Bass singers bring a distinctive vocal quality that adds depth and richness to any musical piece. Discovering songs that showcase this range can be both challenging and gratifying.
This compilation features 20 songs well-suited for bass singers, covering a variety of genres and styles.
Whether you’re a vocalist looking to broaden your song list or enjoy the beauty of deep, resonant voices, these songs offer a diverse selection to appreciate and explore.
From timeless favorites to heartfelt anthems, each song on this list has been selected for its ability to emphasize the unique qualities of a bass voice.
Join us as we journey through these charming melodies that celebrate the power and emotion of bass vocals.
20 Best Tracks for Bass Singers
1. “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash’s 1955 hit, “Folsom Prison Blues,” tells the story of a prisoner lamenting his life choices. Known for its iconic line, “I shot a man in Reno just to watch him die,” the song showcases Cash’s deep, resonant voice and is a staple in the country music genre.
2. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
Released in 1961, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a romantic ballad by Elvis Presley. Featured in the film “Blue Hawaii,” it became one of Presley’s most enduring hits, demonstrating his smooth, deep vocals. Numerous artists have covered the song over the decades.
3. “Old Man River” from Showboat
“Old Man River” is a song from the 1927 musical Showboat, written by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II. It reflects the struggles of African Americans in the early 20th century and the character Joe delivers it with profound depth. The song is notable for its soulful, bass-heavy rendition.
4. “Sixteen Tons” by Tennessee Ernie Ford
“Sixteen Tons,” a 1955 hit for Tennessee Ernie Ford, depicts the hard life of a coal miner. The song’s memorable bass vocals, catchy rhythm, and social commentary made it an instant classic. Ford’s version remains popular, often associated with his deep, baritone voice.
5. “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel
Released in 1965, “The Sound of Silence” is a folk rock song by Simon & Garfunkel. Known for its haunting melody and reflective lyrics, it features deep, rich harmonies. The song explores themes of isolation and communication breakdown in modern society.
6. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from Carousel
Rodgers and Hammerstein composed “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” from the 1945 musical Carousel. The song is an uplifting anthem of hope and solidarity, often performed at sporting events and memorials. Its deep, resonant melody makes it a favorite for bass singers.
7. “Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash
“Ring of Fire,” written by June Carter and Merle Kilgore, became a major hit for Johnny Cash in 1963. The song features a unique mariachi-style horn section and Cash’s distinctive deep vocals, describing falling in love as a burning ring of fire.
8. “If I Were a Rich Man” from Fiddler on the Roof
“If I Were a Rich Man” is a humorous and heartfelt song from the 1964 musical “Fiddler on the Roof.” Sung by the character Tevye, it reflects his dreams of wealth and comfort. The song’s deep, expressive delivery is ideal for bass singers.
9. “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers
Bill Withers’ 1972 hit “Lean on Me” is a soulful anthem of friendship and support. Its simple, heartfelt lyrics and deep, rich melody have made it a timeless classic, often performed in times of need and solidarity. Withers’ smooth baritone adds to the song’s comforting tone.
10. “I Believe” by Elvis Presley
“I Believe,” a gospel song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957, showcases his deep, resonant voice and spiritual depth. The song’s message of faith and conviction is delivered with Presley’s signature style, making it a beloved piece in his gospel repertoire.
11. “Ghost Riders in the Sky” by Johnny Cash
“Ghost Riders in the Sky,” a 1948 song by Stan Jones, was popularized by Johnny Cash. The song tells the eerie tale of ghostly cowboys riding in the sky, with Cash’s deep, haunting vocals adding to the dramatic narrative. It’s a staple of American Western music.
12. “I Walk the Line” by Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash’s “I Walk the Line,” released in 1956, declares fidelity and commitment. The song’s distinctive chord progression and Cash’s deep, steady voice made it one of his signature hits. It remains an iconic piece in country music history.
13. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
Bill Withers’ 1971 hit “Ain’t No Sunshine” is a soulful lament about the pain of separation. Withers’ deep, melancholic vocals and the song’s simple yet powerful arrangement have made it a timeless classic, often covered by various artists across genres.
14. “The Impossible Dream” from Man of La Mancha
“The Impossible Dream” is the inspiring anthem from the 1965 musical “Man of La Mancha.” Sung by the character Don Quixote, it expresses his quest for virtue and honor. The song’s powerful lyrics and deep, resonant melody make it a favorite for bass singers.
15. “My Way” by Frank Sinatra
“My Way,” popularized by Frank Sinatra in 1969, is a reflective song about living life on one’s terms. The song’s deep, rich vocals and poignant lyrics have made it a timeless classic, often associated with Sinatra’s legendary career and distinctive voice.
16. “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess
“Summertime,” a jazz standard from the 1935 opera “Porgy and Bess” by George Gershwin, is known for its smooth, soulful melody. The song’s deep, languid vocals evoke the warmth and relaxation of summer, making it a popular choice for bass singers.
17. “Peace in the Valley” by Elvis Presley
“Peace in the Valley,” a gospel song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957, expresses a longing for peace and solace. Presley’s deep, heartfelt rendition has made it a beloved piece in his gospel collection, reflecting his spiritual roots and vocal depth.
18. “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals
“House of the Rising Sun,” a traditional folk song popularized by The Animals in 1964, tells the story of a life gone wrong in New Orleans. The song’s deep, brooding melody and Eric Burdon’s powerful vocals have made it an enduring classic.
19. “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” (Traditional)
“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” is a traditional African American spiritual song, often sung by bass vocalists. Its deep, soulful melody and hopeful lyrics reflect themes of deliverance and salvation, making it a timeless piece in gospel and spiritual music.
20. “Some Enchanted Evening” from South Pacific
“Some Enchanted Evening” is a romantic ballad from the 1949 musical “South Pacific” by Rodgers and Hammerstein. The song’s deep, rich melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a favorite for bass singers, often performed in both musical theater and concert settings.
Conclusion
Exploring songs tailored for bass singers reveals the profound impact that deep, resonant voices can have on music.
This collection of 20 songs covers a variety of genres, highlighting the adaptability and emotional depth that bass vocalists bring to their performances.
Whether you’re a bass singer looking for new material or a listener who appreciates the distinct qualities of low-register voices, these songs provide a rich and gratifying experience.
Welcome the strength and beauty of the bass voice with these timeless classics and memorable performances.
