In this blog post, we’ll explore 68 breathtaking contralto songs that attract your heart and soul.

As a music enthusiast and researcher, I’ve carefully curated this list to include the most moving and unforgettable performances by some of the world’s most talented contralto singers.

From timeless classics to hidden gems, get ready to be swept away by these incredible artists’ rich, velvety tones.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of contralto music or just learning this exquisite vocal range, you’re in for a treat.

Let’s jump in and uncover the magic of these stunning contralto songs.

What is a Contralto?

A contralto is a classical female singing voice with the lowest vocal range. It is the deepest and darkest of the female voice types, sitting below the mezzo-soprano and soprano ranges.

Contralto singers are known for their rich, warm, and powerful tones that can evoke a wide range of emotions.

The contralto vocal range typically spans from around the F below middle C to the second F above middle C.

However, some exceptional contraltos may extend their range even lower or higher. A contralto voice’s unique depth and timbre often lend themselves well to dramatic and expressive roles in opera and performing art songs and sacred music.

While contralto voices are less common than their higher-pitched counterparts, they have been celebrated throughout history for their distinctive beauty and emotional impact.

Contralto Songs from The 1960s and 1970s

The 1960s and 1970s were a golden era for contralto singers, with many iconic songs that have endured. These powerful and soulful performances continue to inspire and move audiences today.

1. “At Last” – Etta James

It is a timeless love song showcasing Etta James’s deep, expressive voice. The song’s slow, romantic melody perfectly complements James’ heartfelt delivery.

Release Date: 1960
Album: At Last!

2. “Respect” – Aretha Franklin

It is an empowering anthem highlighting Aretha Franklin’s incredible vocal range and power. The song’s catchy rhythm and bold lyrics make it an unforgettable classic.

Release Date: 1967
Album: I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You

3. “Son of a Preacher Man” – Dusty Springfield

This soulful, bluesy track features Dusty Springfield’s smooth, velvety voice. The song’s playful lyrics and catchy melody create a memorable listening experience.

Release Date: 1968
Album: Dusty in Memphis

4. “I Put a Spell on You” – Nina Simone

This haunting, intense performance showcases Nina Simone’s emotional depth and vocal control. The song’s slow, smoldering arrangement perfectly matches Simone’s powerful delivery.

Release Date: 1965
Album: I Put a Spell on You

5. “Cry Me a River” – Julie London

A melancholy, jazz-inspired ballad that highlights Julie London’s sultry, expressive voice. The song’s lush orchestration and London’s intimate vocals create a captivating atmosphere.

Release Date: 1955
Album: Julie Is Her Name

6. “Stormy Weather” – Lena Horne

This classic blues song showcases Lena Horne’s rich, passionate voice. The song’s moody, evocative lyrics and Horne’s passionate delivery make it a standout performance.

Release Date: 1941
Album: Stormy Weather (single release)

7. “Natural Woman” – Aretha Franklin

It is a soul-stirring ballad highlighting Aretha Franklin’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth. The song’s powerful lyrics and Franklin’s heartfelt delivery create an unforgettable listening experience.

Release Date: 1967
Album: Lady Soul

8. “Feeling Good” – Nina Simone

This is an uplifting, empowering song that showcases Nina Simone’s dynamic voice and emotional range. The song’s bold lyrics and Simone’s confident delivery make it a timeless classic.

Release Date: 1965
Album: I Put a Spell on You

9. “Strange Fruit” – Billie Holiday

It is a powerful, haunting protest song showcasing Billie Holiday’s emotional depth and vocal control. The song’s dark, evocative lyrics and Holiday’s poignant delivery create a lasting impact.

Release Date: 1939
Album: Commodore Records (single release)

10. “God Bless the Child” – Billie Holiday

It is a soulful, introspective ballad highlighting Billie Holiday’s expressive voice and storytelling abilities. The song’s poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery make it a classic.

Release Date: 1941
Album: Okeh Records (single release)

11. “I Can’t Stand the Rain” – Ann Peebles

It is a gritty, soulful track that showcases Ann Peebles’ powerful, expressive voice. The song’s funky rhythm and Peebles’ passionate delivery create a memorable listening experience.

