TOP 20 GREATEST ROCK SINGERS OF ALL TIME

In this episode we explore what I consider to be the TOP 20 Greatest Rock Singers of all time.
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Hector Medina
Doug Olander
Harry Brocious
Scott Schumann
Denis Oliveira
Gerry Lode
Bill Valentin
Joe Elrod
Pzz
Chris Defendorf
Debbie Valle
Dave Siemiaszko
Terry Morin
Ray Rossetti
Dan Sullivan
David Dodini
David Horvath
Ghostly Beard
Rip Winkler
Andrew Boyd
Will Elrics
Dennis Tomlinson
maydad meiri
Mayank Sanganeria
JP Rosato
Scott Rance
Michael Akraka
Craig Sayer Sayer
Eric Waisman
Terrance Bessey
Dave Hawkey
Roger Frankham
Todd Geisler
Chris Mitchell
Steve Greenberg
Morgan King
Rabe Knechel
Zack Kirkorian
Orion Letizi
Mike Voloshen
Ashley Thompson
Matt Pauley
jonathan taylor
Peter Pillitteri
Jeremy Hickerson
Travis Ahrenholtz
Harry Watson

[@RickBeato]

By the way, I forgot to say it in the video but this is in no particular order.

[@michaelgay-crosier7500]

Rick Beato you can’t put them in order. I thank you for not trying. I love these lists. I always try to discover new artists and new insights into ones I am familiar with. Can you tell if vocalists are using auto tune? I

[@johnk1045]

Fixed: 1. Paul Rodgers 2. Brad Delp 3...4...5... Great video as always Rick!

[@dotslashsatan]

Good job! How many of them still alive

[@fcallophoto]

Yeah, sure Rick...We all know how much you love Chris Cornell. But hey, we can't blame you, he's fucking awesome.

[@walterrizzoli6536]

That was obvious. It's so difficult just to pick them. Put them in order would have been nonsense.

[@ac-6569]

I strongly believe that Ian Gillian from Deep Purple should be on this list (Top 10 at minimum). He is EXTREMELY talented and is often overlooked.

[@terrygarcia897]

Seen deep 2 times both in 1985. Texas jam. Perfect stangers tour Dallas. Tx

[@bobclancy8183]

@@freebee8221 He put in the comments that this list is in no particular order. It would be impossible to even imagine ranking this list.

[@robert.m4676]

I still have my Machine Head album from the days it first got released! Such a killer album with Ian just nailing down the vocals!

[@wanderer1955]

1. David Covernote 2. Ian Gillan.

[@bettyrose959]

@@wanderer1955 David Coverdale? Seriously?.. not so much.

[@leotuomi9767]

So glad you included Ann Wilson of Heart. Her voice crazy powerful. When she hits that note when she sings Alone at about 2min 30 seconds.

[@freddecker2407]

I heard Ann Wilson sing Good Vibrations. She is a wonderful singer. I could probably listen to her sing all kinds of songs.

[@neilkearney6822]

Paul Rodgers deserves some love. Dude can sing.

[@MaximumBob]

His work in Free was transcendent

[@mgb1974]

Mr Big live 1970....

[@AbleBodied]

His voice is the voice that the rock vocalists aspire to.

[@nickcastrellon909]

I may be in the minority but his work with Queen was fantastic. 'Return of the Champions' is A+ stuff. His bluesy vibes with Queen's unique sound, WOW!

[@giacomodallariva1209]

Dude is not just "good" at singing, he's the definition of good singing! He has incredible dynamics, extreme range, a full ton of character and carisma and is just phenomenal. I think he was absurd in Free of course, but somehow even better with Bad Company, an undeniably underrated band.

[@pedrohenriquepinheiro9131]

RIP Chris Cornell No one sings like you anymore

[@michelleburkholder2547]

I miss him

[@TokyoBlue587]

He is sorely missed

[@pinitxopo]

Eddie Vedder does

[@billyhughes9776]

I see what you did there -- RIP Chris,....

[@aavila1206]

@@pinitxopo not even close

[@rbrecords5527]

RIP Little Richard ( 1932 - 2020 )

[@roundhousekick29]

I had no idea he died! What the heck! RIP

[@ezstaples6653]

🙏He lived a long life and left a musical legacy.

[@luiszavala909]

Oh no! he died this year? R.I.P You will be remembered -_-

[@travisjones9933]

OMG i didnt know he died!!!! oh no...

[@jamesbarker4054]

Chicken hawk 😘

[@Red05150]

Brad Delp doesn't get enough credit, an amazing singer

[@cisco680]

Brad Delp definitely deserves a spot. He was amazing.

[@billisdewillis5]

No kidding…

[@maxbosoxfan171]

didnt watch the video ..Delp got a mention

[@fj5144]

At least put Boston in the Hall of Fame!

[@sherri2463]

I totally agree with you. He was phenomenal with his vocals ❤️

[@andresmarin5328]

Ronnie James Dio, Rob Halford and Ian Gillan are the sound of rock...Impossible not to miss them in the list.

[@icanfartloud]

And they all copy that Elvis approach, singing voice that moves into one helluva scream..amen brother...And Halford, he's on top of the scream mountain of metal, nobody touches that dudes metal scream.........

[@steveacevedo820]

Dio should be in every Top 10 vocalist list.

[@danteelander1491]

The loss of Chris Cornell was massive and heartbreaking.

