Ever wonder about the iconic voices that shaped the music of the 1950s? The era was filled with talented male singers who left an impressive mark on the music industry.

From Frank Sinatra’s smooth sounds to Elvis Presley’s energetic performances, the ’50s produced various influential male vocalists.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 70 of the most significant male singers from the 1950s. You’ll learn about their unique styles, hit songs, and the lasting impact they had on popular music.

Join us as we take a nostalgic journey through the golden age of music and discover the men behind the microphones.

Get ready to be inspired by their incredible talent and timeless charm.

The Pioneers of 50s Music (Rock ‘n’ Roll)

Rock ‘n’ Roll revolutionized music in the 1950s, blending genres like blues, country, and gospel into an electrifying new sound.

Here are some of the pioneers who defined this era.

1. Elvis Presley

The undisputed King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley’s electrifying performances and smooth vocals revolutionized popular music. With hits like “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock,” he became a cultural icon.

• Years Active: 1954-1977
• Major Songs: “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Heartbreak Hotel”
• Major Achievements: Sold over 600 million records worldwide, 3 Grammy Awards, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee

2. Chuck Berry

Known for his innovative guitar style and catchy lyrics, Chuck Berry pioneered rock ‘n’ roll. Songs like “Johnny B. Goode” and “Roll Over Beethoven” are timeless classics.

• Years Active: 1953-2017
• Major Songs: “Johnny B. Goode,” “Roll Over Beethoven,” “Maybellene”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Kennedy Center Honors recipient

3. Little Richard

With his energetic piano playing and flamboyant stage presence, Little Richard’s influence on rock music cannot be overstated. His hits “Tutti Frutti” and “Long Tall Sally” are still beloved today.

• Years Active: 1947-2020
• Major Songs: “Tutti Frutti,” “Long Tall Sally,” “Good Golly Miss Molly”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award

4. Buddy Holly

Despite his short career, Buddy Holly left a lasting impact on music with his unique blend of country, R&B, and rock ‘n’ roll. “That’ll Be the Day” and “Peggy Sue” are just two of his memorable hits.

• Years Active: 1952-1959
• Major Songs: “That’ll Be the Day,” “Peggy Sue,” “Everyday”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Artists of All Time

5. Jerry Lee Lewis

Known as “The Killer,” Jerry Lee Lewis’s dynamic piano playing and wild stage antics made him a rock ‘n’ roll legend. “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” are among his most famous songs.

• Years Active: 1949-2022
• Major Songs: “Great Balls of Fire,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Breathless”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Country Music Hall of Fame inductee

6. Bill Haley

Bill Haley and His Comets helped popularize rock ‘n’ roll with their hit song “Rock Around the Clock,” which became an anthem for the generation.

• Years Active: 1946-1981
• Major Songs: “Rock Around the Clock,” “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” “See You Later, Alligator”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, First rock ‘n’ roll song to hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts

7. Gene Vincent

With his raw, energetic style, Gene Vincent was a key figure in the early days of rock ‘n’ roll. His most famous song, “Be-Bop-A-Lula,” is a classic of the era.

• Years Active: 1955-1971
• Major Songs: “Be-Bop-A-Lula,” “Race with the Devil,” “Bluejean Bop”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Rockabilly Hall of Fame inductee

8. Eddie Cochran

Eddie Cochran’s guitar skills and rebellious attitude made him a rock ‘n’ roll icon. His hits “Summertime Blues” and “C’mon Everybody” are still popular today.

• Years Active: 1953-1960
• Major Songs: “Summertime Blues,” “C’mon Everybody,” “Somethin’ Else”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Artists of All Time

9. Bo Diddley

Bo Diddley’s distinctive rhythmic style, often called the “Bo Diddley beat,” influenced countless musicians. His self-titled song “Bo Diddley” is a rock ‘n’ roll staple.

• Years Active: 1951-2008
• Major Songs: “Bo Diddley,” “I’m a Man,” “Who Do You Love?”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award

10. Ritchie Valens

Although his career was tragically cut short, Ritchie Valens made a significant impact with his unique blend of rock ‘n’ roll and Latin music. “La Bamba” remains his most famous song.

• Years Active: 1957-1959
• Major Songs: “La Bamba,” “Donna,” “Come On, Let’s Go”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Latin Grammy Hall of Fame inductee

11. Carl Perkins

Carl Perkins’ fusion of country, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll paved the way for future musicians. His song “Blue Suede Shoes” became a massive hit, later covered by Elvis Presley.

