Classical Singers

Luciano Pavarotti was an Italian operatic tenor celebrated for his extraordinary vocal abilities and successful transition into popular music. He gained international renown for his captivating performances, showcasing his prowess in bel canto operas, as well as works by Verdi and Puccini. As a member of the Three Tenors, Pavarotti mesmerized audiences worldwide through televised concerts and media engagements. His legacy comprises over 100 million records sold, a multitude of highly praised recordings, and a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest tenors in history.

Oksana Petrovna Grigorieva is a Russian singer-songwriter and pianist who studied music in Moscow and completed conservatoire studies in Kazan before moving to London. She furthered her music education at the Royal Academy of Music before relocating to the United States, where she taught music and patented a technique for teaching musical notation to children. Grigorieva gained recognition as a songwriter when a song she wrote became popular on a Josh Groban album. She released her own album, Beautiful Heartache, in 2009, with support from actor and director Mel Gibson.

Dimash Kudaibergen, also known as Dimash, is a Kazakh singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist with a university training in classical and contemporary music. Renowned for his exceptional vocal range, Dimash has performed in 12 languages. Choosing a career in contemporary music, he blends classical, traditional Kazakh, and pop music elements. Dimash gained popularity in Kazakhstan and post-Soviet countries after winning the Grand Prix at Slavianski Bazaar in 2015. He further rose to fame in China by finishing second in Hunan TV's Singer 2017 competition.

Jackie Evancho is a renowned American singer celebrated for her classical crossover performances. She rose to fame after impressing audiences on America's Got Talent in 2010, where she finished as the runner-up. Evancho made a remarkable debut in the music industry with her holiday EP "O Holy Night," which quickly became a best-seller. Her subsequent albums, including "Dream with Me" and "Awakening," garnered both commercial success and critical acclaim, securing top positions on the charts. Known for her exceptional talent, Evancho has graced prestigious stages, headlined charity events, appeared in a film, and released numerous successful albums that consistently soar to the top of the classical music charts.

Adnan Sami Khan is a highly skilled Indian artist who excels in singing, composing music, acting, and playing the piano. He is proficient in performing Indian and Western music in multiple languages, including Hindi, Urdu, English, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada. His expertise in combining the santoor and Indian classical music on the piano has earned him recognition as a pioneer in the field. Adnan has received prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri for his significant contributions to music. Known globally as the fastest keyboard player, he has garnered international acclaim and solidified his position as a prominent figure in the music industry.

Amira Willighagen, a Dutch soprano singer, rose to fame after winning the sixth season of Holland's Got Talent in 2013. Since then, she has enjoyed a successful career in music, performing at prestigious events worldwide. Known for her powerful and angelic voice, Amira has released multiple albums and singles, captivating audiences with her exceptional talent and versatile repertoire. Her remarkable vocal abilities continue to inspire and enchant listeners.

Monali Thakur is a renowned Indian singer and actress acclaimed for her exceptional talents in the music and film realms. She has been honored with prestigious awards, including a National Film Award and a Filmfare Award, for her remarkable contributions to hit movie soundtracks. Thakur has also demonstrated her proficiency as a judge on popular singing competitions like Sa Re Ga Ma Pa L'il Champs and Rising Star. Throughout her career, she has displayed versatility, creativity, and a deep rapport with audiences through her captivating performances in music and acting.

Tamino, a Belgian-Egyptian artist, is celebrated for his talents as a singer, musician, and model. His distinctive fusion of musical genres and heartfelt singing voice have garnered him acclaim. Drawing from his Egyptian roots, Tamino has crafted a diverse musical repertoire that captivates audiences with its emotional depth. Inspired by his grandfather, Egyptian singer and actor Muharram Fouad, Tamino has made a name for himself in the music world, showcasing his creativity and devotion to crafting poignant melodies.

Noor Jehan, also known as Malika-e-Tarannum, was a highly acclaimed playback singer and actress in British India and later in Pakistan. With a career spanning over six decades, she is considered one of the greatest singers in the Indian subcontinent, excelling in various music genres, including Hindustani classical music. Together with Ahmed Rushdi, she holds the record for lending her voice to the largest number of film songs in Pakistani cinema history. Noor Jehan also recorded thousands of songs in languages such as Urdu, Punjabi, and Sindhi, and is recognized as the first female Pakistani film director.

