just think about is voice; isn't she wonderful?

I adore Mina and am listening to her right now -- didn't Louis Armstrong describe her as the second greatest singer in the world (after Sarah Vaughan)?

Listen to Mina's voice, she's one of the greatest singers of all time. She's not overrated, listen to her music before judging her!

The first one, with Maria Callas. And where are the wonderfuls singers Amalia Rodrigues (portuguese), Barbara (french), Elis Regina (brazilian), Maria del Mar Bonet (catalan), Mariza (portuguese), Ornella Vanoni (Italian)?

Greatest singer of all times! Should be number 1, no doubt. This woman has sung in 20 languages and has recorded well over 2000 songs in 55 years of career. A vocal monster ~

“If I didn’t have my own voice, I’d like to have the voice of a young Italian girl named Mina” Sarah Vaughan. 1968. THAT'S ALL FOLKS

Who on earth is Mina? If she's fabulous enough to make # 2 on this list, why have i never heard of her? I'm not claiming to be a music critic but I love music and am very current.

As usual americans think that what motherlad produces is the only thing worth of anything, while they should stop, read and learn before passing judgment. I have been teaching American university students in London for quite some time and their muical as well as cultural ignorance is shocking. Mina not only has a great voice and musical talent but also the ability to feel the vibration of the music. Mariah? do me a favour!

It's a people-who-don't-know-Mina 's problem, not her problem... She's away from scene since 1978 and kept on recording new albums almost every year. The last one was on November 2011. The lucky one is the one who knows her over 1500 songs in Italian, English, Spanish. French, Portuguese, Japanese and Turkish. Find and listen to her on you tube, you'll understand more about the wonder of her voice, her personality, her genius. Mina is Mina.

Incredible--she's not known in America, so she must be a "bimbo." Sometimes I'm embarrassed to be from this country.

Never heard of her lets have some real talent on this list

Mina's surenly the best female voice ever... No matter what people that doesn't know her think, she's the best by far! A couple of suggestions? "Brava", "L'importante è finire", "Se telefonando", "Una zebra a pois", "Bugiarda e incosciente"...

ummmmm who the hell is she... well then if she is number 1 she must be really good

Satchmo, Sara Vaughan, Sinatra, Celin Dion, Liza Minnelli (and so on...) said: "MINA is the big greatest singer in the world"... ...and that's all folks!!!

Mina is a fantastic singer. Those who criticise her know nothing. Those who do not know her and wish to pass judgement should go back and study. Like Aretha and a few others unsurpassed by this generation both for technical skills and the great songs they performed. Certain markets did not enjoy her as she did not travel much. At end 70s like a real superstar she disappeared from public scene but she has continued working to date. Huge singer, legendary

i agree ella is maybe the best american singer alltime she was pure class like mina for european what surprise me is streisand she is funny and multifunction artist but not top 100 singer.ella singing today will the best streisand last nothing on the other hand mina still selling millions of discs all over the world.i am from germany and mina is a star here like ella more than streisand.she is singin already more than 50 years listen to her sinatra wanted her to singing in n y but she refused to go on tv since the end of the sixty just refused 50 million dollars for 10 minutes on italian tv she sing for passion not for money

agree, that she is great singer......but if you consider singers outside englsih language, then why not indian or chinese or arabic singers??? Do you think there is only music in europe and americas.... and other people are still not yet advanced! Still Mina is great singer, maybe equally better to Lady Ella. Its pity that you put Ella to 4th place. She deserves better place....maybe combined 1st with Mina.

Mina is what Presley is for us the living legend of Italian music.she is not bad at all very power full voice.

nr.8 ? Who is she?

bravissima

i am not ruining down nothing .i invited all the mina fans club to vote for her is some of the fans vote other singers down is not big problem like you see you have the option to vote up and vote down if you still have problem with that contact the admin to eliminate the vote down arrow thanks and take it easy life is beautifull

and just so everyone knows this mina voter is ruining the list. By the way who is Mina?

who ever you are voting for mina why do you have to ruin and manipulate the list by voting others down by 100ès every day

Her name is Mina Mazzini (no Martini) she has a great voice and is an excellent interpreter,....the fact that many people don`t know her, does not mean that she is not a great singer. Actually it just reveals that some people are ignorant about non english language music...you can´t say nothing about her if you haven´t heard her....

She´s the ultimate european singer It´s a shame Americans don´t know her, They should before any comment.

Never heard of this singer.

Who is she ?? TOO high on this list.

If she had sung in English would be at first place! Amazing.

Too high on this list, should be in the 100s.

Mina had and she has a lot of hit in the latin states (especially in spanish language) but not only.. Heisser Sand (1962) remains one of the most successful single of all time in Germany and Holland, the title is so popular in those markets, which today is still "pulling" on various compilations of the '60s. In Germany alone the single has sold over 1,300,000 copies and remains the biggest selling single of Mina, The hit Anata to watashi (you and me), who played Mina in Japanese, was a triumph in Japan (1961). She had a nr.one in Japan in 1964 too ("stessa spiaggia , stesso mare”) Mina refused, even for health problems, to do a tour with Frank Sinatra (he called her) in the United States. This World We Love In", which charted on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1961.

A Big Name, A Great Voice from Continental Europe. Unbeatable. A deep as well as loud voice character especially fit for Smooth and Latin Jazz. On the other hand, It's so easy for her to sing Pop effortlessly.

On the present there are Italian singers better of Mina but we have to see all the career of an artist. I consider Mina (and many expert and not Italian critics) in the top 50 of the best female singer of 20th century.

there are much better Italian singers than her !!!!

Best her period were 60's and 70' years. "il cielo in una stanza", "Parole Parole Parole", "Grande Grande Grande" etc.

Way to high, popular does not mean great voice.

A truly lovely singer and gorgeous to look at!

One of the most popular and widely recognized female country singers. Her older sister was future superstar Loretta Lynn.

Should be top 3

Respect, legend,so sorry queen of soul,rip,

#1 charted female solo singer of the 20th century. Multiple acclaimed albums and singles with powerhouse vocals. She deserves a #1 POSITION!