[@andresmarin5328]

@@danteelander1491 Absolutely. His voice and charisma were great, the most talented singer since 1990

[@brodinieghi822]

all DP was like you said, Ian, David and also Glenn

[@freeman2399]

RIP Layne Staley who died 18 years ago today.

[@tmsskits]

Same as Kurt Cobain. Can't forget him

[@mr.fisher3973]

One of the most recognizable voices ever - we lost a true legend.

[@Burlykim13]

He was amazing and I cried so hard when I found out he died. I still have the rolling stone edition about him right after he died. 😓

[@legalgal12]

Has it really been that long?! He was amazing.....

[@davemckay4359]

Rest in fucking peace

[@johnlafleur9251]

I had the pleasure of touring with Foreigner in 1993 & 1994. I was hired as their Fitness Trainer, then I also took on the duties of Assistant Tour Manager. Lou Gramm (real name Grammatico) was not only an amazing singer, but one of the nicest, most humble people I've ever met. I'm so glad he made this list. I wrote an article about the challenges of training a Rock Group on the road, which appeared in the November 1994 issue of Muscle & Fitness magazine. Good times...

[@mariaaliceborgesvalle7226]

Curious to read your article! 😲

[@JM-Ju]

Great achievement and surely memories for a lifetime - Foreigner are somewhat underrated imho - congrats!

[@shannondavis3338]

Chris Cornell and Robert Plant, I have always thought that Chris's song Seasons would fit right in on a Zeppelin album.

[@philipcass488]

John Fogerty of CCR is grossly underrated as a singer. What a great rock voice!!

[@dexterdogg]

Agreed 100%!

[@ronaldsnelgrove7921]

I’ve seen him in concert three times and I can say that he’s also a very good guitarist as well.

[@thesoundsession]

Yes sir!

[@remnantsofasoundblast]

I AGREE WITH THAT 100%

[@jacocharzukanamericanautho2422]

I always forget about him. He is underrated as hell.

[@jans1982]

I believe Rick likes grunge

[@chip9649]

Dont blame him

[@triffle69]

jans1982 I believe Rick likes the 90’s ... best period ever!!

[@stevechristy3244]

@@triffle69 WRONG!!!!!! hust that simple. You are dead wrong on that.....

[@triffle69]

Steve Christy Well i should have say “ for me “ Wrong or not it’s the best ....and I am not referring to metal music or grunge ... but the whole thing🙏

[@Wraithknight2]

Yep pretty obvious, none of those singers should be on the list.

[@remnantsofasoundblast]

Freddie may have had more perfection to his notes, but Plant, especially early on had a range that was unreal and a style of his own to match. Freddie's fave Rock singer was Plant

[@terrywalker8857]

Just discovered your channel. Im addicted already. I was wondering why you don’t play a lot of The Doors, I was glad to hear you say they were one of your favorite bands, it’s definitely mine.

[@roypadgett633]

Everybody forgets bob seager .he comes out puts his foot up on a monitor and is in your face for two hours. Back in his prime .

[@darrinholtrey7146]

Exactly. I think one other comment summed it up. The list is really about frontmen.

[@PageMarker1]

Bob Seger's name came up in a documentary about Muscle Shoals, as 'Main Street' was recorded there. The man is true to his word.

[@scottdieter9138]

Bob Seger was the first name that came to me when the video started and I was disappointed, but not surprised, that he didn't make the list.

[@PageMarker1]

@@scottdieter9138 When I hit Ann Arbor in '75 the radio stations really played a lot of Seger and Nugent. Seems Rick has to appeal to a wider listening audience, which is understandable. Joni Mitchell sent him a box set after his review of 'Amelia.' Prayers for such a classy lady!

[@robertgettell740]

Brad Delp's isolated vocals give me goose bumps every time I hear it. RIP Brad

[@geoffstrickler]

Imagine my surprise, (and delight) when I was singing "Man I'll Never Be" and my (then newlywed) wife said "you sound just like him"

[@MrCraigsut]

Agree one hundred percent!!

[@johnnicholson8345]

Good call.

[@vonniee.9006]

Saw him in his band Bealtejuice several times. Don't know how he did it but he could sound like both Lennon and McCartney. So happy he was mentioned.

[@johnnicholson8345]

@@vonniee.9006 Same here Vonnie. As we live in Boston I was lucky enough to catch those guys at a small club and Brad was simply amazing. What a nice guy too.

[@Starbird63]

Robert Plant is,and always will be, number ONE in my book!! 🎶💕

[@stevebird9510]

yup 👍🏻

[@youssefjeheish2838]

Always number 1

[@fj5144]

1000%

[@user-lr6dz6ft2d]

He “Played” the voice, like Lena Horne. Check it out.

[@thepunisherrr974]

Agree totally influence all rock vocalist

[@MetalMama-Mimi523]

To make a list like this, you almost have to break it down into decades cause there's just too many phenomenal singers. Leaving Steve Perry off this list was a massive miss, in my opinion. The octave range, the breath control, the power, his tone....... he has everything you described at the beginning and more. And, Linda Ronstadt should have at least had an honorable mention.

[@jeffreyes6236]

I agree with you about Mr. Perry's greatness, but remember he said based on his criteria of carrying on/expanding upon Little Richard's style. 😀

[@LoriandBrock99]

I totally agree with you. When he got towards the end and hadn’t mentioned Steve Perry or Randy Meisner or Stevie Nicks, I was like bruh…..

