In an era before microphones and modern amplification, one voice reigned supreme – the contralto.

With their rich, velvety low registers and powerful, penetrating tones, contralto singers were once the biggest vocal superstars.

They captivatingly captured audiences with a sound seemingly crafted to fill concert halls unaided.

Their voices could project with a resonance and depth that today’s lighter, higher pop vocals cannot match.

However, true contraltos have become endangered, their uniquely low female vocals fading from the mainstream spotlight.

Their disappearance from popular music is a stark reminder of how quickly an art form can shed part of its palette and expressive range when public enthusiasm wanes.

The contraltos’ velvety extinction poses the question:

What other vocal marvels have we neglected or forgotten in our endless pursuit of the new?

Contralto Singers of the Early Years (1950s – 1970s)

The 1950s through 1970s marked a golden age for contralto singers.

These powerful women could command stages and captivate audiences with their deep, velvety vocal ranges.

Many rose to international fame, leaving a rich musical legacy that still influences artists today.

1. Mahalia Jackson

Mahalia Jackson, known as the “Queen of Gospel,” was one of the most influential gospel singers in history.

Born in 1911, she began singing in church choirs in New Orleans.

Her powerful, soulful voice broke racial barriers and brought gospel music to mainstream audiences.

Jackson’s music showcased her extraordinary vocal talent and conveyed a message of hope and faith deeply rooted in her African-American heritage.

She performed at the March on Washington in 1963 and was a close friend and supporter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Jackson’s legacy continues to inspire gospel and secular artists alike.

• Famous songs: “Move On Up a Little Higher,” “Take My Hand, Precious Lord,” “How I Got Over”
• Awards: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
• Years Active: 1927–1971

2. Etta James

Etta James, born Jamesetta Hawkins in 1938, was an American singer whose musical range spanned genres like blues, R&B, soul, rock and roll, jazz, and gospel.

Known for her deep, earthy voice, she became a prominent figure in the music industry with hits that remain classics today.

James struggled with personal issues but made a significant comeback in the late 1980s.

Her music often reflected her tumultuous life, giving it an emotional depth that resonated with many.

• Famous songs: “At Last,” “Tell Mama,” “I’d Rather Go Blind”
• Awards: Multiple Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
• Years Active: 1954–2012

3. Nina Simone

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in 1933, was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and civil rights activist.

Known for her deep, expressive voice, Simone’s music blended classical, jazz, blues, folk, R&B, gospel, and pop.

Her work often tackled social and political issues, making her an iconic figure in the civil rights movement.

Simone’s influence extends beyond her music to her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.

• Famous songs: “Feeling Good,” “I Put a Spell on You,” “Mississippi Goddam”
• Awards: Grammy Hall of Fame, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
• Years Active: 1954–2003

4. Patsy Cline

Patsy Cline, born Virginia Patterson Hensley in 1932, was an American singer who became one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century.

Known for her rich tone and emotional depth, Cline’s music bridged the gap between country and pop.

Despite a tragic plane crash in 1963, which cut short her career, her recordings have continued to sell and inspire new generations of artists.

• Famous songs: “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Walkin’ After Midnight”
• Awards: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame
• Years Active: 1948–1963

5. Roberta Flack

Roberta Flack, born in 1937, is an American singer renowned for her smooth, jazz-influenced voice and interpretative singing style.

She gained international fame with her hit “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” and continued to produce chart-topping songs through the 1970s and 1980s.

Flack’s often romantic and soulful music has earned her numerous awards and a lasting legacy in the music world.

• Famous songs: “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love”
• Awards: Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, Song of the Year
• Years Active: 1968–present

6. Odetta

Odetta Holmes, known simply as Odetta, was an American singer, actress, guitarist, and songwriter leading in the American folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s.

Born in 1930, Odetta’s powerful voice and repertoire of traditional songs became anthems for the civil rights movement.

Her influence extended to many contemporary artists and was often called “The Voice of the Civil Rights Movement.”

• Famous songs: “Odetta Sings Ballads and Blues,” “I’m on My Way,” “This Little Light of Mine”
• Awards: National Medal of Arts, induction into the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry
• Years Active: 1950–2008

7. Della Reese

Delloreese Patricia Early, known professionally as Della Reese, was an American jazz and gospel singer, actress, and ordained minister.