Well deserved high ranking. Aretha is the Queen of Soul!

number 1 for me

The comment below states that Aretha should be on top of this list. I respectfully disagree. Although I LOVE Aretha and her music, her voice is and was a bit harsh for long term listening. I like her in small doses. I think the reason Dionne Warwick and Karen Carpenter top the list is because their voices are far more soothing. I can listen to them for hours at a time daily. Same with Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton , Anita Baker, Roberta Flack, Natalie Cole and so many more.

I definately would put Aretha at the top of the list.

I can't listen to Aretha over a long period of time. But I admire her powerful voice and many of her songs. Dionne however, I can listen to endlessly. Her melodic voice flows so perfectly with her music. Both are living legends and deserve high rankings.

Mina Definitely has a more powerful voice, much longer breath and greater versatility.

Powerful voice yes.Beautiful voice not so much. My vote goes for Dionne Warwick for the msot beautiful vocals. Along wth Barbara Streisand, Whitney Houston and .Celine Dion.

One of the best female vocalists that ever lived. Very powerful and affecting vocals. Sometimes too bombastic though. I enjoy Dionne Warwick's music and vocals more but Aretha beat Dionne on the charts.(60's -90's) Aretha ranks #1 and Dionne #2.

If it was a shouting match maybe she'd be number 1. but then again pati labelle can do that too.

love me some aretha but i tell you a singer came along in the mid 70's that just took over rnb radio. she was said to be as powerful as aretha but clearer in her delivery. her sophisticated funk was pure electric. her powerhouse vocals where the talk of the town. this singer was the young natalie cole.

maybe 25,very overrated

Someone wrote that she "cannot sing ballads". Good grief, you must never have heard her takes on the classics during her Colombia years. Listen to her sing "people". I don't think any singer had her raw power and thrilling range when she was at her best. She didn't touch your heart she ripped it out and stamped on it. She could sing gospel, jazz, rock, soul, standards, anything. You always new it was Aretha and it was almost always the best version of that song you would hear. There are a very few tracks when other's arrangement and interpitations were better - "the makings of you" was bettered by Gladys Knight in my view but overall Aretha has to be considered the greatest voice of contemporary music, male or female.

I agree with the comment by twobirds, she belongs at about Number 20 on this list.

world acclaimed legend

Eva Cassidy beats Aretha for musical ability hands down.

You must be thinking of another Aretha Franklin. If "I Never Loved a Man [the Way I Love You]", "Ain't No Way" and "Tracks of My Tears" aren't ballads I don't know what is! The jazz songs are innumerable!

She can not sing ballads and jazzsongs.

One of the greatest singers in history. Fantastic vocal range and can sing anything. Yes, the Queen of Soul but listen to her sing standards sometime, shes unreal.

#1 ? Not in my opinion...

Too high on the list,maybe top 20.

The queen of Soul.Yes,but musical diversity ?????

Without a doubt she is the best

overrated

Meh...

Aretha was great - but Number 1? I'd put her down around No. 20.

Eighteen Grammys. Named by Rolling Stone magazine as #1 on their list "Greatest Singers of All Time."

great

Adoramos ela no Brasil

The queen

Number 1 simple

no one can compare with sarah vaughan. she is the greatest

when you listen to Sarah she's like the orchestra. A big sound

should be number 1 simple as that

for a female voice, Vaughans vocals was extrordinary

Sassy number 1

Sarah Vaughan The Greatest

Saw Sassy at the Apollo. She blew me away. That voice just reverberates in your chest. She sang Summertime accapella and holy smoke I've never heard a voice can be that great live.

If there was an instrumnet that was perfect her voice would be noe of those.

the greatest singer who ever lived.

Sarah Vaughan's voice is DIVINE

simply the best voice

a singer singers

had the best voice ever.....

TOP TEN should read: 1.)Sarah Vaughan 2.)Teri Thornton 3.)Billie Holiday 4.)Maxine Sullivan 5.)Ella Fitzgerald 6.)Carmen McRae 7.)Della Reese 8.)Sheila Horn 9.)Betty Carter 10.)Dionne Warwick

Sarah Vaughan the greatest singer of the 20th century. A voice so magnificent it is beyond description. For me she's number 1

Had the best vocal ability among her, Dinah Washington, and Billie Holiday. P.S. Do some of you voters even know what a century IS?

Below Barbra Streisand?! I don't think so!! Her range and vocal ability goes way beyond Streisand's posturing. Whether you like her vocal style or song choice or not, she is one of Jazz's best female vocalists of all time.

below barbra streisand? no way. Sarah Vaughan is by far the GREATEST Female singer of ALL TIME!

She the top.

by far ....the best.

I had the good fortune of seeing Sarah in concert with the Basie Band. I was absolutely awed and spellbound. Sarah was one of the greatest jazz singers of all time. She had a range of 4 octaves. She could have sung opera too. Definitely one of the top 5.

have the highest honor in jazz

This ladies voice is amazing- she is a personal favourite of mine

2 Grammy Hall of Fame Awards. National Endowment for the Arts - Jazz Master Award 1989.

Should be higher on list.

Listen to her range and strength of voice when she sang Old Man River. She should be ranked #1.

Fred Astaire, "Judy's the greatest entertainer who ever lived--or probably ever will.  She was an amazing girl, an amazing talent.  She could do things--anything--without rehearsing and come off perfectly.  She learned faster and did everything better than any one else.  And oh, what a voice.  I think it's the best voice of the 20th century.  It was one of the greatest thrills working with her."

Definitely number 1 all time singer and entertainer - She had that something extra. As was said in a Star was Born - she will always be remembered but her interpretation of any song was exquisite .

38? Are you serious!? The best singer always and forever. She should be number one with Julie Andrews in second.

No female singer could put more heart and emotion into their music than Judy Garland! Her rendition of 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas' tears your heart out! If only more people today heard her voice she would be at the top of this list!

When songwriters like Irving Berlin, Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer are left breathless from your mastery of musical interpretation as well as your vocal power and phrasing genius, you have no peer. Judy is the very best there is.

got to be top 10

top 20 candidate

The best. Period. Absolutely the greatest female singer of all time. There is no song she couldn't sing other than Opera and make it her own. Not just ballads, but blues, jazz-oriented, and even comedy laced songs. She is still the singer by which most singers are measured against. #!.

Don't worry about Judy's legacy cos she'll still be remembered a hundred years from now along with a handful of the other great female vocalists here. Each to there own taste and I'm sure Judy would agree.