[@MetalMama-Mimi523]

@@jeffreyes6236 I think the history of rock n roll is based on the expansion of Little Richard 😄

[@user-yw1tq4xs7z]

Absolutely

[@ChuckWortman]

Yeah, excellent point. Its too difficult, nay impossible, to cover seven decades of singers in 20 slots. Kurt cobain but nit Perry or Delp? My brain cant comprehend taht decision.

[@TheDecline99]

Hearing Chris Cornells isolated vocals sent shivers down my spine. What an amazing voice. RIP 😢

[@cec4231]

Still mourning the loss

[@jeangentry6656]

@@cec4231 me too ☹

[@yoffo_]

Body's aching all the time

[@conniehokanson119]

It is always Chris for me. Miss him so!

[@enasal-qawamshe374]

Same

[@edsaadi]

Janis, Ian Gillan, Paul Rodgers, Lennon, Fogarty, early Rod Stewart all have to be in the Top 20. I can easily remove 6 from Beato's list to make room.

[@lukedoyle3002]

Rodgers #1 in my book…

[@markhunter8554]

@@lukedoyle3002 Mine too.

[@kfm908]

getty.lee from rush was a great singer in the 80's and 90's Kirk cobain was awful imo. Morrison was overrated too

[@simonchaddock3694]

Meatloaf marvin leeaday

[@loveconquersall143]

Paul Rodgers, for sure! 👌 Instead of Brian Johnson...lol (apologies my fellow Aussies for that)

[@JokersWildMusic]

I don't believe you left Joplin off this list! Power rock - just look at her performance at Woodstock

[@diogomateus7296]

I know Axl Rose is not singing like he was before, but the guy has to be on the list 🥲

[@stephaniesmith6135]

Layne Staley hands down for me! I've NEVER been so incredibly moved by ones voice. He made me feel every emotion he was feeling during his performances - especially unplugged! #1

[@jblglw]

I loved Layne Staley. I thought he was short changed by the media, especially MTV, in honoring him when he died.

[@RonaldWilliams-qh7zc]

👍💯💯

[@mikeyo3377]

Love Layne, but Chris Cornell is better.

[@sagegreen4799]

Klaus from Scorpions is 72 years old and his voice is COMPLETLY THE SAME AND STILL PERFECT. HE IS HONORABLE AT LEAST. And david coverdale is my favorite too

[@michaelmccourt4992]

Excellent singers

[@mikerupp2312]

Classic Rock voice

[@mansenmias]

In case you haven't noticed, for Rick there's no music, no rock... hell, maybe even life, outside of USA and UK. :( (Not that I would appreciate Klaus' buzz much! ;) :D )

[@ddeepp]

Fully agree!

[@tdsims1963]

Yes, I agree, but I also think Rick is looking at singers who may not sing pretty but are DEFINITELY compelling.

[@jenfitzpatrick7222]

Ann Wilson is undeniably the greatest female rock singer. IMO

[@MJEvermore853]

By. Far. Indeed.

[@aarongleim4336]

And Stevie Nicks

[@MJEvermore853]

@@aarongleim4336 Ann has pipes, Stevie doesn't

[@Terrahoskins]

I love Ann but for me, it’s Pat Benatar.

[@frankaq3951]

I would have put Brad Delp and Steve Perry way up high on this list, but you had your criteria. Great video as always, Rick.

[@Birdman953]

Ian Gillan “child in time” a masterpiece in rock history.

[@Camcolito]

Yeah that's pretty amazing.

[@crazeyjoe]

...and Disturbing the Priest w/ Black Sabbath!

[@Geezer-yf8hv]

Ian Gillian was a force of nature!

[@MrMaynardWR]

Yes I thought he would be on this list for sure

[@thanoskaranas4166]

Sadly i believe ian gillan is a bit underated and i find it very disturbing

[@erikcapozzi3425]

Layne Staleys vocal range was bone chilling.. Pure raw talent

[@joandrumz3176]

His mother once described Layne's vocals to be like a marshmallow with razor blades

[@MrCraigsut]

No question about it!!!!

[@michaelperkins399]

Agreed

[@92skeet49]

Voice like a thousand souls. He will always be 1 for me.

[@BelaLugosi1967]

Amen! I think Jerry Cantrell is an amazing singer as well. His vocal power isn't where Laynes was but, still powerful vocalist. A perfect tone.

[@leonoranicolaysen2784]

Ann Wilson, just amazing.

[@RJS1974]

No Elton? That man can bring it to rockers like Funeral For a Friend, Saturday Nights Alright for Fighting, Bitch is Back All the Young Girl’s Love Alice and then sing glam rock like Bennie and the Jets and Rocketman and then sing a sweet ballad like Your Song. His falsetto was amazing in the 70s. If Paul is here then Elton should be too. They are very similar in style. They can both do rock and ballads.

[@Malky24]

Glad to see Ann Wilson on here. That woman's voice is lightning.

[@TheSanityInspector]

"We're getting older.....the WOOOOOOOOORRRRLD'S getting colder...for the life of me, I don't know the reason why...."

[@sirkat344]

Equally, Pat Benatar. Gads, to hear those two together as Nancy cranks an axe? Sign me up! :D

[@chrisstarr5841]

May be the best on the list next to McCartney

[@jamesbeck4089]

Ann Wilson , the best female singer of all time .!

[@gillesthibault429]

In her 60s, she is still tops!

[@staciepoole8161]

Steve Perry is one of my favorites. His range is amazing.

[@timothypatrick9476]

Yes, he is the "Voice God" nothing "Like" Little Richards jammin energetic, gritty R&R swing sound. But a sound that is so flawlessly beautiful and unique it can lead you to another plane, while giving your girlfriend creative ideas of things she would like to do to you, once you get there.

