Welcome to our journey through the world of music where we explore the magical voices of 21 famous alto singers.
Alto is a beautiful type of singing voice that isn’t too high or too low, but just right in the middle. It’s like the cozy, warm blanket of sounds.
In this article, we will discover some of the most wonderful songs sung by the best alto voices out there.
From Adele’s deep, touching songs to Lorde’s unique sound, get ready to learn about these talented singers and hear their incredible music. Each singer has a special story to tell through their songs. So, let’s dive in and enjoy the beautiful tunes of these amazing alto singers!
1. “Someone Like You” – Adele
Adele’s rich alto voice brings depth to “Someone Like You,” making it a heart-wrenching ballad about love and loss. Her voice perfectly captures the emotion of the song, resonating with listeners who appreciate her vocal range and emotive delivery.
The song showcases Adele’s unique ability to blend soulful lyrics with her deep vocal tones, creating a powerful musical experience that has touched millions around the globe. It remains one of her most beloved tracks.
2. “Back to Black” – Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” features her iconic alto voice, which is both expressive and poignant. The song’s retro vibe, combined with Amy’s deep vocals, paints a vivid picture of her struggles and artistic genius.
Her voice, rich and full of emotion, carries the weight of the song’s themes of heartbreak and personal turmoil. Amy’s performance is a testament to her talent and her ability to convey complex emotions through music.
3. “Fallin'” – Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys demonstrates her powerful alto vocals in “Fallin’,” which is one of the songs that catapulted her to fame. The song beautifully combines elements of soul, R&B, and blues, all underpinned by Alicia’s strong, flowing alto voice.
Her ability to fluctuate between powerful high notes and deeper, more introspective tones makes “Fallin'” a compelling listen. The song not only showcases her vocal talent but also her skill as a songwriter and musician.
4. “Ex-Factor” – Lauryn Hill
“Ex-Factor” by Lauryn Hill is a soul-stirring song that features her deeply emotive alto voice. The track delves into the complexities of love and betrayal, delivered through Lauryn’s poignant lyrics and rich vocal execution.
Her voice, which effortlessly moves through its dynamic range, brings a raw honesty to the song, making it a standout track in her career. “Ex-Factor” remains a powerful example of her talent and influence in the music industry.
5. “Video Games” – Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s “Video Games” features her signature alto voice which adds a haunting quality to the song. Her performance is both ethereal and grounded, capturing the melancholic spirit of the lyrics.
The song’s cinematic production complements Lana’s vocal style, creating an immersive listening experience that has captivated audiences worldwide. It showcases her ability to weave storytelling with her unique vocal tone.
6. “No Ordinary Love” – Sade
Sade’s smooth alto voice in “No Ordinary Love” brings an unparalleled level of soul and depth to the song. Known for her calm and soothing vocal style, Sade delivers this love ballad with a richness that envelops the listener.
The song is a testament to her timeless appeal and ability to express deep emotions through her music. Sade’s voice remains an iconic example of alto prowess in modern music.
7. “You Know I’m No Good” – Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse returns with “You Know I’m No Good,” where her robust alto voice perfectly captures the song’s spirit of defiance and confession. Amy’s vocal delivery is confident and sultry, painting a vivid picture of a flawed, candid narrator.
The track’s blend of jazz and pop elements showcases her versatile talent and her unique ability to tell compelling stories through her music.
8. “I Try” – Macy Gray
Macy Gray’s distinctive raspy alto voice is the highlight of “I Try,” which is one of her most famous songs. The song deals with the struggles and persistence in love, conveyed through her expressive and gritty vocal style.
Her voice adds a layer of authenticity and emotion to the lyrics, making “I Try” a song that resonates with listeners who appreciate heartfelt music.
9. “Un-break My Heart” – Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton’s deep alto voice brings a powerful emotional depth to “Un-break My Heart.” The song is a dramatic ballad that showcases her ability to convey complex emotions through her vocal performance.
Her voice, both smooth and intense, elevates the song to iconic status, making it one of the most memorable ballads of the 1990s.
10. “What’s Up” – Linda Perry (4 Non Blondes)
Linda Perry’s powerful alto voice in “What’s Up” helps drive the song’s emotional and lyrical content. Known for her dynamic vocal range and raw energy, Linda delivers a performance that is both inspiring and poignant.
The song has become an anthem for those feeling disillusioned, and Linda’s voice is a key element in conveying its powerful message.
11. “Constant Craving” – k.d. lang
k.d. lang’s “Constant Craving” has become one of her most iconic songs, largely due to her expressive alto voice which delivers both warmth and longing. The song explores themes of desire and fulfillment, with k.d.’s voice drawing listeners into the emotional landscape of the lyrics.
Her performance is both nuanced and powerful, providing a deep sense of yearning that is palpable throughout the track.
12. “Smooth Operator” – Sade
Returning with “Smooth Operator,” Sade reinforces her reputation as a queen of soul and soft rock. Her alto voice glides effortlessly over the smooth jazz beats, telling the story of a stylish, jet-setting love affair.
The song is a perfect showcase for Sade’s sultry tone and her ability to deliver a performance that feels both intimate and expansive.
13. “Breathe Me” – Sia
Sia’s raw and emotional delivery in “Breathe Me” highlights her powerful alto capabilities. The song is a hauntingly beautiful ballad about vulnerability and the need for comfort, with Sia’s voice perfectly capturing the fragility of the moment.
Her vocal performance is gripping and resonant, making “Breathe Me” a standout track in her discography and a favorite among fans of deeply personal music.
14. “Only Yesterday” – Karen Carpenter
Karen Carpenter’s “Only Yesterday” showcases her smooth and melodious alto voice, which has captivated audiences worldwide. The song reflects themes of nostalgia and hope, carried by Karen’s comforting and precise vocal delivery.
Her ability to convey emotion through her singing makes this track a timeless piece, highlighting her musical legacy.
15. “The Story” – Brandi Carlile
Brandi Carlile’s “The Story” is a raw and powerful song that features her distinctive alto voice. The track builds from a gentle opening to a passionate crescendo, with Brandi’s vocals at the forefront, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotions and storytelling through music.
Her performance is both heartfelt and robust, making “The Story” a signature song in her career and a favorite for fans of authentic, emotion-driven music.
16. “Zombie” – Dolores O’Riordan (The Cranberries)
“Zombie” by The Cranberries is a powerful protest song that features Dolores O’Riordan’s intense and haunting alto voice. Her unique vocal timbre and the emotive delivery bring the poignant lyrics to life, making a strong statement on political violence.
Dolores’ voice is the driving force of the song, ensuring its place as an enduring anthem of resistance and remembrance.
17. “Royals” – Lorde
Lorde’s debut single “Royals” showcases her deep alto voice, which is both unique and introspective. The song critiques the glamorous lifestyle often portrayed in media, with Lorde’s mature vocal delivery adding depth to the social commentary.
Her minimalist style and lyrical sophistication highlight her as a standout artist, with “Royals” becoming a global hit that defines her distinct sound.
18. “Give Me One Reason” – Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman’s “Give Me One Reason” displays her iconic raspy alto voice, which brings a bluesy feel to the song. Her vocals provide a gritty authenticity that underscores the song’s theme of longing and persuasion.
The track is a blend of blues, rock, and soul, perfectly suited to Tracy’s vocal style and her ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
19. “Holding Out for a Hero” – Bonnie Tyler
Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out for a Hero” features her husky alto voice, which adds dramatic flair to this energetic rock anthem. The song is known for its powerful vocals and vibrant energy, making it a classic hit from the 1980s.
Bonnie’s voice is both powerful and evocative, perfectly matching the song’s high-energy and empowering message.
20. “Skyfall” – Adele
Adele’s “Skyfall” is a soul-stirring track that showcases her dramatic and powerful alto voice, set against the backdrop of the James Bond film of the same name. Her voice captures the cinematic and suspenseful essence of the song, which has become an iconic Bond theme.
The song not only highlights her vocal prowess but also her ability to deliver a performance that is both timeless and contemporary.