The contributions of countless talented artists from diverse backgrounds have shaped R&B music.
Among them, white female R&B singers have played a significant role in the genre’s evolution, bringing their unique perspectives and vocal prowess to the forefront.
This article will celebrate the top 42 white female R&B singers of all time, highlighting their impact on the music industry and the enduring legacy they have created.
From classic icons to modern-day chart-toppers, we’ll explore the careers and accomplishments of these incredible artists. You’ll discover lesser-known facts about your favorite singers and maybe even find some new additions to your playlist.
Get ready to dive into the world of white female R&B vocalists who have left an indelible mark on music history.
Pioneers and Influential Voices (1950s – 1980s)
1. Dusty Springfield
Dusty Springfield, a British soul singer, became iconic in the 1960s thanks to her soulful voice and classic hits that have stood the test of time. She is often regarded as one of Britain’s greatest female singers and was known for her distinctive mezzo-soprano voice.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Years Active: 1958–1995
- Famous Songs: “Son of a Preacher Man,” “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me,” “I Only Want to Be with You”
2. Teena Marie
Affectionately called “Lady T,” Teena Marie left a lasting mark on R&B with her unique vocal style and lively stage presence.
As a multi-instrumentalist and producer, she broke barriers in a genre often dominated by male artists and delivered hits that showcased her powerful voice and ability to blend funk, soul, and rock elements.
- Birthplace: Santa Monica, California, USA
- Years Active: 1964–2010
- Famous Songs: “Lovergirl,” “Square Biz,” “Ooo La La La”
3. Etta James
While primarily recognized for her contributions to blues, Etta James’ soulful voice also significantly impacted the R&B genre.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Years Active: 1954–2012
- Famous Songs: “At Last,” “I’d Rather Go Blind,” “Tell Mama”
4. Lesley Gore
Lesley Gore’s early hits in the 1960s highlighted her powerful voice and earned her recognition in the R&B world.
As a teenager, she quickly became a voice of youthful independence and empowerment with her bold lyrics and commanding stage presence, leaving a lasting legacy in the pop and R&B scenes.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Years Active: 1963–2015
- Famous Songs: “You Don’t Own Me,” “It’s My Party,” “Judy’s Turn to Cry”
5. Debbie Harry (Blondie)
As the lead singer of Blondie, Debbie Harry was known for combining rock with R&B influences in her music.
- Birthplace: Miami, Florida, USA
- Years Active: 1968–present
- Famous Songs: “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” “Rapture”
6. Maria Muldaur
Maria Muldaur’s alluring vocals and diverse musical style stood out in the R&B scene.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
- Years Active: 1963–present
- Famous Songs: “Midnight at the Oasis,” “I’m a Woman,” “My Tennessee Mountain Home”
7. Laura Nyro
Laura Nyro, a talented songwriter and singer, infused her folk-inspired music with a distinct R&B feel.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
- Years Active: 1966–1997
- Famous Songs: “Stoned Soul Picnic,” “Eli’s Comin’,” “Wedding Bell Blues”
8. Linda Ronstadt
With a versatile singing style that spanned rock and R&B, Linda Ronstadt’s talent was recognized with several Grammy Awards.
Her ability to interpret various musical genres, from country rock to Mexican ranchers, showcased her versatility and brought a distinctive R&B influence to her diverse body of work.
- Birthplace: Tucson, Arizona, USA
- Years Active: 1967–2011
- Famous Songs: “Blue Bayou,” “You’re No Good,”
9. Carly Simon
Carly Simon’s deep, rich voice and numerous hits that blended pop and R&B elements made her a notable figure in the genre. Her introspective songwriting and charismatic stage presence have garnered multiple awards and accolades.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
- Years Active: 1964–present
- Famous Songs: “You’re So Vain,” “Anticipation,” “Nobody Does It Better”
10. Janis Joplin
Janis Joplin, a rock and R&B singer was celebrated for her raw, powerful vocals and captivating stage presence. Known for her free spirit and emotional performances, she became a symbol of the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
- Birthplace: Port Arthur, Texas, USA
- Years Active: 1962–1970
- Famous Songs: “Piece of My Heart,” “Cry Baby,” “Me and Bobby McGee”
Breakthrough Artists (1990s)
11. Lisa Stansfield
Lisa Stansfield’s smooth and soulful voice made her a notable figure in the early 90s R&B scene. Her blend of pop and R&B styles made her an international star, and her albums consistently performed well on the charts.