Born in 1931, Reese’s career spanned over six decades.

She started as a singer and eventually became a beloved television actress.

Her warm, contralto voice brought her numerous hits in the 1950s and 1960s, and her later work on TV made her a household name.

• Famous songs: “Don’t You Know,” “And That Reminds Me,” “Not One Minute More”
• Awards: Grammy Award nominations, Hollywood Walk of Fame star
• Years Active: 1944–2017

8. Anne Murray

Anne Murray, born in 1945, is a Canadian singer whose career spans over four decades.

Known for her smooth, clear voice, Murray was one of the first Canadian artists to achieve international success in pop, country, and adult contemporary music.

Her crossover appeal and consistent hit-making ability have made her one of history’s most successful female singers.

• Famous songs: “Snowbird,” “Danny’s Song,” “You Needed Me”
• Awards: Multiple Grammy Awards, Juno Awards, induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame
• Years Active: 1968–2008

9. Shirley Bassey

Dame Shirley Bassey, born in 1937, is a Welsh singer known for her powerful voice and glamorous stage presence.

Bassey achieved fame in the late 1950s and became well-known for recording the theme songs to the James Bond films “Goldfinger,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” and “Moonraker.”

Her career has spanned over seven decades, making her one of the most enduring and iconic performers in the music industry.

• Famous songs: “Goldfinger,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” “Big Spender”
• Awards: Grammy Hall of Fame, BRIT Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music
• Years Active: 1953–present

10. Karen Carpenter

Karen Carpenter, born in 1950, was an American singer and drummer who, with her brother Richard, formed the duo The Carpenters.

Known for her distinctive contralto voice, Karen’s smooth and mellow tones made the Carpenters one of the best-selling music acts of the 1970s.

Despite her untimely death at 32, her music resonates with fans worldwide.

• Famous songs: “Close to You,” “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Top of the World”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1965–1983

Contralto Singers of the 1980s

As music genres expanded in the 1980s, contralto singers adapted their powerful low voices to fit the changing landscape.

Though their numbers dwindled, these vocal titans contributed to jazz, blues, and opera genres.

11. Annie Lennox

Born in 1954, Annie Lennox is a Scottish singer-songwriter and political activist.

She first gained international fame as the lead singer of Eurythmics in the 1980s before embarking on a successful solo career.

Known for her powerful voice and androgynous look, Lennox has been a significant influence in the music industry.

Her music often tackles themes of love, loss, and social issues, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

• Famous songs: “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This),” “Why,” “Walking on Broken Glass”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, BRIT Awards, Academy Award
• Years Active: 1976–present

12. Cher

Cher, born Cherilyn Sarkisian in 1946, is an American singer, actress, and television personality.

Cher is known as the “Goddess of Pop,” one of the best-selling music artists ever.

She is recognized for her distinctive contralto voice and ability to reinvent herself over her six-decade career.

She gained fame in the 1960s as part of the duo Sonny & Cher before embarking on a successful solo career.

• Famous songs: “Believe,” “If I Could Turn Back Time,” “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves”
• Awards: Grammy Award, Academy Award, Emmy Award, Golden Globe Awards
• Years Active: 1963–present

13. Tracy Chapman

Tracy Chapman, born in 1964, is an American singer-songwriter known for her poignant lyrics and soulful voice.

Her debut album, released in 1988, was a commercial success and established her as a major new voice in contemporary folk music.

Chapman’s music often addresses social and political issues, making her a prominent figure in the folk revival movement of the late 20th century.

• Famous songs: “Fast Car,” “Talkin’ ’bout a Revolution,” “Give Me One Reason”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1986–present

14. Pat Benatar

Born in 1953, Pat Benatar is an American rock singer and songwriter.

Known for her powerful mezzo-soprano voice, Benatar was one of the leading female rock stars of the 1980s.

Her music, characterized by strong vocals and dynamic performances, has earned her critical and commercial success.

Benatar’s songs often feature themes of love, independence, and resilience.

• Famous songs: “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” “Love Is a Battlefield,” “We Belong”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1972–present

15. Gladys Knight

Gladys Knight, born in 1944, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman.

Known as the “Empress of Soul,” Knight has enjoyed a long and successful career as a solo artist and with her group, Gladys Knight & the Pips.

Her powerful, soulful voice has made her one of the most respected and beloved figures in the music industry.