Perhaps no one knows she sang "Over The Rainbow" in 1939 in a movie called the Wizard of Oz... :)

Judy Garland should be in the top 5 ! We're still talking about her, what an impression she has left behind! She's in the top 10 in AFI ranking as greatest actress of all time!

Judy should be in the top 5 at least! One of the greatest singers (male or female) in music history!

Seriously?! Judy should be number one!!

Judy. Immortal. One of the greatest ever. Top 5.

Frank Sinatra said it best - "Judy will have a mystic survival: the rest of us will be forgotten - never Judy Garland". The lady belongs at the top of list, then the others make sense. And Frank is the other who will never be forgotten.

Judy Garland was one of the best and should be higher on any musical list. Al least top ten.

I know a lot about music. No singer can hold a candle to Judy Garland, but Julie Andrews and Sarah Brightman come close. Her voice is very rich, loud, and smooth. It's not all over the place like Mariah Carey's voice. There is only one Judy Garland. We don't hear singers like her today.

If you've never seen a singer other than Judy that puts emotion into a song then you can't have seen many singers at all. A singer is most certainly rated by their power, octave ability, tone, etc. but it would be awfully hard to become a professional at the level we're talking about here without some ability to put emotion into a song. Talking about how she puts herself into her music is really rather nothing more than fluff as a comment.

That Gal Should Be Number 1. There's nobody in the world that will ever sing like her. She can sing the most boring song and make it beautiful and exciting. With Judy, it's not the octaves and the decibels that counts, but the emotion in her voice. She's the best entertainer because she can entertain a whole crowd alone on the stage with just her voice and make them laugh and cry. I've never seen a singer that gives herself that much to every song she performs.

Good actress

Doris Day . She had the most beautiful, angelic voice of her time. Bar none! With number 1 hit's like, "It's Magic", "Sentimental Journey" and "Secret Love". In 1959, Day entered her most successful phase as a film actress with a series of romantic comedies.This success began with Pillow Talk (1959), co-starring Rock Hudson, who became a lifelong friend, and Tony Randall. Day received a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Actress. Day, Hudson, and Randall made two more films together, Lover Come Back (1961) and Send Me No Flowers (1964). She also starred with David Niven and Janis Paige in the hit Please Don't Eat the Daisies. In 1962, Day appeared with Cary Grant in the comedy That Touch of Mink, the first film in history ever to gross $1 million in one theatre (Radio City Music Hall). Day was in the Top 10 at the box office ten times. During 1960 and the 1962 to 1964 period, she ranked number one at the box office, the second woman to be number one four times. She set an unprecedented record that has yet to be equaled, receiving seven consecutive Laurel Awards as the top female box office star. Day teamed up with James Garner, starting with The Thrill of It All, followed by Move Over, Darling (both 1963). Move Over, Darling was originally titled Something's Got to Give, a 1962 comeback vehicle for Marilyn Monroe. Filming was suspended following Monroe's dismissal and her subsequent death. A year later, filming resumed with Day recast as the leading lady. The film's theme song, "Move Over Darling", co-written by her son, reached #8 in the U.K. In between these comedic roles,She then showed her talent in drama. Doing films like "The Man Who Knew Too Much" with Jimmy Stewart, directed by Alfred Hitchcock and "Love Me Or Leave Me" with James Cagney. Day co-starred with Rex Harrison in the movie thriller Midnight Lace (1960), an updating of the classic stage thriller, Gaslight.

A beautiful voice style that was unique you always know when Doris Day was singing a song - her que sera sera will always be a positive song to remembered ! She belongs up in top ten along with Ella and Judy . She also was a great big band singer especially with sentimental journey .

good actresss

decent singer but way to high

although she sang good, her greatest talent were her beauty and acting

Outstanding voice; very easy to listen to. She truly deserves a fairly high rating.

no one even comes in to a close second. An 87 year old TOP TEN ALBUM in 2011...WHO CAN POSSIBLY COMPETE"

Definitely Number One Female singer of the 20th Century, hands down. Just look at her record.

Hands down The Number One singer of the Twentieth Century, bar none.

the loveliest most touching ever. she and ella no 1.

just one take ! Doris does it every time !

The most lovely and talented singer EVER, she should be wayyy up the list for sure!

queen of all time greatest singers

One of the most versatile singers ever!

Linda has by far been one of the best vocalists of the past 45 years, since the Stone Pony's she has been singing her heart out. She has helped to start bands like the Eagles all at a very young age, while trying to help her own career get off the ground. She is a multi-talented star from my home state of Arizona, sings in English & Spanish beautifully. And now we have lost her beautiful voice to Parkinson's. I have enjoyed her voice in harmonies with Dolly Parton & Emmylou, and of course just alone & sing at the top of my voice when I'm alone in my car with the windows rolled up! She is absolutely the best as far as I'm concerned & I miss her terribly. Blue Bayou, Desperado, and Different Drum! I just love seeing the old pictures of her and seeing how beautiful she was & remembering how much the then Gov. of California was in love with her! Awww those were the days my friends, I thought they'd never end......

I came over here to see where Linda was ranked. I was stunned to see her so far down the chart. I was just listening to her, "Round Midnight" with Nelson Riddle and for me; no one can hit the notes of these classics as she did. Of course, her illness is so very tragic; but I have NEVER felt the pull on my heart strings when listening to these 30 songs. I was hoping that she was #1, so yes I am disappointed

so sad to hear she has parkinsons disease

stunning voice should be much higher i mean ,dion, carey, please send me a tissue,

Considering that Linda shuns the public spotlight nowadays, and the current music audience either doesn't know or doesn't care who she is, that she is anywhere on a list like this, let alone in the upper half of it at #44, can only be a good thing. She has influenced generations of great singers, which I think will be her greatest legacy in the end.

of course she deserves to be in the top 5-10

Hands-down the Queen of Country Rock and since her debut..the girl of my dreams (even now with her obesity I'd walk around the block backwards on my elbows for just a moment in her presence. absolutely the most phenomenol versions of Crazy and Love Has No Pride *NO DOUBT ABOUT IT!

Hands-down the Queen of Country Rock and since her debut..the girl of my dreams (even now with her obesity I'd walk around the block backwards on my elbows for just a moment in her presence.

She is the best in the last 100 years, Should be number 1, that voice is a force to be heard.