- Birthplace: Manchester, England
- Years Active: 1980–present
- Famous Songs: “All Around the World,” “This Is the Right Time,” “Change”
12. Taylor Dayne
Taylor Dayne was recognized for her strong voice and lively hits, which reached the top of the charts in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Her powerful vocal delivery and catchy dance tracks made her a 90s pop and R&B staple.
- Birthplace: Baldwin, New York, USA
- Years Active: 1985–present
- Famous Songs: “Tell It to My Heart,” “Love Will Lead You Back,” “Prove Your Love”
13. Annie Lennox
As a member of Eurythmics, Annie Lennox incorporated a distinctive R&B influence into her synth-pop sound. Her striking voice and memorable performances made her one of the most recognizable voices of her time.
- Birthplace: Aberdeen, Scotland
- Years Active: 1976–present
- Famous Songs: “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This),” “Why,” “Walking on Broken Glass”
14. Sophie B. Hawkins
Sophie B. Hawkins’s distinctive voice and daring lyrics secured her a spot in 90s R&B. Her music often tackled personal and emotional themes, earning her critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
- Years Active: 1990–present
- Famous Songs: “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover,” “As I Lay Me Down,” “Right Beside You”
15. Natalie Imbruglia
Natalie Imbruglia’s emotional delivery and unique voice brought her worldwide recognition. Her debut single became a huge international hit, making her an instant star in the late 90s.
- Birthplace: Sydney, Australia
- Years Active: 1997–present
- Famous Songs: “Torn,” “Big Mistake,” “Wishing I Was There”
16. Sinéad O’Connor
Sinéad O’Connor’s beautifully haunting voice and powerful performances had an enduring impact on R&B. Her deeply personal music and strong stage presence captivated audiences worldwide.
- Birthplace: Dublin, Ireland
- Years Active: 1986–2023
- Famous Songs: “Nothing Compares 2 U,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “Mandinka”
17. Fiona Apple
Fiona Apple was recognized for her soulful voice and profound, introspective lyrics, which connected with a broad audience. Her emotionally charged music and unique vocal style stood out in the 1990s.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
- Years Active: 1994–present
- Famous Songs: “Criminal,” “Shadowboxer,” “Fast as You Can”
18. Dido
Dido’s smooth, melodic voice and sincere lyrics made her a significant figure in early 2000s R&B. Her songs often blended electronic beats with heartfelt lyrics, appealing to a wide audience.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Years Active: 1995–present
- Famous Songs: “Thank You,” “White Flag,” “Here with Me”
19. Sarah McLachlan
Sarah McLachlan’s emotional vocals and piano-driven songs earned her critical and commercial success. Her introspective lyrics and soothing voice made her a favorite among R&B and pop fans.
- Birthplace: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Years Active: 1987–present
- Famous Songs: “Angel,” “Building a Mystery,” “Adia”
20. Jewel
By combining folk and R&B, Jewel’s heartfelt singing she brought her extensive recognition. Her honest songwriting and versatile voice made her one of the best-selling artists of the 1990s.
- Birthplace: Payson, Utah, USA
- Years Active: 1994–present
- Famous Songs: “Foolish Games,” “Who Will Save Your Soul,” “You Were Meant for Me”
Contemporary Powerhouses (2000s – Present)
21. Joss Stone
Joss Stone’s deep, soulful voice and youthful energy brought a new perspective to classic R&B. Her remarkable ability to blend vintage soul with contemporary sounds has made her a beloved figure in modern R&B.