• Famous songs: “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye),” “If I Were Your Woman”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
• Years Active: 1952–present

16. Anita Baker

Born in 1958, Anita Baker is an American singer-songwriter known for her rich, smooth, contralto voice.

She gained fame in the 1980s with her hit album “Rapture,” which included the Grammy-winning single “Sweet Love.”

Baker’s music, which blends soul, jazz, and R&B, has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

• Famous songs: “Sweet Love,” “Giving You the Best That I Got,” “Caught Up in the Rapture”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1979–present

17. Oleta Adams

Born in 1953, Oleta Adams is an American soul, gospel singer, and pianist.

Adams first gained fame with her hit “Get Here” in the early 1990s.

Her powerful, expressive voice and piano skills have earned her a dedicated following.

Adams’ music often blends soul, jazz, and gospel elements, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

• Famous songs: “Get Here,” “Circle of One,” “Window of Hope”
• Awards: Grammy Award nominations
• Years Active: 1970–present

18. Sade

Sade, born Helen Folasade Adu in 1959, is a British Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress.

Known for her smooth, soulful voice and sophisticated sound, Sade has been a prominent figure in the music industry since the 1980s.

Her music blends soul, jazz, and soft rock elements, and her band, Sade, has sold millions of records worldwide.

• Famous songs: “Smooth Operator,” “No Ordinary Love,” “By Your Side”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, BRIT Awards
• Years Active: 1982–present

19. Alison Moyet

Alison Moyet, born in 1961, is an English singer, songwriter, and performer known for her powerful contralto voice.

Moyet gained fame as half of the duo Yazoo in the early 1980s before embarking on a successful solo career.

Her music spans various genres, including pop, blues, and electronic, showcasing her versatility and vocal prowess.

• Famous songs: “All Cried Out,” “Love Resurrection,” “Invisible”
• Awards: BRIT Awards, Grammy Award nominations
• Years Active: 1978–present

20. Grace Jones

Grace Jones, born in 1948, is a Jamaican-American singer, songwriter, model, and actress.

Known for her distinctive voice, androgynous look, and bold stage presence, Jones has been a significant figure in the music and fashion industries.

Her music, which blends disco, new wave, and reggae, has earned her a cult following and critical acclaim.

• Famous songs: “Pull Up to the Bumper,” “Slave to the Rhythm,” “La Vie en rose”
• Awards: Grammy Award nominations, Q Idol Award
• Years Active: 1973–present

Contralto Singers of the 1990s

The 1990s brought a richly diverse music scene, with contrasting styles like grunge and pop dominating the charts.

Among this variety, contralto singers found nuanced ways to inject their distinctive low vocal tones into the evolving sound.

21. Toni Braxton

Toni Braxton, born in 1967, is an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and actress.

Known for her distinctive, sultry voice, Braxton gained fame in the early 1990s with her self-titled debut album, which included hits like “Another Sad Love Song” and “Breathe Again.”

She has since become one of the best-selling female artists of all time, known for her blend of R&B, pop, and soul.

• Famous songs: “Un-Break My Heart,” “He Wasn’t Man Enough,” “Breathe Again”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1989–present

22. Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill, born in 1975, is an American singer, songwriter, rapper, and actress.

She first gained fame as a member of the Fugees before releasing her critically acclaimed solo album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” in 1998.

Hill’s music blends hip-hop, R&B, and soul, and she is known for her powerful lyrics and vocal delivery.

• Famous songs: “Doo Wop (That Thing),” “Ex-Factor,” “Everything Is Everything”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1988–present

23. Natalie Merchant

Natalie Merchant, born in 1963, is an American singer-songwriter and musician.

She gained fame as the lead vocalist for the alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs before embarking on a successful solo career in the mid-1990s.

Merchant is known for her distinctive voice and introspective lyrics, often exploring themes of personal and social issues.

• Famous songs: “Carnival,” “Wonder,” “Jealousy”
• Awards: Grammy Award nominations, Billboard Music Awards
• Years Active: 1981–present

24. Chaka Khan

Chaka Khan, born in 1953, is an American singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence.

She first gained fame as the lead vocalist of the funk band Rufus before embarking on a successful solo career.

Khan’s music spans various genres, including R&B, funk, soul, and jazz, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards.

