225-201-Great Vocals
225. I CALL YOUR NAME (1966)
Vocalist: The Mamas & the Papas (lead “Mama” Cass Elliot)
Composer/Writer: John Lennon / Paul McCartney (1964)
Their third entry on our list is praised for their crystal-clear harmonies and their venture into Pop / Rock and Folk. This Pop song showcased Mama Cass’s wonderful, distinctive and expressive voice, and this cover of a Beatle song clearly showed they could recreate, even reinvent, a great tune and make it their own. From the plinky-plink / honky-tonk piano intro, and into Cass’s mid-solo, “Don’t you know I can’t sleep at night / But just the same / I never weep at night / I call your name,” this is sheer joy! The last verse—altogether marvelous! Her sunny, wondrous delivery continues to entertain, decades later…Sensational!
224. C’EST SI BON (It’s So Good) (1953)
Vocalist: Eartha Kitt
Writer/Composer: Andre Hornez / Henri Betti / Jerry Seelan (1953)
There’s only one Eartha Kitt! This American Jazz / Pop singer could speak and sing in at least four languages, her distinctive voice was in a class by itself, and she could could purr, meow and sing this French piece so remarkably well that no other singer dared try to imitate her. Very popular in America and Europe, she specialized in 1950 / 1960 recordings, in live cabaret performances, and even as voices in animated movies. Her unique voice has been described as earthy, alluring, seductive, and teasing, and she possessed a “come hither” aura that appealed to universal audiences. Listen for her amazing vibrato…Astonishing!
223. GONE (1957)
Vocalist: Ferlin Husky
Writer/Composer: Smokey Rogers (1952)
One of the first songs to be identified with the 1950s /1960s Nashville sound of Country / Pop music was this crossover hit by this former Rockabilly / Honky Tonk singer. It was a sensational hit in the midst of the Rock invasion in 1957 and somewhat of anomaly with a full chorus of backup singers adding to its unique Pop sound. His smooth, confident, baritone delivery assured him that this had to be a big hit, and the longing, feeling, and pathos in his offering was quite unique to Pop radio. It was truly a moving, surprising Country revelation for its time…Truly Great!
222. DOWN-HEARTED BLUES (1923)
Vocalist: Bessie Smith (piano Clarence Williams)
Writer/Composer: Alberta Hunter / Lovie Austin / Son House (1923)
This is pure unadulterated Blues. The “Empress of the Blues” does it again with her second entry on our list with this important, primitive, soulful, aesthetic recording when the music industry was in its infancy. She takes us down memory lane with this heartfelt larger-than-life recording, and it proves to be one of the most influential Blues recordings ever made. Rythm and Blues and early Rock all owe to its magnetic pull in music. She sings from the heart; let your imagination can take you back a century when everyone who listened to radio was spellbound by this new music form. Wow—What an Attitude…Amazing!
221. PIANO MAN (1974)
Vocalist: Billy Joel
Writer/Composer: Billy Joel (1974)
His second entry on our list is a Soft Rock / Pop masterpiece in storytelling, singing and artistic celebration. This, a signature song, proves he’s one of the premier singer/songwiriters of the 20th century. “It’s Nine o’clock on a Saturday / The regular crowd shuffles in / There’s an old man sittin’ next to me / makin’ love to his tonic and gin.” And his delivery? In a 3/4 waltz tenor style, how can we argue with his melancholy-flavored vocal, without vibrato, a true revelation of sincerity, pathos, honesty and desolation—all rolled into one. “They’re sharing a drink they call loneliness / But it’s better than drinking alone.” The reality is…Stunning!”
220. THE STORY (2007)
Vocalist: Brandi Carlile
Writer/Composer: Brandi Carlile (2006)
This American Folk/Rock singer/songwriter did not emerge—she suddenly appeared—taking Folk / Rock and Pop by storm. From the mid-2000s and into the 2020s, her haunting vocals and unique sound brought instant recognition, attention and success, and the entire music community seemed to embrace her vocal style and persona. One music critic called her voice a “gut voice, with molten impact.” She could very well be one of the most influential singers of the 21st century. She performs within her 3 octaves with ease and attitude…Simply Captivating!
