Are you ready to discover the most attractive alto pop songs that will have you dancing in no time?
From timeless classics to modern hits, these carefully curated tracks showcase the incredible range and power of alto voices in pop music.
Whether you’re a fan of soulful ballads or upbeat anthems, this list of 44 alto pop songs has something for everyone. Get ready to experience the magic of these unforgettable melodies and lyrics that will touch your heart and get your body moving.
Join us as we explore the world of alto pop music and uncover the songs that have left a tremendous mark on the genre.
Let’s dive in and start grooving to these irresistible tunes!
1980s Alto Pop Hits
1. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics
Annie Lennox’s haunting alto voice takes center stage in this iconic 80s synth-pop hit. The song’s mysterious atmosphere and memorable lyrics have made it a timeless classic.
- Release Date: January 21, 1983
- Album: Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)
2. “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper’s heartfelt ballad showcases her powerful alto range and emotional depth. The song’s relatable lyrics and beautiful melody have resonated with listeners for decades.
- Release Date: April 9, 1984
- Album: She’s So Unusual
3. “Like a Virgin” by Madonna
Madonna’s playful and provocative performance in “Like a Virgin” helped establish her as a pop icon. Her distinctive alto voice adds a unique charm to this catchy dance-pop track.
- Release Date: November 6, 1984
- Album: Like a Virgin
4. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman’s soulful alto voice shines in this poignant folk-pop song about escaping poverty and pursuing dreams. The song’s raw emotions and simple yet effective instrumentation have made it an enduring favorite.
- Release Date: April 6, 1988
- Album: Tracy Chapman
5. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s soaring alto vocals take this upbeat dance-pop song to new heights. The infectious melody and joyful lyrics have made it a staple at parties and celebrations.
- Release Date: May 2, 1987
- Album: Whitney
6. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler
Bonnie Tyler’s powerful alto voice is the driving force behind this epic power ballad. The song’s dramatic crescendos and emotive lyrics make it a favorite karaoke.
- Release Date: February 11, 1983
- Album: Faster Than the Speed of Night
7. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” by Tina Turner
Tina Turner’s gritty alto vocals and confident delivery make this R&B-infused pop song an empowering anthem. The song’s catchy hooks and Turner’s magnetic presence have made it a classic.
- Release Date: May 1, 1984
- Album: Private Dancer
8. “Material Girl” by Madonna
Madonna’s cheeky alto vocals and the song’s satirical lyrics about materialism have made “Material Girl” a pop culture staple. The catchy melody and danceable beat showcase Madonna’s knack for crafting memorable hits.
- Release Date: January 23, 1985
- Album: Like a Virgin
9. “Bette Davis Eyes” by Kim Carnes
Kim Carnes’ raspy alto voice adds a sultry edge to this pop-rock song. The song’s clever lyrics, which pay homage to the iconic actress Bette Davis, and Carnes’ distinctive vocal style have made it a beloved 80s hit.
- Release Date: March 10, 1981
- Album: Mistaken Identity
10. “Love Is a Battlefield” by Pat Benatar
Pat Benatar’s powerful alto vocals and the song’s driving rock beat make “Love Is a Battlefield” an anthem of resilience and determination. The song’s relatable lyrics and Benatar’s passionate delivery have made it a timeless classic.
- Release Date: September 12, 1983
- Album: Live from Earth
Iconic 1990s Alto Pop Songs
11. “Believe” by Cher
Cher’s iconic alto voice, combined with the groundbreaking use of Auto-Tune, made “Believe” a global sensation. The song’s empowering lyrics and danceable beat have made it a favorite among fans of all ages.
- Release Date: October 19, 1998
- Album: Believe
12. “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion
Celine Dion’s powerful alto vocals soar in this timeless love song from the blockbuster film “Titanic.” The song’s sweeping orchestration and Dion’s emotional delivery have made it one of the most memorable ballads ever.
- Release Date: December 8, 1997
- Album: Let’s Talk About Love
13. “Genie in a Bottle” by Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera’s soulful alto voice and the song’s catchy pop-R&B fusion helped launch her career as a pop superstar. The song’s playful lyrics and Aguilera’s impressive vocal runs have made it a 90s classic.
- Release Date: June 22, 1999
- Album: Christina Aguilera
14. “Un-break My Heart” by Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton’s rich alto vocals convey the heartbreak and longing in this powerful R&B ballad. The song’s emotional lyrics and Braxton’s soulful delivery have made it a timeless favorite.
- Release Date: October 7, 1996
- Album: Secrets
15. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s stunning alto voice takes center stage in this iconic cover of Dolly Parton’s country ballad. Houston’s incredible vocal range and the song’s dramatic arrangement have made it one of the most celebrated love songs ever.