[@kimo1265]

I was extremely disappointed to not see Steve Perry on this list. Sorry, but most of the grunge singers on this list are good, but Perry is great and could belt out perfection night after night

[@cyric2010]

I only know "Oh Sherry" and "Dont Stop Believing". His voice in the earlier is one of the best I've heard.

[@ThaiThom]

Yes, Steve Perry is a better singer than half the singers on this list, if not all of them. Perry is mentioned at the end of this video, in the honorable mentions or whatever.

[@catherinejared9384]

Agree 100x

[@pamelathornton4589]

Thank you for including Bon Scott

[@courtneymoore3177]

Alice in Chains MTV unplugged is pretty perfect in my opinion.

[@daun7912]

Even though Layne Staley is sorta popular, I think he is one of the most underrated rock vocalists of all time imo.

[@Chr0notr1gger]

Totally agree

[@Poligamia]

He was absolutely amazing with Alice in Chains but when I first listened to Mad Season's Above I couldn't help but make him my favorite of all time.

[@daun7912]

@@PoligamiaSame for me. Just the amount of soul and emotion from his addiction and pain put into his music just turns heads.

[@juanpablomiranda8955]

Just like with ACDC, IMHO you should've put Layne together with Jerry Cantrell.... So much of the AIC sound is the play between them....

[@daun7912]

@@juanpablomiranda8955 Of course, their chemistry was insane. It does make up a lot of the songs. However, even Jerry said that he didn't want to sing because they had "Layne Freaking Staley"

[@94nolo]

I was sweating bullets until you had Plant and Mercury.

[@kennyclark9309]

N O L A N M I L N E S i know dude same

[@MrKeepmsafe]

So glad he added “no particular order” to his description. Saved his reputation in my mind. It’s so difficult to do these GOAT lists. So subjective. And, really, who cares if this one or that one is the number one? I’m just glad we had all of them growing up instead of the auto-tuned repetitive garbage that passes for popular music these days.

[@marcosleal2672]

Same same

[@sashwatsatdeve6123]

Me too lmao

[@willnoble1446]

Same same

[@davidgarner2775]

Steve Walsh of Kansas, Lou Gramm of Foreigner, I could go on...

[@richardblackmore6022]

Bruce Dickinson, Sebastian Bach, Geoff Tate, Miljemko Matejevic, Rob Halford, Ian Gillan, Jeff Scott Soto, Robert Flieshman are a few that spring to mind

[@timkillian1469]

So happy Ann Wilson made the list and thank you for shouting out Brad Delp! Always thought he was underappreciated as a vocalist

[@ronalddarnell9677]

Robert Plant on the "The Song Remains the Same" He dose a scream about 2/3 through the "Rain Song" is second to none. Being live and the placement the feeling and emotion just captures the essence of how good Plant really was.

[@rickjensen2833]

Favorite albumn of all time.

[@manusmcgrogan3495]

Bowie was a fantastic rock singer with an amazing vocal range, and range of styles

[@mariek130]

What about Ian Gillan from Deep Purple? OMG, what a vocal range!

[@j.m.demoor1156]

Before he blew out his voice, Gillan was unmatched.

[@deplorabled1695]

Sweet Child in Time - incredible. Bloke was a freak.

[@danielnicholson201]

He was great in the Jesus Christ Superstar concept album.

[@1979bobhd]

Yes for many years I liked Ian more than Plant but sadly he can't come close to his range now days.

[@danielnicholson201]

Bob Biker I did too. I saw him in 1973 with Deep Purple, but lost track of him after that.

[@ThePulpmonster]

Burton Cummings from The Guess Who had a killer voice. Very underrated.

[@althealligator1467]

AMERICAN WOMAAN

[@flashy714]

The.Voice

[@Progen77]

Love the Guess Who

[@nancywalker1325]

American woman stay away from me. They Canadians will always have their issues with us.

[@kellidinit3725]

One of my all time favorites, and you are correct, very underrated!

[@Amber_xo_133]

5. Oli Skyes (BMTH) 4. Dolores O’Riordan (Cranberries) 3. Chris Cornell (Soundgarden and Audioslave) 2. Ann Wilson (Heart) 1. Robert Plant (Zeppelin)

[@sfkeepay]

An outstanding demonstration of the subjectivity of musical preferences, at least if most of the examples provided are any indication.

[@rosethorn5283]

As a rock singer for 40 years I have to give credit to Ian Gillian from Deep Purple. He was singing through the stratosphere before Plant

[@chuckwerry7437]

This list lost all credability with out him

[@ernaolsson6763]

Agree strongly!

[@lisamoroney3036]

Yes !

[@77advisor]

They were contemporaries, so both were singing through the stratosphere at the same time. Btw I love Ian Gillian’s vocals

[@ral0958]

True!!!! I'm sad that with so much great(better) tracks people only think about smoke on the water

[@MrBlackskye]

For me, Steve Walsh from Kansas had it all: great range, he sang his ass off & he sang with passion & emotion on everything they did...Got to Rock On!!

[@TheKellyleastmead]

You are so correct!

[@carlbaumeister3439]

His singing on Point of No Return gives me chills.

[@vanhalen2359]

Steve Walsh from Kansas is one of my favorites. He has such a unique voice

[@College-Boy]

One of the great rock singers with incredible tone and range: Geoff Tate of Queensryche.

[@BVR-fc9sn]

All great singers, but I've gotta put Ian Gillan on any great rock singer list.