219. IT’S A MAN’S, MAN’S, MAN’S WORLD (1966)
Vocalist: James Brown (and His Famous Flames / Chorus)
Writer/Composer: Betty Jean Newsome
This could very well be one of the greatest Soul songs ever performed and the string arrangement by Sammy Lowe is is wondrous. This dynamic singer, dancer, and songwriter emerged in the late 1950s, entertaining and performing over 50 years, producing a massive number of hits. His unabashed style and high energy were mind-boggling, earning him nicknames such as “The Hardest Working Man in Show Business.” He mastered Soul / R&B / Rock / and Pop / and was a main force in creating the new Funk genre. This election swims in Soul—his Gospel-style call & response style is unmistakable and undeniable. This slower selection exudes great power and emotion…Absolutely Moving and Sensational!
218. MEMORY “Cats” (1983)
Vocalist: Elaine Paige
Writer/Composer: Andrew Lloyd Webber (1983)
This English songstress has captivated audiences with her recordings and in the Musical Theater for decades, from the mid 1960s to well into the 2010s. She has dazzled multitudes as a central figure in numerous London and Broadway theater performances. Her ability to phrase and emotionally vocalize every nuance that’s required in dramatic musical roles has made her one of the most respected and sought-after theatrical actresses, and her many soprano interpretations are considered among the best ever by her peers and critics. This is the second entry for this song on our list, and she is…Mesmerizing!
217. LUCKENBACH TEXAS (Back to the Basics of Love) (1977)
Vocalist: Waylon Jennings (with Willie Nelson)
Writer/Composer: Chris Moman / Bobby Emmons (1977)
From the 1960s and into the 1990s, this Country / Folk legend made a huge impact in how Country music was viewed, and this song was one of the reasons why. His gruff baritone voice excels in this song, and we can see why he was instrumental in the Outlaw Country style that surfaced in the 1970s. With Nelson, Cash and Kristofferson, this new wave of Country even crossed over into the Pop charts. His singular vocal intro is legendary, "The only two things in life that make it worth living.” and it put this obscure tiny town on the map…A Unique Historical vocal!
216. BARRACUDA (1977)
Vocalist: Heart (lead Ann Wilson)
Writer/Composer: Ann Wilson / Nancy Wilson / Roger Fisher / Michael Derosier (1976)
This Hard Rock classic solidified the fact—the Wilson sisters were for real as female Rock artists. They came on like gangbusters in the mid 1970s and kept on producing / recording albums well into the 2000s. Nancy is known as one of the greatest female Rock guitarists of all time and Ann is without doubt one of Rock’s greatest female singers—and does she ever deliver here! We are hooked on this tune from its beginning guitar riff to Ann’s extraordinary power to move within her three octaves and exclaim a piercing message of not trusting the media. She sings here with force, attitude and agility…Stupendous and Jaw-dropping!
215. STAYIN’ ALIVE “Saturday Night Fever” (1977)
Vocalist: The Bee Gees (lead Barry Gibb)
Writer/Composer: Barry Gibb / Robin Gibb / Maurice Gibb (1977)
This Pop/Rock song defines Disco mania—and from one of the most successful musicals in movie history, this became an instantly recognizable signature hit for this Australian group. They dominated the 1970s with their infectious rhythms and falsetto harmonies, and this is one of their best examples. This song, their second spot on our list, has become the ultimate iconic disco anthem. Their high harmonies are extraordinary in this offering, and it instantly shot actor John Travolta to superstadom…A Whimsical, Musical Museum Piece!
214. CHANCES ARE (1957)
Vocalist: Johnny Mathis (Ray Coniff arranger)
Writer/Composer: Al Stillman / Robert Allen (1957)
“Chances are ‘cause I wear that silly grin / the moment you come into view / Chances are you think that I’m in love with you.” From its opening moments, at Al Stillman’s piano intro, we are hooked. Johnny’s velvet, crystal-clear voice makes its second appearance on our list with this beautiful, extraordinary, romantic, classic love ballad, certainly among the most cherished in the 20th century. One music source says his vocal style enables him “to move from the very highest notes to unusually warm lows.” We can only agree that we are listening to one of the greatest stylist in Pop / Jazz history…Historically Sublime!
213. JIM DANDY (1956)
Vocalist: LaVern Baker (Backup singers / the Cues)
Writer/Composer: Lincoln Chase (1956)
This song was a true game changer in American music, and it was a defining moment for this outstanding American R&B singer. A great example of the combining of R&B / Soul / Rock / Pop, it was nothing short of spectacular in 1956. Some argue this was really the first megahit Rock song by a female artist, and her Gospel roots really surfaced here in her amazing delivery. Her rough, distinctive, tough-as-nails, commanding delivery is a wonder to behold, setting the stage for numerous black artists that would follow as well as her influence on white audiences and singers…Absolutely Sensational!
