225-201-Great Vocals
225. I CALL YOUR NAME (1966)
Vocalist: The Mamas & the Papas (lead “Mama” Cass Elliot)
Composer/Writer: John Lennon / Paul McCartney (1964)
Their 3rd entry on our list is praised for their crystal-clear harmonies and their venture into Pop / Rock and Folk. This Pop song showcased Mama Cass’s wonderful, distinctive and expressive voice, and this cover of a Beatle song clearly showed they could recreate, even reinvent, a great tune and make it their own. From the plinky-plink / honky-tonk piano intro, and into Cass’s mid-solo, “Don’t you know I can’t sleep at night / But just the same / I never weep at night / I call your name,” this is sheer joy! The last verse—altogether marvelous! Her sunny, wondrous delivery continues to entertain, decades later…Simply Sensational!
Link #1 Original recording, 1966. Link #2 Live Performance, Monterrey, Pop Festival, 1967.
224. C’EST SI BON (It’s So Good) (1953)
Vocalist: Eartha Kitt
Writer/Composer: Andre Hornez / Henri Betti / Jerry Seelan (1953)
There’s only one Eartha Kitt! This American Jazz / Pop singer could speak and sing in at least four languages, her distinctive voice was in a class by itself, and she could could purr, meow and sing this French piece so remarkably well that no other singer dared try to imitate her. Very popular in America and Europe, she specialized in 1950 / 1960 recordings, live cabaret performances, and even as voices in animated movies. Her unique voice has been described as earthy, alluring, seductive, and teasing, and she possessed a “come hither” aura that appealed to universal audiences. Listen for her amazing vibrato…Absolutely Astonishing!
Link #1 Original recording, 1953. Link #2 Live performance, 1954.
223. GONE (1957)
Vocalist: Ferlin Husky
Writer/Composer: Smokey Rogers (1952)
One of the first songs to be identified with the “Nashville Sound” of Country / Pop music was this crossover hit by this former Rockabilly / Honky-Tonk singer. It was a sensational hit right in the midst of the Rock revolution in 1957 and somewhat of anomaly with a full chorus of backup singers adding to its unique Pop sound. Among his other hits was On the Wings of a Dove. His smooth, confident, baritone delivery assured him that this had to be a big hit, and the longing, feeling, and pathos in his offering was quite unique to Pop radio. We’re goners from the very beginning,“Since you’ve gone / The moon and the sun and the stars in the sky / Know the reason why I cry / Love divine, once was mine / Now you’ve Gone.” It was truly a moving, surprising Country revelation for its time…Truly Great!
Link #1 original recording, 1957.
222. DOWN-HEARTED BLUES (1923)
Vocalist: Bessie Smith (piano Clarence Williams)
Writer/Composer: Alberta Hunter / Lovie Austin / Son House (1923)
This is pure unadulterated Blues. The “Empress of the Blues” does it again with her 2nd entry on our list with this important, primitive, soulful, aesthetic recording when the music industry was in its infancy. She takes us down memory lane with this heartfelt larger-than-life recording, and it proves to be one of the most influential Blues / Jazz recordings ever made. Rythm and Blues and early Rock all owe its heritage and magnetic pull in music to this song and other recordings of similar stature. She sings from the heart; let your imagination can take you back a century when everyone who listened to radio was spellbound by this new music form. Wow—What an Attitude…Amazing!
Link #1 Original recording, 1923.
221. PIANO MAN (1974)
Vocalist: Billy Joel
Writer/Composer: Billy Joel (1974)
His 2nd entry on our list is a Soft Rock / Pop masterpiece in storytelling, singing and artistic celebration. This, a signature song, proves he’s one of the premier singer / songwriters of the 20th century. “It’s Nine o’clock on a Saturday / The regular crowd shuffles in / There’s an old man sittin’ next to me / makin’ love to his tonic and gin.” And his delivery? In a 3/4 waltz tenor style, how can we argue with his melancholy-flavored vocal, and without vibrato, a true revelation of sincerity, pathos, honesty and desolation—all rolled into one. He was only 24 years old when he composed this perfect bar song, sung with the experience of a lifetime of losing and heavy drinking. “They’re sharing a drink they call loneliness / But it’s better than drinking alone.” The reality is…Stunning!”