#44 are you kidding me! She has a pure voice like Grace Slick in her prime. Easy top 20.

for the life of me icant understand how linda can get sofew praises and karen carpenter so many shes my no.1 who cares if she cant write. listen to "what"ll i do" or "telling me lies" with emmy lou

She should be MUCH MUCH higher on this list. She is incredible, she would be the top on my list.

She should be much higher. She's the most versatile singer around. I think a lot of people don't like it that she did so many covers, but her covers were better than the originals.

amazing voice. amazing she is so low on this list

Linda could sing the dictionary and make it sound good. So very versitile, from rock to light opera (check out the movie version of Pirates of Penzance(sp?) with Kevin Kline), country and big band, she can do it all. Definitely should be higher. Not number one, but in the top 15, I think.

Her work in pop music is great but I like her Mexican CD's even more. One of the best all-time vocal performances I've ever heard is throughout the album "Canciones De Mi Padre". Maximum joy, liberated spirit, effort, control and results, with a hot Mexican acoustic band with chorus to back her up. It's stunning work.

'Run of mill' ??? She has a unique voice and if you can't hear that then you you must be tone deaf.. I would actually put her higher on this list for her emotion and pure soul..

You make a good point. Singers who don't have a good voice have occassionally been popular, however, singers with a great voice will almost always be popular. Therefore popularity may be used as one way of determining quality although other factors enter the mix also. A great singer should be able to sing most genres of music including jazz, I agree. But, merely being classified as a 'jazz' singer does not elevate a singer above someone who sings pop, rock, alternative, country and western, etc. in my opinion.

another 'run of the mill' performer, ok voice but nothing special. Her popularity ( how well the public accepts an artist's offering ) was not good, she never made it into Billboards's Top 100. How can she possibly be at #11 here with such fine artists way down the list, and, yes, those artists were successfull because they were/are fantastic singers and that led to their popularity being so high. It seems like if an artist sang 'Jazz' ( my least favorite style ) they are voted high on this list no matter how average their voice is, almost like Jazz singers are supposed to be a grade above everyone else, pittiful !

This American singer has been more successful in Europe.

Great voice.

Many of the previous comments refer, justly so, to the remarkable clarity and range of Miss Durham's voice. However, it should also be noted that in addition to the spectacular quality of her voice she posses a unique understanding of the music she performs. There are many technically outstanding singers in this list, few display the empathy for the music evident in her work. Number One in my opinion!

Not only is she the best, the greatest, tops, number one, top of the heap, none better, superb, and all the other positive adjectives in the dictionary ... She's CUTE. And what a lady!!!

Absolutely the finest female singer of the last 50 years - sorry Dionne and Aretha! I like the voices of the other ladies in the top 10 but Judith has a unique, bell like quality to her voice and a range which makes her pure gold to listen to. If proof were needed check out her 2014 shows in the UK with the Seekers!

there is durham then there is the rest of them

JudithDurham - The one that the other Singers listen to.

If you haven't voted for Judith, then you haven't heard her sing!!

Brilliant voice deserves a top ten slot.

Lots of great singers on this list but Judith and Eva Cassidy are the ones I'd choose most often. They reach the heart and the soul. "I'll Never Find Another You" is as fresh today as it was at Christmastime in 1964--and she's done many like that. No one is better, and few are in her class, as a singer or a person. Thanks, Judith!

Never heard of her?? Maybe I am too young.

I miss the Seekers. Just listen to 'Ill never find another you"

go to youtube and search for the seekers "i'll never find another you" and you will hear her beautiful voice.

well considering that very few people inthe u.s. under the age of 50 know who she is.i would consider this to be no. 1 but i suppose the brits and the aussies haven't forgotten her,she was the great golden voiced songbird of the seekers for those who dont know. she's still a great singer even though she now has a chronic lung problem i think that when i was a little boy and the first time i heard her sing another you , it made my tistlcles drop,no one in recorded music has had such and effect on me. hopefully she'll be around for a long time to come, because sadly to say we'll never find another judith.

while others can break glass she can not olny glass she can cut through titanium she needs to be higher rated like mabye no. 1

she should be in the top 5

Here's something I hope will give a blessing to someone. Guest noted an old folk standard. Hear it on YouTube, as manfreadstraw's great upload (pics of old trains, depression times), 500 miles, by Judith and The Seekers. You may want to reach for the "up" button.

Other songs that should have been mentioned by the guest above are: 500 Miles; Just a Closer Walk With Thee; and I'll Never Find Another You!!!Judith's beautiful voice stands out in all of these ... very pleasant to listen to her.

the more i listen the greater she becomes it is amazing that she is so underrated if more people looked on you tube she would easily be in the top 5

All this is somewhat subjective, but honestly, I would rank Judith as number 1. Her voice is enigmatic, and pure as gold. She has bell ringing clarity and tone, but still retains texture and expression. I do not have enough words to describe her voice.

She's my favorite. :)

Some of my favorite songs that Judith sings so beautifully are: "Island of Dreams", "Danny Boy", "Morning Has Broken", "Blowin' In The Wind", "Amazing Grace", and of course "Waltzing Matilda"! Her voice is so easy to listen to; very strong, clear, and pleasant.

The best. The unassuming little princess of The Seekers. A voice of such range and purity it makes the hearer proud to be human. For those who don't know what I mean, please give a listen to some of the songs already commented on.

i noticed she is moving up the list fast . listen to the song' all over the world' and you will hear how incredible she is

Judith possesses a voice which is very strong and extremely clear. To me she sounds absolutely beautiful. I believe she and the Seekers group did not receive much exposure in the US. If more folks were familiar with her music they would certainly rank her ahead of singers such as Linda Ronstadt.

One of the best female vocalists of all time. Should be much much higher on this list.

very underrated the carnival is over incredible

242? More like top ten.

Incredible voice. One of a kind! Belongs in top 50.

how is she 225 of all time she is easily in the top ten

Definitely one of the most beautiful voices of all time. She has been doing it for nearly a half a century and she's still got it.

For me Dinah Washington is THE Greatest Singer ever by far. Her voice was sublime, and she could sing any kind of of music, always with personality and incredible talent. She was The Queen, and always will be !!

Dinah was divine, her voice was sublime, for me she is the best!!