• Years Active: 1946-1998
• Major Songs: “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Matchbox,” “Honey Don’t”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee

The Crooners and Balladeers

The 1950s was a golden age for crooners and balladeers, whose smooth voices and romantic ballads captured the hearts of millions.

These artists were masters of their craft, setting the stage for future generations.

12. Frank Sinatra

Often called “Ol’ Blue Eyes,” Frank Sinatra’s smooth voice and charismatic presence made him one of the most influential singers of the 20th century. His hits, such as “My Way” and “Fly Me to the Moon,” are timeless classics.

• Years Active: 1935-1995
• Major Songs: “My Way,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” “New York, New York”
• Major Achievements: 9 Grammy Awards, Presidential Medal of Freedom, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee

13. Nat King Cole

Known for his velvety voice and piano skills, Nat King Cole was a master of romantic ballads. His rendition of “Unforgettable” and “Mona Lisa” showcase his incredible talent.

• Years Active: 1934-1965
• Major Songs: “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” “The Christmas Song”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Hollywood Walk of Fame star

14. Tony Bennett

With a career of over seven decades, Tony Bennett’s distinctive voice and style have made him a beloved figure in American music. “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” is his signature song.

• Years Active: 1945-2021
• Major Songs: “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “The Best Is Yet to Come,” “Rags to Riches”
• Major Achievements: 20 Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honors recipient, Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy

15. Perry Como

Perry Como’s relaxed, conversational singing style and laid-back personality earned him the nickname “Mr. C.” His hits “Catch a Falling Star” and “Magic Moments” are nostalgic favorites.

• Years Active: 1933-1997
• Major Songs: “Catch a Falling Star,” “Magic Moments,” “It’s Impossible”
• Major Achievements: 5 Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honors recipient, Hollywood Walk of Fame star

16. Dean Martin

Known for his smooth, effortless singing style and charming wit, Dean Martin was a popular entertainer in the ’50s and beyond. “That’s Amore” and “Everybody Loves Somebody” are two of his most famous songs.

• Years Active: 1932-1988
• Major Songs: “That’s Amore,” “Everybody Loves Somebody,” “Memories Are Made of This”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Golden Globe Award, Hollywood Walk of Fame star

17. Bing Crosby

Bing Crosby’s warm, bass-baritone voice made him one of the best-selling recording artists of the 20th century. His rendition of “White Christmas” is a holiday staple.

• Years Active: 1926-1977
• Major Songs: “White Christmas,” “Swinging on a Star,” “Pennies from Heaven”
• Major Achievements: 3 Academy Awards, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Hollywood Walk of Fame star

18. Andy Williams

Andy Williams was a popular crooner in the ’50s and ’60s. With a soothing voice and boyish charm, his songs “Moon River” and “Can’t Get Used to Losing You” are among his most beloved.

• Years Active: 1943-2012
• Major Songs: “Moon River,” “Can’t Get Used to Losing You,” “Days of Wine and Roses”
• Major Achievements: 3 Emmy Awards, Hollywood Walk of Fame star, multiple gold and platinum albums

19. Vic Damone

Vic Damone’s mellow baritone voice and romantic ballads made him a popular singer in the ’50s. “On the Street Where You Live” and “An Affair to Remember” are two of his notable hits.

• Years Active: 1947-2001
• Major Songs: “On the Street Where You Live,” “An Affair to Remember,” “You’re Breaking My Heart”
• Major Achievements: Hollywood Walk of Fame star, American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) Pied Piper Award

20. Pat Boone

Pat Boone’s clean-cut image and smooth vocals made him a successful pop singer in the ’50s. His covers of “Ain’t That a Shame” and “Love Letters in the Sand” were major hits.

• Years Active: 1954-present
• Major Songs: “Ain’t That a Shame,” “Love Letters in the Sand,” “April Love”
• Major Achievements: 2 Billboard Music Awards, Hollywood Walk of Fame star, sold over 45 million records

21. Eddie Fisher

Eddie Fisher’s tender voice and romantic ballads made him a teen idol in the early ’50s. “Oh! My Pa-Pa” and “I’m Walking Behind You” are his most popular songs.

• Years Active: 1948-1984
• Major Songs: “Oh! My Pa-Pa,” “I’m Walking Behind You,” “Wish You Were Here”
• Major Achievements: 2 Grammy Awards, Hollywood Walk of Fame star, numerous gold records

Influential Rhythm and Blues Artists

Rhythm and blues in the 1950s laid the groundwork for modern soul and rock music.