Link #1 Orginal official recording. 1974. Link # 2 Live performance, 1974,
220. THE STORY (2007)
Vocalist: Brandi Carlile
Writer/Composer: Phil Hanseroth / Brandi Carlile (2006)
This American Folk/Rock singer/songwriter did not emerge—she suddenly appeared—taking Folk / Rock and Pop by storm. From the mid-2000s and into the 2020s, her haunting vocals and unique sound brought instant recognition, attention and success, and the entire music community seemed to embrace her vocal style and persona. One music critic called her voice a “gut voice, with molten impact.” Her continued career could very well verify her status as one of the most influential singers of the 21st century. This theme of self-acceptance and vulnerability is not new, but it increasingly seems to seep through the very shifting sands of the modern music industry. She performs within her 3 octaves with ease and attitude…Simply Captivating!
Link #1 Official music live performance video, 2007.
219. IT’S A MAN’S, MAN’S, MAN’S WORLD (1966)
Vocalist: James Brown (and His Famous Flames / Chorus)
Writer/Composer: Betty Jean Newsome
This could very well be one of the greatest Soul songs ever performed and the string arrangement by Sammy Lowe is is wondrous. This dynamic singer, dancer, and songwriter emerged in the late 1950s, entertaining and performing, eventually over 50 years, producing a massive number of hits. His unabashed style and high energy were mind-boggling, earning him the nickname such as “The Hardest Working Man in Show Business.” He mastered Soul / R&B / Rock / and Pop / and was a main force in creating the new Funk genre. This election swims in Soul—his Gospel-style call & response style is unmistakable and undeniable. This slower selection exudes great power and emotion…Absolutely Moving and Sensational!
Link #1 Official music video, 1966. Link #2 Live performance, sometime later.
218. MEMORY “Cats” (1983)
Vocalist: Elaine Paige
Writer/Composer: Andrew Lloyd Webber (1983)
This English songstress has captivated audiences with her recordings and in the Musical Theater for decades, from the mid 1960s to well into the 2010s. She has dazzled multitudes as a central figure in numerous London and Broadway theater performances. Her ability to phrase and emotionally vocalize every nuance that’s required in dramatic musical roles has made her one of the most respected and sought-after theatrical actresses, and her many soprano interpretations are considered among the best ever by her peers and critics. Many prefer Betty Buckley’s version, but this is the 2nd entry for this song on our list, and Elaine’s version is likewise…Mesmerizing!
Link #1 Original recording, 1983.
217. LUCKENBACH TEXAS (Back to the Basics of Love) (1977)
Vocalist: Waylon Jennings / with Willie Nelson
Writer/Composer: Chris “Chips” Moman / Bobby Emmons (1977)
From the 1960s and into the 1990s, this Country / Folk legend made a huge impact in how Country music was viewed, and this song was one of the reasons why. His gruff baritone voice excels in this song, and we can see why he was instrumental in the “Outlaw Country” style that surfaced in the 1970s. With Nelson, Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson, this new wave of Country even crossed over into the Pop charts. His singular vocal intro is legendary, "The only two things in life that make it worth living.” and it put this obscure tiny Texas town on the map…A Unique Historical vocal!
Link#1 Original recording, 1977.
216. BARRACUDA (1977)
Vocalist: Heart (lead Ann Wilson / Nancy Wilson acoustic guitar, backing vocals / Roger Fisher lead guitar / Michael DeRosier drums / Steve Fossen bass / Howard Leese Mellotron
Writer/Composer: Ann Wilson / Nancy Wilson / Roger Fisher / Michael Derosier (1976)
This Hard Rock classic solidified the fact—the Wilson sisters were for real as female Rock forces and artists. They came on like gangbusters in the mid 1970s and kept on producing, composing and recording albums well into the 2000s. Nancy is known as one of the greatest female Rock guitarists of all time and Ann is without doubt one of Rock’s greatest and most popular female singers—and does she ever deliver here! We are hooked on this tune from its beginning guitar riff to Ann’s extraordinary power to move within her three octaves and exclaim a piercing message of not trusting the media. This American 5-piece band backs the vocals with verve and strength. She sings here with force, attitude and agility…Stupendous and Jaw-dropping!
Link #1 Original recording, 1977. Link #2 Live Performance video, 1977.
215. STAYIN’ ALIVE “Saturday Night Fever” (1977)
Vocalist: The Bee Gees (lead Barry Gibb falsetto) / (Robin Gibb vibrato / Maurice Gibb multi-instrumental)
Writer/Composer: Barry Gibb / Robin Gibb / Maurice Gibb (1977)
This Pop / Rock song defines Disco mania—and from one of the most successful musicals in movie history, this became an instantly recognizable signature hit for this 3-man Australian group. They dominated the 1970s with their infectious rhythms and falsetto harmonies, and this is one of their best examples. This song, their 2nd spot on our list, has become the ultimate iconic Disco anthem. Their high harmonies are extraordinary in this offering, and it instantly shot actor John Travolta to superstardom. With one of the most unique sounds in music history, is it any wonder…A Whimsical, Musical Museum Piece!
Link #1 Official music video, 1977. Link #2 Film clip featuring John Travolta, Saturday Night Fever, 1977.
214. CHANCES ARE (1957)
Vocalist: Johnny Mathis (Ray Coniff arranger)
Writer/Composer: Al Stillman / Robert Allen (1957)
“Chances are ‘cause I wear that silly grin / the moment you come into view / Chances are you think that I’m in love with you.” From its opening moments, at Al Stillman’s piano intro, we are hooked. Johnny’s velvety, crystal-clear voice makes its 2nd appearance on our list with this beautiful, extraordinary, romantic, classic love ballad, certainly among the most cherished in the 20th century. One music source says his vocal style enables him,“to move the very highest notes to unusually warm lows.” Through the years he built an amazing fan base after his prolific hit records (1957-1970) won international acclaim, by doing TV appearances, concerts and years at starring at Las Vegas, his second home. We can only agree that we are listening to one of the greatest stylists in Pop / Jazz history…Historically Sublime!
Link #1 Original recording, 1957. Link #2 Live performance, audio, 1957.
213. JIM DANDY (1956)
Vocalist: LaVern Baker / The Cues backup vocals
Writer/Composer: Lincoln Chase (1956)
This song was a true game changer in American music, and it was a defining moment for this outstanding American R&B singer. A great example of the combining of R&B, Soul, Rock and Pop, it was nothing short of spectacular in 1956. Some argue this was really the first megahit Rock song by a female artist, in retrospect, they would probably win that argument, as her Gospel roots really surfaced here in her stunning, amazing delivery. Her commanding, distinctive, tough-as-nails, rough delivery is a wonder to behold, setting the stage for numerous black artists that would follow as well as her influence on white audiences and singers. She carved a niche for singer / entertainer with her charismatic, over the top delivery…Absolutely Sensational!
Link #1 Original recording, 1956.
212. MACK THE KNIFE “The Three Penny Opera” (1959)
Vocalist: Bobby Darin
Writer/Composer: Bertolt Brecht / Kurt Weill (1928) - Mark Blitzstein - English translated lyrics - (1956)
This Jazz / Pop masterpiece was originally a song from the German play about a murderer, but this 1959s rework, softened the lyrics somewhat and created a bouncy tune that remained at #1 for 9 weeks, unheard of at that time. As one of the biggest hits of the 1950s, it remains a classic, thanks to this sensational vocal by Darin. He proved to be one of Americas greatest musical performers in the late 1950s and into the 1960s until his early death at 37 years. Jazz / Pop / Rock / Folk / Country / Blues—he could do it all! After Louie Miller disappeared after drawing out all hard-earned cash, Bobby sings, “Now Mac Heath spends just like a sailor / Could it be our boy’d done something rash?” His voice here is in the Sinatra/Big Band style, and he improvises many of the phrases…His delivery, Amazingly Charismatic!
Link #1 Original recording, 1959.
211. NIGHTS IN WHITE SATIN (1967)
Vocalist: The Moody Blues (lead vocals, Justin Hayward, guitar / Peter Knight & New World Orch. / John Lodge bass, vocals / Mike Pinder keyboards, vocals / Ray Thomas, flute, vocals / Graeme Edge drums)
Writer/Composer: Justin Hayward (1967)
This Progressive Rock / Progressive Pop classic grows in popularity with each passing year and from the mid-1960s and into the 2010s, they still dazzle with their lush melodies and poetic lyrics. Their use of strings, flute (Ray Thomas) and orchestra is stunning, causing listeners even in the successive generations to listen with surprise and rapture. Justin Hayward’s lead vocals are described as high baritone and his delivery here is smooth and perfect for this semi-classical Rock piece. Their album, Days of Future Passed, is considered by many as a landmark for early Progressive Rock. This piece continues to stun…Definitely Awe-inspiring!
Link #1 Original recording 1967. Link #2 Live extended performance, New World Orch, 1967.