212. MACK THE KNIFE “The Three Penny Opera” (1959)
Vocalist: Bobby Darin
Writer/Composer: Bertolt Brecht / Kurt Weill (1928) - Mark Blitzstein - English translated lyrics - (1956)
This Jazz / Pop masterpiece was originally a song from the German play about a murderer, but this 1959s rework, softened the lyrics somewhat and created a bouncy tune that remained at number 1 for nine weeks, unheard of at that time. As one of the biggest hits of the 1950s, it remains a classic, thanks to this sensational vocal by Darin. He proved to be one of Americas greatest musical performers in the late 1950s and into the 1960s until his early death at 37 years. Jazz / Pop / Rock / Folk / Country / Blues—he could do it all! His voice here is in the Sinatra / Big Band style, and he improvises many of the phrases. His delivery…Incredibly Charismatic and Amazing!
211. NIGHTS IN WHITE SATIN (1967)
Vocalist: The Moody Blues (lead Justin Hayward / Peter Knight & New World Orch.)
Writer/Composer: Justin Hayward (1967)
This Progressive Rock / Progressive Pop classic grows in popularity with each passing year and from the mid-1960s and into the 2010s, they still dazzle with their lush melodies and poetic lyrics. Their use of strings, flute and orchestra is stunning, causing listeners even in the successive generations to listen with surprise and rapture. Justin Hayward’s lead vocals are described as high baritone and his delivery here is smooth and perfect for this semi-classical Rock piece. Their album, Days of Future Passed, is considered by many as a landmark for early Progressive Rock. This piece stuns…Definitely Awe-inspiring!
210. ALBONINI’S ADAGIO IN G MINOR (2003)
Vocalist: Sissel Krykjebo
Writer/Composer: Tomaso Albinoni (1741) / Remo Giazotto (1945)
Here she is again, the Norwegian sensation with the angelic voice who seems to gain more popularity with each passing year. Her stunning rendition of this classic piece from the 1700s is a joy to behold, leaving many awestruck listeners breathless. Her 2nd entry is remarkable on our list because she doesn’t stretch her vocal cords, she just seems to open her mouth and the music flows effortlessly. From the early 1990s through the 2010s, she continues to overwhelm audiences in concert…Absolutely Marvelous!
209. MERCY, MERCY ME (The Ecology Song) (1971)
Vocalist: Marvin Gaye
Writer/Composer: Marvin Gaye (1971)
As we analyze Marvin Gay’s third entry on our list, we come recognize he’s not just another R&B / Soul singer—He’s a bonified superstar of anthemic messages. He proves it here with this glorious selection. The stellar music production, the stunning use of backup singers, and his uncanny ability to change octaves make this song an absolute classic. His magnificent vocal delivery and charismatic persona conquer both of the issues affecting mankind’s lack of respect for planet Earth—abuse of the environment, and misuse of Earth’s resources. As he laments,“Oh, things ain’t what they use to be.” we really know he’s singing to us about TRUTH!…An Astounding Social statement with Great Spirituality!
208. I HOPE YOU DANCE (2000)
Vocalist: Lee Ann Womack (with Sons of the Desert)
Writer/Composer: Mark D. Sanders / Tia Sillers ((2000)
This selection brought in the new century perhaps better than any American female offering—she became a mainstay in Country / Traditional / Pop / music from the late 1990s and through the 2000s. This beautifully crafted signature song was a smash award-winning hit, “I hope you feel small when you stand beside the ocean / Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens.” Her nostalgic, clear, sweet-as-sugar, soprano delivery made this a stellar modern-day Country classic. This life-affirming song is a testament to love and faith—Her voice is loving and longing, and this song is a testament to LOVE and FAITH. Her message and performance is…Remarkably Touching and Authentic!