Dinah is simply mahvellous. Wonderful. She could really deliver a song. Her phrasing was sublime, as was the power and control of her voice. She also had great songs. One of the greatest singers ever. Number 2 (after Ella) for me.

I have added other references (such as Grammy.com to) to reinforce my statements but they have been deleted as is the case with many comments on this site.

I'm not the guest as above, But trusting Wikipedia is the worst thing you could do. Wikipedia is not a reliable sorce.

Poor PANDORA spends sooooooo much time writing comments here. Votes down people she does not like. She want to rule this site. SAD

The Grammy Hall of Fame Award is listed by Wikipedia as an award to HER. DUH. It's under HER NAME, not anybody else's. And I have not "kept listing" these awards either, as you state. Check the dates given in the entries. Read the entry under her name, which you have obviously not done. Then take your complaints to Wikipedia.

PS: Enjoying the list has nothing to do with your seemingly mission of trying teach the rest of us about the artist's accomplishment. You can't enlighten anyone if your not accurate and missleading. Don't know why you seem to think that the rest of us need you to keep listing all these awards as if we didn't have a clue in the first place.

She was not the only one to sing those songs. The most successful version of Unforgettable was from Nat King Cole, Teach Me Tonight : The DeCastro Sisters. The VERSION of the song that Dinah sang was beleived to have significance NOT BECAUSE SHE SANG ON THE RECORDING. No you didn't add her to the list but YOU ! MADE ! THE ! STATEMENTS ! DUH !!! you don't know what your talking about DUH !!!!!!!

P.S. I DID NOT ENTER THE LADY ON THIS LIST AND THE VOTERS PUT HER IN HER CURRENT LOCATION, NOT ME. SO VOTE HER DOWN IF YOU FIND SHE DOESN'T BELONG HERE. ENJOY THE LIST OR DON'T BOTHER. YOUR COMPLAINTS DON'T CHANGE THE LADY'S TALENT, WHICH IS WHAT WE'RE SUPPOSED TO BE VOTING ON.

WELL, SO WHAT? THE SONGS SHE SANG WON THREE GRAMMY HALL OF FAME AWARDS - BECAUSE SHE SANG THEM! SPEAKS TO HER TALENT, DUH.

Wikipedia: "The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award is awarded by the Recording Academy to "performers who, during their lifetimes, have made creative contributions of outstanding artistic significance to the field of recording. This award is distinct from the Grammy Hall of Fame Award, which honors specific recordings rather than individuals" rather than INDIVIDUALS, yes I did read Wikipedia, you however only read what you wanted to read!! (cited under Grammy Lifetime Acheivement Award - Wikipedia)

Did you actually READ Wikipedia under "Dinah Washington"? All the information I've listed on this site was straight from Wikipedia under the artist's name. Obviously GRAMMY HALL OF FAME is NOT THE SAME AS GRAMMY! If you believe the induction dates are wrong, contact Wikipedia with your complaint. And it doesn't matter if an organization becomes defunct - the awards it gave while in existence are still valid in the singer's career.

As I said the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was in the Early Influences category and the Grammys were in the special category for songs, she didn't receive a regular grammy for those songs. Maybe you need to read closer.

You need remedial reading. Wikipedia lists three Grammy Hall of Fames as follows: Unforgettable [1959, inducted 2001], Teach Me Tonight [1954, inducted 1998], What a Difference a Day Makes [1959, inducted 1998]. Further: Grammy 1959, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted 1993, Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame inducted 1984. Also inducted into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1986. Anybody that wants to can check these, so "guest" it's YOUR comments that need to be questioned.

The Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame only lists itself and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as her accomplishments. Wikipedia also does not list Grammy Hall of Fame as an accomplishment. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction was in the Early Influences category to which Wikipedia notes: "Unlike the performers category, these inductees are selected by a commitee. The full process is not transparent and it is unclear who comprises this selection commitee." . I don't mean to take away from this artist's accomplishment, that's not my point. But pandora's comment is misleading. It makes me want to question her other comments. PS: for thoses of you who don't know Wikipedia lists the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame as defunct.

1 Grammy, 3 Grammy Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame.

her and ertha @ the crusade in '64 in A's stadium in downtown KCMO. I was 7 years old and truly knew the hand of God was layed upon the head of that wonderous woman! As nieve as I was the hairs on my arm stayed standing up throughout much of the day! there was NO DOUBT in my mind that God was real and was there in our midst!

It was not that she could only sing one style, she chose to stay true to herself, just like any other artist, i.e. country music artist, r&b, blue grass, and many other genres. Come on, don't be so closed-minded.

TOP 5 of ALL TIME! That she is ranked 10 says something about our (human beings) in ability to discern real talent. She is also the GREATEST Gospel Singer bar none!

One of most moving singers ever. Awesome control. She sang from somewhere beyond this earth.

Best voice I ever heart.

and the Queen of gospel music

Number 1

Great

Number one artist 30 year career span with number one hits all along. One of the most important legend of all times. Has a statue in Montmartre place Dalida no other singer influenced music over more than three generations

The best of the best. The most international french singer. Shirley bassey Cher nana mouskouri and many more sang her songs What à career number one in all francophone countries Italy Latin America japan and the Middle East. Aggie was voted number 3 female singer of the century

Her voice was so and so. Nothing special.

Love her voice, I grew up listening to her music, still remember her after all these years.

Nana Mouskouri..... Legend! The woman is pure music. The voice of a Nightingale.

She is not terrible as the demonic haters say here.......Nana is a top selling female vocalist of all time, with a beautiful angelic voice. 200 million+ records is representative of her fame and talents.

Wow !! what a bad judgement by twobirds !!! A shame !!

Nana should be top 5 not 23..

Nana is my all time favorite. She has the sweetest voice of all....

In her five-decade international career, this Greek singer recorded in more than 10 languages.

She is a talent and her styling is powerful and unique . She has become a bit more humble over the years but no one can ever forget her duet with Judy Garland on get happy . This placing is accurate.

Barba is the greatest artist of all time！

Vocally she is perhaps the best I ever heard. I also love many of her movies. Her music choices are mixed. I enjoy the music of Dionne and Aretha more.

