Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Shutterstock

The Greatest Black Female Singers

Ranker Music

Updated April 16, 2024 608.7K views 117 items

Ranked By

72.9K votes

11.0K voters

16 reranks

Voting Rules

Vote up the top Black female vocalists around the world.

These are the greatest Black female singers of all time, from Aretha and Whitney Houston to Mariah Carey and Sade, as ranked by music enthusiasts like you. The women featured here are standouts in a number of genres. Some famous Black female singers sing the blues while other top Black woman artists are pop superstars. Many of the best Black female singers have reached the top of the charts with their catchy tunes. They have careers that span the old guard of the '50s and '60s, on into the disco-dominated '70s and '80s, and through '90s, 2000s, and modern day. Many of the more recent entries on this list may have looked up to the older artists as legends when they were young girls, but today, they stand together as musical superstars. From legendary icons to new faces, this list features the most popular Black female singers ever.

What artist will you vote to the top of this list of the best Black female singers? Maybe you're one of the millions of Beyonce fans. The R&B singer's powerful voice and dynamic dance moves have earned her plenty of acclaim as one of the best Black singers, but listeners also love her for her way of redefining pop music with her innovative hits. Lauryn Hill's soulful vocals helped the singer take home five Grammy awards for her iconic album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Other artists featured on this list include Tina Turner, Ella Fitzgerald, and Erykah Badu.

Do you have a favorite Black female singer? This list includes African American women as well as Black female vocalists from other countries. Vote up the very best Black female singers.

Most divisive: Grace Jones

Over 11.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Black Female Singers

1
Whitney Houston
Pop music, Dance-pop, Contemporary R&B
3,269 votes
A legendary powerhouse vocalist who possessed an incredible range, control, and technical ability, she remains one of the best-selling music artists of all time with over 200 million records sold worldwide. One of the most awarded singers ever, her powerful emotive delivery on songs like "I Will Always Love You" and "Greatest Love of All" solidified her as a global icon with timeless, unforgettable performances.
More Whitney Houston
- Dig Deeper...320 Famous Leo Celebrities
- #443 of 1,285 onThe Most Beautiful Women Of All Time
- #3 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
2
Aretha Franklin
Pop music, Rock music, Rhythm and blues
2,789 votes
The undisputed "Queen of Soul," her powerful, emotionally charged voice coupled with her unique gospel-inspired style transformed popular music throughout her six-decade-long career. With hits such as "Respect" and "A Natural Woman," she not only achieved commercial success but was also an inspiration for countless artists across generations, becoming the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
More Aretha Franklin
- Dig Deeper...You Will R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Aretha Franklin Even More When You Hear About Her Remarkable Life
- #69 of 104 onThe Best 1970s Christian Pop Artists
- #2 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
3
Ella Fitzgerald
Ballad, Swing music, Traditional pop music
2,040 votes
The "First Lady of Song" and jazz icon, she not only possessed flawless vocal technique but also had impeccable diction and sophisticated phrasing that set her apart from other singers. Her improvisational scat singing and breathtaking renditions of standards like "Summertime" and "Misty" earned her 13 Grammy Awards and a lifetime of acclaim as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
More Ella Fitzgerald
- Dig Deeper...How Marilyn Monroe And Ella Fitzgerald's Friendship Gave Them Both Their Careers
- And Deeper...335+ Famous Taurus Historical Figures
- #4 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
4
Etta James
Rock music, Rhythm and blues, Rock and roll
1,410 votes