207. BILLIE JEAN (1983)
Vocalist: Michael Jackson
Writer/Composer: Michael (1983)
The “King of Pop” proved his worth with this song, selling more than 14 million copies worldwide. His performance became like a signature, with moon walk, black sequined jacket, with spins, steps and “Oohs” that would make Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly do double takes. His vocal is now considered one of music history’s most recognizable in Pop music, and it helped to catapult his album “Thriller” to infinity, as one of the most successful of all time. He wrote, produced and delivered it in such a way that it covered all these genres—Post-Disco / R & B / Funk / and Dance-Pop, and its overflow helped his music become a Pop culture phenomenon…Unbelievably Dazzling!
206. ANGEL FROM MONTGOMERY (1974)
Vocalist: Bonnie Raitt
Writer/Composer: John Prine (1971)
American Blues / Folk / Rock singer/songwriter, Bonnie Raitt, is one of the very best when it comes to interpreting a song, reinventing it, and presenting it on a silver platter. This is in a pure Blues style, and her stunning delivery is now legendary, so much so that many of her contemporaries copy her unique style and her haunting presentation. She took this John Prine classic Folk standard and took it to new heights, and it became a mainstay in her live performances—and can she ever play the guitar! This song clearly demonstrates this—seldon has any vocalist sang with such heart and soul!…Steadfast and Splendid!
205. FALL ON ME (2018)
Vocalist: Andrea Bocelli / Matteo Bocelli
Writer/Composer: Ian Axel / Chad King (2018)
This marks Andrea Bocelli’s second entry on our list. His beloved and enigmatic voice has captivated world recognition since the early 1990s, and his persona has allowed him to truly be considered one of the most renown tenors in Opera / Classical and Pop. Joining with his son Matteo, he presents this piece as an answer to emptiness, longing and perhaps spiritual need and it is a constant reminder that LOVE is the answer. The collaboration is surprisingly remarkable, not overpowering, but beautiful…Simply Poignant!
204. BLACK (1991)
Vocalist: Pearl Jam (lead Eddie Vedder)
Writer/Composer: Eddie Vedder / Stone Gossard (1990)
This selection, now considered by many as one of the templates for the Grunge Rock movement in 1990s, is an important recording from their stellar Rock album Ten. Pearl Jam was one of the major players in the Grunge era which basically extended the life force of Rock music for another decade, well into 2000s. This song expresses the pain and suffering of lost love. Eddie Vedder’s voice has been described as a dense baritone with power, resonance and gravelly conviction, with a touch of vibrato. This offering continues to gather a cultlike following, and his vocal performance says it all…Unique and Unforgettable!
203. THE FIRST TIME EVER I SAW YOUR FACE (1972)
Vocalist: Roberta Flack
Writer/Composer: Ewan McCall (1962)
Here she is again with her second entry on our list. She was the first and only singer to ever win a Grammy 2 straight years for song and record of the year. This song also captures the influence of her Gospel-trained and classical roots. She
encompasses Pop, R&B, Jazz, Folk and above all, Soul, with perhaps as much intimate feelings as any singer/performer in the 1970s. She really stands out as she delivers this selection with such unique sincerity and sophistication that is so rare in today’s music—No wonder one writer compared her beautiful voice to a viola! Her singing is imbued with class…Beautifully Rapturous!
202. TANGLED UP IN BLUE (1973)
Vocalist: Bob Dylan (“Blood on the Tracks”)
Writer/Composer: Bob Dylan 1973)
In his second showing on our list, American singer/songwriter Bob Dylan comes through with this clever many-versed song about love’s expectations and failures. It’s definitely a stroke of genius, every verse rhymes and ends with, “tangled up in blue.” In this delivery he actually sings more than he narrates—this is considered by his legions of fans as one of his best vocals. He sweeps us away with lines like, “I had a job in the great north woods / Working as a cook for a spell / But I never liked it all that much / And one day the axe just fell.” This we know; singing is not just about how great a voice is—It’s about communicating!…Superb!
201. EVERGREEN “A Star Is Born” (1976)
Vocalist: Barbra Streisand
Writer/Composer: Barbra Streisand / Paul Williams (1976)
This beautiful offering by Barbra gives us her a third entry on our list. As one of the most beloved and respected singing artists from the 1960s and well into the 21st century, her heralded career has spanned all types of musical changes in the industry. She has mastered Pop / Theater / Movie / even Rock, with her multi-talented songwriting skills, numerous record albums, acting, as well as producing. This is a clarion example of her smooth-sailing performance in low, heartfelt, breath-controlled moments to her slowly rising soprano finale…Pitch Perfect and Exquisite!
