Famous Welsh Singers

Tom Jones is a renowned Welsh singer with a career spanning several decades. Known for his powerful baritone voice, he has achieved success in various music genres including pop, R&B, country, and soul. With over 100 million records sold worldwide, he has produced numerous hit singles such as "It's Not Unusual," "Delilah," and "Sex Bomb." Jones has also ventured into acting, receiving accolades for his roles in television and film. His contributions to music have been recognized with prestigious awards, including a Grammy and two Brit Awards. Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II, he continues to captivate audiences as a coach on The Voice UK.

Bonnie Tyler is a Welsh singer known for her distinctive husky voice and successful music career spanning several decades. She rose to fame in the 1970s with hits like "Lost in France" and "It's a Heartache". In the 1980s, she collaborated with songwriter Jim Steinman on chart-topping songs like "Total Eclipse of the Heart" and "Holding Out for a Hero". Tyler continued to achieve success in Europe in the 1990s and beyond, receiving Grammy and Brit Award nominations and earning an MBE for her contributions to music.

Marina Diamandis, known mononymously as Marina, is a Greek-Welsh singer, songwriter, and record producer. She rose to fame in 2010 with her debut album "The Family Jewels," showcasing indie pop and new wave styles. Her second album, "Electra Heart" (2012), a concept album, marked her first UK number one. "Froot" (2015) continued her success, reaching the top 10 in both the UK and the US. Marina's subsequent albums, "Love + Fear" (2019) and "Ancient Dreams in a Modern Land" (2021), have also achieved commercial and critical acclaim.

Katherine Jenkins is a renowned Welsh mezzo-soprano singer known for her versatile performances encompassing operatic arias, popular songs, musical theatre, and hymns. With a background in winning singing competitions and studying at the Royal Academy of Music, she has achieved international acclaim since her public debut in 2003. Jenkins has released successful albums, received prestigious awards, and showcased her talent through concerts, television appearances, and charitable endeavors. Her impactful performances have reached various audiences, including British Armed Forces and fans worldwide.

Shirley Bassey is a Welsh singer known for her powerful voice and career longevity. She gained popularity in the music industry in the 1950s and became the first Welsh person to have a number-one single in the UK. Bassey recorded theme songs for three James Bond films, showcasing her talent on an international stage. Over the years, she achieved numerous chart-topping hits and received accolades for her contributions to music. Bassey's influence extends to other artists, and she remains one of the best-selling female artists of all time.

Matthew Tuck is a Welsh musician renowned for his role as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist in Bullet for My Valentine, a prominent heavy metal band. He has showcased his musical versatility by also serving as a singer and guitarist in the supergroup AxeWound, formed in 2012. With his dynamic performances and songwriting skills, Tuck has made significant contributions to the metal music scene, garnering a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim for his work with both bands.

Bryn Terfel Jones, CBE, known as Bryn Terfel, is a prominent Welsh bass-baritone opera and concert singer. Initially known for his performances in Mozart roles such as Figaro, Leporello, and Don Giovanni, Terfel has since expanded his repertoire to include heavier roles by composers like Puccini and Wagner. His professional career is characterized by a versatile vocal range and exceptional performances in both opera and concert settings, garnering critical acclaim and establishing him as a leading figure in the classical music world.

Peter William Ham was a talented Welsh singer, songwriter, and guitarist renowned for his role as the lead vocalist and composer of the rock band Badfinger in the 1970s. He contributed to several hit songs, such as "No Matter What," "Day After Day," and "Baby Blue." His co-writing of the ballad "Without You," made famous by Harry Nilsson, earned him two Ivor Novello Awards in 1973. Unfortunately, Ham's career was overshadowed by the band's financial struggles and management issues, leading to his tragic suicide in 1975.

Ian Watkins was a Welsh musician known as the lead singer of Lostprophets. His career came to an abrupt end in 2013 when he was sentenced to 29 years in prison for various sex offenses, including assault on children and possession of disturbing pornographic material. Following his conviction, Lostprophets disbanded, and the remaining members formed a new band called No Devotion with American singer Geoff Rickly.

Dorothy Squires was a Welsh singer known for her early hits like "The Gypsy" and "I'm Walking Behind You". She also achieved success with songs like "Till", "My Way", and "For Once in My Life". Squires recorded popular cover versions such as "A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening" and "If You Love Me (Really Love Me)". Later in her career, she faced legal troubles, being banned from the High Court and declared a "vexatious litigant" due to multiple frivolous lawsuits, leading to her bankruptcy.

Cerys Matthews is a multi-talented Welsh artist known for her work as a singer, songwriter, author, and broadcaster. She gained prominence as a founding member of the Welsh rock band Catatonia and played a key role in the "Cool Cymru" movement of the late 1990s. Matthews currently hosts various music shows on BBC Radio, including on BBC Radio 6 Music, BBC Radio 2, and BBC Radio 4. She is also involved in making documentaries for television and radio, as well as writing books, including both adult and children's literature. Additionally, Matthews founded "The Good Life Experience" festival in Flintshire and has illustrated Dylan Thomas's Under Milk Wood.

Max Boyce, MBE, is a Welsh comedian, singer, and entertainer known for his unique blend of musical comedy, rugby union passion, and South Wales mining community roots. He gained fame in the mid-1970s with his act and achieved chart-topping success with his comedy album "We All Had Doctors' Papers." Boyce has sold over two million albums in a career spanning four decades, making him a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and a beloved personality in Wales and beyond.

John Owen-Jones is a highly acclaimed Welsh musical theatre actor and singer, renowned for his iconic performances as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. With an impressive career spanning years, he has showcased his exceptional talent in various West End productions, including emergency replacements in key roles. In addition to his stage success, John Owen-Jones has released six studio albums, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished performer in the musical theatre industry.

Reuben De Maid is a Welsh makeup artist and pop singer-signwriter known for his talent showcased on NBC's musical competition show "Little Big Shots." He gained fame for his live performances and continues to captivate audiences with his self-titled YouTube channel, where he shares original songs and makeup tutorials. With a unique blend of musical artistry and makeup expertise, Reuben has established himself as a versatile entertainer, attracting a growing fan base and further solidifying his presence in the entertainment industry.

Lisa Scott-Lee is a Welsh singer known for her involvement in the pop group Steps, formed in 1997. After signing a record deal with Mercury Records, she embarked on a solo career in 2003. Despite achieving only minor success with her debut single "Lately," she released her solo album "Never or Now" in 2007 through Concept Records. Scott-Lee faced challenges in her solo career and was dropped after her second single, but she remains recognized for her contributions to the music industry.

Wynne Evans is a versatile Welsh singer, presenter, and actor best known for his portrayal of Gio Compario in the Go.compare insurance adverts in the UK. He showcased his vocal talents by singing the role of Ubaldo Piangi in the 25th-anniversary production of The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall. Evans further demonstrated his musical prowess by performing "Glory Glory Tottenham Hotspur" at significant events such as the last game at White Hart Lane and the opening of Spurs' new stadium.

Steve Strange was a Welsh singer who gained fame as the leader of the synth-pop group Visage. He was also known for his role as a nightclub host and promoter in the late 1970s. Steve Strange was instrumental in shaping the New Romantic movement of the early 1980s and was considered one of its most influential figures. With Visage, he achieved success with the hit single "Fade to Grey". Steve Strange's professional life was characterized by his contributions to music and fashion during this era.

Robert Tear, a highly versatile opera singer, had a lifelong association with the Royal Opera House. Known for his memorable performances as Paris in Tippett's King Priam and Aschenbach in Death in Venice, Tear's career began at a young age. His talent and dedication led him to become one of the most renowned opera singers of his time. With a repertoire that showcased his exceptional vocal range and acting skills, Tear left a lasting impact on the opera world through his remarkable performances and contributions to the art form.

Leondre Antonio Devries is a talented and prolific young rapper known for his work in the British duo Bars and Melody. Rising to fame after placing third on 'Britain's Got Talent' in 2014, he has used his music to speak out against bullying and channel his emotions. With a supportive mother by his side, Devries pursued his passion for music and formed Bars and Melody with friend Charlie Lenehan. Together, they have achieved success and continue to inspire fans with their powerful songs.

Georgia Ruth Williams is a talented Welsh musician known for her skills as a singer-songwriter and harpist. She is proficient in both English and Welsh languages, allowing her to connect with a diverse range of audiences. Throughout her career, Georgia Ruth has captivated listeners with her emotive vocals and intricate harp melodies. She has released music that showcases her unique style and storytelling abilities, earning critical acclaim in the music industry. Her passion for music shines through in her performances, making her a respected figure in the Welsh music scene.

Siân James is a Welsh traditional folk singer and harpist hailing from Llanerfyl in Powys, Wales. She has a strong background in music, having participated in eisteddfodau from a young age and later studying music at the University of Wales, Bangor. James has recorded for Sain, BBC Records, and her own label, Bos, showcasing her talents as a recording artist. In addition to her solo work, she is known for her involvement in Welsh men's choir Parti Cut Lloi and has performed at prestigious events such as the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C.

Dame Margaret Berenice Price DBE was a highly acclaimed Welsh soprano known for her exceptional vocal talent and artistry. She rose to prominence in the opera world with her exquisite performances in leading roles across major opera houses worldwide, establishing herself as one of the most distinguished sopranos of her time. Price was celebrated for her rich, velvety voice, impeccable technique, and emotional depth in interpretation, making her a beloved figure in the opera community and leaving a lasting legacy in the classical music world.

James Fox, also known as James Richard Mullett, is a multi-talented Welsh artist excelling in pop music as a singer, songwriter, pianist, and guitarist. He gained international recognition by representing the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest 2004 held in Istanbul. In addition to his Eurovision participation, Fox showcased his versatility by composing and performing the Cardiff City F.C. FA Cup Final anthem, "Bluebirds Flying High" in 2008. His professional career highlights a passion for music, performance, and songwriting.

Judith Owen is a Welsh singer-songwriter with a successful career spanning several albums. She released her first North American album, Emotions on a Postcard, in 1996, which was well-received. Throughout her career, Judith has continued to release music that showcases her talent and versatility as an artist. She is also known for being the co-founder of Twanky Records alongside her husband, Harry Shearer, further solidifying her presence in the music industry as a respected and accomplished musician.

Geraint Meurig Vaughan Watkins is a highly accomplished Welsh musician with a diverse professional background. He is known for his skills as a singer, songwriter, rock and roll pianist, and accordionist. Watkins has collaborated with numerous renowned artists in the industry, such as Nick Lowe, Dave Edmunds, Van Morrison, and Paul McCartney. In addition to his work as a backing musician, he has also established a successful solo career, releasing several albums under his own name. His latest album, "Rush of Blood," was launched in September 2019.