• Famous songs: “I’m Every Woman,” “Ain’t Nobody,” “Through the Fire”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, BET Lifetime Achievement Award
• Years Active: 1970–present

25. Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige, born in 1971, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.”

Blige’s music blends R&B, soul, and hip-hop, and she is celebrated for her raw, emotional delivery and relatable lyrics.

Her career, which began in the early 1990s, has earned her numerous awards and a lasting impact on the music industry.

• Famous songs: “Family Affair,” “Real Love,” “Be Without You”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, BET Awards, Billboard Music Awards
• Years Active: 1988–present

26. Meshell Ndegeocello

Meshell Ndegeocello, born in 1968, is an American singer-songwriter, bassist, and rapper.

Known for her eclectic style, Ndegeocello’s music blends funk, soul, jazz, hip-hop, and rock.

Her deep, expressive voice and innovative approach to music have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

• Famous songs: “If That’s Your Boyfriend (He Wasn’t Last Night),” “Beautiful,” “Fool of Me”
• Awards: Grammy Award nominations, Soul Train Music Awards
• Years Active: 1988–present

27. Sinead O’Connor

Sinead O’Connor, born in 1966, is an Irish singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and emotional intensity.

She gained international fame with her 1990 hit “Nothing Compares 2 U.”

O’Connor’s music often explores themes of love, religion, and social issues, making her a powerful and sometimes controversial figure in the music industry.

• Famous songs: “Nothing Compares 2 U,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “Troy”
• Awards: Grammy Award nominations, BRIT Awards
• Years Active: 1986–present

28. Sarah McLachlan

Sarah McLachlan, born in 1968, is a Canadian singer-songwriter and musician known for her expressive mezzo-soprano voice and heartfelt ballads.

She gained widespread fame in the 1990s with hits like “Building a Mystery” and “Angel.”

McLachlan is also the founder of the Lilith Fair tour, which showcased female musicians and supported women’s causes.

• Famous songs: “Angel,” “Building a Mystery,” “Adia”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, Juno Awards
• Years Active: 1987–present

29. Fiona Apple

Fiona Apple, born in 1977, is an American singer-songwriter and pianist known for her deep, expressive voice and introspective lyrics.

She gained critical acclaim with her debut album “Tidal” in 1996 and has since been celebrated for her unique musical style and emotional depth.

Apple’s music often explores themes of love, pain, and self-discovery.

• Famous songs: “Criminal,” “Shadowboxer,” “Paper Bag”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, MTV Video Music Awards
• Years Active: 1994–present

30. Joan Armatrading

Joan Armatrading, born in 1950, is a British singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her soulful voice and eclectic musical style.

Her music blends folk, rock, jazz, and blues, earning her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.

Armatrading’s career spans over five decades, making her one of the most enduring and respected artists in the music industry.

• Famous songs: “Love and Affection,” “Drop the Pilot,” “Willow”
• Awards: Ivor Novello Awards, Grammy Award nominations
• Years Active: 1970–present

Contralto Singers of the 2000s and Beyond

While becoming a rarity in mainstream music, contralto singers have persisted into the 21st century.

These uniquely talented artists have carved out spaces across genres, keeping their powerful vocal legacies alive.

Their modern contributions continue enriching the tapestry of music.

31. Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse, born in 1983, was a British singer-songwriter known for her deep, expressive contralto voice and eclectic mix of musical genres, including soul, jazz, and R&B.

Winehouse’s breakthrough album, “Back to Black,” earned her widespread acclaim and multiple awards.

Her struggles and untimely death in 2011 at the age of 27 have made her a lasting and tragic icon in the music world.

• Famous songs: “Rehab,” “Back to Black,” “You Know I’m No Good”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, BRIT Awards
• Years Active: 2002–2011

32. Norah Jones

Born in 1979, Norah Jones is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist.

She gained fame with her debut album “Come Away with Me,” which won multiple Grammy Awards.

Known for her soothing voice and blend of jazz, pop, and country influences, Jones has continued to release critically acclaimed albums and maintain a strong presence in the music industry.

• Famous songs: “Don’t Know Why,” “Come Away with Me,” “Sunrise”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards
• Years Active: 2000–present

33. Adele

Adele, born in 1988, is a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and deeply emotional music.