A trailblazing pioneer of R&B and soul, her raw, emotive voice and powerful stage presence captivated audiences throughout her five decades in the industry. With hits like "At Last" and "I'd Rather Go Blind," she became a critically acclaimed artist who pushed boundaries and fearlessly bared her soul through her music.
More Etta James
- #6 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #30 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #53 of 320 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
5
Billie Holiday
Torch song, Ballad, Swing music
1,453 votes
A pioneering jazz legend whose distinct, emotive voice was characterized by its raw vulnerability and ability to convey complex emotions, she captivated listeners with her poignant storytelling through song. Her haunting renditions of classics like "Strange Fruit" and "God Bless the Child" immortalized her as a true artist who used her distinctive vocal style to break the boundaries of the music world.
More Billie Holiday
- Dig Deeper...The Unprecedented Rise And Tragic Death Of Billie Holiday
- And Deeper...250+ Famous Aries Celebrities
- #11 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
6
Tina Turner
Rock music, Dance-pop, Rhythm and blues
1,868 votes
A groundbreaking performer known for her explosive stage presence, boundless energy, and raspy, powerful voice, she became an international superstar with hits like "Proud Mary" and "What's Love Got to Do with It." With a career spanning over six decades, she pushed boundaries and broke barriers as a fierce, trailblazing woman in the male-dominated music industry.
More Tina Turner
- Dig Deeper...The Best Tina Turner Albums of All Time
- #12 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #8 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
7
Gladys Knight
Rhythm and blues, Soul music, Gospel music
1,550 votes
A mesmerizing performer known as the "Empress of Soul," her smokey, sultry voice and timeless hits with the Pips like "Midnight Train to Georgia" and "Neither One of Us" secured her place in music history. Her remarkable vocal range, remarkable longevity, and incomparable stage presence have made her one of the most respected and revered names in the industry.
More Gladys Knight
- #21 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #64 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #99 of 320 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
8
Diana Ross
Disco, Pop music, Dance music
1,472 votes
As the lead singer of The Supremes and later a successful solo artist, her glamorous image, silky smooth voice, and undeniable star quality made her one of Motown's most enduring legends. With chart-topping hits like "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "Endless Love," she earned numerous accolades and influenced generations of artists, solidifying her status as one of the greatest female singers in history.
More Diana Ross
- Dig Deeper...The Best Diana Ross Albums of All Time
- #16 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #16 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
9
Nina Simone
Folk music, Rhythm and blues, Jazz
1,542 votes
A masterful pianist and unique, expressive vocalist, she fearlessly used her music to address racial inequality and civil rights issues, leaving an indelible mark on American culture. With songs like "Feeling Good" and "I Put a Spell on You," her genre-defying artistry encompassed jazz, blues, and soul, making her a true musical icon.
More Nina Simone
- #30 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #103 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #93 of 1,151 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
10
Patti LaBelle
Doo-wop, Girl group, Ballad
1,195 votes
Known for her soaring, gospel-tinged voice and flamboyant stage presence, she became an R&B icon with hits such as "Lady Marmalade" and "On My Own." Her unparalleled vocal range, emotional depth, and passionate performances have earned her countless awards and a reputation as one of the most electrifying live performers in the industry.
More Patti LaBelle
- Dig Deeper...The 365+ Most Famous Geminis
- #31 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #63 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked

11
Donna Summer
New Wave, Disco, Pop music
1,241 votes
The undisputed "Queen of Disco," her powerful mezzo-soprano voice and infectious dance beats made her the defining voice of the disco era. With timeless hits like "Hot Stuff" and "I Feel Love," her groundbreaking fusion of R&B, electronic, and pop music laid the foundation for contemporary dance music and cemented her status as a pop culture icon.
More Donna Summer
- #32 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #33 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #92 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
12
Anita Baker
Adult contemporary music, Quiet storm, Smooth jazz
1,060 votes
A soulful and sophisticated singer-songwriter known for her warm, velvety voice and intimate songwriting, she captivated audiences with hits such as "Sweet Love" and "Caught Up in the Rapture." Her effortless, sensual style and unparalleled control placed her firmly among the greatest R&B vocalists of her time.
More Anita Baker
- #47 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #135 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #318 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
13
Mariah Carey
Pop, Contemporary R&B
1,631 votes
Boasting an impressive five-octave vocal range and an unparalleled ability to navigate multiple genres, she is an indisputable pop icon with over two decades of chart-topping success. Her innovative incorporation of hip-hop into her music, catchy hooks, and powerhouse ballads like "Hero" and "We Belong Together" have made her one of the best-selling female artists of all time.
More Mariah Carey
- Dig Deeper...Weird But True Mariah Carey Stories
- And Deeper...The Best Songs Feat. Mariah Carey
- And Deeper...250+ Famous Aries Celebrities
14
Toni Braxton
Hip hop music, Adult contemporary music, Pop music
1,248 votes
With a distinctive deep contralto voice and sensual, emotive delivery, she became an R&B powerhouse in the '90s with hits such as "Un-Break My Heart" and "Breathe Again." Her sultry, soulful sound combined with her skillful command of her instrument has earned her numerous accolades and a place among the greats.
More Toni Braxton
- Dig Deeper...Celebrities with Lupus List
- #1116 of 1,285 onThe Most Beautiful Women Of All Time
- #43 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
15
Lauryn Hill
Hip hop music, Alternative hip hop, Neo soul
1,197 votes
An extraordinary talent who combined soul-stirring vocals and fiercely intelligent lyrics, she became a critical and commercial success with her groundbreaking album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. As part of the Fugees and later as a solo artist, her enveloping, emotive voice and knack for storytelling solidified her as one of the most influential artists of her generation.
More Lauryn Hill
- Dig Deeper...The Best Songs Feat. Lauryn Hill
- And Deeper...The 365+ Most Famous Geminis
- #903 of 1,285 onThe Most Beautiful Women Of All Time
16
Beyoncé
R&B, Pop, Hip hop
1,972 votes
As one of the most prominent and influential artists of her generation, her vocal prowess, unmatched stage presence, and magnetic charisma have earned her the title "Queen Bey." With numerous chart-topping hits as a solo artist and a member of Destiny's Child, her iconic performances and genre-defying sound have solidified her status as a living legend.
More Beyoncé
- Dig Deeper...The Best Songs Ft. Beyonce
- And Deeper...The 100+ Most Famous Virgo Celebrities Of All Time
- #223 of 227 onThe Most Trustworthy Celebrities In The World
17
Jennifer Hudson
Pop music, Contemporary R&B, Soul music
1,038 votes
Thrust into the spotlight as a finalist on American Idol, her jaw-dropping vocal range and undeniable stage presence quickly won her critical acclaim, an Oscar-winning role in Dreamgirls, and a successful recording career. With her powerhouse voice and emotive delivery, she continues to captivate audiences and cement her place as a vocal force to be reckoned with.
More Jennifer Hudson
- Dig Deeper...The Tragic Family Nightmare That Nearly Derailed Jennifer Hudson's Entire Life
- #158 of 227 onThe Most Trustworthy Celebrities In The World
- #17 of 83 onThe Greatest Female Vocalists of the Past 10 Years
18
Chaka Khan
Hip hop music, Adult contemporary music, Disco
1,251 votes
A powerful vocalist who seamlessly blended soul, funk, disco, and R&B, she became a musical force to be reckoned with during her time as the lead singer of Rufus and later as a solo artist. Her electrifying performances and hits like "Ain't Nobody" and "I'm Every Woman" have solidified her status as the "Queen of Funk" and a music legend.
More Chaka Khan
- #1128 of 1,285 onThe Most Beautiful Women Of All Time
- #54 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #144 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters
19
Lena Horne
Pop music, Traditional pop music, Vocal jazz
480 votes
A trailblazer for African American women in entertainment, her beautiful, evocative voice and captivating presence made her a star of stage, screen, and recording studios. Her masterful interpretations of songs like "Stormy Weather" and "Love Me or Leave Me" solidified her reputation as an artist of exceptional talent and grace.
More Lena Horne
- Dig Deeper...345 Famous Cancer Celebrities
- #1034 of 1,285 onThe Most Beautiful Women Of All Time
- #50 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
20
Dionne Warwick
Urban contemporary, Adult contemporary music, Pop music
1,118 votes
A sophisticated chanteuse with a smooth, elegant vocal style, she dominated the pop charts in the '60s and '70s with Burt Bacharach and Hal David penned hits like "Walk On By" and "I Say A Little Prayer." Her effortless ability to blend pop, gospel, and R&B influences have made her a pioneering artist and enduring music icon.
More Dionne Warwick
- #36 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #71 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #31 of 202 onThe 200+ Best Female Singers Of The '80s To Now, Ranked

