Vocal range is one of the most fascinating aspects of a singer’s talent—it defines how many octaves they can cover and what notes they can hit, from earth-rattling bass to whistle-high soprano. Whether you're curious about the singer with the highest note ever recorded or want to compare your favourite artists’ ranges, this guide brings it all together.
We’ve compiled a detailed summary of the world’s most impressive vocalists, including their exact vocal ranges, notable performances, voice types, and the awards that highlight their legendary status. This table helps you easily compare iconic voices like Mariah Carey and Freddie Mercury and even Guinness World Record holders like Tim Storms and Georgia Brown.
| Singer | Vocal Range | Specific Range | Voice Type | Notable Performances | Awards & Recognitions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mariah Carey | 5 octaves | G2 – G7 | Soprano | Emotions, Vision of Love | 5 Grammy Awards, Billboard Icon Award |
| Freddie Mercury | 4 octaves | F2 – G#5 | Tenor | Bohemian Rhapsody, Live Aid | Brit Award |
| Whitney Houston | 3 octaves | C3 – C6 | Mezzo-Soprano | I Will Always Love You | 6 Grammy Awards, 2 Emmy Awards |
| Tim Storms | 10 octaves | G/G♯−5–G/G♯5 | Bass | Guinness Record Holder | World Record for Lowest Note Sung |
| Georgia Brown | 8 octaves | G2 – G10 | Soprano | Verified at Aqui Jazz Atelier Music School | Guinness World Record for widest vocal range |
| Minnie Riperton | 4 octaves | A3 – C7 | Soprano | Lovin' You | Known for whistle register |
| Ariana Grande | 4 octaves | D3 – E7 | Soprano | Into You | Grammy Award, Billboard Music Awards |
| Cynthia Erivo | 3 octaves | E3-C6 | Lyric Soprano | Stand Up | Tony Award, Grammy Award |
| Beyoncé | 3.5 – 4 octaves | G#2 – F6 | Mezzo-Soprano | Halo | 28 Grammy Awards |
| Taylor Swift | 3.6 octaves | A2 to E6 | Mezzo-soprano | All to Well, It's a Love Story | Breathy, emotional delivery and storytelling across pop, country, and indie songs; winner of 12 Grammy Awards, an Emmy, 34 Billboard Music Awards, and numerous American Music Awards |
| Vitas | 7 octaves | G2 – G9 | Tenor | Opera #2 | Known for unique vocal style |
| Chanté Moore | 4 octaves | D3 – D7 | Soprano | Love's Taken Over | Acclaimed R&B singer |
| Yma Sumac | 4.8 octaves | B2 – C#7 | Soprano | Chuncho | Known for exotic vocal style |
| Adele | 3 octaves | B2-E6 | Mezzo-soprano | Rolling in the Deep | 16 Grammy awards, Academy Award for best original song (Skyfall) |
| Rihanna | 3 octaves | B2 – B5 | Mezzo-Soprano | Umbrella | 9 Grammy Awards |
| Grimes | 6 octaves | B2 – B8 | Soprano | Oblivion | Innovative electronic music artist |
| Adam Lambert | 3 octaves | E2 – E5 | Tenor | Whataya Want from Me | American Idol runner-up |
| Luciano Pavarotti | 3.5 octaves | C3 – F5 | Tenor | Nessun Dorma | One of the "Three Tenors" |
| Julie Andrews | 2.5-3 octaves | F3-C6 | Soprano | The Sound of Music | Oscar-winning role as Mary Poppins |
| Jonas Kaufmann | 3.5 octaves | C2 – G5 | Tenor | Nessun Dorma | Renowned opera singer |
| Rachelle Ferrell | 6 octaves | G2 – G8 | Soprano | With Open Arms | Acclaimed jazz vocalist |
| Steve Perry | 4 octaves | E2 – E6 | Tenor | Don't Stop Believin' | Lead singer of Journey |
| Elvis Presley | 3 octaves | E2-C6 | Baritone | Can't Help Falling in Love | King of Rock and Roll |
| Laura Branigan | 4 octaves | E3 – E7 | Mezzo-Soprano | Gloria | Grammy-nominated artist |
| Christina Aguilera | 4 octaves | C3 – C7 | Mezzo-Soprano | Beautiful | 5 Grammy Awards |
| Annie Haslam | 5 octaves | A2 – A7 | Soprano | Northern Lights | Lead singer of Renaissance |
| Steven Tyler | 4 octaves | D2 – E6 | Tenor/ High Rock Tenor | Dream On, Sweet Emotion | 4 Grammy Awards, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame |
| Prince | 4 octaves | B2 – B6 | High Tenor | Purple Rain | 7 Grammy Awards, Oscar for Best Song |
| Dimash Kudaibergen | 6 octaves | F#1 – D8 | Countertenor | S.O.S | Kazakh national awards |
| Maria Callas | 3 octaves | F3 – F6 | Soprano | Casta Diva | Legendary opera singer |
| Axl Rose | 5 octaves | F1 – B♭6 | Tenor | Welcome to the Jungle | Inducted into Rock & Roll Hall of Fame |
| Bob Dylan | 2 octaves | D2-D4 | Baritone | Like a Rolling Stone | Nobel Prize in Literature (2016); multiple Grammy Awards; Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee |
| Mike Patton | 6 octaves | E1 – E7 | Baritone | Epic" (Faith No More) | Known for vocal experimentation |
| Céline Dion | 4 octaves | B2 – C6 | Soprano | My Heart Will Go On | 5 Grammy Awards |
| Sia | 3 octaves | D3 – D6 | Mezzo-Soprano | Chandelier | Acclaimed songwriter and singer |
| Tina Turner | 3 octaves | A2-F#5 | Contralto / Mezzo-Soprano | What’s Love Got to Do with It | 12 Grammy Awards, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award |
| Bobby Hatfield | 4 octaves | D2 – E6 | Tenor | Unchained melody, Ebb Tide | Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2003, as part of The Righteous Brothers) |
| Josh Groban | ~2.5-3 octaves | G2 – B♭4 | Lyric baritone | You Raise Me Up | Multi-platinum recording artist; Grammy Award nominations; Billboard Classical crossover success |
| Pat Benatar | 4.5 octaves | E3 – G#7 | Mezzo-Soprano | Love Is a Battlefield | 4 Grammy Awards |
| Adam Lopez | 6 octaves | E2 – E♭8 | Countertenor | Guinness Record Holder | Former Guinness World Record for Highest Note Sung by a Male |
| Ville Valo | 5 octaves | C2 – C7 | Baritone | Join Me in Death | Lead singer of HIM |
| Tim Foust | 5 octaves | E1 – E6 | Bass | Ring of Fire" (Home Free) | Member of Home Free |
| Kate Bush | 4.5 octaves | C3 – G#7 | Soprano | Wuthering Heights | Influential British artist |
| Deniece Williams | 4 octaves | C3 – C7 | Soprano | Let's Hear It for the Boy | Grammy Award winner |
| Huang Qishan | 3.5 octaves | C3 – F#6 | Dramatic Soprano | Only You | Acclaimed Chinese vocalist |
| Ellen Beach Yaw | 3.5 octaves | G3 – E7 | Soprano | The Bohemian Girl | Known for high notes |
What Is Vocal Range & Vocal Type
Vocal range refers to the variety of pitches a human voice can produce, spanning from the lowest to the highest pitch.
In the context of singing, vocal range serves as a defining characteristic for classifying voices into specific types. Simply put, it represents the distance between the highest and lowest tones a singer can reach, including all possible vocal sounds, from the low-pitched grunt to the highest achievable vocal squeal, often termed the 'vocable compass.'
Vocal Types Of Famous Singers
Vocal types provide a more nuanced framework for categorising voices beyond just range. These types—such as soprano, tenor, and bass—consider not only the range but also vocal timbre, tessitura (the most comfortable singing range), and the transition points between vocal registers.
Vocal classification reflects the texture, weight, and comfort zone of a singer’s voice. From the soaring notes of sopranos to the resonant depth of basses, each vocal type offers unique qualities that shape the way singers perform and connect with music. Below is a breakdown of common vocal types along with notable singers who exemplify them.
| Vocal Type | Typical Range | Famous Singers |
|---|---|---|
| Soprano | C4 – C6 (or higher) | Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande, Minnie Riperton, Georgia Brown, Yma Sumac, Maria Callas |
| Mezzo-Soprano | A3 – A5 | Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Christina Aguilera, Adele, Laura Branigan, Sia |
| Contralto | E3 – E5 | Cher, Tracy Chapman, Nina Simone, Annie Lennox, Toni Braxton |
| Tenor | C3 – C5 | Freddie Mercury, Adam Lambert, Steve Perry, Prince, Jonas Kaufmann |
| Baritone | A2 – A4 | David Bowie, Ville Valo, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Josh Groban |
| Bass | E2 – E4 (or lower) | Tim Storms, Tim Foust, Barry White, Johnny Cash |
| Countertenor | G3 – D6 (varies) | Dimash Kudaibergen, Adam Lopez, Vitas, Andreas Scholl |
So now that we've explored vocal range and vocal types, let's take a closer look at some of the greatest singers and how their unique vocal abilities have set them apart.
Mariah Carey
🎵 Vocal Range:
G#2 to E7 (5 octaves)
🎤 Voice Type:
Soprano
⭐️ Known for: Vocal agility, intricate vocal embellishments
Mariah Carey Octave Range
How many octaves can Mariah Carey sing? You'd be hard-pressed to find a singer who can surpass Mariah Carey's vocal range. Mariah Carey can sing a stunning five octaves, including notes from G#2 to E7, with some sources claiming she can reach even beyond that.
Mariah’s five-octave vocal range allows her to move seamlessly from rich, deep low notes to astonishingly high whistle tones—a vocal register so rare and piercing that few singers can access it. She uses this technique not just for show, but musically and melodically, incorporating it into her melodies and improvisations. Aspiring vocalists often seek singing lessons to develop similar innovative techniques.
Her whistle register has become a signature element of her music, often compared to the sound of a flute or bird song. She uses this technique not just for show, but musically and melodically, incorporating it into her melodies and improvisations.
In addition to her whistle tones, Mariah Carey is known for her:
- Powerful belting voice in the mid to upper range
- Agile melismas (complex vocal runs)
- Perfect pitch and ability to layer harmonies with precision
- Breathy, controlled tone in softer ballads
You can hear her hit E7 in her song "Emotions".
Beyond her technical skill, she is celebrated for her powerful ballads, catchy pop hits, and innovative blend of R&B and hip-hop, helping to shape the sound of modern pop music. She holds the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles by a solo artist, with 19 chart-toppers, and is the voice behind the perennial holiday hit "All I Want for Christmas Is You." Mariah is also recognised for her songwriting talents, having co-written most of her songs, and for her glamorous, larger-than-life persona, which has made her an enduring icon in music and pop culture.