M. S. Subbulakshmi, a celebrated Indian Carnatic singer, accomplished remarkable feats in her career. She was the inaugural recipient of the prestigious Bharat Ratna award, India's highest civilian honor. Subbulakshmi also holds the distinction of being the first Indian musician to receive the Ramon Magsaysay award in 1974. Further solidifying her legacy, she became the first Indian artist to perform at the United Nations General Assembly in 1966, captivating international audiences with her extraordinary talent and the allure of Carnatic music.

Usha Mangeshkar is a celebrated Indian singer recognized for her versatile performances in various languages such as Marathi, Manipuri, Hindi, Bengali, Kannada, Nepali, Bhojpuri, Gujarati, Odia, and Assamese. Throughout her extensive career, she has delivered remarkable songs that have made a significant mark on the music world. Usha's captivating voice and exceptional skills have endeared her to music enthusiasts, as she continues to captivate audiences with her soulful singing and flawless live shows.

Pandit Bhimsen Gururaj Joshi, a celebrated Indian vocalist from Karnataka, was known for his mastery in the Hindustani classical tradition, particularly in the khayal form of singing and devotional music. He belonged to the Kirana gharana tradition and gained worldwide acclaim for his exceptional concerts. Joshi was instrumental in organizing the annual Sawai Gandharva Music Festival and received prestigious honors such as the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship and the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in recognition of his significant contributions to music.

Kathleen Ferrier was a celebrated English contralto singer known for her versatile repertoire encompassing folk songs, popular ballads, and classical works by renowned composers. She began her singing career in 1937, winning acclaim and support from influential figures in the music industry. Ferrier's talent dazzled audiences through her performances on stage, in concerts, and recordings, captivating listeners both in the UK and worldwide. Despite facing cancer, she persevered in her art, continuing to inspire others until her passing in 1953, leaving behind a lasting musical legacy.

Mohamed Abdel Wahab was a well-known Egyptian singer, actor, and composer of the 20th century. He was celebrated for his Romantic and Egyptian patriotic songs, including "Ya Masr tam El-Hanna," "Hay Ala El-Falah," and "El Watan El Akbar." His compositions reflected his profound love for Egypt and his nationalist and revolutionary spirit. Notably, he also composed the national anthem of Libya, showcasing his significant contributions to music and patriotism in the Arab world. Abdel Wahab's work is still revered for its cultural impact and emotional resonance.

Sibel Can is a well-known Turkish singer celebrated for her impact on folk pop and classical music. Starting out as a dancer in her youth, she seamlessly shifted into music, earning acclaim for her exceptional abilities. Recognized as a key figure in Turkey's music scene, Sibel Can mesmerizes listeners with her strong voice and emotive stage presence. Over the years, she has built a successful career in music, solidifying her status as a revered and influential artist in Turkish music.

Ahlam, known by her mononym, is a renowned Emirati singer and actress with a successful career. She has launched 14 albums and multiple singles, demonstrating her versatility and talent. Ahlam's impact also spans to television, where she has judged on MBC's Arab Idol for several seasons and served as a judge and coach on The Voice: Ahla Sawt. Her participation in these well-known singing competitions has established her as a highly respected figure in the Arab music scene.

Dolores Gray, a renowned American actress and singer, was celebrated for her extraordinary talent on stage. Over her illustrious career, she received critical praise and accolades, including two Tony Award nominations for Best Lead Actress in a Musical. Her exceptional performances on Broadway highlighted her versatility and skill as a performer. Gray's commitment to her art and commanding presence captivated audiences, establishing her as one of the leading talents in the entertainment world. Her Tony Award win further cemented her legacy as a cherished star.

Zeki Müren, a prominent figure in Turkish music, was renowned for his contributions to Turkish classical music as a singer, composer, songwriter, actor, and poet. He was affectionately known as "The Sun of Art" and "Pasha" for his remarkable talents. In 1991, Müren was honored as a "State Artist" for his significant impact on the art scene. He also achieved a historic milestone as the first singer in Turkey to receive a gold certification for his work. Over the course of his career, Müren recorded and released numerous songs on cassettes and phonograph records.