Listen to the beginning of Windmills of Your Mind. Even at 70, Barbra still has it. Best voice EVER...period.

i have perfect pitch/ have most of my life. she is perfect + unwavering notes of opposite ends of the spectrum. I had pictures/posters of her in my bedroom as an kid and had 4 albums in the 60s Barbara Joan Streisand > her best album 'stoney end' (2nd) funny girl #1 >

should be number one

Barbara leaves me flat. Maybe it's because I don't like her as a person - that could influence my judgement. Still, I don't care for her music and I feel totally detached from her voice and performances.

i love karen carpenter and she has such a unique voice but barbra clears the lot for me. the most talented female singer to ever have graced this planet. Barbra has everything a singer could be blessed with and more, the cream of the crop for me, past, present or future. one in a trillion

people...this is a list of best VOICES, not artists...I don't dig her music much but if there's any debate on her vocal superiority just watch A Star Is Born...freaking incredible

She's slightly above mediocre. She often loses control in her voice and begins wailing.

An excellent voice, but considering the quality of the competition I believe Barbara Streisand should be in the range of about number 20 to 25.

Doubt there is a more homely person on the face of the earth.

Phemonimal voice...she had..was has a talent like no other

The greatest voice ever! The only singer I never ever get tired of listening to. She is simply the BEST. To the person who said they don't like her voice...you must not have ears!

If Streisand does not move you, or make you care, you have a heart made of ice and an ear made of tin.

Give me the real and flawed Barbra and then I'll maybe start to listen. She sounds great for sure but I'd much rather have soul than superiority. She can sing but she can't make me care.

Nobody does Streisand better than Streisand, except maybe Celine Dion.

She's #1 and it's not even close. If you're talking just pure voice...none are better. She can sing anyone's song better then they can..Memory

Love Barbra... move her up the list!

You like her voice ,or you don't. I don't.

THE BEST!!

She must be #1. The most increadible and powerful voice ever!!

The most moving voice I know. Everyone who have listened songs like Memory, The Way We Were, Guilty, and, All I ask of You, understand what I mean. No one is better than this marvelous singer who holds the record for the most top ten albums of any female recording singer .She also is the only artist to accoplish number-one albums in 5 consecutive decades ans is the best-selling female artist on the RIAA! And more... Barbra Streisand had been nominated for OVER 57 GRAMMY AWARDS. I love Barbra, her voice and the way she sings!

She is the best singer and so professional ! She can move you with her voice and the way she sings !! The best ... by far !!

by far the best.

number one hands down...... 68 and she's still got it. No one even comes close..

Barbara was very good - but over produced, over hyped, and over rated. Top 20 - OK - but No. 4? No way.

The best ... by far !!!

simply the best!!

A voice of great specialties, character projection and pristine smoothness. Obviously her love of theatre song provides immense enthusiasm and relentless attention to fully realizing the possibilities in each song. You can't find a more professional talent for such songs.

Barbra Streisand You have been and always will be number one with me! Love Ya

Crystal Clear, Perfectly Disciplined Voice without defect. Versatile singer at Broadway Musicals to Hollywood Movies. A kind of Female Frank Sinatra.

Ten Grammys.

This lady needs to be in the top ten, come on.

Her voice is beautiful and her rendition of "Crazy' is amazing. Strong voice with great feeling behind it. Good choice

folks, can we get it figured out that these awards are meaningless??? The girl can sing. let's say something meaningful about her.

Average

Very poor

she is the best

Greatest singer

the greatest singer

she is the greatest singer!!

Celion is the best singer I have ever heard in my life! She is the best! And I have heard millions of singers in my time. No one to this day has beat her voice! Love her and someday I wish I could get the chance to go see her in concert. One of my big dreams in life....love you Celion!!!!!

wait till I get some cotton wool in ears

Heard her DO the prayer with Bocelli, she butchered it severely. Was like Jodie Foster shinging it.

excuse me while i yawn

DOWN DOWN AND DOWN CRAP

I swear people need to shake their heads a little more and think harder. Celine does not deserve to be number 27! She should b number 1

sorry, NOBODY IS AS GOOD AS SHE THINKS SHE IS! MEDIOCRE TALENT (to me) she wouldnt last with american idol

26??? Arguably the best female voice ever.......

omfg Celine Dion should be right up there with Karen Carpenter. Celine is better than that bloody Barbara Streisand lol

I can`t believe !!! she is definitely the best singer ever sh has a real angel voice and she deserves to be number one I don`t know where this list came from just to know iam from EGYPT and she is so popular here.

She's the ugly duckling of music !

i can say that this woman is number one of all singers in the world.....she is my idol and because i was amaized on her voice when she is singing....i have a lot of collections of her albums...I JUST WANT TO HAVE HER ALBUM DURING CONCERT IN MEMPHIS EGYPT,1997.coz i like it.no doubt..she is really number one compare to all those modern singers nowadays...lady gaga,taylor swift,justin bieber,bruno mars,rihanna,and many more.....i dont like their songs..it doesnt have meaning..

Celine Dion is the best!! She's honnor french language around the world!

What's your problem with the list???????????

Your list has no credibility with some names I've never heard of before and I'm a 58 year old male who has followed music since the 60s. Although not my fav.singer, Celine does not deserve to be ranked # 20??? Give your head a shake.

Money inspired, you mean !

for the people who say that Celine dion is not that good, she happens to have the same octave range as the late Pavarotti. She is also a great human being. She should be number one on this list in pop and Maria Callas for classical. I saw her life in Las Vegas, incredible voice! Her voice and passion are God inspired

Powerful voice, good control. Nasally at times and does not seem to sing with real emotion to me, she is forcing it. Personally I do not think she puts her vocally talents to effective use, I would not consider any of her recordings a true classic though some of them are useful to keep ships off the rocks.

best singer of all times.

Yeah ! every stupid song for the "pitch" !! She is so superficial.

Céline Dion is the best!! She has a magnificient and powerful voice! Celine did a lot of outstanding songs in the late 20th century! After it is true that her songs in english were not always speaking the words very interesting, but her songs in french, it's something else! It's the singer who has sold the most records in french with "d'Eux"! She sold two of her albums over 30 million copies in the 90's! For me, Celine is the best female singer!

She sings stupid songs and she is unidimensional. Her nasal voice and her screaming really fall on my nerves

Undoubtedly an excellent singer, but Celine has very few outstanding songs in the 20th century. It seems to be a signifcant error to rate her above great accomplished singers such as Maria Callas and Joan Baez.