[@bannor99]

ABSOLUTELY! Gillan is top 5 on my list

[@tiwariraj]

This list though good is an American view....Deep Purple never was a big band there except for a couple of years. Gillan's Solo work has mostly never been heard in the US.

[@floydcooley1]

His screams on Child in Time alone. Wow

[@MrBoreray]

+The 2 Steves Marriot and Winwood

[@alexanderkalinchenko4038]

What?! No Gillan?! What a,shame

[@nontologicalbeing]

Eric Burdon of the Animals deserves some respect, he came straight from Little Richard too!

[@georgenelson3719]

yeah, back in the day when it was so expensive to record that you had to have something that producers thought was worth the investment. he wasnt great, but he, like others from that time, sung like their life depended on it.

[@pyro_0074]

I searched for this comment too long

[@michaurbanski9150]

@@pyro_0074 I’ve been scrolling for 15 minutes to finally find him! His albums with The War…❤

[@Dualis58]

the lack of Ian Gillian, Geoff Tate, Steve Perry (from the full list), Chester Bennington, and Bruce Dickinson is criminal. especially considering MICK JAGGER, Jim Morrison, Bruce Springsteen, and Kurt Cobain are on this list.

[@darrenwoolley8433]

Loved watching your top twenty rock singers of all time Rick.

[@joeymcfloey2467]

Bruce Dickinson - Iron Maiden.

[@sargiusmarak3083]

One of those singers who sound 100 times better when live.

[@freud-swimming3573]

I miss Janis Joplin! Her INCREDIBLE Power!

[@Terrahoskins]

She expressed EVERYTHING. No one will ever do what she could do

[@brunocarlos5960]

Amazing, love all the content, congrats on the great work. Regarding the video, particularly... Doing a rock top singers without David Coverdale?... 🤔 Couldn't imagine one

[@isoldam]

Out of all of those people, Ann Wilson, Steve Perry, and Brad Delp have the best overall singing voices. It pains me to say that a bit because Robert Plant is my favorite rock singer of all time.

[@thespydersband5703]

Paul Rodgers MUST be on the list if it's based on talent and not popularity or notoriety. Personally, I'd include James Dewar on the list too.

[@grandwazoodebris1015]

I'm thumbs upping anyone mentioning Dewar. Really feel he's an under appreciated / forgotten great singer, and perfect complement for Trower's sound.

[@briansmith7492]

JD was one of the best EVER! Without the intensity, seems he needs intensity. LMAO

[@Har1748]

Paul Rogers wasn't nicknamed "The Voice" for nothing !

[@urpoukko]

@@Har1748 Yeah, absolutely, Rodgers would be in my top 3. I am actually surprised about the list - I don't think quite many of those on Beato's list actually are worthy of a top 20 list.

[@BugsFan2112]

he got the honorable mention......I agree though - that guy is pretty flippin' amazing!

[@trevorcoop001]

Paul Rogers had and still has the perfect rock voice!

[@1974MRyan]

Strong Concur!!!

[@jubei7259]

Was just gonna comment this. Totally agree & having both Morissette & Morrison on here over him is just wrong (as much as I love the Doors, Jim was more of a crooner than a rock singer imho)

[@alanthompson3493]

Agreed. I would have picked him over a few that made the list..

[@montrelouisebohon-harris7023]

Oh so good!

[@michaelhawes6340]

Rodgers. I agree, he's perfect. Glad to see he at least made the also-ran list.

[@TheVanvocalist]

Great selection!! About Lennon, he did a fantastic performance of Twist & Shout in the Beatles' first album with that unique distorted voice, I would like to also mention his performance of Come Together at the Madison Sq Garden in 72, where he sang it one key higher (hitting the note B in the chorus), although many Beatles fan disapproved that version, as he completely changed the song and lyrics fcompared to the studio, he really brings the rock n roll energy in his voice.

[@jacocharzukanamericanautho2422]

He is amazing but he is NOT a powerhouse singer and doesn’t have a massive vocal range.

[@TheVanvocalist]

@@jacocharzukanamericanautho2422 Agree, although I quite like his vocals in the live performance of come together 1972 Madison Sq Garden, (besides of making up the words, of course) he hits B4 in full voice, 1 key above the Abbey Road album. Considering that Michael Jackson covered it in Bb, I found it quite impressive. But I know what you mean, we cannot compare with McCartney vocals in I've got a feeling or Robert Plant range, who hit these notes (or higher) in many songs.

[@jacocharzukanamericanautho2422]

@@TheVanvocalist I know that was great. He definitely has the best sound of The Beatles. He just isn’t in the criteria of Little Richard. That is what is stated in the video.

[@sharonlee9658]

Mickey Thomas has a fantastic rock voice and I think he should be on your list.

[@darrylparent]

I sometimes forget how good Ronnie James Dio was; saw him live many times and the strength and power of his voice transitioned seamlessly from the studio to the live stage; he was never "pitchy" and it was effortless! If we were to actually rank the vocalists, it would be almost criminal not to have him in the top 3 of all time!

[@johnmoss7578]

This is truth. He shoukd have been listed here.

[@diogorodrigues1927]

Same, to me the top2 is Freedie and Dio

[@markmiller5606]

RJD, Ozzy, Geoff Tate, all missed out on this top 20. And way off.

[@dustinmarlowe9258]

I agree completely

[@wm.g6664]

Agree, Dio, Gillan, Mercury the top three

[@mycloak]

I’m always impressed by Mike Patton’s range and the power of his voice

[@jasonhancox1622]

And versatility! Also his body of work literally dwarfs anyone on this list.