Rahul Deshpande is a renowned Indian classical music singer and actor celebrated for his exceptional talent and contributions to the industry. He gained acclaim for his remarkable performance in the film "Me Vasantrao," earning a prestigious National Film Award for his role. With a strong musical heritage, Rahul has established a successful career, captivating audiences with his enchanting vocal prowess and impressive acting abilities.

T. M. Krishna is a well-known Indian Carnatic vocalist, writer, activist, and author celebrated for his groundbreaking musical approach that transcends barriers of caste and class. He was honored with the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2016 for his commitment to utilizing art as a means for societal restoration. His performances often ignite discussions and controversies due to his distinctive vocal style and concert substance. In 2024, he also received the Sangita Kalanidhi award from the Madras Music Academy in recognition of his significant contributions to the music field.

Nexhmije Pagarusha, known as the Queen of Albanian music, was a celebrated Kosovo-Albanian singer and actress. Throughout her 36-year career, she gained recognition for her performances of Kosovan folk songs. Her professional journey started in 1948 with her debut on Radio Prishtina and concluded in 1984 with her final concert in Sarajevo. In addition to Albanian music, Pagarusha showcased versatility by performing various genres such as rock, pop, funk, and opera/classical.

Sílvia Pérez Cruz is a highly acclaimed Catalan and Spanish singer and composer known for her exceptional talent and versatility in the music industry. With multiple award-winning albums like "11 de Novembre" and "Granada," she has showcased her remarkable vocal abilities and songwriting skills. Collaborating with Raül Fernández Miró has further elevated her work, leading to prestigious accolades such as Goya Awards for Best Original Song. Her latest album, "Toda la vida, un día," exemplifies her dedication to creating meaningful and diverse music experiences across various locations.

Kumar Gandharva, an esteemed Indian classical singer, was known for his unique vocal style and his independence from traditional gharana influences. He earned the title of Kumar Gandharva as a child prodigy, representing his musical spirit. Throughout his career, he demonstrated exceptional creativity and innovation in his performances, defying conventional norms. His rejection of gharana traditions enabled him to establish a distinct presence in the world of Indian classical music, leaving a significant mark on the music industry.

Dorival Caymmi was a versatile Brazilian artist recognized for his impact on the bossa nova movement and música popular brasileira. With a career spanning over 70 years, he composed approximately 100 songs, now regarded as Brazilian classics. His music paid homage to the fishermen and women of Bahia, playing a crucial role in shaping Brazil's cultural identity. Caymmi's influence extended to both local and international audiences, leaving a lasting legacy in Brazilian music. His compositions have been embraced by musicians globally, cementing his position in the 20th-century Brazilian songbook.

Victor Rathnayake is a renowned Sri Lankan singer, composer, lyricist, and musician. He made history as the first Sri Lankan artist to successfully host a solo concert called "SA" in 1973. Rathnayake's music blends Western and Ragadari classical styles, earning him widespread recognition. His diverse songs touch on themes like love, patriotism, and Buddhism. He has also composed music for popular films like Matara Achchi, Siribo Aiya, Podi Malli, and more, leaving a lasting impact on Sinhala music enthusiasts.

Gangubai Hangal was a renowned Indian singer celebrated for her exceptional talent in the khayal genre of Hindustani classical music. She was associated with the Kirana gharana and demonstrated her mastery in this traditional musical style. Hangal's professional journey was distinguished by her profound and resonant voice, enchanting listeners with her heartfelt renditions. She gained admiration as a respected figure in the music realm, leaving behind a significant legacy in Karnataka's musical heritage.

Marzieh was a renowned Iranian singer celebrated for her command of Persian traditional music. With her captivating vocal performances, she garnered praise both in Iran and worldwide. Marzieh's emotive voice and profound interpretation of Persian musical traditions distinguished her as a notable artist in the realm of traditional Persian music. Her efforts in preserving and promoting Persian musical heritage have made a lasting impact on the music world.

Georg Ots was a celebrated Estonian baritone known for his exceptional performances in opera and popular music. He was closely associated with the Estonian National Opera for more than two decades, where he showcased his remarkable vocal abilities. Ots received high praise for his portrayal of the lead role in the 1958 Soviet musical film Mister Iks, which was based on Imre Kálmán's operetta Die Zirkusprinzessin. Throughout his career, Georg Ots made a lasting impact on the music industry with his strong voice and versatile talents as a performer.