- Release Date: November 3, 1992
- Album: The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album
16. “You Oughta Know” by Alanis Morissette
Alanis Morissette’s raw alto vocals and the song’s biting lyrics about a failed relationship helped define the alternative rock sound of the 90s. The song’s intense emotions and Morissette’s unapologetic delivery have made it an enduring anthem.
- Release Date: July 6, 1995
- Album: Jagged Little Pill
17. “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt
The song features Gwen Stefani’s emotive alto voice. This poignant breakup song has become a 90s classic due to its memorable melody, relatable lyrics, and No Doubt’s unique blend of pop, rock, and ska.
- Release Date: April 15, 1996
- Album: Tragic Kingdom
18. “Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia
Natalie Imbruglia’s breathy alto vocals and the song’s catchy pop-rock sound made “Torn” an instant hit. The song’s relatable lyrics about the uncertainties of love and Imbruglia’s charismatic performance have made it a beloved 90s favorite.
- Release Date: October 27, 1997
- Album: Left of the Middle
Major Alto Pop Songs from The 2000s
19. “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s powerful alto voice and the song’s explosive pop-rock energy made “Since U Been Gone” an instant classic. The song’s empowering lyrics about moving on from a toxic relationship have resonated with listeners worldwide.
- Release Date: November 16, 2004
- Album: Breakaway
20. “Complicated” by Avril Lavigne
Avril Lavigne’s distinctive alto vocals and the song’s catchy pop-punk sound helped define the early 2000s music scene. The song’s relatable lyrics about the challenges of teenage life have made it a favorite among fans of all ages.
- Release Date: April 23, 2002
- Album: Let Go
21. “Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira
Shakira’s seductive alto voice and the song’s irresistible Latin-pop beat made “Hips Don’t Lie” a global sensation. The song’s catchy lyrics and Shakira’s mesmerizing performance have made it a dance floor staple.
- Release Date: February 28, 2006
- Album: Oral Fixation, Vol. 2
22. “Bleeding Love” by Leona Lewis
Leona Lewis’ soulful alto vocals and the song’s sweeping pop production helped make “Bleeding Love” a worldwide hit. The song’s emotional lyrics and Lewis’ powerful delivery have made it a modern classic.
- Release Date: October 19, 2007
- Album: Spirit
23. “Rehab” by Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse’s rich alto voice and the song’s retro soul sound helped establish her as a unique talent. The song’s bold lyrics about refusing addiction treatment and Winehouse’s raw, honest performance have made it an enduring favorite.
- Release Date: October 23, 2006
- Album: Back to Black
24. “Fallin'” by Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys’ smooth alto vocals and the song’s classic R&B sound made “Fallin'” an instant hit. The song’s emotional lyrics about the ups and downs of love and Keys’ heartfelt delivery have made it a timeless favorite.
- Release Date: April 2, 2001
- Album: Songs in A Minor
25. “So What” by P!nk
P!nk’s edgy alto voice and the song’s rebellious pop-rock sound helped cement her status as a pop icon. The song’s empowering lyrics about moving on from a breakup and P!nk’s fearless attitude have made it an anthem for anyone going through a tough time.
- Release Date: August 11, 2008
- Album: Funhouse
26. “Just Dance” by Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s bold alto vocals and the song’s infectious electro-pop beat helped launch her career as a pop superstar. The song’s fun, party-themed lyrics, and Gaga’s energetic performance have made it a dance floor favorite.
- Release Date: April 8, 2008
- Album: The Fame
27. “Umbrella” by Rihanna
Rihanna’s smooth alto voice and the song’s sleek pop-R&B sound made “Umbrella” a worldwide smash. The song’s catchy lyrics about standing by someone through tough times and Rihanna’s confident delivery have made it a modern classic.
- Release Date: March 29, 2007
- Album: Good Girl Gone Bad
2010s Alto Songs Hits
28. “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele
Adele’s powerful alto vocals and the song’s bluesy, soulful sound helped make “Rolling in the Deep” a massive hit. The song’s lyrics about a failed relationship and Adele’s raw, passionate delivery have made it a modern classic.
- Release Date: November 29, 2010
- Album: 21
29. “Royals” by Lorde
Lorde’s distinctive alto voice and the song’s minimalist pop production helped establish her as a unique talent. The song’s clever lyrics critiquing the glamorization of wealth and fame have struck a chord with listeners worldwide.
- Release Date: June 3, 2013
- Album: Pure Heroine
30. “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s bold alto vocals and the song’s explosive electro-pop sound helped solidify her status as a pop icon. The song’s catchy lyrics and Gaga’s avant-garde visual style have made it a fan favorite.
- Release Date: October 26, 2009
- Album: The Fame Monster
31. “Someone Like You” by Adele
Adele’s soulful alto voice and the song’s simple, piano-driven arrangement helped make “Someone Like You” a global sensation. The song’s heartfelt lyrics about lost love and Adele’s emotional performance have made it a timeless ballad.