These artists’ powerful voices and innovative sounds broke new ground and influenced countless musicians.

22. Ray Charles

Ray Charles, a pioneer of soul music, blended gospel, R&B, and blues to create a unique sound. His hits “What’d I Say” and “I Got a Woman” are considered classics.

• Years Active: 1947-2004
• Major Songs: “What’d I Say,” “I Got a Woman,” “Georgia on My Mind”
• Major Achievements: 17 Grammy Awards, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

23. Sam Cooke

Sam Cooke’s smooth voice and songwriting skills made him a key figure in the development of soul music. “You Send Me” and “Chain Gang” are two of his most famous songs.

• Years Active: 1951-1964
• Major Songs: “You Send Me,” “Chain Gang,” “A Change Is Gonna Come”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee

24. Fats Domino

Fats Domino, a New Orleans piano player, significantly influenced rock ‘n’ roll. His hits “Ain’t That a Shame” and “Blueberry Hill” were popular in the ’50s.

• Years Active: 1947-2005
• Major Songs: “Ain’t That a Shame,” “Blueberry Hill,” “I’m Walkin'”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, National Medal of Arts recipient

25. Lloyd Price

Lloyd Price, known for his powerful voice, had hits like “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” and “Stagger Lee” in the ’50s.

• Years Active: 1948-2021
• Major Songs: “Lawdy Miss Clawdy,” “Stagger Lee,” “Personality”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Hall of Fame, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award

26. Jackie Wilson

Jackie Wilson, known for his dynamic stage presence and vocal range, had hits like “Lonely Teardrops” and “That’s Why (I Love You So).”

• Years Active: 1953-1984
• Major Songs: “Lonely Teardrops,” “Reet Petite,” “Higher and Higher”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award

27. Clyde McPhatter

Clyde McPhatter, founder of The Drifters, had a successful solo career with hits like “A Lover’s Question” and “Treasure of Love.”

• Years Active: 1950-1972
• Major Songs: “A Lover’s Question,” “Treasure of Love,” “Without Love (There Is Nothing)”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Hall of Fame, Vocal Group Hall of Fame inductee

28. Little Willie John

Little Willie John, known for his powerful voice, had hits like “Fever” and “Need Your Love So Bad.”

• Years Active: 1955-1968
• Major Songs: “Fever,” “Need Your Love So Bad,” “Talk to Me, Talk to Me”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award

29. James Brown

James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul,” began his career in the ’50s with hits like “Please, Please, Please” and “Try Me.”

• Years Active: 1953-2006
• Major Songs: “Please, Please, Please,” “Try Me,” “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag”
• Major Achievements: 2 Grammy Awards, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

30. Hank Ballard

Hank Ballard, lead singer of The Midnighters, is best known for his hit “The Twist,” which later became a massive hit for Chubby Checker.

• Years Active: 1953-2003
• Major Songs: “The Twist,” “Work with Me, Annie,” “Finger Poppin’ Time”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award, Grammy Hall of Fame

31. Bobby Bland

Bobby Bland, known for his powerful voice and blend of blues and soul, had hits like “Further Up the Road” and “Little Boy Blue.”

• Years Active: 1947-2013
• Major Songs: “Further Up the Road,” “Little Boy Blue,” “Turn On Your Love Light”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Blues Hall of Fame inductee

32. Larry Williams

Larry Williams, a singer, songwriter, and pianist, had hits like “Bony Moronie” and “Dizzy, Miss Lizzy,” which were later covered by The Beatles.

• Years Active: 1954-1980
• Major Songs: “Bony Moronie,” “Dizzy, Miss Lizzy,” “Short Fat Fannie”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (as a songwriter), influential on 1960s rock artists

33. Jimmy Reed

Jimmy Reed, a blues singer and guitarist, significantly influenced rock ‘n’ roll with hits like “Big Boss Man” and “Bright Lights, Big City.”

• Years Active: 1953-1976
• Major Songs: “Big Boss Man,” “Bright Lights, Big City,” “Baby What You Want Me to Do”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Hall of Fame

34. Charles Brown

Charles Brown, a blues singer and pianist, was known for his smooth, sophisticated style on hits like “Driftin’ Blues” and “Merry Christmas Baby.”