Learn more about how to increase your vocal range
Freddie Mercury
Freddie's impressive vocal range went from a bass low F (F2) to soprano high F (F6) and he could belt up to F5. His extraordinary vocal range allowed him to navigate through various musical styles and genres effortlessly. His voice was a versatile instrument, reaching both high and low notes with incredible precision and control. Few can match the charisma and vocal prowess of Freddie Mercury when it comes to legendary musicians.
Freddie Mercury's vocal range spanned an impressive four octaves. While Freddie Mercury's entire vocal range was awe-inspiring, one note, in particular, stands out as an astonishing feat. In the song "The Show Must Go On," Freddie reaches an incredibly high note known as a B5. This note is notoriously tricky to get for most singers, but Freddie Mercury effortlessly hits it with remarkable power and accuracy, showcasing his exceptional vocal abilities.
Developing your vocal prowess through singing lessons enables you to tackle a diverse range of music genres and styles.
Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston is a legendary singer whose voice still resonates with audiences today. Her remarkable ability to effortlessly navigate through octaves showcased her immense talent and set her apart as an exceptional vocalist. Houston's vocal range spanned approximately three octaves, allowing her to explore the depths of her lower register with a velvety warmth while effortlessly soaring to the highest notes with incredible clarity and precision.
Enhance your breathing control and vocal projection with the expert guidance of singing lessons.
Whitney Houston Vocal Range
Whitney Houston had a vocal range of approximately five octaves, though most sources commonly cite 3 octaves and a couple of notes, roughly from C3 to C6, with some excursions beyond that in live performances and studio recordings.
Here’s a breakdown:
Lowest note: Around C3 (one octave below middle C)
Highest recorded note: Around G#6 in live performances (whistle register not frequently used)
Most comfortable range: Her most iconic performances sit solidly in the mezzo-soprano to dramatic soprano territory.
She was known more for her tone, control, and emotional delivery than for extreme vocal acrobatics, though she certainly had power and flexibility when needed.
What truly distinguished Houston was her ability to effortlessly reach into the whistle register, a rare and impressive feat. This uppermost range showcased her extraordinary control and agility, captivating listeners with her ability to hit and sustain unbelievably high notes. From the soulful richness of her lower register to the breathtaking heights of her upper register, Houston's vocal range was a force to be reckoned with, enabling her to deliver stunning performances that touched the hearts of millions worldwide. Her vocal prowess solidified her status as one of the greatest singers ever, impacting the music industry. Many aspiring artists enhance their technique by taking singing lessons.
Tim Storms
When it comes to vocal range, few singers have pushed the boundaries of what the human voice can do quite like Tim Storms. Hailing from the United States, Storms holds not one but two Guinness World Records: one for the lowest note ever produced by a human and another for the widest vocal range—an astonishing 10 octaves.
Though he’s not a household name in the pop world, Storms is a sought-after performer for choral groups, gospel ensembles, and commercial projects needing extreme bass tones. Aspiring vocalists often find that singing lessons can further refine their unique vocal capabilities. One of his standout contributions includes vocal work for soundtracks and exhibitions, including The Titanic: The Exhibition, where he performed background vocals designed to evoke the depths of the ocean.
Georgia Brown
The last artist on our short list is perhaps not as well known as some of the other singers on this list, however, she has the widest vocal range, with an astonishing 8 octaves. Georgia Brown, a Brazilian singer, is renowned for her ability to hit notes in the whistle register with ease, a rare vocal feat that adds to her unique singing capabilities. Georgia Brown's music includes elements of pop, soul, and R&B, showcasing her ability to adapt her voice to different genres. Notable songs that highlight her vocal range and skill include "Love Medley," where she demonstrates both her lower and higher registers with remarkable control and precision. Enthusiasts looking to broaden their dynamic range might consider singing lessons.
👤 What's the Highest Note Ever Sung?
The highest note ever sung by a human (and officially recognised) is G10 - a G in the high 10th octave— more than 6 octaves above middle C (C4), which translates to 25,000 hertz. This record was set by Georgia Brown, a Brazilian singer, who reportedly has an 8-octave vocal range (from G2 to G10), verified by the Guinness World Records in the early 2000s.
Minnie Riperton
Minnie Riperton was an American singer-songwriter best known for her 1975 single "Lovin' You" and had a stunning four-octave range from D3 to F♯7. Minnie was trained as a singer, actor and dancer at Chicago's Abraham Lincoln Centre.
The song has had something of a revival now that it has become trendy to use as audio on TikTok.
Sometimes called "Queen of the Whistle Register" in the media, she recorded six albums in her ten years as an active singer. Riperton sadly died of breast cancer in 1979 at the age of 31.
Singing lessons provide personalised guidance, tailored to your unique strengths and areas for improvement.
Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande Vocal Range
Ariana Grande possesses an impressive vocal range that spans approximately four octaves, from D3 to E7. Known for her agile soprano voice, she seamlessly transitions between powerful belts, soft falsettos, and her signature whistle register. Grande's range, control, and versatility have made her one of the most technically gifted pop vocalists of her generation.
Most recently, Grande showcased her theatrical roots and classical training as Glinda in the 2024 film adaptation of Wicked, earning widespread critical acclaim for her performance. The role allowed her to demonstrate her musical theatre prowess alongside her pop sensibilities, proving her ability to navigate both contemporary and Broadway styles with equal finesse. Her portrayal highlighted her comedic timing, vocal control, and the lighter, more operatic qualities of her upper register.
Remember when we were talking about the whistle register earlier?
Ariana's ability to execute complex vocal runs and hit high notes with clarity has drawn comparisons to Mariah Carey, particularly in songs like “Emotions” and “Into You.”
Beyonce
Beyoncé has a vocal range that spans approximately three to four octaves, from G#2 to E6, showcasing impressive versatility across multiple genres, including R&B, pop, soul, and hip-hop. While she may not reach the whistle register like Mariah Carey, Beyoncé is renowned for her powerful mezzo-soprano voice, which combines strength, control, and emotional depth.
Beyoncé is known not only for her powerhouse vocals and genre-blending music but also for her global fame, iconic performances, and record-breaking achievements. She first rose to prominence as the lead singer of Destiny’s Child, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, before launching a highly successful solo career. Her live performances, such as her 2013 Super Bowl halftime show and the 2018 Coachella set—dubbed "Beychella"—are widely considered some of the most memorable in music history, praised for their precision, energy, and cultural impact.
Beyoncé has earned 35 Grammy Awards, making her the most awarded artist in Grammy history, and she’s received numerous other accolades including MTV VMAs, BET Awards, and Billboard honours. Known for her fierce independence and visual artistry, she has also released groundbreaking visual albums like Lemonade and Black Is King, further solidifying her status as a cultural icon. Such dynamic performances inspire many to take singing lessons to improve vocal control.
Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo is a British singer, actress, and Broadway star known for her powerful soprano voice, emotional depth, and commanding stage presence. With a vocal range spanning approximately three octaves, she blends classical technique with soul and gospel influences, delivering standout performances in both musical theatre and film.
She rose to prominence with her Tony-winning role as Celie in The Color Purple and gained further acclaim portraying Harriet Tubman in Harriet, earning Oscar nominations for both acting and songwriting. Erivo is celebrated for her dynamic vocal ability, moving interpretations, and her growing impact across music, stage, and screen. Most recently, she played Elphaba in the film adaptation of Wicked, showcasing her powerful vocals and dramatic range in one of musical theatre’s most iconic roles.
Cynthia Erivo is classified as a lyric soprano with mezzo-soprano qualities, known for her rich, warm lower register, agile midrange, and powerful, resonant upper register. She brings remarkable emotional depth and technical control to her performances, often blending classical technique with contemporary soul and gospel influences.
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift is celebrated for her versatile vocal abilities and emotive delivery, which have evolved significantly throughout her career. Starting in country-pop, she has seamlessly transitioned into pop, indie, and alternative genres, showcasing a vocal range that spans approximately 3.6 octaves. Her mezzo-soprano voice allows her to navigate both rich low notes and bright, soaring highs, giving her performances a dynamic and expressive quality.
Taylor Swift’s vocal range of A2 to E6 is showcased across many of her songs. In her lower register, tracks like “All Too Well (10-Minute Version)” highlight her rich, resonant lows. Her mid-range is prominent in hits like “Love Story” and “You Belong With Me”, where she blends warmth with clarity. In her upper register, songs such as “Enchanted” and “Wildest Dreams” demonstrate her bright, soaring high notes, often using head voice to convey vulnerability and emotional intensity.
Swift’s singing is characterised by a breathy, intimate timbre that conveys vulnerability and emotion. She frequently uses her head and mixed voice to create contrast and depth, making her songs feel personal and relatable. Over the years, her vocal development has been widely praised, with albums like Folklore and Evermore highlighting her tonal clarity and versatility, solidifying her status as one of the most influential vocalists of her generation.
Vitas
Vitas is a Russian-Ukrainian artist with an impressive 7-octave vocal range. He became best known in the world through the song The 7th Element, which went viral on YouTube a couple of years ago. I'm willing to bet you recognise him in the clip below.
After being rejected from the music school in his home town of Odesa, his family could not afford to send him to a public school. Vitas, who was already using his name as a pseudonym, began performing in nightclubs. He began his career paying tribute to Michael Jackson but has also performed parodies and his own songs.
His breakthrough came when Vitas and his girlfriend filmed a video clip for "Opera #2", in which Vitas plays an eccentric lone man with fish gills, who lives in a bathtub with fish jars and plays the accordion naked. The clip was first broadcast in December 2000 and generated a lot of interest. Vitas began performing the song with artificial gills, prompting the Russian media to compare him to Ichthyander, a character from the novel The Amphibious Man.
Chanté Moore
Chanté Moore's incredible, four-octave range voice has always set the atmosphere and gets the crowd screaming with sweet melodies.
She released her first album, Precious, in 1992 and has since been heard on the radio and seen on television. She has also written books and acted—a true multi-talent, in other words.
Yma Sumac
Originally from Peru, she was named Zoila Augusta Emperatriz Chávarri del Castillo. She took Yma Sumac based on her mother's name, which derived from Ima Shumaq, Quechua, for "how beautiful!".
In 1951, Sumac became the first Latin American singer to debut on Broadway. Her shows on Broadway sold more than 20 thousand tickets, and she has sold more than 40 thousand albums.
One source claims that when she sang the song "K'arawi", she reached D8. If true, this will extend her vocal range to over five octaves, perhaps even six.