- Release Date: January 24, 2011
- Album: 21
32. “Chandelier” by Sia
Sia’s powerful alto vocals and the song’s soaring pop production helped make “Chandelier” a worldwide hit. The song’s poetic lyrics about the highs and lows of party life and Sia’s emotive delivery have made it a modern classic.
- Release Date: March 17, 2014
- Album: 1000 Forms of Fear
33. “Hello” by Adele
Adele’s rich alto vocals and the song’s sweeping orchestral production helped make “Hello” a massive hit. The song’s emotional lyrics about reconnecting with an old flame and Adele’s powerful delivery have made it an instant classic.
- Release Date: October 23, 2015
- Album: 25
34. “Cheap Thrills” by Sia
Sia’s energetic alto voice and the song’s infectious pop-reggae beat helped make “Cheap Thrills” a summer anthem. The song’s fun, carefree lyrics, and Sia’s lively performance have made it a dance floor staple.
- Release Date: February 17, 2016
- Album: This Is Acting
35. “Firework” by Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s strong alto vocals and the song’s uplifting pop sound helped make “Firework” a worldwide hit. The song’s empowering lyrics about embracing one’s uniqueness and Perry’s dynamic performance have made it an anthem for self-love and acceptance.
- Release Date: October 26, 2010
- Album: Teenage Dream
Iconic Alto Pop Hits from The 2020s
36. “Levitating” by Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa’s smooth alto vocals and the song’s infectious disco-pop beat have made “Levitating” a dance floor favorite. The song’s flirtatious lyrics and Lipa’s charismatic performance have helped solidify her status as a pop superstar.
- Release Date: October 1, 2020
- Album: Future Nostalgia
37. “Good 4 U” by Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo’s powerful alto voice and the song’s edgy pop-punk sound have made “Good 4 U” a breakout hit. The song’s biting lyrics about a failed relationship and Rodrigo’s emotive delivery have resonated with listeners worldwide.
- Release Date: May 14, 2021
- Album: Sour
38. “Willow” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s gentle alto voice and the song’s dreamy, folksy sound have made “Willow” a fan favorite. The song’s romantic lyrics and Swift’s enchanting performance have showcased her growth as a songwriter and artist.
- Release Date: December 11, 2020
- Album: Evermore
39. “Watermelon Sugar” by Harry Styles
Harry Styles’ smooth alto vocals and the song’s breezy pop-rock sound have made “Watermelon Sugar” a summer staple. The song’s suggestive lyrics and Styles’ charming performance have helped cement his status as a solo artist.
- Release Date: November 16, 2019
- Album: Fine Line
40. “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa’s powerful alto voice and the song’s pulsing disco-pop beat have made “Don’t Start Now” a dance floor favorite. The song’s empowering lyrics about moving on from a relationship and Lipa’s confident delivery have made it an anthem for self-love and independence.
- Release Date: October 31, 2019
- Album: Future Nostalgia
41. “Love Story (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s re-recorded version of her classic hit “Love Story” features her more mature alto vocals and updated production while staying true to the song’s romantic spirit. The re-release has allowed Swift to reclaim ownership of her music and introduce the song to a new generation of fans.
- Release Date: February 12, 2021
- Album: Fearless (Taylor’s Version)
42. “Exile” by Taylor Swift ft. Bon Iver
Taylor Swift’s haunting alto voice and Bon Iver’s distinctive baritone vocals create a stunning duet in “Exile.” The song’s sad lyrics about a failed relationship and the artists’ expressive performances have made it a highlight of Swift’s “Folklore” album.
- Release Date: July 24, 2020
- Album: Folklore
43. “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
The Weeknd’s distinctive alto vocals and the song’s retro-inspired synth-pop sound have made “Blinding Lights” a global sensation. The song’s catchy lyrics and The Weeknd’s captivating performance have made it a modern classic.
- Release Date: November 29, 2019
- Album: After Hours
44. “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s haunting alto voice and the song’s minimalist pop production have helped establish her as a unique talent. The song’s dark, playful lyrics and Eilish’s whispery delivery have made it a fan favorite.
- Release Date: March 29, 2019
- Album: When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?
Conclusion
The world of alto pop songs is a collection of unforgettable melodies, powerful vocals, and emotionally resonant lyrics.
From the iconic hits of the 1980s to the chart-topping sensations of the 2020s, these 44 songs showcase the incredible range and versatility of alto voices in pop music.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or appreciate great music, this list has something for everyone. So why not take a moment to rediscover these timeless classics and modern favorites?
Put on your dancing shoes, turn up the volume, and let these alto-pop songs transport you to a world of pure musical joy.
Which of these songs is your personal favorite? Let us know in the comments below, and keep grooving to the beat!