Abdul Rahim Sārbān, also known as Sarban, was an esteemed Afghan singer who skillfully combined Western musical styles such as Jazz and "Belle Chanson" with traditional Afghan music. His music featured a distinctive fusion of various musical elements, rhythms, and orchestrations. Sarban captivated audiences with his innovative musical approach, earning praise for his ability to merge different cultural influences in his songs. His legacy as a trailblazing musician serves as a source of inspiration for artists in Afghanistan and beyond.

Muazzez Ersoy is a well-known Turkish classical music singer acclaimed for her nostalgic songs, earning her the title "Nostalgia Queen." She was recognized as a State Artist in 1998 and appointed as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in 2006. Ersoy's musical journey began with her mother's influence, leading her to receive guidance from renowned music instructors. She gained fame through her nostalgia album series and recently launched an album featuring re-recorded pop songs from the 90s. Moreover, she hosted the TV program "Yıldız Akşamı" on TRT Müzik.

Nawal El Kuwaitia is a highly acclaimed Kuwaiti singer and actress, renowned for her significant impact on Arabic music and entertainment. Over a successful career lasting many years, she has produced a multitude of albums and singles that have captivated audiences throughout the Middle East. Nawal is celebrated for her exceptional vocal range, emotive stage presence, and ability to excel across a diverse range of musical styles. In addition to her musical achievements, she has successfully delved into acting, featuring in a variety of television series and films that further highlight her talent and widespread popularity.

Âşık Veysel was a renowned Turkish Alevi ashik, bağlama virtuoso, and folk poet known for his melancholic songs. Blind since childhood, he composed music that touched on themes such as morality, love, faith, life and death, patriotism, nature, and his unique perspective as a blind individual. Veysel is celebrated as an influential figure in Turkish folk music and literature, with popular songs like "Uzun İnce Bir Yoldayım," "Black Earth," "Let My Friends Remember Me," and "Your Beauty is Worth Nothing." He received prestigious awards, including the Presidential Culture and Arts Grand Award and UNESCO recognition.

Hakan Recep Altun is a talented Turkish singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist known for his contributions to Traditional Turkish Music. He pursued his passion for music by completing a bachelor's degree in music and focusing on traditional Turkish music during his post-graduate studies. Altun's career began as an instrumentalist in the Edirne State Choir before transitioning to a successful solo career in 1998. With numerous albums to his name, including hits like "Ağlamak Yok Yüreğim" and "Yaralı Bir Aşkın Öyküsü," Altun continues to captivate audiences with his emotional and soulful melodies.

Gülden Karaböcek is a renowned Turkish fantezi and arabesque singer known for her captivating vocals and emotional performances. With a career spanning several decades, she has become a respected figure in the Turkish music industry. Karaböcek is celebrated for her unique style and ability to connect with audiences through her music, earning her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Her powerful voice and versatile repertoire continue to mesmerize listeners with soulful interpretations of traditional Turkish music.

Mitali Mukherjee is a celebrated classical and playback singer hailing from Mymensingh, Bangladesh. She is known for her exceptional talent and received the National Film Award of Bangladesh in 1982 for her song 'Ei Dunia Ekhon To Ar' from the film Dui Poishar Alta. With a successful career in both classical and playback singing, Mitali Mukherjee has enchanted audiences with her melodious voice and versatile performances, establishing herself as a respected figure in the music industry.

Ustad Sarahang, a renowned Afghan ghazal singer and master of Indian classical music, hailed from Kabul, Afghanistan. He was celebrated as the "crown of Afghanistan's music," with a professional life marked by exceptional talent and dedication to preserving and promoting Afghan musical traditions. His soulful renditions of ghazals captivated audiences worldwide, earning him a prominent place in the music industry. Sarahang was revered for his artistry and significant contribution to Afghanistan's cultural heritage.