Release Date: 1973
Album: I Can’t Stand the Rain

12. “Chain of Fools” – Aretha Franklin

It is a lively, gospel-inspired song highlighting Aretha Franklin’s incredible vocal power and range. The song’s catchy melody and Franklin’s dynamic performance make it an enduring classic.

Release Date: 1967
Album: Lady Soul

Contralto Hits from The 1980s

The 1980s saw the rise of many talented contralto singers who left an indelible mark on the music industry. These songs showcase the contralto voice’s power, emotion, and versatility.

13. “Sweet Love” – Anita Baker

A smooth, romantic ballad that highlights Anita Baker’s velvety, expressive voice. The song’s lush instrumentation and Baker’s heartfelt delivery create a timeless love song.
Release Date: 1986
Album: Rapture

14. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” – Tina Turner

It is a powerful, upbeat track that showcases Tina Turner’s iconic raspy voice and incredible energy. The song’s catchy melody and Turner’s dynamic performance make it an ’80s classic.
Release Date: 1984
Album: Private Dancer

15. “I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston

It is a stunning, emotional ballad highlighting Whitney Houston’s unparalleled vocal range and control. The song’s simple yet powerful arrangement allows Houston’s voice to shine.
Release Date: 1992
Album: The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album

16. “Love Is a Battlefield” – Pat Benatar

A lively, energetic song that showcases Pat Benatar’s powerful, expressive voice. The song’s driving rhythm and Benatar’s fierce delivery create an anthem of resilience.
Release Date: 1983
Album: Live from Earth

17. “Fast Car” – Tracy Chapman

A poignant, folk-inspired ballad highlighting Tracy Chapman’s soulful, passionate voice. The song’s simple yet evocative lyrics and Chapman’s heartfelt performance create a moving story.
Release Date: 1988
Album: Tracy Chapman

18. “I’m So Excited” – The Pointer Sisters

It is an infectious, upbeat track that showcases The Pointer Sisters’ dynamic harmonies and energy. The song’s funky rhythm and the sisters’ lively delivery make it a dancefloor favorite.
Release Date: 1982
Album: So Excited!

19. “Private Dancer” – Tina Turner

A sultry, atmospheric song that highlights Tina Turner’s rich, expressive voice. The song’s moody instrumentation and Turner’s captivating performance create an alluring experience.
Release Date: 1984
Album: Private Dancer

20. “Smooth Operator” – Sade

This is a cool, sophisticated track that showcases Sade’s smooth, velvety voice. The song’s jazz-inspired arrangement and effortless delivery create a timeless classic.
Release Date: 1984
Album: Diamond Life

21. “Total Eclipse of The Heart” – Bonnie Tyler

An epic, powerful ballad that highlights Bonnie Tyler’s raspy, passionate voice. The song’s dramatic arrangement and Tyler’s passionate delivery create an unforgettable experience.
Release Date: 1983
Album: Faster Than the Speed of Night

22. “Walking on Broken Glass” – Annie Lennox

It is a catchy, retro-inspired song that showcases Annie Lennox’s dynamic, expressive voice. The song’s upbeat melody and Lennox’s energetic performance create a memorable ’80s hit.
Release Date: 1992
Album: Diva

23. “You Give Good Love” – Whitney Houston

It is a soulful, romantic ballad highlighting Whitney Houston’s incredible vocal range and control. The song’s smooth arrangement and Houston’s heartfelt delivery create a timeless love song.
Release Date: 1985
Album: Whitney Houston

Iconic Contralto Songs from The 1990s

The 1990s brought a new wave of contralto singers who captivated audiences with powerful voices and emotional performances.

These songs showcase the depth and versatility of the contralto range.