• Years Active: 1943-1999
• Major Songs: “Driftin’ Blues,” “Merry Christmas Baby,” “Please Come Home for Christmas”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award, Grammy Hall of Fame

Country and Rockabilly Icons

The 1950s saw the rise of country and rockabilly, blending traditional country sounds with the emerging rock ‘n’ roll style.

These artists brought a new energy to country music and left a lasting legacy.

35. Hank Williams

Hank Williams is a country music legend known for his heartfelt lyrics and memorable songs like “Hey, Good Lookin'” and “Your Cheatin’ Heart.” His influence on country music is immeasurable.

• Years Active: 1937-1953
• Major Songs: “Hey, Good Lookin’,” “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

36. Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash, the “Man in Black,” is famous for his deep baritone voice and rebellious image. His hits, such as “I Walk the Line” and “Folsom Prison Blues,” have become country classics.

• Years Active: 1954-2003
• Major Songs: “I Walk the Line,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Ring of Fire”
• Major Achievements: 13 Grammy Awards, Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee

37. Johnny Horton

Johnny Horton was known for his energetic performances and storytelling lyrics. His hits “The Battle of New Orleans” and “North to Alaska” showcased his unique blend of country and rockabilly.

• Years Active: 1950-1960
• Major Songs: “The Battle of New Orleans,” “North to Alaska,” “Sink the Bismarck”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Award winner, Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, numerous gold records

38. Conway Twitty

Conway Twitty started his career as a rockabilly artist before transitioning to country music. Known for his smooth voice and romantic ballads, Twitty’s early hits include “It’s Only Make Believe.”

• Years Active: 1955-1993
• Major Songs: “It’s Only Make Believe,” “Lonely Blue Boy,” “Danny Boy”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, over 50 No. 1 country hits, Grammy Award winner

39. Sonny James

Sonny James, known as the “Southern Gentleman,” succeeded greatly in country and pop music. His smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics won him numerous fans and hit records.

• Years Active: 1953-1983
• Major Songs: “Young Love,” “First Date, First Kiss, First Love,” “You’re the Reason I’m In Love”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, 26 No. 1 country hits, Grammy Award winner

40. Webb Pierce

Webb Pierce was a popular honky-tonk singer in the ’50s, known for his distinctive voice and hits like “In the Jailhouse Now” and “There Stands the Glass.”

• Years Active: 1947-1982
• Major Songs: “In the Jailhouse Now,” “There Stands the Glass,” “I Ain’t Never”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Grand Ole Opry member

41. Lefty Frizzell

Lefty Frizzell’s unique singing style influenced many country artists. His hits “If You’ve Got the Money (I’ve Got the Time)” and “Always Late (With Your Kisses)” are country staples.

• Years Active: 1942-1975
• Major Songs: “If You’ve Got the Money (I’ve Got the Time),” “Always Late (With Your Kisses),” “Saginaw, Michigan”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee

42. George Jones

George Jones, known for his dynamic voice and heartbreak ballads, had hits like “White Lightning” and “Window Up Above” in the ’50s.

• Years Active: 1953-2013
• Major Songs: “White Lightning,” “Window Up Above,” “He Stopped Loving Her Today”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Honors recipient

43. Hank Snow

Hank Snow, a Canadian-born country singer, is best known for his hit songs “I’m Moving On” and “The Golden Rocket.”

• Years Active: 1936-1996
• Major Songs: “I’m Moving On,” “The Golden Rocket,” “I’ve Been Everywhere”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Grand Ole Opry member

44. Faron Young

Faron Young, nicknamed “The Singing Sheriff,” had a successful career in the ’50s with hits like “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young” and “Hello Walls.”

• Years Active: 1951-1996
• Major Songs: “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young,” “Hello Walls,” “If You Ain’t Lovin’ (You Ain’t Livin’)”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee

45. Marty Robbins

Marty Robbins was a versatile singer, songwriter, and musician known for his hits “A White Sport Coat (and a Pink Carnation)” and “El Paso.”

• Years Active: 1948-1982
• Major Songs: “A White Sport Coat (and a Pink Carnation),” “El Paso,” “Big Iron”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Award winner, Academy of Country Music Pioneer Award

46. Jim Reeves

Jim Reeves, known for his velvety smooth voice, helped popularize the Nashville Sound with hits like “Four Walls” and “He’ll Have to Go.”

• Years Active: 1948-1964
• Major Songs: “Four Walls,” “He’ll Have to Go,” “Welcome to My World”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Hall of Fame, Texas Country Music Hall of Fame inductee

47. Ernest Tubb

Ernest Tubb, a pioneer of honky-tonk music, had hits in the ’50s like “Two Glasses Joe” and “Answer the Phone.”