Olavi Virta, a renowned Finnish singer dubbed the "King" of Finnish tango, left a lasting mark on the music scene. Recording nearly 600 songs from 1939 to 1966, many of his works became classics in Finnish popular music. He also showcased his talent in various films and theatrical productions. Throughout his career, Virta was honored with three gold records and was often likened to iconic singers like Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra. Despite experiencing a decline in the late 1950s due to personal and health challenges, his significant impact on Finnish music endures, evident in tributes found in movies and museums.

Anne Queffélec is a celebrated French classical pianist recognized for her exceptional artistry and technical proficiency. She has firmly established herself as a leading figure in the classical music realm with her captivating performances and recordings. Queffélec's diverse repertoire demonstrates her versatility and musical depth. Over the course of her extensive career, she has earned critical acclaim and a devoted following of music lovers globally. Anne Queffélec's enduring passion for music and commitment to her craft continue to inspire audiences.

Zeynab Khanlarova was a celebrated soprano singer from the Soviet Union and Azerbaijan. She was recognized as People's Artist of the USSR in 1980 and also received honors in Azerbaijan and Armenia. Khanlarova enchanted audiences with her remarkable vocal abilities and captivating stage presence throughout her remarkable career. Her contributions to the music world, especially in opera and classical repertoire, were significant. Known for her powerful voice and artistic interpretations, she established herself as one of the most esteemed singers of her era.

Ruth Fernández was a celebrated Puerto Rican contralto and distinguished member of the Puerto Rican Senate. She was known for uniting Latin America through her exceptional musical talent and dedication to her country. Her professional career was filled with achievements and accolades that established her as a cultural icon. Collaborating with artists from Argentina and Mexico, she played a crucial role in promoting unity and cooperation in the region, influencing both the music and political arenas.

Siobhán Owen is a renowned soprano and harpist based in Adelaide, South Australia. She captivates audiences with enchanting performances at festivals, concerts, and events across Australia and internationally. With a versatile repertoire spanning classical, Celtic/folk, pop, and jazz genres, Owen's exquisite vocal range and skillful harp playing have earned her a reputation as a highly sought-after musician. Her passion for music shines through in her emotive and captivating renditions, making her a standout artist in the world of classical and contemporary music.

Hamlet Gonashvili, also known as "the voice of Georgia," was a highly respected singer, influential teacher, and performer of Georgian folk music. He was renowned for his interpretations of songs from the Kartli and Kakheti regions and received numerous national honors and prizes for his musical contributions. Gonashvili's singing inspired the Third Symphony of Georgian composer Giya Kancheli, and he was the soloist in the first recording of the work. Unfortunately, his professional career was tragically cut short in 1985 when he passed away due to a fall from an apple tree.

Terpander, a Greek poet and musician from Lesbos, was celebrated for his songs played on the kithara, an early form of the guitar. His musical prowess led to a triumph at the Sparta Olympiad competition. Terpander is revered as a pioneer in Greek classical music and lyric poetry, reshaping the art with his inventive compositions and masterful performances, leaving a significant mark on the evolution of music and poetry in ancient Greece.

Tanja Carovska is a celebrated Macedonian singer known for her powerful voice and dynamic performances. Her music career spans various genres, including folk, pop, and traditional Macedonian music. Carovska has gained acclaim for her ability to convey deep emotion and cultural richness through her songs. Her contributions to the Macedonian music scene include numerous recordings and performances that showcase her talent and dedication to preserving and promoting Macedonian musical traditions.

Shobha Gurtu was a distinguished Indian singer known for her mastery of the light Hindustani classical style. Her expertise in light classical music earned her the title of the Thumri Queen, bringing her widespread acclaim. Renowned for her emotive 'Abhinaya' performances and powerful voice, Gurtu carved a unique place in the world of Indian classical music. Her professional journey was defined by a rich musical legacy and a lasting impact on the genre.

Ross Barbour was a well-known American singer who co-founded the vocal quartet The Four Freshmen in 1948. Initially a barbershop quartet, the group evolved into a jazz-oriented vocal harmony group. The Four Freshmen found success in the 1950s with hit singles such as "It's a Blue World", "Mood Indigo", "Day by Day", and "Graduation Day". Barbour had a long professional career that included recording music, appearing in films and on television, and performing in concerts.