21
Mary J. Blige
Hip hop music, Contemporary R&B, Rhythm and blues
1,130 votes
Known as the "Queen of Hip Hop Soul," her emotive, husky voice and heartfelt, confessional lyrics have made her one of the most successful and influential female R&B artists of all time. With over 80 million records sold worldwide and timeless hits like "Real Love" and "No More Drama," her raw vulnerability and soulful sound continue to resonate with fans across generations.
More Mary J. Blige
- Dig Deeper...Things You Didn't Know About Mary J. Blige's Turn To Acting
- #65 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #136 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
22
Minnie Riperton
Pop music, Rock music, Rhythm and blues
870 votes
Known for her angelic soprano voice and extraordinary five-octave range, she effortlessly switched between soul, pop, R&B, and jazz throughout her career. Her most famous song, "Lovin' You," showcases her remarkable ability to use her whistle register, earning her a place among the most talented vocalists in history.
More Minnie Riperton
- #96 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #422 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #44 of 87 onThe Best One-Hit Wonders of the 1970s
23
Alicia Keys
Hip hop music, Pop music, Neo soul
1,390 votes
A classically trained pianist with a powerful, soulful voice, she burst onto the scene with her Grammy-winning debut album Songs in A Minor. Her smooth, emotional delivery on hits like "Fallin'" and "If I Ain't Got You" have earned her numerous accolades and solidified her place as a true musical prodigy.
More Alicia Keys
- Dig Deeper...The Best Songs Feat. Alicia Keys
- And Deeper...The Best Alicia Keys Albums, Ranked
- #10 of 83 onThe Greatest Female Vocalists of the Past 10 Years
24
Sade Adu
1,222 votes
As the sultry, enchanting voice behind the band Sade, her silky-smooth vocal delivery and intimate lyrics have captivated audiences for decades. With hits such as "Smooth Operator" and "No Ordinary Love," her sophisticated, timeless sound has earned her legions of devoted fans and endless critical praise.
More Sade Adu
- #1212 of 1,285 onThe Most Beautiful Women Of All Time
- #44 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #79 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
25
Roberta Flack
Folk music, Rhythm and blues, Jazz
1,065 votes
A versatile and soulful artist, her enchanting voice has effortlessly conveyed raw emotion and vulnerability throughout her illustrious career. With timeless hits like "Killing Me Softly with His Song" and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," her unwavering ability to connect with listeners through her music has made her a beloved and respected figure in the industry.
More Roberta Flack
- #34 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #84 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #26 of 202 onThe 200+ Best Female Singers Of The '80s To Now, Ranked
26
Brandy Norwood
Hip hop music, Pop music, Dance-pop
929 votes
With a warm, honey-toned voice and exceptional vocal technique, she rose to fame in the '90s as an R&B and pop sensation. Her skillful vocal runs and emotive performances on hits like "I Wanna Be Down" and "Have You Ever" have cemented her status as a gifted singer-songwriter and vocal inspiration to many.
More Brandy Norwood
- Dig Deeper...Whatever Happened to Brandy?
- #236 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #180 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
27
Tracy Chapman
Blues-rock, Pop music, Folk music
798 votes
A singer-songwriter with a distinctive voice and heartfelt, socially conscious lyrics, she became a prominent figure in the folk-rock scene with her captivating storytelling and powerful tunes. Her unforgettable hits, such as "Fast Car" and "Talkin' 'bout a Revolution," showcase her rare ability to blend raw emotion with evocative imagery, earning her widespread acclaim and numerous accolades.
More Tracy Chapman
- #63 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #109 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #81 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters
28
Yolanda Adams
Adult contemporary music, Christian music, Pop music
308 votes
An exceptional gospel singer known for her soaring, crystal-clear vocals and uplifting musical messages, she has brought gospel music to the mainstream throughout her career. With songs like "Open My Heart" and "The Battle is the Lord's," her powerful voice and unwavering faith have earned her multiple awards and a devoted fan base.
More Yolanda Adams
- Dig Deeper...List of Famous Radio Personalities
- #298 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #6 of 47 onThe Greatest Female Gospel Singers
29
Mahalia Jackson
Gospel music
935 votes
Widely hailed as the "Queen of Gospel," her powerful, soul-stirring voice and unique blending of blues and gospel influences made her a groundbreaking artist who inspired millions. Her passionate renditions of songs like "Move On Up a Little Higher" and "How I Got Over" not only earned her widespread acclaim but also played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement.
More Mahalia Jackson
- #95 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #257 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #963 of 1,151 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
30
Natalie Cole
Adult contemporary music, Pop music, Quiet storm
823 votes
The daughter of the legendary Nat King Cole, she carved her own path in the world of music with her powerful, expressive voice and undeniable talent. With hits such as "This Will Be" and "Unforgettable," her versatility and legacy of excellence made her one of the most respected singers of her generation.
More Natalie Cole
- #57 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #111 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #126 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked