Famous Scottish Singers

Lewis Capaldi is a Scottish singer-songwriter and musician who gained recognition for his hit single "Someone You Loved," which achieved widespread success in both the UK and the US. He won the Brit Award for Best New Artist in 2020 and his debut album, "Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent," topped the UK Albums Chart for six weeks. Capaldi's music has garnered critical acclaim, earning him numerous award nominations and distinctions, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the music industry.

Annie Lennox is a Scottish singer-songwriter, activist, and philanthropist known for her success as part of the new wave band the Tourists and later as one half of the duo Eurythmics. She has released multiple solo albums and received numerous awards, including Brit Awards, Grammy Awards, and an Academy Award. Lennox's vocal range is celebrated, earning her titles such as "The Greatest White Soul Singer Alive" and recognition as one of The 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. Apart from music, she is also recognized for her activism, particularly in raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS in Africa through various charitable organizations she has founded.

Susan Boyle is a Scottish singer who gained fame in 2009 after appearing on Britain's Got Talent. Her debut album, "I Dreamed a Dream," became the UK's best-selling debut album of all time and set records for first-week sales. Boyle made history by having three successive albums debut at No.1 within two years. She has released a total of eight albums, including two Christmas releases. Boyle has performed for notable events such as the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Commonwealth Games.

Ronald Belford "Bon" Scott was an Australian singer and songwriter best known as the second lead vocalist and lyricist of the hard rock band AC/DC. He joined AC/DC in 1974 and performed on the band's first seven albums, including "High Voltage" and "Highway to Hell." Scott's energetic performances and gritty vocals contributed to the band's rise to fame in the 1970s. His tragic death in 1980 led to the recruitment of Brian Johnson and the release of the iconic album "Back in Black."

Marti Pellow is a Scottish singer known for his long tenure as the lead vocalist of the pop group Wet Wet Wet. He fronted the band from their inception in 1982 until their disbandment in 1997, and then again when they reunited in 2004 until his departure in 2017. In addition to his work with Wet Wet Wet, Pellow has released albums as a solo artist and has showcased his talents on stage as an actor in various musical theatre productions in both the West End and on Broadway.

Amy Macdonald is a Scottish singer-songwriter known for her successful music career. She gained international recognition with the release of her debut album "This Is the Life" in 2007, which produced hit singles like "Mr. Rock & Roll" and "This Is the Life". Throughout her career, she has released several studio albums, each receiving positive reception and achieving chart success in various countries. Macdonald has sold over 12 million records worldwide and continues to be a prominent figure in the music industry, showcasing her talent through her powerful vocals and songwriting skills.

Lena Zavaroni was a talented Scottish singer and television show host who gained fame at a young age for her musical abilities. Making history by having an album in the top 10 of the UK Albums Chart at just 10 years old, she went on to star in her own television series and make numerous guest appearances. Zavaroni also showcased her talents on stage, demonstrating her versatility as a performer. Despite facing personal struggles, she remained dedicated to her craft throughout her professional career.

Derek William Dick, known professionally as Fish, is a Scottish singer, songwriter, and actor. He gained prominence as the lead vocalist and lyricist of the neo-prog band Marillion from 1981 to 1988, achieving success with numerous UK Top 40 singles and albums. Transitioning to a solo career, Fish explored a blend of contemporary pop and traditional folk music, releasing further chart-topping singles and albums. Renowned for his distinctive voice and poetic lyrics, Fish's theatrical delivery and ornate lyrical concepts contributed to his recognition as a top frontman in rock music. In 2020, he received critical acclaim and commercial success for his final studio album, "Weltschmerz," and continued touring to celebrate his discography. Fish plans to retire after a farewell tour in 2024.

Roddy Frame is a Scottish singer-songwriter and musician known for his work with the 1980s band Aztec Camera and his successful solo career following the group's dissolution. Considered an influential figure in the Scottish pop music scene, Frame has been praised for his intelligent, melodic, and wistful style. He has released four solo albums, with his latest being "Seven Dials" in 2014. Throughout his career, Frame has transitioned from a wunderkind of new wave to an esteemed elder statesman of Scottish pop music.

Julie Fowlis is a renowned Scottish folk singer and multi-instrumentalist, gaining international acclaim for her exceptional talent and soulful performances. With a specialization in singing primarily in Scottish Gaelic, she has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting traditional Gaelic music and culture. Fowlis has captivated audiences worldwide with her hauntingly beautiful voice, skillful instrumentation, and deep connection to her heritage. Through her music, she continues to inspire and educate listeners about the rich musical traditions of Scotland.

Sandi Thom is a Scottish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for her breakout single "I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in My Hair)" that achieved chart-topping success in the UK, Australia, and Ireland in 2006. Throughout her career, Thom has released six studio albums, showcasing her diverse musical talents and songwriting abilities. With a discography spanning over a decade, she has established herself as a respected artist in the music industry, continuously evolving and captivating audiences with her music.

Alex Ligertwood is a versatile Scottish musician known for his skills as a singer, guitarist, and drummer. With a career spanning several decades, he has made significant contributions to the music industry. Ligertwood has been involved in various projects and collaborations, showcasing his talent and passion for music. He is recognized for his dynamic performances and versatile vocal abilities, solidifying his reputation as a respected and influential figure in the music world.

Emeli Sandé is a Scottish singer and songwriter who gained recognition in the music industry after being featured on successful tracks by artists such as Chipmunk and Wiley. She released her first solo single "Heaven" in 2011 and achieved number-one singles with collaborations like "Read All About It" and "Beneath Your Beautiful". Sandé's album Our Version of Events topped the charts in the UK, becoming the best-selling album of 2012. She has won multiple Brit Awards for her work, including Best British Female Solo Artist and British Album of the Year. Sandé continues to be a prominent figure in the music scene, releasing successful albums and receiving accolades for her talent.

Jimmy Somerville is a British pop singer and songwriter known for his work in the 1980s with the synth-pop groups Bronski Beat and the Communards, as well as his solo career. He is recognized for his powerful countertenor/falsetto singing voice, which is soulful and distinctive. Somerville's music often includes political commentary on gay-related issues, with hits like "Smalltown Boy" resonating with audiences for their poignant themes. Throughout his professional life, Somerville has made a significant impact on the music industry with his unique sound and socially conscious lyrics.

Isobel Campbell is a Scottish singer, songwriter, and cellist known for her work in indie pop. She gained recognition as a member of Belle & Sebastian before venturing into a successful solo career under various monikers. Campbell's collaborations with Mark Lanegan have also garnered critical acclaim. Her music is characterized by a blend of indie pop, chamber pop, and singer-songwriter styles, featuring gentle and somber melodies often accompanied by classical instruments. Her latest studio album, Bow To Love, was released in 2024.

Lauren Mayberry is a Scottish singer, musician, and songwriter known for her role as the vocalist and percussionist of the Scottish pop band Chvrches. She co-writes and co-produces songs with bandmates Iain Cook and Martin Doherty, serving as the lead vocalist. Mayberry also showcases her musical talents by playing drums and keyboards. In addition to her musical contributions, she is recognized for her soprano voice. Mayberry is actively involved in advocating for feminist causes and engaging in philanthropic endeavors.

Jim Diamond was a Scottish singer-songwriter known for his successful music career in the 1980s. He achieved fame both as the lead singer of the band PhD and as a solo artist. His notable hits include "I Won't Let You Down" with PhD, and solo tracks "I Should Have Known Better" and "Hi Ho Silver". Diamond's music resonated with audiences, with "I Should Have Known Better" reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart in 1984. His contribution to music continued with "Hi Ho Silver" becoming the theme song for the TV show Boon.

Elizabeth Fraser is a Scottish singer known for her work as the vocalist for the band Cocteau Twins, achieving success in the UK from the mid-1980s to the late 1990s. She also collaborated with This Mortal Coil and Massive Attack. Following the Cocteau Twins' disbandment, Fraser pursued a solo career, releasing singles like "Underwater" and "Moses". Her distinctive style, characterized by swooping, operatic vocals, has garnered critical acclaim throughout her four-decade career, solidifying her reputation as a unique and emotive performer.

Jim Reid is a prominent Scottish singer/songwriter known for his role as the lead vocalist of the alternative rock band The Jesus and Mary Chain. He co-founded the band with his elder brother in 1983. Reid's distinctive vocals and songwriting skills have been instrumental in the band's success and critical acclaim. He has played a key role in shaping the band's signature sound and their influential presence in the alternative rock music scene. Reid continues to be a driving force in the band's creative endeavors and live performances.

Leon Jackson is a Scottish singer who rose to fame after winning the fourth series of The X Factor in 2007. He gained popularity with his debut single, a cover of "When You Believe," which became a best-selling single in the UK. Jackson's debut album, "Right Now," also achieved success, ranking as the 75th best-selling album in the UK. He has had one UK number one single, two top ten singles, and one top five album, solidifying his presence in the music industry.

Gordon Waller was a Scottish guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for his work in the 1960s pop music duo Peter and Gordon. The duo achieved success with their no. 1 million-selling single "A World Without Love." Gordon's professional life was marked by his talent as a musician and his contributions to the duo's success. He was recognized for his vocals and guitar skills, which played a pivotal role in the duo's popularity and their impact on the music scene during that era.

Eddi Reader is a Scottish singer-songwriter renowned for her contributions to the folk and soft rock music genres. She gained prominence as the lead vocalist of Fairground Attraction before establishing a successful solo career. Her talent has been recognized with three Brit Awards, highlighting her impact on the music industry. Reader's artistic endeavors extend beyond performance, as she curated a showcase of the works of Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns, in 2003, further solidifying her position as a respected and influential figure in the music world.

Sir Harry Lauder was a Scottish singer and comedian renowned in music hall and vaudeville traditions. He gained international acclaim for his inspiring songs, becoming a symbol of Scottish culture. Lauder's performances in full Highland regalia, singing Scottish-themed songs, resonated with audiences worldwide. By 1911, he was the world's highest-paid performer and the first British artist to sell a million records. Knighted for his contributions during World War I, Lauder continued to entertain troops in World War II before retiring due to ill health in the late 1940s.

Alexander Young, known as George Alexander, was a versatile Scottish musician with skills in singing, songwriting, saxophone, bass, and guitar. He also worked as a session musician. His professional life was marked by collaborations with various artists and bands, showcasing his musical talent and versatility. As the elder brother of George Young and the younger brother of Stephen Young, his influence extended to family members who also found success in the music industry. His contributions left a lasting impact on the music scene during his career.

Bobby Gillespie is a prominent Scottish musician, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his significant contributions to the alternative rock music scene. He gained recognition as the lead singer and founding member of the influential band Primal Scream, where he serves as the primary lyricist. Gillespie's musical journey also includes stints as the drummer for The Jesus and Mary Chain and as the bassist for The Wake. In addition to his impressive music career, he recently delved into writing with the publication of his memoir, "Tenement Kid."

Jean Redpath MBE was a Scottish folk singer known for her rich, expressive voice and deep connection to traditional Scottish music. She gained international acclaim for her performances and recordings of Scottish ballads and songs, preserving the country's cultural heritage. Redpath collaborated with renowned artists, such as Bob Dylan and Garrison Keillor, showcasing her versatility and talent. Throughout her career, she released numerous albums, performed at prestigious venues worldwide, and received recognition for her contributions to folk music, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.

Karl Denver was a successful Scottish singer known for his distinctive falsetto yodelling register. Along with his trio, he achieved a series of hit singles in the early 1960s, with his 1961 version of "Wimoweh" being the most famous. Denver's unique talent for yodelling helped him reach the Top 20 with his first five singles. His music resonated with audiences, showcasing his skill and versatility as a performer in the music industry during that time.

Jackie Leven was a Scottish songwriter and folk musician known for his prolific career spanning several decades. He began as a folk musician in the late 1960s and gained recognition with the new wave band Doll by Doll. Transitioning to a successful solo career, he released over twenty albums under his own name or the pseudonym Sir Vincent Lone. Leven's music was characterized by heartfelt lyrics and a unique blend of folk and rock influences, establishing him as a respected figure in the music industry.

Wattie Buchan is a prominent Scottish punk rock musician renowned as the lead vocalist for the influential band, the Exploited. With a career spanning decades, Buchan has been a driving force in the punk rock scene, known for his powerful and aggressive vocal style. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and image of the Exploited, contributing to their success and enduring legacy in the music industry. Buchan's passionate performances and uncompromising attitude have solidified his reputation as a punk rock icon.

Will Fyffe was a renowned Scottish music hall and performing artist during the 1930s and 1940s. He began his career at a young age in his father's stock company and quickly gained popularity for his sketches and songs performed in music halls across the UK. Fyffe was one of the highest-paid musical hall artists in Britain during the 1930s. He appeared in 23 major films, recorded over 30 songs, and is best known for his composition "I Belong to Glasgow." Fyffe left behind rare footage of his stage act, showcasing his talent and stage presence.

Greg Holden is a Scottish singer-songwriter known for his impactful charity single "The Lost Boy" and for co-writing the debut single "Home" for American Idol-winner Phillip Phillips. Based in the United States, Holden has made a name for himself in the music industry with his emotionally charged lyrics and heartfelt performances. His talent for storytelling through music has garnered him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Holden continues to create soulful music and connect with audiences through his authentic and moving songs.

Alistair Hulett was a prominent Scottish acoustic folk singer recognized for his role as the lead vocalist of the folk punk group Roaring Jack. Throughout his career, he captivated audiences with his powerful and evocative singing style, as well as his poignant and socially conscious songwriting. Hulett's music often tackled themes of social justice, political activism, and the working-class experience, establishing him as a respected figure in the folk music scene. His contributions to music continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Benny Gallagher is a Scottish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his prominent role as half of the successful duo Gallagher and Lyle. With a career spanning several decades, Gallagher has made significant contributions to the music industry through his songwriting and musical abilities. His work with Gallagher and Lyle has garnered widespread acclaim and popularity, establishing him as a respected figure in the world of music. Gallagher continues to showcase his talents as a musician, captivating audiences with his performances and compositions.

Mary Ann Kennedy is a versatile Scottish artist with a diverse range of talents in the music industry. She excels as a musician, singer, choral director, composer, radio and television presenter, and music producer. Known for her expertise and passion in various musical roles, Kennedy has made significant contributions to the music scene. With a successful career spanning different facets of the industry, she has established herself as a respected figure and continues to inspire audiences with her creativity and skill.

Rachel Newton is a versatile Scottish musician known for her skills as a singer and harpist. In addition to playing acoustic and electric harp, she is also proficient in viola, fiddle, piano, and harmonium. She has showcased her talents both as a solo artist and as a member of various bands including The Shee, The Furrow Collective, and Boreas. Rachel has also participated in collaborative projects such as the Lost Words Spell Songs and is dedicated to advocating for equality in folk music through her involvement in The Bit Collective.