- Birthplace: Dover, England
- Years Active: 2001–present
- Famous Songs: “Fell in Love with a Boy,” “Right to Be Wrong,” “Super Duper Love”
22. Duffy
Duffy’s retro-soul style and unique voice brought her global success in the late 2000s. Her music combines classic soul and modern pop, creating a distinctive sound that resonates with many fans.
- Birthplace: Bangor, Wales
- Years Active: 2004–present
- Famous Songs: “Mercy,” “Warwick Avenue,” “Stepping Stone”
23. Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse’s rich, soulful voice and honest lyrics changed modern R&B before her tragic passing. Her music, characterized by its emotional depth and raw honesty, continues influencing artists today.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Years Active: 2003–2011
- Famous Songs: “Rehab,” “Back to Black,” “Valerie”
24. Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera’s strong vocals and ability to adapt to various genres, including R&B, have earned her praise from critics. Her powerful voice and dynamic performances have made her a lasting presence in the music industry.
- Birthplace: Staten Island, New York, USA
- Years Active: 1993–present
- Famous Songs: “Genie in a Bottle,” “Beautiful,” “Dirrty”
25. Adele
Adele’s powerful, emotional voice and soulful ballads have made her an international phenomenon. Her ability to convey deep feelings through her music has earned her numerous awards and a massive global following.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Years Active: 2006–present
- Famous Songs: “Rolling in the Deep,” “Someone Like You,” “Hello”
26. Jessie J
Jessie J is recognized for her impressive voice and ability to combine pop with R&B elements effortlessly. Her energetic performances and heartfelt lyrics have earned her a dedicated fanbase.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Years Active: 2005–present
- Famous Songs: “Price Tag,” “Domino,” “Bang Bang”
27. Paloma Faith
Paloma Faith’s dramatic vocal style and theatrical performances have made her a standout in contemporary R&B. Her unique blend of soul, jazz, and pop influences gives her music a distinct flair.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Years Active: 2007–present
- Famous Songs: “Only Love Can Hurt Like This,” “Picking Up the Pieces,” “Upside Down”
28. JoJo
JoJo’s soulful voice and mature sound as a young artist brought her early success and a strong return to the music scene. Her ability to convey emotion through her music has kept her relevant across different eras of R&B.
- Birthplace: Brattleboro, Vermont, USA
- Years Active: 2001–present
- Famous Songs: “Too Little Too Late,” “Leave (Get Out),” “Disaster”
29. Macy Gray
Macy Gray’s distinctive raspy voice and unconventional style have earned her a special place in R&B music. Her quirky vocal delivery and eclectic musical approach have garnered her critical and commercial success.
- Birthplace: Canton, Ohio, USA
- Years Active: 1988–present
- Famous Songs: “I Try,” “Do Something,” “Why Didn’t You Call Me”
30. Anastacia
Anastacia’s strong vocals and memorable hits made her a notable figure in the early 2000s R&B scene. Her powerful voice and energetic stage presence have made her a consistent favorite among genre fans.
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Years Active: 1983–present
- Famous Songs: “I’m Outta Love,” “Left Outside Alone,” “Sick and Tired”
Emerging Stars and Modern Icons
31. Meghan Trainor
Meghan Trainor’s retro-style R&B influences and memorable songs have made her a favorite among contemporary audiences. Her catchy tunes and relatable lyrics have brought her widespread popularity.
- Birthplace: Nantucket, Massachusetts, USA
- Years Active: 2009–present
- Famous Songs: “All About That Bass,” “Lips Are Movin,” “Dear Future Husband”
32. Sam Smith
Known for their emotional voice and ability to combine pop with R&B elements, Sam Smith has achieved great success. Their heartfelt lyrics and distinctive voice have earned them numerous awards and a global fanbase.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Years Active: 2007–present
- Famous Songs: “Stay with Me,” “Too Good at Goodbyes,” “I’m Not the Only One”
33. Rumer
Rumer’s calming voice and classic style have earned her comparisons to iconic figures like Karen Carpenter. Her music often features smooth, nostalgic melodies that resonate with listeners.