Celine Dion the best of the best! In my view, Celine Dion is the best singer! no doubt!

celine is the best no doubt i just cant understand why she is in 33 she sing like operah singer its so hard for the pop singer to sing like celine

She's the best singer in my point of view.

Celine Dion should really be part of the top 3!!

She's the best!

Insipid, to say the least !!

Singing is more than a voice and Celine Dion is the perfect example.

How can Celine be so far down. She's a true vocal talent. I may not always like the songs she sings, as songs, but she always delivers amazing vocals. Range, power, control she has it all!

Celine Dion is without any dought, the very best of the best. She does not yell!!!! She has a gift and helps others, not many famous people do that. Her best songs, The coulor of my love, send me a lover, water from the moon,miracle, river deep, mountain high, and many more.

There is no "finesse" in her singing and the feeling she puts in her songs is false ! To my opinion, she screams too much !

Celine Dion has a very beautiful and powerful voice, which she has total control over. She's also a beautiful person, always kind and positive.

One of the most versatile singers in pop music history

By far, overrated.

One of the greatest singers ever!!!!!!

Celine Dion is by fact the highest selling female artist of all time. Countless critics have admired her for her amazing vocal ability , she has amazing control her pitch, she can sing high notes without wavering the slightest, she sings with emotion. Celine Dion has been blessed with an incredible ability

Regarding the above comment, the US is not the centre of the universe! England, France, Canada, etc, are not "unknown markets". She has great range, and a powerful voice. Vegas paid her $100 million for a reason!

celine dion 43 number one songs... 4 in US.. so dats 39 number 1 songs in small unknown markets... thats TOO FAR from accomplishment...

Seriously, shes not that good, her voice is actually really annoying :/

Hey ! how come some comments are deleted ? Someone doesn't like the bad comments on Celiiiiiiinne !!

I totally agree with the one before ! And what about the cover of All by myself !! She really makes a fool out of her.

Celine has a speech impediment - Like Norah Jones.

Yeah !! Rubbish singer and phony !!

Rubbish, crap and childish !

Celine is worthed for her vocal range and her -super condusive out of gossip- living that so pure, far differ from Mariah neither Withney whom troubled in many ways of their life journey. Celine can stabilize her emotion, in other hand she can do her career and get her vocal shaped by day

Celine would have been on no. 1not at no 38....she is the no 1 no one is like her..!!!!

She doesn't sing, she yells like hell !!

Celine dion Album Sales: 220 Million Mariah Carey Album Sales: 160 – 200 Million Grammy: Celine Wins No.1 singles World wide: Absolutely Celine Wins MARIAH: 18 CELINE: 43 Golden Dove: Celine Wins oscar: Celine WINS Quotations: Rhianna”Celine Dion is a Legend” and many more like beyonce and whitney Watch the video Broadcaster says:”Bigger than Barbara, More popular than MARIAH” NET WORTH: CELINE: 250 M MARIAH: 225 M 1096 awards: Celine DION THE HUGEST ,THE BIGGEST and THE HIGHEST SELLING FEMALE ARTIST OF ALL TIME: CELINE DION

@Marcy...you've gotta be kidding, it's only an F. hahaha 46 yrs old and I can still hit it without a problem.

celine dion is the best selling female artist of all time (fact) her voice is the best out of them all, with perfect pitching and increadible live performances i wonder how she isn't in the top 10, mariah carey forget about that squeaky voice, no wonder celine was chosen to launch the titanic, (simply the best)

Celine because ..her high note on All by myself was the first for me that try as i may I could not hit ! I was devestated but at the same time i was in awe ..she has total vocal control .wonderful to say the least

cool jazz festival in San Diego '75 Chargers Stadium I WAS ONE OF THE VERY FEW WHITE PERSONS THAT I SAW/ AND WORE WHITE DASHIQUE WHITE CRUSHED DENIMS (STOOD OUT) VERY WELCOME WHEN SHE CAME ON YOU COULD HEAR A PIN DROP!

With due respect to Aretha, an Empress outranks a Queen.

One of the best singers you could ever hear live. I have seen her in concert 6 times and each time was thrilling. She sings with honesty and feeling and I don't think many other singers can touch you the way Gladys does, consistently. At her best in the 70s and 80s she is still now, a remarkable vocal force as her appearence on Jools Holland testified in 2010. One of the true all time greats.

I agree with the comment several above; she is an OK singer. I consider her definitely above average. However, by comparison to the great singers on this list, I would rate Gladys Knight at about 50 to 60.

Love hearing her belt out "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" and "Midnight Train To Georgia". Shes awesome.

the empress of soul

Gladys can only sing R&B. She's just O.K. Nothing great. Nimber 70.

Glagys is from the U.S.A. NOT the U.K. !!

The UK's best - seem her perform live, and she's the biz

4 Grammys.

Nice singer

Natalie Cole is best known for remaking her critically acclaimed remakes of her legendary father's hits. But she also covered a multitude of other great artists as well, excellently I might add. But it is Natalie's originals that I love most. Listen to her albums in the 70's to hear her at her peak. She was having major drug issues for much of the 80's but rebounded in 87' with a fantastic album Everlasting and a solid one in 89' Good To Be Back. After that long run of mostly original material she focused on covers there after. Her biggest album commercial (and praised) Unforgettable in 91' started the ball rolling.

This ranking is titled Top Female singers of the 20th Century. That being the case some of these posters aren't abiding by the title. Top means best selling , critically acclaimed, award winning...... The late great Natalie has achieved all of that to a great degree. In the past 40 years or so she garnered multiple gold and platinum albums and singles, including the 7 million+ Unforgettable (1990) that earned massive critical acclaim and awards. Posters claiming she wouldn't have a career w/o being daughter of the GREAT Nat King Cole. Probably correct, but that in no way devalues her G-D given talent. Having fantastic bloodlines is not her fault. Great genes is a wonderful thing and shouldn't be faulted for that. May millions of more younger people discover her great talent. Untimely death usually achieves just that.

RIP. Natalie Cole was one of the greats. Great music throughout her 40 year career. Gorgeous vocals.

natalie cole has proven be one of the greatest voices of all-time. Apparently many of you have not seen her in concert to appreciate the old hollywood glamour she presents and are too young to remember when she dethroned Aretha as the new queen of soul in the seventies. She has always remained a critic's choice because when she's on- her souful presence has few equals!

