Howdy, y’all!
This is Part 2 of 20 Artists Every Singer Should Know. If you missed Part 1, you can check it out HERE
In writing this, I realize that there are soooooooooooo many other artists that could also be added to this list and their contributions to the music industry and our world at large are so impactful, but I’m not writing a book.
Or maybe I should?! A popular music encyclopedia of sorts… hmmmm
TOO. MANY. IDEAS!
Anyway… We have to start somewhere so we’re starting with these 20 artists. I would love to hear from you about artists you would love to add, so make sure you comment below.
Let’s get on with Part 2 then…
And as a reminder, I’m not suggesting that you have to like these artists or their music and/or that you should be singing their songs. I just think that as a student of pop rock music, be it a singer or teacher, you should know who these artists are and the impact and contributions they made in making our world a more musical one.
These ten amazing musical artists represent a diverse range of styles and genres, and each one has had a significant impact on the music industry. By studying their music, performances, and careers, singers can gain valuable insight into the art of singing and how to connect with audiences.
- Ray Charles, a soul and blues singer and piano player, known as the “Father of Soul” is an iconic figure in the world of music. Considered one of the pioneers of soul music, Ray Charles was known for his innovative piano playing, soulful voice, and unique style. He started playing music at the age of 3 but then lost his sight at the age of 7, yet it never stopped his musical career. His innovative use of gospel and R&B have influenced countless musicians. He was also a pioneer in the music industry, establishing his own label and fighting for artists' rights.
- Dolly Parton, a country singer, songwriter, and recent inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, is considered a country music legend with an extremely successful career spanning several decades. Known for her powerful voice, songwriting skills, uplifting ballads, and her endearing personality, her music has been covered by artists in every single other genre of music. Her influence can also be felt in her entrepreneurial spirit, having built an empire with her own theme park, record label, and entertainment company. Parton's impact on music and culture has spanned decades, making her an enduring figure in the history of country music and the music industry as a whole.
- Frank Sinatra, a legendary singer who was known for his smooth, sophisticated voice and romantic ballads was widely regarded as one of the best interpreters of American standards. This iconic crooner and jazz legend contributed greatly to the development of the popular music genre and has influenced generations of singers. He was also a cultural icon, known for his suave image and connections to Hollywood's golden era. Sinatra's impact on popular music and culture has endured long after his death, making him a vital figure in the history of modern music.
- Joni Mitchell is a singer-songwriter known for her unique voice, intricate melodies, poignant lyrics, and her impact on the folk and pop music genres. Her introspective lyrics and intricate melodies along with her ability to blend folk, jazz, and pop music set a new standard for songwriting in the 1960s and 70s. Her expressive voice, which ranged from a delicate whisper to a powerful belt, further cemented her status as a musical pioneer. Mitchell's influence can still be heard in the work of many contemporary singer-songwriters, making her a vital figure in the history of popular music.
- Patsy Cline was a country music icon known for her powerful, soulful voice and emotional ballads and is considered one of the most influential country singers of all time. Her ability to convey heartbreak and longing through her voice coupled with her crossover appeal to pop audiences, helped broaden the appeal of country music. Despite her tragic death at a young age, her legacy continues to influence singers and songwriters in both country and other genres, making her a vital figure in the history of popular music.
- Janis Joplin, a trailblazing blues rock singer in the 1960s known for her powerful voice and emotive performances is considered one of the greatest rock singers of all time. Her powerful vocals and emotionally raw unconventional approach to singing combined with her uninhibited style have made her an iconic figure in the world of music. Her impact on music and popular culture, as well as her untimely death at a young age, cemented her status as a cultural icon and a symbol of the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
- Otis Redding, known for his powerful voice and emotional ballads is considered one of the greatest soul singers of all time. His ability to convey raw emotion through his voice has made him a dynamic figure in the world of music. By using vocal dynamics, inflection, and phrasing, he created powerful and emotional connections with his audiences and his performances continue to inspire singers today
- Nina Simone was a singer, songwriter, and pianist known for her powerful vocals and social commentary. Her ability to blend jazz, blues, and soul music has made her an influential trailblazing figure in the world of music, and is widely considered as one of the greatest jazz singers of all time. Additionally, her political activism and involvement in the civil rights movement of the 1960s have had a lasting impact on society, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer both in music and in social justice.
- Sam Cooke was a soul singer known for his smooth, powerful voice and romantic ballads with impeccable phrasing. Seen as one of the pioneers of soul music along with R&B and gospel music, Sam Cooke’s ability to convey emotion through his voice and make each song his own has made him a lasting figure in the world of music. He was also a pioneering figure in the music industry, establishing his own record label and fighting for artists' rights. Cooke's contributions to music and his influence on subsequent generations make him a vital figure in the history of popular music.
- Bob Dylan is a singer-songwriter known for his poetic lyrics, unique voice, and innovative style and is widely considered one of the greatest songwriters of all time. He had a profound impact on the world of folk and rock music defined by his ability to tell stories through his music Dylan's songs became anthems for social movements of the 1960s and beyond. His influence can still be heard in the music of today, making him one of the most important and enduring figures in modern music.
There you go!
These 10 artists are just a few of the many legendary musicians who have left their mark on the world of music. Each one has a unique sound and style, and their contributions have influenced countless singers and songwriters over the years. Whether it's Otis Redding's soulful voice or Joni Mitchell's introspective songwriting, there is something to learn from each of these artists.
So, to all the aspiring singers out there, take some time to listen to the music of these legends and let their passion and talent inspire you on your own musical journey. Who knows, maybe someday you'll be on a list of artists every singer should know!
OH! And Don't forget…
You can hear all of these amazing artists on my Spotify Playlist - 20 Artists Every Singer Should Know. Go ahead and save it and listen to your heart's content!!