• Years Active: 1936-1982
• Major Songs: “Walking the Floor Over You,” “Two Glasses Joe,” “Answer the Phone”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

48. Red Foley

An influential country artist, Red Foley is known for his hits “Peace in the Valley” and “Chattanoogie Shoe Shine Boy.”

• Years Active: 1933-1968
• Major Songs: “Peace in the Valley,” “Chattanoogie Shoe Shine Boy,” “Old Shep”
• Major Achievements: Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

Jazz and Blues Legends

Jazz and blues were integral to the 1950s music scene, with artists pushing their genres’ boundaries and influencing countless musicians.

Their contributions continue to resonate today.

49. Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong, a trumpet virtuoso and singer, was a foundational influence on jazz. His distinctive voice and hits like “What a Wonderful World” and “Hello, Dolly!” made him an international star.

• Years Active: 1919-1971
• Major Songs: “What a Wonderful World,” “Hello, Dolly!,” “When the Saints Go Marching In”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Kennedy Center Honors recipient

50. B.B. King

B.B. King, known as “The King of the Blues,” was a highly influential guitarist and singer. His unique vibrato and hits like “The Thrill Is Gone” and “Every Day I Have the Blues” are blues classics.

• Years Active: 1942-2014
• Major Songs: “The Thrill Is Gone,” “Every Day I Have the Blues,” “Lucille”
• Major Achievements: 15 Grammy Awards, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Presidential Medal of Freedom

51. Muddy Waters

Muddy Waters, a pioneer of Chicago blues, influenced rock ‘n’ roll with his electric guitar style and powerful voice. “I Just Want to Make Love to You” and “Got My Mojo Working” are his most famous songs.

• Years Active: 1941-1982
• Major Songs: “I Just Want to Make Love to You,” “Got My Mojo Working,” “Hoochie Coochie Man”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Blues Hall of Fame inductee

52. Howlin’ Wolf

Howlin’ Wolf, known for his raw, emotional singing style and large size, was a major influence on blues and rock. “Spoonful” and “Smokestack Lightnin'” are among his most famous recordings.

• Years Active: 1930-1976
• Major Songs: “Spoonful,” “Smokestack Lightnin’,” “Killing Floor”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Hall of Fame, Blues Hall of Fame inductee

53. John Lee Hooker

John Lee Hooker’s distinctive guitar style and “talking blues” vocals made him a standout in the blues world. “Boom Boom” and “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” are his well-known songs.

• Years Active: 1942-2001
• Major Songs: “Boom Boom,” “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer,” “Boogie Chillen'”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Blues Hall of Fame inductee

54. T-Bone Walker

T-Bone Walker, a pioneering electric blues guitarist, influenced countless musicians with his smooth, jazzy style. “Call It Stormy Monday (But Tuesday Is Just as Bad)” is his most famous song.

• Years Active: 1928-1975
• Major Songs: “Call It Stormy Monday (But Tuesday Is Just as Bad),” “T-Bone Shuffle,” “Mean Old World”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Blues Hall of Fame inductee

55. Sonny Boy Williamson II

Sonny Boy Williamson II, a harmonica player and singer, was known for his witty lyrics and distinctive sound. “Don’t Start Me Talkin'” and “Bring It On Home” are his most popular songs.

• Years Active: 1930-1965
• Major Songs: “Don’t Start Me Talkin’,” “Bring It On Home,” “Help Me”
• Major Achievements: Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Hall of Fame, influential on later blues and rock musicians

56. Big Joe Turner

Big Joe Turner, a blues shouter, helped shape the sound of early rock ‘n’ roll with hits like “Shake, Rattle and Roll” and “Flip, Flop and Fly.”

• Years Active: 1929-1985
• Major Songs: “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” “Flip, Flop and Fly,” “Honey Hush”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Hall of Fame

57. Jimmy Rushing

Jimmy Rushing, known as “Mr. Five by Five,” was a jazz and blues singer known for his work with Count Basie. “Every Day I Have the Blues” and “Good Morning Blues” are two of his notable recordings.

• Years Active: 1920s-1972
• Major Songs: “Every Day I Have the Blues,” “Good Morning Blues,” “Goin’ to Chicago Blues”
• Major Achievements: Grammy Hall of Fame, influential in the development of blues and jazz singing styles

58. Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson

Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson, a jazz and blues saxophonist and singer, had a hit with “Cherry Red” and was known for his humorous lyrics.