[@cjfink7227]

Patton may be the most diverse singer ever. Metal, Hip-Hop, Opera, he can do everything so fucking well.

[@CarolNeilandscharmbags]

Agree with everything said here about Mike Patton. I have no quarrel with anyone else mentioned in the video, in fact there are some impressive inclusions, but Patton is the greatest singer of all time (not just my opinion; it was decided by The Range Place analysis; Rolling Stone & Billboard). He has a 6+ octave range and sings any genre. That has to count for something.

[@greense65]

I was thinking about him, too.

[@zirititit]

Mike Patton it's the best since 90's... And John Lennon was the father of many of this singers with his "vocal drive" like Cubain. I would mention Thom Yorke as well!

[@nightwalkerj]

I'm a little surprised Geoff Tate isn't on this list. His vocal range and live performances are phenomenal

[@laboyd3830]

Greats list along with your extras…love and agree that the passion in a singer’s voice is something to admire and I have tried to mimic many of these creatives, in the few bands I have led. I know they are only know for one big hit in the late 90’s but J. R. Richards of Dishwalla, has that “passion” and in a lot of moments, the “Marshall on 10” notes. Opaline, Pet Your Friends, and their self titled albums are great. Check out the songs, Every little thing and Until I wake up…good stuff

[@therearenogods3716]

Paul Rodgers, Ian Gillan, David Coverdale, Ozzy, James Dio, James Dewar, Glen Hughes, Ian Anderson really! Some of the worlds best Rock singers.

[@10000Times]

True, but, they weren't in the Beatles. So many snubs on this list.

[@w.geoffreyspaulding6588]

Yes, but he’s trying to match that distorted voice of Little Richard. Some on your list I agree with like Coverdale, Dio. James Dewer, Ian Anderson....maybe not. I would add Frank Marino for sure.

[@noonetime8478]

And also Steve Marriott of Small Faces

[@johnmacdonald5483]

Agreed. Paul Rodgers ,Ronnie james Dio, and Ian Gillan agreed with everyone of your choices. We were so blessed to come up in the 70s,80s and 90s.Dont forget Geoff Tate or Rob Halford.

[@jagfromtexas]

👍

[@theantak1]

Before Alanis and Heart, there was Janis Joplin! I think she really deserved a mention.

[@janflewelling6277]

I agree - I'd trade Janis for Alanis any day.

[@timortiz680]

Janis SHOULD be here - I'm really surprised she isn't

[@krankrocker]

For all you Janis lovers, I prefer Lydia Pence who sang with the CA band "Cold Blood." I believe she was superior to Janis.

[@doctorgarbonzo2525]

Benatar, Chrissy Hine

[@krankrocker]

@@doctorgarbonzo2525 Good mentions. Pat Benetar was opera trained with outstanding range and power. Chrissie Hynde is quite a different style, but she is iconic and my favorite female rock artist of all-time.

[@darrenleach484]

I simply can’t believe Brad Delp and Steve Perry didn’t make the A list!!! Honorable Mention is dishonorable 😂😂😂!!

[@clivemaybe]

Honestly even if he isn’t the most technically insane singer, Ozzy has one of the most instantly recognizable and coolest sounding voices ever

[@David-tl8dd]

Steve Walsh from Kansas. One of the best, cleanest, most precise voices in rock history. He and Paul Rogers of Bad Company would be in my top 3

[@kowboys1180]

Ah, those are two really good ones. Walsh’s vocals on Carry On Wayward Sun is amazing, but he has the stylistic range to sing Dust In The Wind. I like Rogers, but hearing him as lead singer of Queen… really seemed to expose his limitations. But then again, Freddie would do that to nearly any singer, so credit to Rogers for taking that role anyways.

[@sethbaruti4367]

I've always had a pre-disposition to that pure, clean rock vocal. My top 3 growing up were: Brad Delp, Ann Wilson, and Steve Walsh. After that, off the top of my head and in no particular order are Jimi Jamison, Steve Perry, Lou Gramm, Don Barnes, among a host of others.

[@johnh.blevins5927]

Totally agree!

[@bobmurray6697]

Steve Walsh is probably my favorite of all time

[@christebo7305]

Absolutely... however the intensity isn't what Rick found to be enough. I would have to agree. He is one of my all time favorites too though.

[@Romulus980]

Ian Gillan's (of Deep Purple) singing 'Child in Time' is pure Iconic Rock performance and Ronnie Dio RIP should of been in the top 10 at least, he had a tremendous vocal tool as he shows in the live performance of Stargazer and Gates of Babylon; the way he starts and ends his phrases always fresh introducing impetus into the song.....

[@jessculp7943]

Ian Anderson

[@bluewater3783]

@@jessculp7943 Yes! Let's put this on the main page!

[@kylewilliams8390]

Child in time was one of the greatest performances ever. I especially enjoyed the version my dad always played for me off of the Made In Japan live album… Great track!!

[@casadelosotte]

Agree with you! It looks as if we have to raise the standard or enlarge the list 🙂

[@dancollins8296]

Ronnie James dio is the best singer of all time. And that's the bottom line.

[@renatomihic1675]

First of all, I love your channel and all that you keep posting. Second, I went nuts when I saw this order but then I noticed your little note here that this list is not made in any particular order. Third, I really think that you left out some unbelievable singers such as Mike Patton, Axl Rose, Scott Weiland, etc. And last but not least, I think it’s great how you gave a nod to Bono… His power and delivery in live performances, especially from the Joshua tree/Rattle and hum era, were amazing.