Khaled El Sheikh is a prominent Bahraini singer known for his contributions to the music industry. With a career spanning several decades, he has released numerous successful albums and singles that have resonated with audiences across the Arab world. El Sheikh is celebrated for his distinctive voice, powerful performances, and ability to infuse traditional Arabic music with modern influences. He has performed at prestigious venues and events, solidifying his reputation as a talented and influential figure in the music scene.

Ramón Vinay was a celebrated Chilean operatic tenor recognized for his commanding and dramatic vocal abilities. He gained global fame for his outstanding portrayal of the title role in Giuseppe Verdi's opera Otello. Vinay's professional journey was defined by his talent for expressing powerful emotions through his singing, garnering him praise from critics and establishing a lasting impact on the opera scene. Known for his nuanced character interpretations and strong stage presence, he was highly esteemed in the world of opera.

Farid Zoland is a renowned Afghan songwriter and composer recognized for his close partnerships with musicians from different nations, notably Iran. His impressive career has solidified his status as a leading figure in the music realm. Zoland's music is a harmonious blend of various cultural influences, highlighting his adaptability and innovative spirit. His successful collaborations with global musicians have greatly enriched his musical catalog, positioning him as a highly esteemed and influential individual in the music industry.

Ustad Awalmir was a renowned Afghan composer, musician, singer, and poet known for his significant contributions to Pashto music. Starting his musical career as a teenager, he learned from different mentors and later showcased his talent on radio broadcasts. With a repertoire of over 250 songs, he earned recognition for his artistry and was honored with the title of Ustad by the Ministry of Culture and Information. His compositions often paid homage to Afghanistan, exemplified by pieces like "Da Zamong Zeba Watan," which expressed his deep love for his country.

Miriam Gauci is a Maltese operatic soprano known for her association with lyric Italian roles. She began her professional career in 1984 and quickly gained recognition throughout Europe. Gauci has performed at prestigious venues such as La Scala and Vienna State Opera, collaborating with renowned conductors like Riccardo Muti and Claudio Abbado. Her repertoire includes roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Donizetti, Mozart, and Massenet. Gauci's career has been marked by successful concerts, recitals, and recordings worldwide, showcasing her talent and emotional depth as a performer.

Anna Renzi, a renowned opera star of the 17th century, rose to fame due to her exceptional singing and acting abilities. She gained recognition after a triumphant debut in Venice performing the role of Deidamia in Sacrati's "La finta pazza." Renzi's partnership with poet Giulio Strozzi further enhanced her standing in the opera industry. Her remarkable talents led her to become the highest-paid singer of her time, cementing her legacy as a pioneer in the history of opera.

Enrico Tamberlik, an Italian tenor, was known for his commanding delivery and clear high notes. He excelled in heroic roles from the Italian and French repertoires, performing at prestigious opera houses across Europe and America. Making his debut in 1837, Tamberlik gained recognition for his dynamic voice and dramatic portrayals. His career included performances at renowned theaters such as Covent Garden, Mariinsky Theatre, and Théâtre-Italien. He is remembered as one of the most esteemed Italian tenors of the 19th century.

Anton Raaff, a German tenor, began his professional training in Munich and was recognized for his talent by the Elector of Bavaria. He further developed his skills in Bologna to master the Italian style of opera seria. Raaff performed in several European cities such as Vienna, Lisbon, Madrid, and Naples, collaborating with renowned singers like Farinelli. He gained acclaim for his performances, notably when he portrayed the title role in Mozart's opera Idomeneo. Raaff later shifted to teaching before passing away in Munich.

Ustad Nasir Aminuddin Dagar was a renowned Indian dhrupad singer known for his expertise in the dagar-vani style. He played a significant role in reviving the dhrupad tradition in the Dagar Gharana. His spiritual and demanding approach to Hindustani vocal music, focusing on both sound and gesture, earned him recognition in the music world. Nasir Aminuddin Dagar made a lasting impact on Indian classical music through his dedication and skill.

Lianne Morgan was originally a member of the girl group Touch, which later evolved into the Spice Girls. She was part of the band during its early formation stages but was eventually replaced by Melanie Chisholm due to age differences. Lianne's time with the group was short-lived, as she struggled to keep up with the energy and dynamics of the other members. Her departure from the band allowed Melanie C to join, shaping the iconic lineup of the Spice Girls that went on to achieve immense success in the music industry.