24. “Nothing Compares 2 U” – Sinéad O’Connor

It is a haunting, emotional ballad that showcases Sinéad O’Connor’s raw, expressive voice. The song’s minimalist arrangement and O’Connor’s vulnerable delivery create a powerful impact.
Release Date: 1990
Album: I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got

25. “Un-break My Heart” – Toni Braxton

It is a heartfelt, soulful ballad highlighting Toni Braxton’s rich, velvety voice. The song’s lush instrumentation and Braxton’s emotive performance create a timeless classic.
Release Date: 1996
Album: Secrets

26. “Save the Best for Last” – Vanessa Williams

It is a romantic, uplifting song that showcases Vanessa Williams’ smooth, expressive voice. The song’s elegant arrangement and Williams’ heartfelt delivery create a memorable love song.
Release Date: 1992
Album: The Comfort Zone

27. “Because You Loved Me” – Celine Dion

It is a powerful, emotional ballad highlighting Celine Dion’s incredible vocal range and control. The song’s sweeping orchestration and Dion’s passionate performance create an unforgettable experience.
Release Date: 1996
Album: Falling into You

28. “Stay” – Lisa Loeb

This gentle, acoustic-driven song showcases Lisa Loeb’s sweet, passionate voice. The song’s simple yet catchy melody and Loeb’s heartfelt delivery create a ’90s classic.
Release Date: 1994
Album: Tails

29. “I Have Nothing” – Whitney Houston

This stunning, dramatic ballad highlights Whitney Houston’s unparalleled vocal power and range. The song’s lush arrangement and Houston’s virtuosic performance create a showstopping moment.
Release Date: 1993
Album: The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album

30. “Bitch” – Meredith Brooks

It is a powerful, rock-inspired song highlighting Meredith Brooks’ raw, expressive vocals. The song’s bold lyrics and Brooks’ passionate performance create an unforgettable empowerment anthem.

Release Date: 1997
Album: Blurring the Edges

31. “Vision of Love” – Mariah Carey

A soulful, uplifting song that highlights Mariah Carey’s impressive vocal range and control. The song’s gospel-inspired arrangement and Carey’s passionate delivery create a memorable debut.
Release Date: 1990
Album: Mariah Carey

Contralto Hits from The 2000s

In the 2000s, various contralto singers made their mark on the music scene. These songs showcase the contralto voice’s emotional depth, power, and versatility in multiple genres.

32. “Fallin'” – Alicia Keys

This soulful, piano-driven ballad highlights Alicia Keys’ rich, vibrant voice. The song’s simple yet powerful arrangement and Keys’ heartfelt delivery create a timeless classic.
Release Date: 2001
Album: Songs in A Minor

33. “A Woman’s Worth” – Alicia Keys

An empowering, R&B-inspired track that showcases Alicia Keys’ smooth, confident vocals. The song’s uplifting lyrics and Keys’ soulful performance celebrate the strength of women.
Release Date: 2002
Album: Songs in A Minor

34. “You Got the Love” – Florence + The Machine

A soaring, gospel-influenced song that highlights Florence Welch’s powerful, expressive voice. The song’s uplifting message and Welch’s dynamic delivery create an anthem of hope and resilience.
Release Date: 2008
Album: Lungs

35. “Back to Black” – Amy Winehouse

A haunting, retro-inspired ballad that showcases Amy Winehouse’s deep, soulful voice. The song’s dark, poignant lyrics and Winehouse’s emotive performance create a memorable experience.
Release Date: 2006
Album: Back to Black

36. “Rehab” – Amy Winehouse

It is a catchy, soul-influenced track highlighting Amy Winehouse’s unique vocal style and personality. The song’s clever lyrics and Winehouse’s spirited delivery create a signature hit.
Release Date: 2006
Album: Back to Black

37. “Complicated” – Avril Lavigne

A lively, pop-punk-inspired song that showcases Avril Lavigne’s distinctive, edgy voice. The song’s relatable lyrics and Lavigne’s energetic performance create a 2000s classic.
Release Date: 2002
Album: Let Go

38. “I’m with You” – Avril Lavigne

It is a powerful, emotional ballad highlighting Avril Lavigne’s versatile voice and songwriting. The song’s raw, vulnerable lyrics and Lavigne’s heartfelt delivery create a moving experience.
Release Date: 2002
Album: Let Go

39. “Beautiful” – Christina Aguilera

It is an uplifting, self-empowerment anthem that showcases Christina Aguilera’s incredible vocal range and control. The song’s inspiring message and Aguilera’s powerful performance create a timeless hit.
Release Date: 2002
Album: Stripped

40. “Hurt” – Christina Aguilera

It is a stunning, emotionally charged ballad highlighting Christina Aguilera’s raw, expressive voice. The song’s poignant lyrics and Aguilera’s virtuosic delivery create a heartbreaking masterpiece.
Release Date: 2006
Album: Back to Basics