• Years Active: 1935-1988
• Major Songs: “Cherry Red,” “Kidney Stew Blues,” “Old Maid Boogie”
• Major Achievements: Influential in both jazz and blues, known for blending styles and his humorous performance

59. Lightnin’ Hopkins

Lightnin’ Hopkins, a Texas bluesman, was known for his unique fingerpicking style and storytelling lyrics. “T-Model Blues” and “Baby Please Don’t Go” are two of his most famous songs.

• Years Active: 1920s-1982
• Major Songs: “T-Model Blues,” “Baby Please Don’t Go,” “Mojo Hand”
• Major Achievements: Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Grammy Hall of Fame, influential on later blues and rock musicians

Doo-Wop and Group Harmony Leaders

Doo-wop and group harmony dominated the airwaves in the 1950s, characterized by smooth vocal harmonies and catchy melodies.

These groups and their leaders brought a new level of sophistication to popular music.

60. Clyde McPhatter (The Drifters)

Clyde McPhatter, The Drifters’s founder and lead singer, was known for his soaring tenor voice. He led the group on hits like “Money Honey” and “Such a Night” before starting a successful solo career.

• Years Active: 1950-1972
• Major Songs: “Money Honey,” “Such a Night,” “A Lover’s Question” (solo)
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (both as a solo artist and with The Drifters), Grammy Hall of Fame

61. Frankie Lymon (The Teenagers)

Frankie Lymon, the lead singer of The Teenagers, was a young sensation with a high, clear voice. The group’s biggest hit, “Why Do Fools Fall in Love,” showcased Lymon’s vocal talents.

• Years Active: 1954-1968
• Major Songs: “Why Do Fools Fall in Love,” “I Want You to Be My Girl,” “Goody Goody” (solo)
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (with The Teenagers), significant influence on later teen idols

62. Ben E. King

Ben E. King began his career as the lead singer of The Drifters, singing on hits like “There Goes My Baby” and “Save the Last Dance for Me.” He later had a successful solo career with songs like “Stand By Me” and “Spanish Harlem.”

• Years Active: 1958-2015
• Major Songs: “There Goes My Baby,” “Save the Last Dance for Me,” “Stand By Me” (solo), “Spanish Harlem” (solo)
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (with The Drifters), “Stand By Me” added to the National Recording Registry.

63. Bobby Day

Bobby Day, the lead singer of The Hollywood Flames, is best known for his solo hit “Rockin’ Robin.” He also co-wrote “Little Bitty Pretty One,” a hit for Thurston Harris.

• Years Active: 1950-1990
• Major Songs: “Rockin’ Robin,” “Over and Over,” “Little Bitty Pretty One” (co-writer)
• Major Achievements: Significant influence on early rock ‘n’ roll and pop music, “Rockin’ Robin” remains a popular oldie

64. The Platters (lead singers like Tony Williams)

The Platters, one of the most successful doo-wop groups, had several lead singers, but Tony Williams was the most prominent. He sang lead on hits like “Only You (And You Alone)” and “The Great Pretender.”

• Years Active: 1952-present (various line-ups)
• Major Songs: “Only You (And You Alone),” “The Great Pretender,” “Twilight Time”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, numerous gold records, “The Great Pretender” inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame

65. Dion (Dion and the Belmonts)

Dion, the lead singer of Dion and the Belmonts, had a distinctive voice that blended doo-wop and rock ‘n’ roll. The group had hits like “I Wonder Why” and “A Teenager in Love” before Dion embarked on a solo career.

• Years Active: 1957-present
• Major Songs: “I Wonder Why,” “A Teenager in Love,” “Runaround Sue” (solo), “The Wanderer” (solo)
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (solo), influential on both doo-wop and rock ‘n’ roll genres

66. Billy Ward (Billy Ward and His Dominoes)

Billy Ward, the founder and piano player of Billy Ward and His Dominoes, led the group to success with hits like “Sixty Minute Man” and “Have Mercy Baby.” The group featured lead singers like Clyde McPhatter and Jackie Wilson, who later had successful solo careers.

• Years Active: 1950-1965
• Major Songs: “Sixty Minute Man,” “Have Mercy Baby,” “St. Therese of the Roses”
• Major Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (members), “Sixty Minute Man” recognized as one of the earliest rock ‘n’ roll hits.