[@dannyskiff1646]

Great list! I would have included James Dewar and Ian Astbury on a list of favorite rock singers if I was putting one together.

[@Guitarandyman1969]

I would add Burton Cummings to that list. His high range on Guess Who records is mind blowing with incredible style.

[@robert.m4676]

Him and Ronnie Van Zandt!

[@stephenrumore277]

I was waiting to read the comments before saying Cummings deserved to be on this list, thank you!

[@jeanettesmith765]

Thank you. He was the first one on my mind!

[@robrowden1018]

He is in my top three vocalists....like McCartney he could sing the phone book

[@axe2grind911a]

Weird. I said this 2 years ago and got 0 thumbs up! Oh well, I'll still give Burton another thumbs up here!!!! My favorite timbre of ALL time...

[@chunkycheese5247]

I feel like Ian Gillan deserves at least an honorable mention. His screams are on a different level.

[@nyrocks24]

Guess he never heard "Sweet Child in Time"

[@mrg99999]

@@nyrocks24 he's the first one I expected on the list!

[@nyrocks24]

@@mrg99999 Not only was I a Deep Purple super-fan but my mom LOVED Jesus Christ Superstar and she'd crank it over and over every Saturday morning when my dad went golfing. Very fitting role for him. His voice was ethereal.

[@MacToecutter]

​@@nyrocks24 Let´s face it: Rick is a die hard Zep fan. Nothing against Led Zep, but he ignores Purple in every possible way. Robert Plant is a great singer, but Gillan was extraordinary.

[@nyrocks24]

@@MacToecutter Cornell, Gillan. My 1 & 2. Gillan gets so overlooked. I just can't understand. Also David Byron from Uriah Heep. Oh well. These 'favorite lists' are always annoying but fun. It creates conversation.

[@nobodycaresification]

matt bellamy would be on my list. haven’t seen anyone mention him in the comments yet. he is incredible, what a range! plug in baby is one that really highlights his vocal chops.

[@AngieDirk]

Man, you could do a whole video on David Draiman (Disturbed) vocals. The man is an opera-metal singer. The cover of Sound of Silence...just amazing.

[@backslash68]

I feel bad that Steve Marriott is always overlooked. He was the first true hard rock vocalist, and what a fabulous voice he had. Even Robert Plant copied part of his style - listen to the Small Faces "you need lovin" does that sound familiar ;-) ?

[@chicklets4ever51]

Absolutely. He really was one of the best. And a much more talented musician than Plant.

[@jdjohnston1960]

Thought the same thing.

[@darbuki13]

Rick Beato's opinion it's not written in stone or a final say on many things.

[@cindyfalstrom7231]

Do you know where Steve was listed on Rolling Stone's top 100 Rock singers ? 0?!? no where - not even mentioned. Disgraceful, Steve was a better singer that at least 50% of these singers. He was totally respected by his peers, and influenced many later singers. I don't get it.

[@moosew601]

Marriott and Keith Relf should make any and all conversations about greatest singers

[@Jade-pf8dw]

Ann Wilson - what an amazing voice. Was my intro to real rock music.

[@mojodojo5533]

I think Ann Wilson is the undisputed champ.

[@becomeaudible1]

She should either be #1 or #2. Her range, power and precision puts her right at the top.

[@jimtalbott2894]

I remember when Ann started out in Seattle at Parkers in 1977.

[@sethbaruti4367]

Best female voice to ever hit the airwaves, and I will die on that hill.

[@timetravelingoldman6839]

Chris Cornell was the guy. He deserved so much more recognition.

[@geoffgabbard4215]

You could have included David Coverdale who has fronted Deep Purple & White Snake

[@davejones67]

Steve Perry, Don Henley, Grace Slick, Janis Joplin, Rod Stewart

[@davidkorb6442]

Steve perry and Janis Joplin for sure, rod stewart has a unique voice but didn’t push boundaries like the rest of these guys, also don henley was great but nah

[@pudendajohnson1932]

Rob Halford

[@agastyakarnwal2906]

axl rose

[@jacocharzukanamericanautho2422]

Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Chester Bennington?

[@eduardoGentile720]

Rob Halford, Axl Rose, Bruce Dickinson, Ian Gillian, Mike Patton (these are all metal but I think that they still count)

[@daltoncollins7987]

I’m so glad Layne made this list! In my opinion, he’s the best to ever do it!

[@juanitadaleslusher9338]

Yep!

[@sportsmom165]

He's way better than Kurt. Even Kurt said Layne was a better singer than him.

[@juanitadaleslusher9338]

@@sportsmom165 Ooooh, I would love to hear that. Can't wait to bring it up the next time I have a conversation about Layne. Thanks!

[@teresathomley3703]

He's definitely one of the best

[@adamdus139]

cornell

[@joshhellstorm184]

Rick, I've always wondered why they had two microphones taped together back then saw ozzy had it alot to.

[@tylerdoody4999]

Steve Whiteman (singer for the band Kix) is so underrated as a vocalist just look and the notes he could hold in Don’t Close Your Eyes but he also still has his vocal range to this day which is something a lot of singers from that time period can’t say

[@jayswartzentruber7650]

I almost fell over when you put Ann Wilson on your list. I don’t think she gets the recognition she deserves. So many overlook her because she is a woman. I actually think she has the best voice in rock.