41. “Since U Been Gone” – Kelly Clarkson

This energetic pop-rock anthem showcases Kelly Clarkson’s powerful, dynamic voice. The song’s catchy melody and Clarkson’s spirited performance create a breakup classic.
Release Date: 2004
Album: Breakaway

42. “Because of You” – Kelly Clarkson

It is a heartfelt, emotional ballad highlighting Kelly Clarkson’s soulful, expressive voice. The song’s lyrics and Clarkson’s moving delivery create a relatable and impactful experience.
Release Date: 2005
Album: Breakaway

Contralto Songs from The 2010s

The 2010s brought forth a new generation of contralto singers who captivated audiences with their powerful vocals and emotionally charged performances. These songs showcase the range, depth, and versatility of the contralto voice in contemporary music.

43. “Rolling in the Deep” – Adele

It is a powerful, bluesy track highlighting Adele’s rich, soulful voice. The song’s driving rhythm and emotive delivery create an anthem of resilience and empowerment.
Release Date: 2010
Album: 21

44. “Someone Like You” – Adele

This heartbreaking, piano-driven ballad showcases Adele’s incredible vocal control and emotional depth. The song’s raw, vulnerable lyrics and moving performance create a timeless classic.
Release Date: 2011
Album: 21

45. “Hello” – Adele

This stunning, emotional ballad highlights Adele’s powerful, expressive voice. The song’s sweeping production and heartfelt delivery create a memorable comeback hit.
Release Date: 2015
Album: 25

46. “Set Fire to the Rain” – Adele

This epic, dramatic track showcases Adele’s impressive vocal range and intensity. The song’s lush orchestration and passionate performance create a cinematic experience.
Release Date: 2011
Album: 21

47. “Love on the Brain” – Rihanna

This retro-inspired, soulful ballad highlights Rihanna’s rich, passionate voice. The song’s vintage production and powerful delivery create a standout track in her discography.
Release Date: 2016
Album: Anti

48. “Stay” – Rihanna ft. Mikky Ekko

This haunting, minimalist ballad showcases Rihanna’s raw, vulnerable vocals. The song’s sparse arrangement and emotional performance create a moving duet.
Release Date: 2013
Album: Unapologetic

49. “Chandelier” – Sia

This soaring, electropop anthem highlights Sia’s powerful, expressive voice. The song’s catchy melody and dynamic delivery create a memorable and uplifting hit.
Release Date: 2014
Album: 1000 Forms of Fear

50. “Elastic Heart” – Sia

This intense, dynamic track showcases Sia’s raw, powerful vocals. The song’s driving beat and Sia’s passionate performance create a resilient and empowering message.
Release Date: 2013
Album: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire Soundtrack

51. “Titanium” – David Guetta ft. Sia

This uplifting, dance-pop track highlights Sia’s strong, soaring vocals. The song’s catchy production and empowering lyrics create an anthem of strength and perseverance.
Release Date: 2011
Album: Nothing but the Beat

52. “Try” – P!nk

It is a powerful, rock-influenced ballad that showcases P!nk’s raw, passionate voice. The song’s uplifting message and P!nk’s passionate delivery create an inspiring and relatable hit.
Release Date: 2012
Album: The Truth About Love

53. “Just Give Me a Reason” – P!nk ft. Nate Ruess

A heartfelt, piano-driven duet that highlights P!nk’s versatile, expressive vocals. The song’s emotional lyrics and P!nk’s moving performance create a poignant and memorable collaboration.
Release Date: 2013
Album: The Truth About Love

Modern Contemporary Contralto Songs

A new wave of contralto singers has emerged in recent years, bringing fresh perspectives and unique styles to the music industry.

These contemporary songs showcase the versatility and emotional depth of the contralto voice in various genres.

54. “Drivers License” – Olivia Rodrigo

It is a poignant, piano-driven ballad that highlights Olivia Rodrigo’s passionate, expressive voice. The song’s raw, relatable lyrics and Rodrigo’s heartfelt delivery have made it a viral hit.
Release Date: 2021
Album: Sour

55. “Good 4 U” – Olivia Rodrigo

An energetic, pop-punk-inspired track that showcases Olivia Rodrigo’s dynamic, powerful vocals. The song’s catchy melody and Rodrigo’s spirited performance create a breakup anthem for a new generation.
Release Date: 2021
Album: Sour

56. “Easy on Me” – Adele

This soulful, introspective ballad highlights Adele’s rich, emotive voice. The song’s simple yet powerful arrangement and heartfelt delivery create a moving comeback single.
Release Date: 2021
Album: 30

57. “Bad Guy” – Billie Eilish

It is a dark, quirky electropop track that showcases Billie Eilish’s unique vocal style and personality. The song’s infectious beat and Eilish’s clever lyrics create a memorable, genre-bending hit.
Release Date: 2019
Album: When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?

58. “Everything I Wanted” – Billie Eilish

It is a haunting, atmospheric ballad highlighting Billie Eilish’s soft, vulnerable vocals. The song’s dreamlike production and Eilish’s emotional delivery create a deeply personal and introspective experience.
Release Date: 2019
Album: Everything I Wanted (single)

59. “Therefore I Am” – Billie Eilish

It is a confident, self-empowerment anthem that showcases Billie Eilish’s distinctive voice and attitude. The song’s minimalist production and Eilish’s assertive lyrics create a bold statement of individuality.
Release Date: 2020
Album: Happier Than Ever

60. “Someone You Loved” – Lewis Capaldi

It is a heartbreaking, piano-driven ballad highlighting Lewis Capaldi’s powerful, expressive voice. The song’s raw, vulnerable lyrics and Capaldi’s soulful delivery create a moving and relatable experience.
Release Date: 2018
Album: Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent

61. “Before You Go” – Lewis Capaldi

It is an emotional, stirring track that showcases Lewis Capaldi’s impressive vocal range and control. The song’s poignant lyrics and Capaldi’s passionate performance create a touching tribute to love and loss.
Release Date: 2019
Album: Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent

62. “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd

A retro-inspired, synth-driven hit that highlights The Weeknd’s smooth, versatile vocals. The song’s catchy production and The Weeknd’s charismatic delivery create an instant classic.
Release Date: 2019
Album: After Hours

63. “Save Your Tears” – The Weeknd

This is a pulsing, emotionally charged track that showcases The Weeknd’s powerful, expressive voice. The song’s lush arrangement and The Weeknd’s heartfelt performance create a memorable breakup ballad.
Release Date: 2020
Album: After Hours

64. “Levitating” – Dua Lipa

It is an upbeat, disco-influenced track that highlights Dua Lipa’s dynamic, infectious vocals. The song’s groovy production and Lipa’s joyful delivery make it a dancefloor favorite.
Release Date: 2020
Album: Future Nostalgia

65. “Don’t Start Now” – Dua Lipa

It is a confident, empowering pop anthem that showcases Dua Lipa’s strong, assertive voice. The song’s catchy melody and Lipa’s energetic performance create a breakup song with a positive message.
Release Date: 2019
Album: Future Nostalgia

66. “Good Days” – SZA

It is a dreamy, introspective R&B track highlighting SZA’s smooth, soulful vocals. The song’s laid-back production and vulnerable lyrics create a hopeful and reflective mood.
Release Date: 2020
Album: Good Days (single)

67. “Streets” – Doja Cat

This sensual, hip-hop-influenced track showcases Doja Cat’s versatile, expressive voice. The song’s moody production and Doja Cat’s confident delivery created a viral TikTok hit.
Release Date: 2019
Album: Hot Pink

68. “Deja Vu” – Olivia Rodrigo

It is a catchy, indie-pop-inspired song highlighting Olivia Rodrigo’s emotive, nostalgic vocals. The song’s clever lyrics and Rodrigo’s relatable performance create a memorable follow-up to her breakout hit.
Release Date: 2021
Album: Sour

Summing It Up

Contralto songs have left a tremendous mark on the music world, attracting listeners with their rich, soulful tones and emotional depth.

From the golden era of the 1960s to the present day, these remarkable singers have given us timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or uncovering the beauty of contralto voices, the 68 songs we’ve explored demonstrate this vocal category’s incredible range and versatility.

So, take a moment to immerse yourself in these amazing artists’ velvety tones and heartfelt performances now.