Adele
Adele, the British singer-songwriter, is celebrated for her rich and soulful contralto voice, which spans three octaves from B2 to D6. Her vocal delivery is characterised by its depth and emotive power, allowing her to convey profound emotion in her music.
Adele's breakthrough came with her second album, "21," which featured chart-topping hits like "Rolling in the Deep," "Someone Like You," and "Set Fire to the Rain."
Known for her powerful belting and heartfelt ballads, Adele's voice resonates with a broad audience, touching on themes of love, heartbreak, and self-reflection. Her ability to connect with listeners through her vocal intensity and lyrical honesty has earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Many aspiring artists enhance their technique by taking singing lessons.
Rihanna
Rihanna is a mezzo-soprano whose range extends from B2 to C♯6 while recording tracks for her third studio album, Good Girl Gone Bad (2007). Her vocal performance on Loud (2010) received positive reviews from music critics.
Growing up in Barbados, she listened mainly to reggae, hip hop and soca music. When she came to the United States, she was exposed to different types of music, including rock, and I fell in love with it.
In her early days, she recorded songs inspired by her Caribbean roots and described her early sound as a fusion of reggae, hip hop and R&B with a twist.
Grimes
Claire Elise Boucher, born 17 March 1988 in Vancouver, better known by her stage name Grimes, is a Canadian musician, singer, songwriter and music producer. Grimes' music has been described by several labels, including synthpop, electropop and lo-fi, with elements of hip-hop and R&B. Grimes is known for her eclectic and futuristic sound, which blends elements of experimental music to create a unique musical style that pushes the boundaries of contemporary music.
Adam Lambert
Adam Mitchel Lambert is an actor and singer-songwriter from San Diego, California, USA. He began performing in musicals at ten but came to prominence in May 2009 when he placed second on the eighth season of American Idol.
Adam Lambert's vocal range is an impressive three-octave (B2-B5). He's known for his expert vibrato and dynamic, piercing, robust falsetto singing, which allows him to stretch into the fifth octave.
Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti was renowned for his ease in reaching high notes—with a vocal range spanning an impressive 3,5 octaves (C#3 to F5). As one of the most renowned Italian tenors who died in 2007, he certainly deserves his place on this list.
Did you know that he never went anywhere without his scarf? This was to keep his neck warm when he wasn't singing on stage. In 1990, the tenor lost his favourite red silk scarf in Florence and issued a plea in local media for it to be returned to the theatre in the city.
Find out how to hit the lower notes
Julie Andrews
Julie Andrews is a British singer and actress whose crystalline soprano voice and flawless vocal technique made her one of the most beloved performers of the 20th century. With a vocal range spanning approximately three octaves in her prime, she combined classical training with effortless charm, delivering performances that defined the golden age of musical cinema.
She achieved international stardom with her Oscar-winning role as Mary Poppins and cemented her legendary status as Maria von Trapp in The Sound of Music, one of the highest-grossing films of all time.
Andrews is celebrated for her pristine vocal clarity, precise intonation, and ability to convey warmth and sincerity through song. Her influence extends across Broadway, film, and television, inspiring generations of performers with her grace and professionalism.
Julie Andrews is classified as a soprano with exceptional clarity and purity of tone, particularly known for her brilliant upper register, precise vocal control, and distinctive "bell-like" quality. Her classical training at a young age gave her remarkable breath control and diction, allowing her to execute complex musical passages with apparent ease while maintaining emotional authenticity in every performance.
Jonas Kaufmann
The German opera singer Jonas Kaufmann is one of the most impressive male voices.
Jonas Kaufmann is a tenor, technically speaking. However, his voice has many nuances, and his 2-octave vocal range (C2-B4) also covers a large part of a baritone while also being able to hit those high notes. While he's a natural tenor, he's also so much more.
Jonas Kaufmann sings high C's in La Boheme. Some of his standout roles include Don José in Carmen, Don Alvaro in La Forza del Destino, Siegmund in Die Walküre, Cavaradossi in Tosca, Maurizio in Adriana Lecouvreur, and the title roles in Werther, Parsifal, Don Carlos, and Lohengrin.
Find out how to hit the higher notes
Rachelle Ferell
Rachelle Stephanie Ferrell is an American singer and musician. Although she has had some success in the R&B, pop, gospel and classical scenes, she is best known for her contemporary jazz singing.
Ferrell began singing at six and has developed a six-octave range by the time she is an adult. She is also able to sing in the whistling range.
Steve Perry
Steve Perry is renowned for his impressive vocal range, spanning nearly three octaves (B2-B5), which allows him to move between rich low tones and soaring high notes effortlessly.
Beyond his technical skills, Perry’s songwriting and distinctive voice helped Journey achieve international fame, with many of their songs becoming anthems of the rock genre. Even decades after his peak, his influence remains strong, and his voice continues to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
Elvis
Elvis Presley was an American singer known as the "King of Rock and Roll," whose rich baritone voice and charismatic delivery transformed popular music. With a vocal range spanning approximately three octaves, from E2 to C6, he effortlessly moved between genres, including rock, gospel, blues, and ballads, showcasing remarkable versatility and emotional expression.
He rose to prominence in the mid-1950s, revolutionising music with his unique blend of rhythm and blues, country, and pop. Elvis is celebrated for his warm, resonant tone, distinctive vibrato, and ability to convey both raw power and tender vulnerability. His influence on rock and roll, gospel music, and popular culture remains unmatched.
Elvis Presley is classified as a baritone with exceptional range and flexibility, particularly known for his rich lower register, smooth midrange, and surprising ability to access high tenor notes. His vocal style combined technical control with instinctive musicality, allowing him to deliver everything from explosive rock performances to deeply emotional gospel renditions with equal authenticity and impact.
Laura Branigan
Laura Branigan was an American singer and songwriter known for her powerful vocals and her hit songs in the 1980s. She was born on July 3, 1952, in Brewster, New York, and began her musical career in the 1970s, primarily as a session singer and backing vocalist for various artists. Branigan's breakthrough came in 1982 with the release of her debut single "Gloria," which became an international hit.
Laura Branigan's voice extends over four octaves and her music blended pop, rock, and dance elements, often incorporating synthesizers and catchy melodies. Her songs were known for their energetic and memorable hooks, contributing to their commercial success. Branigan also gained popularity internationally, particularly in Europe, where she achieved numerous chart successes.
Christina Aguilera
With a range of four octaves, Christina Aguilera never ceases to amaze. Renowned for her powerful voice and vocal range, she's made a significant impact on pop and R&B music of the 90s with her soulful performances and ability to seamlessly transition between genres.
While famous for her hits, we tend to forget how powerful and incredible her voice which more than earns her a place on this humble list.
Unlock your hidden potential with the help of a voice coach here on Superprof.
Annie Haslam
Annie Haslam is an English singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the progressive rock band Renaissance. She was born on June 8, 1947, in Bolton, Lancashire, England. Haslam's career in music began in the late 1960s when she joined the band "The Dowling Poole" and subsequently worked with various groups and artists, including Mike d'Abo and David Byron.
Haslam's soaring and ethereal vocals, which extend over five octaves, often accompanied by orchestral arrangements, became one of the trademarks of Renaissance's music. Annie Haslam's contributions to the progressive rock genre, particularly with Renaissance, have made her a respected figure among fans of the genre. Her distinctive voice and emotional delivery have garnered praise and recognition throughout her career.
Steven Tyler
Steven Tyler, often referred to as the "Demon of Screaming," is the dynamic frontman of the legendary rock band Aerosmith.
Known for his distinctive high-pitched screams and gritty vocal delivery, Tyler's vocal range spans an impressive D2 to E6. Tyler's signature sound has been a driving force behind Aerosmith's enduring success, with timeless hits like "Dream On," "Sweet Emotion," and "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing." For aspiring vocalists on the south coast, singing lessons Brighton can help build safe technique for powerful high notes.
His ability to maintain vocal control while performing energetic stage shows has cemented his status as one of rock's most iconic voices. With a career spanning over five decades, Tyler's contributions to rock music remain unparalleled, showcasing his unique blend of bluesy rock with a distinctive vocal flair
Prince
Prince is another singer whose voice spans more than four octaves. His voice and tessitura overlapped with female voices, but Prince's voice was exceptionally high and flexible simultaneously.
Of course, Prince was more than just an incredible singer who could play various musical instruments and wrote an impressive amount of excellent music.
Dimash Qudaibergen
This artist from Kazakhstan is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. He has a university degree in both modern and classical music. He became known through the Chinese competition programme Singer 2017, where he finished second. His popularity is partly due to his wide vocal range, which spans 6 octaves (A1-D8). Despite being offered a place at the Astana Opera, he focused on modern music instead.
Check out our tips for singing high notes.
Maria Callas
Maria Callas was a singer whose vocal range spanned three octaves. As a dramatic soprano,her perfect high notes served her well. She started her career aged 17, singing in a deep, mixed, and high register, the one we're focusing on today. This allowed Maria Callas to sing almost anything, and her voice was compared to the cello, violin, and flute. Her voice was exceptional.
Axl Rose
If one person breaks the mould, it must be Axl Rose. The lead singer of the American rock group Guns N' Roses, Axl Rose, has a vocal range of five and a half octaves. This allows him to sing as high as many female singers and as low as most male singers.
This range allowed Axl Rose to play an essential role in his music. If you're looking for singing inspiration, look no further than Axl Rose.
Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan is an American singer-songwriter whose unconventional voice and profound lyricism revolutionised popular music. While his vocal range is modest compared to technically trained singers, spanning approximately two octaves, Dylan's impact lies not in technical prowess but in his distinctive delivery, phrasing, and ability to convey raw emotion and social commentary through song.
He rose to prominence in the 1960s as the voice of a generation, blending folk, rock, and blues while addressing civil rights, war, and the human condition. Dylan is celebrated for his nasally, weathered vocal quality, conversational phrasing, and willingness to prioritise authenticity over polish.
He won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016, recognising his profound influence on culture and his creation of "new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition." Bob Dylan is classified as a baritone with a highly distinctive, gravelly quality that has evolved significantly throughout his six-decade career, proving that vocal greatness isn't measured solely by range or technique, but by the power to move, inspire, and provoke thought through song.
Mike Patton
Mike Patton is an American musician and songwriter from the United States. He is best known as the lead singer of the band Faith No More since 1988, but he has also been the lead singer for bands such as Mr Bungle, Tomahawk and Fantômas. Patton's signature is his experimental nature and advanced vocal technique. Patton is stated to have a vocal range of six octaves.
Céline Dion
With a range of four octaves, Céline Dion made herself known as one of the world's greatest singers. Sometimes nasal, sometimes stunning, this superstar singer will always hit the high notes whether she's singing in French or English! Céline is credited for introducing French-language music to many people worldwide, and her cultural impact has earned her musical and political accolades in Canada and worldwide.
Find singing classes London here on Superprof.
Sia
Sia Furler is an Australian singer-songwriter known for her distinctively powerful and emotionally raw vocal style. With a vocal range spanning approximately three and a half octaves, she combines technical prowess with unfiltered emotional expression, creating intense and cathartic performances that have made her one of pop music's most distinctive voices.
She gained international recognition with hits like "Chandelier," where her soaring, urgent vocal delivery became iconic. Sia is celebrated for her ability to belt with extraordinary power and sustain, often employing a throaty, almost shouted quality that conveys vulnerability and strength simultaneously. Her unconventional approach to pop vocals—favouring raw emotion over polish—has influenced a generation of singers and redefined what mainstream pop singing can sound like.
Tina Turner
Rock singer Tina Turner broke through as a solo artist in the 80s with hits like "What's Love Got to Do with It". Tina Turner is one of the biggest stars in rock history. She has been internationally loved and recognised for decades with smash hits like The Best, What's Love Got to Do with It and the Bond theme song Goldeneye.
Tina Turner's exceptional control allows her to create varying sounds and tones, giving her great versatility that will enable her to adapt to many different musical genres. Her unique technique ultimately led to her singing well into her seventies.
Tina Turner exhibits comfort with second-octave notes, which she reaches seemingly effortlessly.
Bobby Hatfield
Bobby Hatfield, best known as one half of The Righteous Brothers, possessed a remarkable tenor voice that was both soulful and powerful, complementing the duo's signature blend of blue-eyed soul and classic pop ballads.
The Righteous Brothers continued their rise to fame despite what appeared to be a setback in their career when they left their role as support act on the Beatles' US tour in August 1964 after finding it impossible to perform in the face of screaming Beatles fans. They immediately returned to Los Angeles to become regulars on the TV show Shindig! They built up a solid reputation for their frenetic rock'n'roll acts. If you're based in North Yorkshire, singing lessons York can help you develop stamina and technique for demanding live performances.
Pat Benatar
Pat Benatar is renowned not only for her commanding stage presence but also for her remarkable vocal range, spanning approximately 4.5 octaves from E3 to G#7. Classified as a mezzo-soprano, Benatar combines rock grit with soaring high notes, giving her the ability to deliver both raw power and delicate nuance in her performances.
Her hits like Love Is a Battlefield and Hit Me with Your Best Shot showcase her dynamic control, effortless transitions between chest and head voice, and occasional ventures into whistle tones. Beyond her technical skill, Benatar’s voice has a distinctive clarity and emotional intensity that has earned her four Grammy Awards, cementing her status as one of rock’s most versatile and influential vocalists.
Benatar’s range and expressive style make her a prime example of how rock singers can push traditional mezzo-soprano boundaries, blending power, agility, and artistry across nearly five octaves.
Josh Groban
Josh Groban is an American singer known for his rich baritone voice and ability to bridge classical and contemporary pop music. With a vocal range spanning approximately three octaves, he combines operatic technique with accessible pop sensibilities, creating a distinctive sound that has made him one of the best-selling artists in the classical crossover genre.
He rose to prominence in the early 2000s with his self-titled debut album and cemented his status with multi-platinum releases featuring powerful ballads sung in multiple languages. Groban is celebrated for his warm, resonant tone, impeccable breath control, and ability to convey deep emotion through song.
His influence extends across concert halls, Broadway (where he starred in Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812), and popular music, making classical vocal technique accessible to mainstream audiences. Josh Groban is classified as a lyric baritone with a remarkably warm and resonant quality, particularly known for his powerful lower register, smooth midrange, and ability to access tenor-range notes in his upper register.
Who Are Your Favorite Singers?
As you'll have understood, the captivating world of music is filled with awe-inspiring vocalists who effortlessly showcase their highest singing voices. Their extraordinary talents have set the benchmark high for future generations, proving that the human voice knows no bounds when achieving the seemingly impossible. Celebrating these exceptional artists reminds us of the immense power and beauty of the human voice and its capacity to transcend limits and touch our souls.
👇Who are your favourite singers? Which would you have included on this list? Let us know in the comments below!
In your opinion, who is the best singer of all time? 🎤
If you want to learn more about singing, expanding your vocal range, or music theory, consider contacting one of the many talented and experienced private singing tutors on the Superprof website.
For those seeking focused, personalised guidance, singing lessons in Leeds offer specialised instruction.
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Inaccurate without Minnie Riperton the originator of the whistle note
Marvin Lee Aday had a 3.5 octave vocal range. That’s Meatloaf if anyone was wondering x
Please tell me you had a complete mind blank when you neglected to mention the fabulous LP who boasts an impressive 5 octaves. She is also the greatest whistler you have ever heard.
Absolutely love LP, fab voice and so talented
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith can reach 4! Not even on the list.
Agree! Love LP!!!
Hey Deborah! Thanks for your feedback, agreed that LP is a fab singer!
Ami me impresionó Tina Turner, lo oímos cantar en un concierto, una voz muy fina pero muy potente que nos dejó boca abiertos . Resultado se nos hizo hasta elegante y muy limpia voz.
¡Qué bonito recuerdo compartes! Tina Turner realmente tenía una voz única: poderosa, elegante y llena de emoción. Es impresionante cómo lograba transmitir tanto con su interpretación, y no es de extrañar que te haya dejado tan impactado. ¡Un verdadero icono de la música!
I agree! LP’s vocals are mindblowing. I saw her last month in LA, performing at
a fundraising event. She did a cover of Neil Young’s Harvest Moon followed by Led Zeppelin’s Rock and Rock. Now these songs are pretty far apart on the spectrum . She sang Harvest Moon first and had the audience dreamily swaying along almost as if being sung a lullaby. But damn then she absolutely hit with Rock and Rock, very reminiscent of the Bardot nights. The audience was left stunned with one screaming “What the fuck was that!??” as LP nonchalantly walked off the stage. LP is a force.
Thanks so much for sharing this — what an amazing experience! That contrast between the two songs really shows how powerful and versatile LP is as a performer. She has such a way of pulling an audience in and then completely blowing them away. Definitely a force live!
Yes ma’am
Rob Halford of Judas Priest has the most impressive vocal range . He blows anyone on this list away
No doubt Rob Halford (the Metal god himself) would blow any on this very bias list out of the water, and he’s far and away a better entertainer than anyone on this list . Best frontman id ever had seen grace the stage,and have seen dozens of shows over the years. No over the top theatrical antics, flailing about, with back up singers and dancer to distract or redirect the audience/crowd away from his unmatched performances, while showcasing how great of a band (in any any genre) Judas Priest truly was and is in 40+ years.they’ve been playing recording and touring w/ 60+ million albums sold. For whatever reason JD and Rob were downplayed overlooked and not given the level of greatness deserved. And if the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame had it all to say, all over again they wouldn’t be in the Hall of Fame. Metal bands in general, just isn’t their “cup of tea”. A very biased and farce of an organization.. But sometimes a powerful force Will Not be denied. They should have inducted into the RnR H of Fame, at least a decade ago, w/ a special category for lead singer frontman/showman set aside for the Incomparable Mr.Rob Halford.
Amen to both comments! Rob was the first one that came to my mind, along with Geoff Tate of Queensryche. Heck, even Bruce Dickinson has a regular range of four octaves (he can stretch further but it would break his voice) and yet isn’t listed with the others here with the same range. Metal has a lot of men and women with massive ranges (Tarja, Marc Storace, Michael Sweet, The Three Tremors, et al) but as noted are pretty much ignored. I guess the list maker(s) figured Axel Rose was enough for hard rock, lol.
How about the great Johnny Mathis? You forgot him in your list as he deserves to be in it! Thank you!
Agreed that Johnny deserves to be on the list! We’ll add him to our list for when we update the article. Thanks for your input!
What about Steve Perry, Peter Cetera, Russell Thompkins, the late Billy Wilder the late Eddie Kendricks and the late George Michael all had extraordinary range and falsetto.
Thank you for mentioning these incredible artists! 😊 Steve Perry, Peter Cetera, Russell Thompkins, Eddie Kendricks, and George Michael each had remarkable vocal ranges and unforgettable falsettos that made their music timeless. They’re fantastic additions to any list of legendary vocalists with impressive vocal abilities. 🎤🌟 We will be sure to add them in the next edition.
Angela Winbush should be on the list!
How about the great Johnny Mathis? You forgot him in your list as he deserves to be in it! Thank you!
what about the beautiful Selena Quintanilla she had a very nice voice but her career was cut short
Hello! That’s a good shout – Selena Quintanilla would make a great addition to this list! Thanks for sharing :)
Omitted from this list are the following singers, all in the 4 octave range:
Philip Bailey – lead singer of Earth, Wind, and Fire
Minnie Ripperton
Chante’ Moore: Listen to her on YouTube perform “It’s Alright” live in2022
El DeBarge formerly from the group DeBarge now , solo.
You missed the four-octave range singer,
Ima Sumac.
Thank you for your tip!
Very informative post, but I think Opera singers should not be in this list, it’s unfair to others.
What about Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees, Janis Ian and Billy Joel?
I agree with you a hundred%! They also missed Roy Orbison
David Phelps.Unbelievable.He’s a Christian singer but no one can touch his range.
Hi Pat! Thanks for your input! Absolutely — David Phelps is incredible. His range and control are unreal, and he makes those soaring high notes sound effortless. A truly outstanding vocalist, whatever the genre.
Minnie Riperton should be on the list…
Love your response because it’s so true!!
5.1 range Tina Turner
How on God’s green earth could you geniuses omit, the Divine One. Sassy Sarah Vaughan? As many have remarked Sarah could have sang opera. Her omission is criminal!
Music is everything to me thanks for share with us food for our brains 💚🥰🙏
Very true.. Reliable
Did I miss anyone mentioning David Draiman?
Tina Turner’s vocal range is F2-F6 and not F#5 . and Prince is baritone and nit Tenor
Thanks for the correction! Vocal range classifications can vary slightly depending on the source, performance, and vocal technique, but you’re absolutely right—accuracy is important. We’ll double-check and update where needed. Appreciate you taking the time to point that out!
Shouldn’t Pat Benatar be somewhere on this list?
I was so surprised that Axl Rose had the highest octave!! Really good & informational post..thanks for researching these for us. Well 👍
I loved this ,
Thank you
do you remember Minnie Riperton?
I may have misspelled it she also had a controlled scream.
That is what I called Mariah Careys high notes,
Amazing
The other voice I loved is Gino Vanelli
How about Tony Bennet, I heard him with the London Philharmonic orchestra 1969 and sang a high D in natural voice
Sincerely
Paul Sorbello
Thank you for this! I’ve updated the article now :)
Hi..Where does Demi Lovato place on this list.?
What about Morton Harkett of AHA
I think you’re missing Cleo Laine
Good spot—thank you for mentioning Cleo Laine! 🎶 She’s definitely known for her incredible vocal range and deserves recognition. We’ll look at updating the article to include her among the singers with the highest notes.
can it be free
Michael Jackson????
Nice information but when you said, Celine dion imposed herself as one of the worlds greatest singer ,what are you trying to mean underlined word is imposed
Diamanda Galas can reach 8 octaves they say but she’s not counting!
Please check out Morrisette
Obviously Rachelle Ferrell has been overlooked.
Thanks for letting me know! It’s updated now :)
This is a great list! But there are quite a few incredible vocalists missing who are all from the Metal genre and definitely deserve to be named.
• The late great PETER STEELE of Type O Negative – 4 OCTAVES, 2 NOTES (EB1 TO F # 5)
* Phil Anselmo of Pantera – (F#1 to Bb5) which is 4 octaves 3 notes.
• DEVIN TOWNSEND – 4 OCTAVES, 5 AND ½ NOTES (C2 TO BB6)
• The amazing late Layne Staley of Alice in Chains – 5 octaves 1 note (G1 to A6)
• RODY WALKER (Protest the Hero) 5 OCTAVES, 2 NOTES (G1 TO B6)
• DAVID LEE ROTH – 5 OCTAVES, 3 NOTES (E1 TO A6)
• COREY TAYLOR (Slipknot/Stone Sour) 5 OCTAVES 5 AND ½ NOTES (EB1 TO C7)
Omg yes!!! Peter Steele!!! RIP!!! How does King Diamond score?
Also Eric Adams, from Manowar.
From G1 to C6.
Countertenor Bobby Hatfield of Righteous Brothers fame should have been included in this list. His rendition of “Unchained Melody” (live at the Andy Williams Show 1965) is but one of his his pitch-perfect renditions. His vocal range was B2-E b-flat.
This man sang without all the technological gadgets used today to make a singer sound better (e.g. auto tune). It would be a great injustice to compare modern singers whose voices are aided by modern technology with those before them who had to rely on their little microphone, their talent and skill
I’ve added him to the list :) Thank you for reminding me!
Your article on Bobby misses the mark completely. You talk about the group history and say nothing about his vocal abilities. How is he a 3 octave range?
Very well said. Nothing else needs to be added or taken away from what you said right there.
I’m impressed
Grimes can hit 6 octaves in whistle range
Don’t forget Adam Lambert!
He is now added :)
Adam Lambert’s Vocal Range: E2 – B5 = 3 octaves and 4 notes – full and mixed voice!!!
Rachelle Ferrell has an amazing vocal range as well. Her range is 6 octaves.
Morten Harket?
Agreed. Morten apparently has a 5 octave range
I came here to include Morten Harket. Will he be included? His range is incredible.
Hi there, thanks a lot for your input! We’ll add this to our list for when the article will be updated in the near future. Thanks again :)
I think rihanna should have been on here
Added her in there :)
Mike Patton???
He’s included now! Thanks for the reminder!! :)
where is Tina Turner?
Switzerland
She’s added now! :D
And DENISE WILLIAMS??? COME ON PEOPLE…
Steve Perry
Ummmm Steve Perry??????
Barbra Streisland should be on this list. I don’t know her range but for sure 3 and probably 4. She said she never warms up, she just goes to her concert and sings. Pure natural talent.
Hi Laura! Thanks for your point, we’ll definitely look into adding Barbara streisand to this list!
Tim Foust of Home Free has a 5 Octave range & absolutely should be on this list.
Let’s not forget Geoff Ccastellucci , either.
Yesssss! Geoff is the BEST
Thanks for this informative story.
Very impressive collection of singers with records of high range octaves! What is vocal range for Andrea Bocelli?
Hi Kathleen! You’re absolutely right, Andrea Bocelli is an incredibly talented vocalist. While his vocal abilities are highly impressive, his recognised vocal range typically spans approximately two octaves, covering around 24 notes. This range, which is common for a tenor voice, typically extends from approximately C3 to C5.
Meat Loaf had a very impressive 3.5 octave range.
Thank you for your comment! Meat Loaf was indeed a remarkable vocalist known for his powerful and dynamic performances.
How about Tim Buckley
I am curious as to how many octaves LP (Laura Pergolizzi) sings in?
LP (Laura Pergolizzi) has a captivating vocal style. While specific details about her range may vary, it’s generally recognised that she possesses an impressive vocal range spanning approximately three octaves.
Hey, I think LP’s vocal range is like 3 octaves and 6 semitones. So B2- F6. LP sings the F6 in “When We Touch”, even live! Sometimes LP “only” hits an E6. Yes, and in “When We’re High” LP sings an Eb6, but live mostly a D6.
Live, they usually sings a C3 as their lowest note. But LP can go lower. Because when LP speaks, their frequency is D3/E3.
Freddy Mercury? Bass low F to Soprano high F
He’s included :D
He had such a beautiful voice.
Christian artist Sandi Patti wasn’t mentioned but sings very high also. What’s her octave range?
Thank you for bringing up Sandi Patti! She is indeed a talented artist known for her remarkable vocal abilities. While specific details about her octave range may vary, it is widely recognised that she possesses an impressive vocal range, particularly in the higher registers.
When Sandi Patty was younger, she was reported to have a range of 4 octaves.I think now, she says the very high notes are a bit tougher.
Sandi Patty is phenomenal!! Her 1986 rendition of The Star Spangled Banner is jaw dropping! I’ve never heard anyone hit the high notes she hit at the end of that song! So very impressive. No wonder she is called The Voice! She has been my favorite singer for years!
How about Julie Andrews?
How about Elvis Presley nobody can sing How Great Thou Art like Elvis I think he had four or five octaves
Thanks for getting in touch! Agree that it’s a great idea to add Elvis! We’ve added this to our list for when we update the article.
Have you ever listen to Unforgettable Day by Dimash Qudaibergen at a live show in 2017? he even got to D8
Hi! No, I’ve missed that one. Thank you for sharing! I will listen to it. His tonal shifts give me goosebumps :)
Please add Geoff Tate of the overly underrated Seattle, Wash. Metal band Queensryche. In his youth was singing, then later in his reens was trained in the operatic discipline, ultimately singing in the 4 to 5 octave range. Check out, take a listen to Queenryche’s music to realize Geoff Tate deserves to be on these lists, but for the most part has been overlooked, the stigma of being an American metal singer. Just give him a chance and listen to a few of Queenryche’s songs : “Take Hold of the Flame” early live in Japan version, or “Eyes of a Stranger” “The Lady Wore Black”, “I Don’t Believe in Love” from what many consider one of the greatest rock albums , with a storyline ever recorded, Operation Mindcrime. “Silent Lucidity”, “Empire”, “Walk the Thin Line”, “Jet City Woman” from Empire, or songs from their Promised Land album, “I Am I” ” The Bridge” and others. They have a vast catalog of music with Geoff Tate as their singer. Very underrated band and lead singer. Check em out, if you never had the chance. You’ll possibly understand why I made this comment/post
Thanks for sharing! Geoff Tate’s voice in Queensrÿche is seriously something else. “Operation: Mindcrime” and “Empire” are like his greatest hits, right? I totally agree with your take. If you have more music recommendations or insights, feel free to share. Always open to discovering new tunes! 🤘🎶
Another wonderful rock voice is Bruce Dickinson (lead singer of Iron Maiden). He has a 4.5 octave range.
I was wondering when I would get to see someone bring Queensryche lead singer to this list.👍
I randomly met Tate’s mother a couple years ago. He is actually from Lakewood, WA and his mother was working in the local Visitor’s center and we struck up a conversation when I stopped by one day. She mentioned her son played in a band and I was shocked at who it was when I asked which one. (Apparently his parents didn’t think he’d ever get anywhere with a band…) Had no idea he was from our town let alone his mom working in the local visitor’s office…
There is so much to singing and being on point,I have wondered what these beautiful people have to produce their talent.Much respect.
Did you seriously leave Whitney Houston off this list? That’s just criminal.
Our bad! We can’t believe we overlooked the amazing Whitney Houston in our list. We’ve just included her in the article to give her the credit she deserves for her incredible vocal range. Cheers for helping us make the article even better!
How about Cleo Laine? You forgot her, too passe?
I had not heard of her before. Thank you for bringing her up. Though her natural range is that of a contralto, she is able to produce a G above high C, giving her an overall compass of well over three octaves.
The 3 best voices in the history of Rock with incredible ranges include Jay Black of Jay & the Americans, Freddie Mercury of Queen and Frankie Valli of the 4 Seasons. This list is a joke without them.
Freddie Mercury is on the list, with a voice range of an impressive 4 octaves. It’s getting tight on the list so both Frankie Valli and Jay Black with their 3 octaves (even though it’s impressive) will have to make room for others in this list :) Thank you for bringing them up!
What about Kate Bush ? , sublime , ethereal, gymnastic voice, she could sing almost anything.Amazing control. Haunting
Thank you for the reminder! Her expressive four-octave soprano voice is is worth mentioning!
What about Jeanette McDonald?
I agree that Jeanette was a very talented singer! She’s a soprano, with a wide vocal range, E above high C, close to 3 octaves.
Hard to take this list seriously while it omits Annie Haslam of Renaissance, whose confirmed range (i.e. on recordings) was E3 to G6.
Does everything need to be serious? ;) No, but seriously, a vocal rage of over 5 octaves is really worth mentioning. I’ll include her in the article. Thanks for pointing this out! :D
I would include in this list Mitch Grassi from Pentatonix I. have read that he is a natural contra-tenor which is very rare. About 4 years ago he had a 6 octave range which maybe more now. Might be worth checking out.
Absolutely! Mitch Grassi from Pentatonix is a remarkable vocalist who deserves to be recognised thanks for bringing him up!
Mitch Grassi should be on the top of the list…versatility, speaks from and to the heart, and always perfection
You’ve made a strong case there! Mitch Grassi is incredibly versatile — from classical crossover to pop — and his vocal control and emotional delivery are undeniable. Lists like this are always subjective, so it’s great to hear which artist resonates most with you. Thanks for sharing your perspective!
How do you leave Freddie Mercury off of a list like this?!
You’re absolutely right, we’ve added him to the top of the list – which has become a team effort:)
Laura branigan. Cristina Ramos
Thank you!
Where’s Whitney Houston on this list
Hey Charlene, she’s on there!
Vitas
Thank you! I will include him! 7 octaves is certainly impressive!
Ville Valo is clearly missing from this list.
He’s mentioned in the chart :)
How about Robert plant . What’s his range .
Hey Teodora! Robert Plant has an impressive vocal range that covers about 3 to 4 octaves. He can hit low notes around C2 and soar up to high notes like E6.
How could you leave out Pat Benatar? She has a 4.5 almost 5 octave range with a very strong higher pitch.
Have you heard of David Phelps, Christian artist?
Hi! Yes, he har a voice register from E2 – D5 (2.8 octaves)
And David is the best of them all!
What about Elvis? How many octaves did he have?
Elvis Presley was a baritone whose voice had an extraordinary compass — the so-called register — and a very wide range of vocal colour. It covered two octaves and a third, from the baritone low-G to the tenor high B, with an upward extension in falsetto to at least a D flat.
What about Patti LaBelle?
What about Barbra Streisand in her prime?
Barbra Streisand has a vocal range which extends from D3 to A5 (2.6 octaves)
Song with the LOWEST pitch:
No Matter What Happens (D3-G5)
Song with the HIGHEST pitch:
I Finally Found Someone (Bb3-A5)
Chante Moore’s vocal range is from Bb2-F7 which is a little under 5 octaves, not 8. Mariah Carey has 6 octaves(and a semitone) from F2-F#8.
Hi, thank you for bringing this up. Have you seen this video of Chanté Moore effortlessly go up to the 7th octave Whistle register?
https://www.tiktok.com/@vocalxsh0wcase/video/7202873606475353350
So she didn’t have 8 octaves range then? She just hit the 7th octave, and what’s her lowest note? -1 octave? To make it 8 octaves range?
Minnie Riperton is one of the baddest vocalist that walked on the planet EARTH ;
while dancing somewhere beyond
“ALL OF THE WORLDS “
with a voice; UNMATCHED•••
❣️😇❣️
I agree Maria Callas had an incredible voice followed by Barbra Streisand. The polls that state Aretha Franklin was the best must have never heard melodious voices. To my ears, Franklin screams.
Luther Vandross had an amazing voice as well. His live concerts were phenomenal. Miss him!
I agree! Luther Vandross vocal range is B1-F#5 (3 octaves 4 notes 1 semitone). Amazing singer and performer!!
Patti LaBelle (the god mother of soul) has a vocal range from B♭2 to F6, thats around 5 octaves! She should be included on this list! Great article though!
Correction* I don’t know much about music but I realized B♭2-F6 is not 5 octaves, it’s 3.5. But that’s just Patti’s singing range, she can reach the 7th-octave range with a whistle technique! And that is a big vocal range! At least above 4.3 octaves.
Thanks so much for sharing!
I completely agree:) cheers
Patti LaBelle has an amazing vocal range! B♭2-F6 is 3.5. But that’s just Patti’s singing range, she can reach the 7th-octave range with a whistle technique! That’s at least above 4.3 octaves of range.
Great article!!
If only they knew what Patti ‘s capable of!
How come Whitney isn’t in the final list?
It was just a mistake on my part. Thanks for pointing this out! Now she’s in it :)
Is this only for pop/rock singers ? The art song and opera singers typically do not count the whistle octave notes as these are produced with the bel canto sirena technique. When the voice comes up from the chest, they go over to the falsetto siren. This only rarely connects to jaw and mouth for enunciation. For example, Hayden never uses it. Puccini, maybe twice. For facility within extended range, Cecilia Bartoli gives concerts and has an album out with the pieces written for Farinelli. Really, you have to hear that to believe it. A human trumpet.
Thank you! This was more than I knew :) It sounds amazing! I will listen to it.
Ted Nelly hits a high G over C in Gethsemane in Jessus Christ Superstar, and still does
Ted Neeley is indeed a great talent! He sings in the register of F3 – D6 (2.8 octaves). Many people know and love him for his role in that movie.
Bobby DeBarge’s range was higher than his little brother’s (El), whom he mentored. El couldn’t touch Bobby’s voice. Bobby is singing like an ambulance on Queen of My Heart, helping the little siblings out, LOL He was a lead singer in Switch (I Call Your Name). He is clearly overlooked.
I am a operatic dramatic tenor, and I can say factually Luciano Pavarotti did not have three and a half octaves if he had two and a quarter octaves it was a lot without falsetto and certainly Jonas Kaufman doesn’t have 3.5 octaves Lucky if he has 2.3 to 2.4 do your research.
Frankie Valli
Remember Julie Andrews
Why does nobody remember Barbara Streisand?
My favorite singer is my earliest baby boy , David Neil Kinkead. Unlike most rock and roll artists, he has good morals is dedicated to the Lord Jesus and has an excellent vocabulary and writes his own lyrics and can mix and produce his own stuff. Didn’t know about the circle of fifths till it was nearly two late. Check him out on Google under David Neil Kinkead. Or on Amazon.
I can’t believe you’ve not mentioned Agnetta Faltzcogg or Anafridd Lyngstad. ( ABBA) !!!
Why is Rob Halford not on this list?
I saw a documentary about Freddie Mercury, He always thought his teeth were the reason he had such a range. He might’ve been wrong, according to a Dr who stated that there’s a part of our voice boxes that isn’t used for vocal sounds, well Freddie’s did!
Morten Harket of A-ha!
Chris Cornell !!!! WOW!!!!
Ann Wilson of Heart
Mick Hucknall – Simply Red
I think Serj tankian of System of a Down should have been on this list with a vocal range of 4.2 octaves and I believe his highest note is either a Gb6 or an Eb6
Roy Ornison
Roy Orbison – 4 octaves
Robin Gibb.
A great list for sure. I do believe Annie Haslam could hit 6.5 when required. I watched a British interview where when asked she did it and held it. I admire anyone who can sing on tune,has perfect pitch etc. I sound like a braying Donkey. My parents left me out as an older brother. I really don’t think I could play a none fretted instrument. My Grandson however if he hears it can play it in two minutes on piano. He has now graduated into professional music and theory.
TY
I am a classically trained singer and pianist. The octave ranges in this article are completely bogus! An 88-key piano has 7 octaves plus three lower notes (B, B flat and A) below the bottom C . Your article states that Chante Moore has an 8 octave range. Really? Chante has a range that encompasses more notes than the full keyboard of a piano? Ridiculous and humanly impossible. Also, some of your voice descriptions are completely off the mark. For example, to say that Mariah Carey is a lyric coloratura is laughable as well as an insult to bona-fide coloraturas that have trained for years perfecting that particular vocal virtuosity.
Do your homework before writing articles such as this one.
Thank you for your feedback! We’ve made corrections to the article based on your valuable input. Chante Moore’s vocal range has been updated, and we’ve rephrased Mariah Carey’s description.
We appreciate your commitment to accuracy in music, and we’ll ensure better research in the future. Your expertise is important to us!
Elvis Presley should be on your list of vocal range.
but even Elvis knew that Roy Orbison was the best singer in the world
If you read through the comments this was mentioned and she explained why he is not. While Elvis was an extraordinary talent and one of the greatest singers of all time, he had a fairly narrow vocal range of two octaves plus a third. He made very good use of this entire range though. Range has nothing to do with success . Not only is Elvis a great example of this, but Taylor Swift has an even narrower vocal range of only around 2 octaves.
If you read through the comments this was mentioned and she explained why he is not. While Elvis was an extraordinary talent and one of the greatest singers of all time, he had a fairly narrow vocal range of two octaves plus a third. He made very good use of this entire range though. Range has nothing to do with success . Not only is Elvis a great example of this, but Taylor Swift has an even narrower vocal range of only around 2 octaves.
Tarja Turunen, Floor Jansen, Tommy Johansson, and Yannis Papadopoulos
Randy Meisner
Yes, definitely. That F#5 in “Take It to the Limit” is ridiculous. Held it for 8 seconds with vibrato while playing his bass. He’s singing it in that heavenly band now but we have it preserved on record and video here forever.
Angela Winbush is worthy of this list also. I loved the info here. And Chanté Moore’s range is BANANAS!!!! Always loved her…
What about Streisand?
You missed Nicole Scherzinger , she has a range higher than Rihanna and others . Please check her out and update your list. Thanks
Corey Taylor, Floor Jansen, Bruce Dickinson, Ronnie James Dio, Dany Filth, Michael Kiske, Andre Matos, … a lot of metal singers has interesting range and impressive tecnique..
Do no David Bowie in the list with a range of: B1-Eb6
How about Lara Fabian?
Tim Foust from HOME FREE ~ From USA Vocal group acapella ~~~~~~ 1000%
Mitch Grassi &Scott Hoying ~ Pentatonix From USA Vocal group acapella ~~~~~~ 999%
Roy Orbison
Boom.
Rihanna doesnt belong anywhere near this list. The girl cant sing. Shes easily one of the least talented singers of her generation right next to selena gomez ( who also cant sing a lick).
I agree!
JC Chasez!
Lisa Fischer (Sung back~up for Luther Vandross, Toured with The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, Nine Inch Nails, etc), Teena Marie, Phyillis Hyman, and Stacy Francis (Of the Group, Ex~Girlfriend) should be on this list. Also, Aaliyah should be on this list, well ~Her rendition of the Isley Brothers song, At Your Best (You Are Love), she hits several high notes in the intro of the song , so effortlessly
two more for your list….Lata Mangeshkar (4 octaves) and Bjork (3.5)
T swift 😆 🤣 😂 THE WORST!
0 range 0 talent
Lisa Fischer can sing!
Joni Mitchell can sing like a bird
Maybe also for consideration…Nina Hagen and Dolores O’Riordan ?
I’m not a “music person” and have no idea how to calculate range, but I loved this article. Very educational and informative. And I could not be more pleased that Axl made the list. (And not at the bottom)! I always maintained how great of a singer I thought he was (back in the 90s when the haters would hate). So thank you for that. And I get to see him next week!!
Thanks so much! I’m glad you liked the article and appreciate Axl’s talent! Enjoy the concert next week – it’s going to be awesome! 🎤🎶🤘
No King Diamond on the list. Hmmm
Floor Jansen should be at the top of this list. It’s unfortunate that so-called music “scholars” have such limited knowledge.
Philip Bailey should be on that list
Your right Philip Bailey should be there
?
Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Holliday
Left field choice – Mickey Dolenz (Monkees)
Don’t forget Justin Hawkins of The Darkness! Pretty sure he can hit at least five rockin’ octaves.
I think Randy Meisner, the late bassist for the Eagles, should be included on this list. In his iconic performance of “Take It to the Limit” he hits a G# 5 for an instant and then the F# 5 which he holds for around 8 seconds with vibrato all while playing his bass. He was the high harmony singer for the band from 1971-77 and was also known for his vocal range. Not sure what the lowest notes were in his range but many have noted his range as impressive.
You sadly forgot Barbra Streisand. 🥲
Barbra ,is not in the list because she is the ultimate one.. No other singer on earth can duplicate her voice or singing ability ..She is the symbol of perfection .
Yay
She is in a category all her own??
Brent Smith and Sebastian Bach?
You forgot Geoff Tate, Don Dokken, Donna Summer and Bette Midler.
How about Geoff Tate, Don Dokken, Donna Summer, Bette Midler, Brent Smith and Sebastian Bach?
I’m not exactly sure where this woman would place on your chart but she definitely deserves an honorable mention somewhere. Lisa Fischer “GRAMMY AWARD WINNER” for How Can I Ease The Pain. There’s a must see live clip on YouTube with her in Japan. She’s a famous background singer and a principle in the “OSCAR WINNING DOCUMENTARY” 20 Feet from Stardom!!!!
Definitely, Lisa Fischer’s Grammy-winning voice is way too impressive to overlook! 🧡
Where is Michael Jackson? Have you heard All In Your Name with him and Barry Gibb? Thank you for including Adam Lambert, a true force of nature.
You have left out Mike Matijevic and John Bonjovi. Geoff Tate and Gary Cherone. All have magnificent voices and range,
Check it
If you are including Tim Foust what about Geoff Castelucci from Voiceplay
I would have included Steve Perry somewhere on the list.
Kelly Clarkson!
Myles Kennedy
Tim Storm
Roy Orbison and Dionne Warwick are two singers who seem to have exhibited extended ranges in their recorded work.
Nothing about Nina Hagen? No mention at all? Odd, most odd indeed.
Check out her album called Nunsexmonkrock.
ALL vocals are her.
1. Keke Wyatt ‘s range is out of this world.
2.Ledisi
3. Aretha Franklin
4. Marian Anderson
5. Tamela Mann
6. Jennifer Hudson
Maxwell is an artist with an incredible vocal range.
Major oversight. Peter Cetera of Chicago. His four octaves made Chicago the number one rock band of seventies. Hit after hit. “If You Leave Me Now” says it all.
Didn’t get recognition because band members hid behind the logo…..
I was surprised with some of the entries when compared with Pavarotti as an example. Who’d have thought Axl Rose would have got a 5.5 Ove
range.
This was a really interesting article. Thank you .
Where’s Dani Filth?
You missed Ms. Lisa Fisher ,one of the greatest R nab singers also famous to hit that whistle with very little effort.
I think Randy Meisner from eagles should be on this list, he hits Soprono C on the song Take it to the limit. His vocal range was amazing .
Mariah’s range is F#2-C8(F#8)
Lowest note being in a live performance of My all in 2014. Highest note in the studio recording of Can’t let Go. (C8) Her highest note overall is F#8 based on a video of her swimming with dolphins.
Geoff Ccastellucci world renowned acappella bass singer has a 5 octave 1 semitone range from A0-A#5 with a mind numbing chest range from F1-C5.
How in hell is Patti Labell Not in the top 5
Angela Winbush should be on the list!
Janis Joplin? 3 octaves but man could she belt them like no other!
Marilyn Mc Coo ( 3 octaves)
Chaka khan has a powerful voice they call her a mega powerhouse in music
I can’t believe you left Cyndi Lauper out. I believe she has 4 octaves. Just listen to her rendition of I’m Gonna Be Strong.
You’re right—Cyndi Lauper’s vocal range is impressive and often celebrated! Her rendition of “I’m Gonna Be Strong” showcases her incredible versatility and emotive power. She definitely deserves recognition for her remarkable range and vocal talent. Thanks for pointing that out!
Yes, exactly! Cyndi’s four octave range is impressive!
Awesome list!! I would add: Brendon Urie and Adam Lavigne!
Where’s Cyndi Lauper?!?? Doesn’t she have a 4 octave range?
I don’t understand why Jennifer Hudson ‘s name doesn’t appear on any of these list, especially one of the greatest singers!
KeKe Wyatt definitely is missing from this list 😡
What about Roy Orbison?
How did Robert Kelly not make this list? Dude has powerful high pitched vocals and can hold a solid high note without straining a long time-google him on the voice and also Pherrell and Maxwell have beautiful high ranges. Please do more research. Some of the pitch range numbers listed below vocalists are incorrect as well.
there is a you tube singer called dan vasc. You need to listen to this guy.Metal singer with a mix voice that is unbelievable
his version of nessun dorma is insane. You will be surely suprised
thakns for reading
Francien
jeff buckley?
Great list! What about Peter Cetera’s lead vocals on the song “Questions 67 and 68”, that he recorded with Chicago? Also, what about Jay Black’s lead vocals on the song “Cara Mia” that he recorded with Jay and the Americans? Jay passed away at the age of 82 in 2021. Jay was in his 20s when he recorded “Cara Mia”. Even in his later years he could still hit those high notes. Thank you.
Hey Barbara, Thanks a lot for the positive feedback and great points to add!
You make no distinction between falsetto and singing with whistle register and true head voice. Almost all of the highest voices you mention are using one of the former. Any man with good falsetto will have a wider range than a woman. Also, where is Mado Robin in your list?!
Barbra Streisand has the most powerful voice I have ever heard and give me chills when she sings. Sorry but she is the best singer ever.
❤️❤️YESS I SO AGREE WITH U PLUS I AM A SINGER N WENT TO THE SAME SCHOOL BS. Went to n Trained by her teachers at Erasmus hall music and not in Brooklyn and I went 15 years after her did a dedication video to her as she responded 1979. She is one of the best and still alive and still doing concerts in her backyard $5000 a ticket. Love her and she married my future husband, James Brolin so I have a little bone to pick with her but he’s older now don’t want him lol but yes this list is all off all off first time I’ve seen this and love your response 👍🏾👍🏾🌎🙏🏾🎵❤️❤️❤️
Glen campbell had a 5 octave range
Where’s Milijenko Metijavic from the group Steelheart? That guy has to be on this list with 3.5 as well.
Many wonderful singers on your list.
A voice that many have seem to have forgotten
That was AMAZING 🤩
Was the late Karen Carpenter
I wish she was on your list as well.
Her voice was just perfect.
What about Mitch Grassi and Kirstie Maldonado they also hit higher notes than some of them.
How do you have Tina turner Chanté Moore and Denise Williams in a four octave range when clearly Shante and Denise Williams hit coloratura that’s the highest soprano notes Tina Turner is not up there Rochelle Pharrell has those high notes, but she also goes down to a low base vocal range This scale of Sing is a widely off. I don’t see Kathleen battle on here at all and a lot of the opera singers. Y’all need to do a fat check and Aretha Franklin does not have the best voice Keke Wyatt listen to her she’s amazing Ella Fitzgerald does not have the prettiest voice one of the most strategic intricate vocals all time And Erykah Badu is another one that I did not see you need to consult me. I am a professional, singer and pianist and music teacher and I didn’t see Melba Moore as well and when you say range you have to go from the lowest note to the highest note, that will determine the octave . 🎵🎵👀👀👀👀❤️❤️🌎
weird that you forgot kesha
Merry Clayton, Carolyn Dennis—side note: saw kd lang once, she didn’t hit a wrong note. Such control, phrasing, dynamics.
Where is Steve Perry?
Another great addition!
There is a Chinese singer who is a born pitch-perfect professionally trained counter-tenor.
His name is (Charlie) Zhou Shen. He has a 3+ octave range. He has a crystal clear voice that can be dreamy and soft, or powerful and strong. Though he is a pop singer, he makes liberal use of his opera voice.
There’s lots of videos of him on YouTube. A good demonstration of his voice is “Star Fish”
Sohyang, She has been dubbed by some journalists in the international media as the “Korean Mariah Carey”. No joke.
Search for her gospel version of S&G’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” it will knock your socks off and part your hair.
Roth – 5 octaves + 3 notes
Axel Rose can only sing like that with the aid of electronic effects. He is a SHAM!
Very informative article. Thank you
Thanks for the feedback! :)
I totally agree with your list of voices, but the only 2 that were left off and I think are worthy of mentioning are 1)Keke Wyatt and 2) Michele’. Check out their ranges I’m sure you will be a believer. Thanks for the great work. 👍
Janet
How is Kelly Clarkson not on here?
You guys left out Mariah Carey..
I’m a boomer and had an operation in ’95 lost my very powerful falsetto and upper register which before operation was Db.
I refused to be limited and sang along with backing tracks everyday and joined bands that did STONES, BOWIE, MORRISON THAT range. Took 23 years to get back and finally got my full God given range back. It’s like Christmas and now I can do Zep, journey, GNR, SCORPION, QUEEN. 2 THINGS not to be a jerk.
Axel Rose was unique but a screamer. To say 5.5 octave is a way to surely blow your voice. Example Tyler, JOHNSON, Sebastian, and yes Elvis in beginning was singing way out of his register. Lastly all your teachers are young, I think it takes a lifetime to get it done for our liking.
I took lessons from top coach in Hollywood and he couldn’t help me. He trained M Jackson and Johnny Mathis etc
This was so interesting.. I am telling my son in law.. As we missed vinyl record day yest 20th april
I think you forgot the most powerful high voice. The King of pop Michael Jackson
Yeah where is Michael Jackson, also it could be nice to add Sertap Erener from Turkey, She is internationally known, 5 Octaves.
Very informative. Thanks.
Fka Twigs
Sharon den Adel from Within Temptation.
Why does this survey not include Barbra Streisand ???
Where is Morten Harket?
Donna Summer
Don’t forget yannis papadopoulis of Beast in Black. He can sing five octaves and his range is A1 to Eflat 6.
A SEVERELY underrated singer with an exceptional vocal range is Mijenko Matijevic of Steelheart at nearly 4 octaves (C2 to G#6). Would love to see him added to the list! :)
Thanks for getting in touch Cody! Agree that Mijenko Matijevic would make a good addition ! We’ve added this to our list for when we update the article.
Phillip Bailey Earth Wind & Fire
Mitch Grassi (Pentatonix) 6 octives and 1 tone.
You have little knowledge of musical performers! Sorry but Beth Hart who hits notes no one else can and does 4 octaves ought to be at the top of this list. She his F5 and lots of other ranges noone else can. You must be so into pop Hollywood made stars you have no idea who is the best! Her Bravado is only matched by Freddie Mercury.. You know nothing ..Sorry! But you do not.
Many singers, including men can hit F5 and higher in their mixed voice.
Good point, thank you Felix!
Yall forgot Japanese utaite ado, born in 2002
Thanks for getting in touch! Great idea to add Utaite Udo! We’ve added this to our list for when we update the article.
they have Minnie in the 4 octave range. Maybe that is why people
What happened to Teena Marie!!!???….smh? Wowwwww?!?!
Tommy Johansson from Majestica and Sabaton/ F2-C6 (3 octaves 6 semitones)
Where’s Ado? Where is she?
Thanks for getting in touch! Great idea to add Ado! We’ve added this to our list for when we update the article.
No Mention of Barbra Streisand?
High notes, numerous octaves , holding long notes for 23 stanzas. EGOT. Only 19 performers ever achieved that honor.
Thanks for getting in touch! Great idea to add Barbara! We’ve added this to our list for when we update the article :)
Where’s Steve Perry on your list??!
Kelly Clarkson? Jennifer Hudson? Aretha Franklin? Barbra Streisand? George Michael? Michael Jackson? Josh Groban? Pat Benatar? Martina McBride?
I want to mention a young singer who has an incredible ability not only to use all possible notes but his technique to use those octaves in any way he wants. This is Dimash Qudaibergen, he is on a list with a 6-octave range, but his exceptional technique to use his voice permits him to sing any notes beyond the keyboard if needed for the song.
Hello Yelena. Fantastic, thanks so much for sharing your insight on Dimash Qudaibergen!
What was Aretha Franklin voice range?
What is Geoff Tate’s vocal range?
Where is Michael Jackson on your list??????????
Hi Sue, Thanks for your comment! A very good point, I’ve added him to our list for when we update the article.
Rarest voice: Frank Sinatra, Julie Andrew’s, Phil
Collin’s, Frankie Valli, Linda Rondstat
Great piece. Thank you.
You missed Sarah Brightman
Hey Joan! Thanks for the suggestion! We’ll Sarah to our list for when we update the article :)
Joni Mitchell
Streisand sucks…
CANT ADD EVERYONE!!!
I missed Sarah Brightman too!
Have you ever heard Linda Ronstadt ?
Absolutely! Linda Ronstadt is an incredible vocalist with a powerful range and versatility across genres like rock, country, and pop. Her voice has captivated listeners for decades, and she’s certainly left a lasting mark on the music world. Thanks for bringing her up—she’s a legend! 🎶🌟
Ah please add Zhou Shen, a stunning voice and range for any singer, and especially as a man.
Hi Alex! Thanks for your excellent suggestion of adding Zhou Shen. We’ll add it to our list of considerations for when we update the article :)
What about beyonce is she not also stunning
Absolutely! Beyoncé is incredibly talented and stunning in every way! 🌟 While this article focuses on singers known for exceptionally high notes, Beyoncé’s powerful vocal range and performance skills are equally iconic. Thanks for highlighting her brilliance! 🎶👑
Who can sing 11 octaves?
An 11-octave vocal range would be extraordinary, even beyond human capability! The widest known vocal ranges among singers, like Tim Storms, reach up to 10 octaves, which is exceptionally rare. Most professional singers range from 3 to 5 octaves, and even hitting 6 is a remarkable feat. So while 11 octaves might not be possible, singers with wide ranges still manage to amaze us with their incredible vocal abilities! 🎶😊
You guys should definitely add Miljenko Matijevic from Steelheart to this list. He is fantastic!!
Thank you for your suggestion! 😊 Miljenko Matijevic of Steelheart is indeed a phenomenal vocalist, renowned for his impressive range and powerful performances. We’ll certainly consider adding him to our list of singers who can hit the highest notes. 🎤🎶
Since you did not include Aretha Franklin, this is just not valid discussion. Also, you did not include Patty LaBelle.
Thank you for your feedback! 😊 Aretha Franklin and Patti LaBelle are truly legendary vocalists with incredible range and power, deserving recognition in any discussion on exceptional singers. We’ll consider updating the article to include these icons. Thanks for highlighting them! 🎤🌟
Cyndi Lauper needs to be on this list please! She is often overlooked, sadly, but she is quite the vocal force of nature if you look at her entire discography. Doesn’t take long to research and say… wow! This woman has some serious range and talent.
You’re absolutely right—Cyndi Lauper is a powerhouse! 🌟 Her vocal range and unique style definitely deserve more recognition. Thank you for bringing her up; we’ll look into including her in the list. 🎤✨
Hi Macarena, great list but i was surprised that powerhouse vocalist Chaka Khan was omitted.
Hi Junie! Good point, Chaka Khan would be a great addition to this list! We’ll make note of this for future updates ;) Thank you!
What about Pat Benatar and of course,Annie Lennox.Both have to be up near top of any voice “list/chart”
How about Roy Orbinson. I’m sure he was overlooked. I also Love Dennis Deyoung and Steve Perry. They have incredible range as well as Rik Emmett
I remember looking for a noisy popular (at the time) CD to use in a short story where the protagonist was unable to make himself heard above the din from his sisters’ CD player. I went to YouTube not knowing how or where to start and the first one I saw was Céline Dion. I hit the play button and almost instantly rejected with, “No. she’s a whinger rather than a screamer.” I settled on Oasis.
Hi Laraine! Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and experience!
You missed Nicole Sherzinger she has a voice range of 4
Octaves !!! What an omission !
Hi Boots!
Thanks for the suggestion! I think Nicole Sherzinger would make a great addition to this article :)
Eric Adams, from Manowar, is not on the list.
From G1 to C6.
Hi Pedro. Thanks for the suggestion! We’ll add this one to our list of considerations when updating the article :)
My late cousin Bobby Debarge had a 6 octave voice , he was in the R&B / Funk band switch , his voice was flawless , he Hit notes that the late Minnie Riperton couldn’t hit , Prince was great as a singer but Bobby was head and shoulders above him and Axl Rose , plus he had soul in his voice ,something that Axl Rose didn’t have or Freddie Mercury !! BOBBY DEBARGE , ONE OF THE 15 SINGERS OF ALL TIME !! RIP
Hi Anthony! Bobby DeBarge was truly an incredible talent with a unique and powerful voice. His range and soulful delivery set him apart, and his influence on R&B and funk is undeniable. It’s great to see his legacy being celebrated—his work with Switch and beyond continues to inspire so many musicians and fans. RIP to a phenomenal artist! 🎶✨
Michael Jackson
Hello there,
Thanks for your comment, Michael Jackson would definitely make a good addition to this article.
Fantastical info… ty ❤️
Exceptional roundup of everyone we love!! Thank you! Will pass this on !
Hi Theresa,
Thank you so much for your comment – great to hear that you’ve found our article useful and we really appreciate you passing it on :)
Where’s Joshua Crenshaw he definitely should have been on the list with his exceptional vocal acrobatics. At 15 he was a soprano, now at the age 42 he’s still a soprano never has to use falsetto to reach the high notes, brilliant chest and head notes, 4-5 octave vocal range (D5/A4) and he never sounds like a Broadway or Opera singer trying to sing Pop/R&B/Soft Rock music genres. Every great artist gains a musical crown like Michael Jackson is the King of Pop, Whitney Houston is The Voice, Joshua Crenshaw has been crowned The Divine Vocalist, a title well deserving.
Hi Christina,
Thanks so much for sharing your passion for Joshua Crenshaw’s incredible talent! You’ve highlighted some amazing points about his vocal range and unique style. It’s impressive that at 42 he still hits those soprano notes without falsetto and delivers such a versatile performance across genres. We’ve made a note of Joshua Crenshaw for when we refresh the article! Thanks again!
Can do an Aaliyah analyst?
Hi Jaden!Thanks for the suggestion — Aaliyah is an incredible artist, and we’d love to explore her vocal style in a future post.
Adam Lambert’s Vocal Range is: D2 – B5 (3 octaves and 7 semitones)
B5 (“Aftermath”)
D2 (“FACE”)
Thanks for sharing these details about Adam Lambert’s vocal range! 🎤 It’s impressive how he spans from D2 up to B5, giving him nearly 4 octaves of flexibility. Compared to some of the artists mentioned in our article—like Mariah Carey, Axl Rose, and Freddie Mercury—Lambert’s range is a bit narrower, but his ability to hit both very low and very high notes really highlights his versatility and power as a singer.
Sad to see Jazz singer Cleo Laine left out of the list
Hey Sue! That’s a great addition – we’ll make note of Cleo Laine for when we update the article :) Thank you!
I believe the beautiful and extremely talented Marilyn McCoo who sang with the Fifth Dimension had a 4 octave voice. I am disappointed that I didn’t send her on this list.
Thank you for pointing that out! We completely agree—Marilyn McCoo’s incredible talent and four-octave range deserve recognition. We’ll be sure to include her when the article is updated.
Where is Eric Adams or Rob Halford? Eric Adams goes from bass G1 to the soprano C6.
Great spot! You’re absolutely right—Eric Adams and Rob Halford both have impressively wide vocal ranges and could definitely be included in our list. We focused on a selection of well-documented examples, but we’ll look at updating the article to include them in future revisions. Thanks for the suggestion!
Ann Wilson! Heart!
Hi there
Thanks so much for dropping by and leaving your kind words ❤️! Glad you enjoyed the piece on singers with the broadest vocal ranges.
It is criminal to not have Diana Ankudinova in here. She is one of the best contraltos to exist in this world, and she is polyphonic! ! Vocal range is C3 – Bb5 comfortably, highest ever note C7
Hi Kevin! Thanks for your comment! Diana Ankudinova is an incredibly talented singer with a truly distinctive voice, and we agree she’s a remarkable contralto. With so many exceptional vocalists to consider, it’s always a challenge to include everyone — but we really appreciate you highlighting her and sharing those details. We’ll certainly note her down for future updates to the article.
Elvis Presley is the best singer of all-time.
Hi Gordon! Good point – Elvis is an icon that would definitely be a valid addition to this list. We’ll keep this in mind for future updates to the article. Thanks for sharing!
You left out Barbra Streisand and Julie Andrew’s
Thanks for pointing that out! You’re absolutely right — Barbra Streisand and Julie Andrews are both legendary singers with impressive vocal ranges and deserved a mention. We’ll keep this in mind for future updates!
I am truly offended that Ms. Patti LaBelle is not on this list. She has hit notes higher than anyone on this list but her name is nowhere listed on here at all like she doesn’t even exist. This list should be revamped because Ms. Patti LaBelle deserves to be on here right beside Minnie Rapperton, Roberta flack, Mariah Carey.
Thanks for your comment — and great point! Patti LaBelle is absolutely an incredible vocalist with an impressive range and influence on music. While this list highlights singers known for unusually broad ranges, it wasn’t meant to diminish the talent or achievements of other iconic artists. We really appreciate your suggestion, and we’ll consider adding a section or update that recognises more singers like Patti who have made a huge impact with their voices.
Why no mention of the British singer, the late Cleo Laine (wife of alto saxophonist/ bandleader Johnny Dankworth). She had a 4 octave vocal range.
Thanks for pointing that out! Cleo Laine was indeed an incredible talent, and her amazing 4-octave range definitely deserves a mention. 🎶