- Birthplace: Islamabad, Pakistan
- Years Active: 2007–present
- Famous Songs: “Slow,” “Aretha,” “Am I Forgiven”
34. Kyla La Grange
Kyla La Grange’s captivating voice and modern take on R&B have made her an emerging star to watch. Her unique sound blends electronic elements with soulful vocals, creating a fresh approach to R&B.
- Birthplace: Watford, England
- Years Active: 2011–present
- Famous Songs: “Cut Your Teeth,” “Walk Through Walls,” “Vampire Smile”
35. Yuna
Malaysian singer Yuna’s smooth voice and blend of R&B with indie influences have gained her global recognition. Her music often explores themes of love and self-discovery, making her relatable to a broad audience.
- Birthplace: Alor Setar, Malaysia
- Years Active: 2006–present
- Famous Songs: “Crush,” “Lullabies,” “Live Your Life”
36. Kimbra
Kimbra’s diverse style and innovative approach to R&B have set her apart in the modern music scene. She combines elements of jazz, pop, and electronic music, creating a sound that is uniquely her own.
- Birthplace: Hamilton, New Zealand
- Years Active: 2000–present
- Famous Songs: “Settle Down,” “Cameo Lover,” “Good Intent”
37. Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa’s strong, versatile voice and modern R&B-infused pop hits have made her an international star. Her confident performances and catchy songs have won her critical acclaim and a large following.
- Birthplace: London, England
- Years Active: 2015–present
- Famous Songs: “New Rules,” “Don’t Start Now,” “Levitating”
38. Rita Ora
Rita Ora’s powerful voice and ability to combine genres have made her a notable figure in contemporary music. She often mixes pop with R&B influences, creating energetic and memorable tracks.
- Birthplace: Pristina, Kosovo
- Years Active: 2008–present
- Famous Songs: “Anywhere,” “How We Do (Party),” “Let You Love Me”
39. Halsey
Halsey’s distinctive voice and emotional depth in her music have brought her a loyal fan base. Her lyrics often reflect personal experiences and emotions, resonating deeply with her listeners.
- Birthplace: Edison, New Jersey, USA
- Years Active: 2012–present
- Famous Songs: “Without Me,” “Bad at Love,” “Graveyard”
40. Ella Henderson
Ella Henderson’s rich, soulful voice and expressive delivery have earned her a place in modern R&B. Her songs often deal with themes of love and heartbreak, delivered with heartfelt emotion.
- Birthplace: Tetney, England
- Years Active: 2012–present
- Famous Songs: “Ghost,” “Glow,” “Yours”
41. Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande’s impressive vocal range and effortless blend of pop and R&B have made her one of today’s biggest stars. Her powerful performances and catchy songs have made her a household name.
- Birthplace: Boca Raton, Florida, USA
- Years Active: 2008–present
- Famous Songs: “Thank U, Next,” “7 Rings,” “No Tears Left to Cry”
42. Tori Kelly
Tori Kelly’s powerful voice and sincere performances have established her as an important figure in contemporary R&B. Her music often blends pop with soulful elements, creating a modern, heartfelt sound.
- Birthplace: Wildomar, California, USA
- Years Active: 2004–present
- Famous Songs: “Nobody Love,” “Should’ve Been Us,” “Hollow”
Summing It Up
Exploration of the top 42 white female R&B singers of all time has taken us on a tremendous journey through the decades.
From groundbreaking pioneers like Dusty Springfield and Teena Marie to contemporary powerhouses such as Adele and Ariana Grande, these exceptional artists have consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre.
Their distinctive voices, heartfelt performances, and ability to connect with audiences deeply emotionally have solidified their place in music history.
They have inspired countless artists across genres and generations, leaving an enduring mark on the music industry.
So, let us celebrate the extraordinary talent and legacy of these white female R&B singers, acknowledging their role in shaping the soundtrack of our lives.