[@leonoranicolaysen2784]

Absolutely!❤

[@anthonysclafani3963]

Glad to see Ann Wilson on here, she's an amazing singer

[@markdrum2392]

Linda Ronstadt would have been another good one.

[@neugey]

I was okay with Ann. But not Alanis. She's not even fit to warm up Ann's coffee.

[@danacoleman4007]

Anne is without question the greatest female rock singer of all time.

[@aafjeyakubu5124]

Chrissie Hynde and Annie Lennox to add to the next list 😁

[@stoneagedjp]

Took the words right out of my mouth. Truly one of the rock greats.

[@agdtec]

Klaus Miene, Ronnie James Dio, Steve Perry, Pat Benatar, Jon Anderson, Michael Kiske, Meatloaf, Peter Gabriel

[@johnwade7760]

I was going to comment but you named all the singers I thought should be on the list.

[@TheKorgUser]

agdtec Perhaps u meant „Klaus Meine“ (Scorpions) ?

[@agdtec]

@@TheKorgUser You are correct

[@KingTabor]

No Dio? No Perry? No Anderson? OMG!

[@bigstick5278]

Jon Anderson is his own master as much as i love YES, that's a different sort of rock. They should put Ambrosia singer David Pack for an early Prog singers copulation together. Anyway good for a conversation while i'm getting over the flu.

[@HollisDuty60]

EDIT: Just noticed your qualifier about them not being in order. Whew! 😅 Robert Plant at #18?! 😳 wow! Usually he is # 2 or #1. I’m bias because I’m a huge Led Zep fan. I’d put him #1 😉😁

[@jennylistens2477]

It would be so great to hear your expertise and take on backup ensembles. All those women in the back, Leon Russell's Shelter People and the ones who sang on "The Weight" the Band cover with Duane Allman and Aretha. Any and all backups by song. Merry Clayton of course

[@disappointedoptimist255]

Jeff Buckley will always be my number one for this. Could compete with most of these guys if not all of them at upper range power and rasp, but had a unique level of control and subtlety. He can sing something that should be well within your comfortable range and make you work harder to do it justice than anyone else's high belt does.

[@soledadcisneros2698]

AGREE I LOVE JEFF ANGEL VOICE 😇 ❣️❣️ FROM ARGENTINA

[@michaeldimaria4322]

One of m favorite ocalists is John Nerson of Yes

[@piscesempress1978]

I LOVE Jeff! been a fan since 95!

[@jacocharzukanamericanautho2422]

I love Jeff but God damn! Ritchie Kotzen is on a whole other level than he could ever be!

[@rogerpbsmusic]

Name a song that has the rock intensity. I’ll check it out

[@dancer_to_a_discrodant_system]

Layne Staley is 1# for me. The Would vocals give me chills every time again.

[@callaghanbrakepads6823]

We are an elite race of our own The stoners junkies and freeeeeaaaks 🤟🏼

[@kiryahholland1941]

I bought a guitar from him back in the day, I still have it and play it all the time. I've played hundreds of shows with it.

[@Vriel7]

Yes, they did a good job on this one. An amazing record (heard it 1000times on repeat) with one after one catchy song... almost a "dark-rock-opera" kind of thing, very beautiful artwork on the cover and a series of wonderfully directed videos (as all AIC-Vids - one of my favs: get born again)

[@Vriel7]

@@kiryahholland1941 you are a pretty lucky son of a gentleman, bitch! :D

[@kiryahholland1941]

@@Vriel7 I've had a few offers on it. I'll never sell it.

[@ceciliadanielsson9530]

Steve Perry's voice is totally insane!!!

[@gregshell9273]

Are the FX on the solo'd vocal tracks original? BTW, this may be the first KZbin channel I ever subscribed to, ;)

[@danielbalog8078]

Brad Delp was certainly worthy of that list , amazing range in his voice !

[@alfonsomunoz4424]

I think Brad was the best rock singer of all time.

[@brendansenior5181]

Alfonso Munoz second to Freddie Mercury

[@needahandle]

Clear voice, pure

[@BugsFan2112]

his range, power and finesse were one of a kind!!!!!!! He was a 'singer' in the true sense of the word! He was the male version of Anne Wilson. Speaking of which.....if we're talking 'singers'......Anne Wilson is a top 5 for sure!!!! Who (other than Brad Delp) could belt it out like her in these ridiculous registers?!?!

[@sethbaruti4367]

@@alfonsomunoz4424 I wholeheartedly agree.

[@andresferbu]

No way this list is complete without Gillan, Dio, Halford, Dickinson and Tate. And Patton. Many singers listed are below these. Great videos Rick!!!

[@saulalexandermishaan7097]

What about Robert Plant and Freddie Mercury ?

[@borumir]

I can give it a pass because it says rock signers so maybe he was leaving out metal singers and going with more straight forward rock signers?

[@borumir]

@@saulalexandermishaan7097 Robert Plant was on it?

[@timhaveronjones1722]

@@saulalexandermishaan7097 Both of those are on the list

[@jedisparky]

Correct!

[@fredsiewert8556]

Rick the incredible. Dio, Gillian, Coverdale, Paul Rogers. I saw life. Most incredible

[@maryhelenbuchele7342]

One singer everyone always forgets is Brent Smith he has power sings with no microphone, crazy control, he has soul people get goosebumps. Can sing anything has done acoustic covers of Simple Man, U2 One, Sitting on the dock of the bay Ottis Redding, and Unchained Melody under Smith and Myers just to name a few.