Her albums “19,” “21,” and “25” have achieved massive commercial success and critical acclaim.

Adele’s music often explores love, heartbreak, and personal growth, earning her a dedicated fan base and numerous awards.

• Famous songs: “Someone Like You,” “Rolling in the Deep,” “Hello”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, BRIT Awards, Academy Award
• Years Active: 2006–present

34. Alicia Keys

Born in 1981, Alicia Keys is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist.

She rose to fame with her debut album “Songs in A Minor,” which featured the hit single “Fallin’.”

Known for her soulful voice and classical piano skills, Keys has been a prominent figure in contemporary R&B and soul music, blending various genres and themes in her work.

• Famous songs: “Fallin’,” “No One,” “If I Ain’t Got You”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1996–present

35. Tracy Chapman (continued impact)

Born in 1964, Tracy Chapman continues to influence the music world with her powerful voice and socially conscious lyrics.

Known for her folk-rock style, Chapman addresses issues such as poverty, racism, and love in her music.

Her straightforward, emotive delivery has earned her a lasting place in the hearts of listeners worldwide.

• Famous songs: “Fast Car,” “Talkin’ ’bout a Revolution,” “Give Me One Reason”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, American Music Awards
• Years Active: 1986–present

36. Beth Hart

Born in 1972, Beth Hart is an American singer, songwriter, and musician known for her powerful blues-rock voice.

Hart’s music often reflects her struggles and triumphs, giving it an emotional intensity that resonates with audiences.

Her solo work and collaborations with blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa has gained a strong following.

• Famous songs: “LA Song (Out of This Town),” “Leave the Light On,” “I’d Rather Go Blind” (with Joe Bonamassa)
• Awards: Blues Music Awards, Grammy Award nominations
• Years Active: 1993–present

37. Lana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey, born Elizabeth Woolridge Grant in 1985, is an American singer-songwriter known for her cinematic style and melancholic voice.

Her music often explores themes of romance, glamour, and nostalgia, blending various genres like indie pop, dream pop, and rock.

Her unique style and visual aesthetics have made her a distinctive figure in contemporary music.

• Famous songs: “Video Games,” “Summertime Sadness,” “Born to Die”
• Awards: Brit Awards, MTV Europe Music Awards
• Years Active: 2005–present

38. Duffy

Duffy, born Aimee Anne Duffy in 1984, is a Welsh singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and retro sound.

She gained international fame with her debut album “Rockferry,” which included the hit single “Mercy.”

Duffy’s music, characterized by its throwback style, has earned her critical acclaim and commercial success.

• Famous songs: “Mercy,” “Warwick Avenue,” “Stepping Stone”
• Awards: Grammy Awards, Brit Awards
• Years Active: 2003–present

39. Florence Welch

Florence Welch, born in 1986, is the lead vocalist of the English indie rock band Florence + the Machine.

Known for her powerful, ethereal voice and dramatic stage presence, Welch has captivated audiences worldwide.

The band’s music often features poetic lyrics and eclectic instrumentation, earning them critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

• Famous songs: “Dog Days Are Over,” “Shake It Out,” “Spectrum (Say My Name)”
• Awards: Brit Awards, Grammy Award nominations
• Years Active: 2006–present

40. Angel Olsen

Born in 1987, Angel Olsen is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for her haunting voice and dynamic songwriting.

Olsen’s music blends indie rock, folk, and alternative sounds, often exploring love, loss, and identity themes.

Her unique voice and introspective lyrics have earned her a significant following and critical praise.

• Famous songs: “Shut Up Kiss Me,” “Unfucktheworld,” “All Mirrors”
• Awards: Independent Music Awards, Grammy Award nominations
• Years Active: 2009–present

Conclusion

Contralto singers’ rich, velvety low vocals have graced stages for decades, though their spotlight has recently dimmed.

From the golden age of the 1950s-1970s to glimpses in modern genres, their powerful contributions continue enriching the musical tapestry.

So, what makes the contralto voice so captivating?

Its depth and resonance allow it to convey emotion uniquely compellingly.

While increasingly rare, we urge you to seek out these vocal talents—both past masters and contemporary artists carrying the torch.

If this exploration piqued your interest, we invite you to explore our playlist, which highlights 50 of history’s most breathtaking contralto performances.

Immerse yourself in the spellbinding artistry of the low female voice.