The first poster is incredibly wrong. Natalie Cole went out of her way to make it on her own even eschewing orchestral arrangements her father also used.

IF Ella FitzgErald made such it was obviously in her advancing years, hearing not so good. It was probably made out of respect to Nat King Cole.. Natalie Cole is just an average singer.

One of the GREATS for sure. Her voice is simply beautiful and her amazing ability to sing different types of music well is rare. R&B Natalie sounds completely different from Jazz Natalie, Jazz Natalie sounds completely different from Pop Natalie. Highly respected by her peers, I heard Ella Fitgrald say she was one of her favorite voices and you cant argue with that.

Twobirds is always negative and is one of the most critical ! Should rank Number 3 000 000 as a critic !

I agree a lot with comment number one. She's good - not great. Her voice sometimes gets gratingly shrill - like she's singing harmonics. It also has kind of a whiny quality. She is one of my least favorite jazz singers. She shouldn't be Number 14. She should be Number 104.

Rubbish !!!

Natalie Cole at 12 on this list yet real heavyweight singers way down the list ? What are you people thinking ! Disgraceful !!

Absolutely!!, Yet here she is at # 14, terrible!

Agree totally with above. Natalie Cole would NEVER have been heard if her father had NOT been Nat King Cole.She is a pretty average singer!!!

Natalie is popular because of her father. Her voice is good but she should be either way down or off this list. OK, go ahead and attack me but the fact remains that she draws a sentimental following because she's Nat King Cole's daughter. She's been performing since 1955 both with her father, and then in a duo with her father digitally added, and solo, and still has only sold a little over 30 million records showing that she's not that popular. Her nominations and grammys don't impress me. To have her on this list this high is like putting Jullian Lennon at the top of a mens list because he is John Lennon's son.

9 Grammys out of 19 nominations.

if the voice don't...'the rythym is gonna get ya!"

Oh come on! Ranked at 58? No. Much higher. Highertha Olivia-Newton John, who sings like a girl!

A class woman and a class singer.

She was the sound of the Greatest Generation during the biggest even of all times WWII, she over race even had German and Japanese fans during the war. Her voice is natural and raw but real she is top Five, because she was so enormous.

I can't believe I had to scroll down to #20 to get to Billie! How can anyone who started recording the last two years of the 20th century even compare? I do agree, however, that her talent was more stylistic than vocal prowess. But what a style!

she knocked blues outta the park! dont care who u are....if your bummed/or just in a blue mood - who else would u turn to(at least SET THE BAR!)

oh my gosh, pretty good singing!

"The Greatest Woman Jazz Singer of all time"!!!

I agree with comment No. 3, where he/she says " Her singing talent in a technical sense was VERY limited". Billie's voice totally failed in her waning years. Listen to her "Lady in Satin" (her last record. She sounds like a dying cat. Her popularity continues to this day because of the mystique. Also, she was doing it at a time when very few others were doing it. She could not have ever sung at a level to do opera. Top 40 - OK - but No. 6? No way.

Had great successes with musicians Lester Young and Teddy Wilson. Her single God Bless the Child, which she co-wrote, is one of the most frequently covered jazz standards of all time. The emotional depth she poured into her songs is rivaled by very few.

I've had several musicians and singers tell me how much they like Billie Holiday (I do too), and for the feeling of her voice. Her singing talent in a technical sense was VERY limited, but it was the soul of the singer that came through that limited range, that opened up all possibilities and the capacity to steal your heart. No-one cares about the technical side of her singing once she starts to sing. Billie Holiday is what singing is all about.

4 Grammys and 5 Grammy Hall of Fame Awards.

Not only jazz. She influenced singers of every genre!!

THE most underrated singers ever. Besides a crystalline voice her stage presence is mystifying. Natural talent coupled with her natural beauty exceeds all.

Agnetha is the best in the history. She deserve No 1 no doubt.

Any list that does not have Agnetha in the top 20 lacks validity. If you take her voice quality and overall effect/popularity then you put her in the top 5.

What a beautiful voice she has. It is incredible. It is clear some are just commenting without having any idea about the quality of this singer.

Agnetha's voice is unbeatable. Just one man's opinion, but shared by millions who can appreciate a great voice and good music.

Both Agnetha & Frida of ABBA have excellent ranges to their voices & both can sing anything. Of course they deserve to be on this list & near the top too.

attractive, and talented voice. deserves a higher position.

Agnetha has one of the most beautiful voices ever. Her range is amazing and she sounds great on all songs, not just disco. To the haters, I ask... jealous much?

I think Agnetha is way too low on the list actually. Jack, if you have ever listened to ABBA, which you probably haven't, aside from "Dancing Queen" or "Mamma Mia", and assess their music from an educated musical point of view, you would see that Agnetha actually has an incredible voice. Her range is unbelievable wide, and if you were to actually listen, you would hear how much soul the woman actually has. ABBA were musical geniuses, and wrote the best pop music the world has ever seen (categorizing The Beatles as rock, of course!) So before you put Agnetha, and ABBA down, try using a bit more logic, rather than the oh-so-intelligent "Most boring singer on the PLANET!"

I love Agnetha. So many people overlook her and ABBA because they think the band was disco. It was NOT disco, many heart wrenching songs. When Agnetha sings Slipping Through my Fingers (check YouTube) anyone that is a parent will find it difficult indeed to hold back the tears.

Angetha Faltskog - Superior voice !

She belongs in that list, where I'm not sure, but she's a very talended singer with a wonderful voice!

What happened to the comment here noting that many artists here sang as lead singer on songs as part of a group and that this artist was also a solo artist? Let's be fair! Many of these 'solo' artists also had back up singers that helped their sound. Solo artist, group artist - irrelevant, if the artist sang what else matters in a category for singers. Is there a site adminstrator that subjectively and unfairly deletes comments ? And, just to note this artist as a solo singer for example, she had a hit single and album in Europe (including the UK) even in 2004 roughly 20 years AFTER Abba.

ekose, may it has escaped your notice ABBA were a GROUP.Not a solo female singer. Her success was NOT solo. Abba was about clever songs , not great vocals.

YouTube has more than 40 pages of submitted videos for ABBA and in the 1sr 3 pages alone there are over 104 Million veiws - a lot of people don't think Anetha is boring