210. ALBONINI’S ADAGIO IN G MINOR (2006)
Vocalist: Sissel Krykjebo
Writer/Composer: Tomaso Albinoni (1741) / Remo Giazotto (1945)
Here she is again, the Norwegian sensation with the angelic voice who seems to gain more popularity with each passing year. Her stunning rendition of this classic piece from the 1700s is a real joy to behold, leaving many awestruck listeners breathless. Her 2nd entry is remarkable on our list because she doesn’t stretch her vocal cords, she just seems to open her mouth and the music flows, effortlessly. From the early 1990s through the 2010s, she continues to overwhelm concert audiences and travel the international circuit. Her crystalline, soprano sweeps and soars, as she sings this emotive piece to the heavens…Absolutely Marvelous!
Link - Original recording, 2006.
209. MERCY, MERCY ME (The Ecology Song) (1971)
Vocalist: Marvin Gaye / the Adantes / Chorus (The Funk Bros.) (Bill Moore sax solo)
Writer/Composer: Marvin Gaye (1971)
Marvin Gaye’s 2nd number on our list proved to be one of the biggest hits of 1971, not only as an anthem for man’s destruction of the environment, but as a social, scientific and spiritual message of the necessity of saving the earth’s environment for future generations. As one of the biggest hits of that year, the relevant R&B classic marked a turning point in his career, he was not just another R&B/Soul singer / songwriter, but he crossed the boundaries to Pop / Funk / Psychedelic Soul / Folk and all other genres. The unusual tune was a stroke of genius, as he hit on all cylinders for his 3+ octave tenor voice, breaking into high falsetto with incredible ease, making the most of his very timely and necessary message…In retrospect, one of the most importances songs of all time…Contemplative and Inspirational!
Link #1 Original recording from album What’s Going On? 1971. Link #2 Live at Montreaux, 1980.
208. I HOPE YOU DANCE (2000)
Vocalist: Lee Ann Womack (with band, Sons of the Desert)
Writer/Composer: Mark D. Sanders / Tia Sillers ((2000)
This selection brought in the new century perhaps better than any American female offering—she became a mainstay in Country / Traditional Folk / Pop music from the late 1990s and through the 2000s. This beautifully crafted signature song was a smash Grammy award-winning hit, “I hope you feel small when you stand beside the ocean / Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens / Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance / And when you get a chance to sit it out or dance / I hope you dance, / I hope you dance.” Her nostalgic, clear, sweet-as-sugar, soprano delivery made this a stellar modern-day Country classic. This life-affirming song is a testament to love and faith—And her voice is both loving and longing. Her message and the band’s performance here is…Remarkably Touching and Authentic!
Link - Original music video andd recording, 2000. Link #2 Live performance on Jay Leno, 2000.
207. BILLIE JEAN (1983)
Vocalist: Michael Jackson
Writer/Composer: Michael (1983)
The “King of Pop” proved his worth with this song, selling more than 14 million copies worldwide. His performance became like his signature, with moon walk, black sequined jacket, with spins, steps and “Oohs” that would make Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly do double takes. His vocal is now considered one of music history’s most recognizable in Pop music, and it helped to catapult his album “Thriller” to infinity, as one of the most successful of all time. He wrote, produced and delivered it in such a way that it covered all these genres—Post-Disco / R & B / Funk / and Dance-Pop, and its overflow helped his music become a Pop culture phenomenon, and its magnetic, cultural aftershocks, stay with us even to this day…Unbelievably Thrilling and Dazzling!
Link #1 Official music video, 1983. Link #2 Live performance, Victory Tour, Dallas, TX. 1983.
206. ANGEL FROM MONTGOMERY (1974)
Vocalist: Bonnie Raitt
Writer/Composer: John Prine (1971)
American Blues / Folk / Rock singer / songwriter, Bonnie Raitt, is one of the very best when it comes to interpreting a song, reinventing it, and presenting it on a silver platter. This is in a pure Blues style, and her stunning delivery is now legendary, so much so that many of her contemporaries copy her unique style and her haunting presentation. She took this John Prine classic Folk standard and took it to new heights, and it became a mainstay in her live performances—and can she ever play the slide guitar! This song, her 2nd on our list, clearly demonstrates this—seldom has any vocalist sang with such heart and Soul!…Steadfast and Splendid!
Link #1 Official remastered recording, 1974 (2008). Link #2 Live performance, Wonderland, Holland, 2007.
205. FALL ON ME (2018)
Vocalist: Andrea Bocelli / Matteo Bocelli / (Bob Ezrin music arranger)
Writer/Composer: Ian Axel / Chad King (2018)
This marks Andrea Bocelli’s 2nd entry on our list. His beloved and enigmatic voice has captivated world recognition since the early 1990s, and his persona has allowed him to truly be considered one of the world’s most renown tenors in Opera / Classical and Pop. With a career selling millions of records, and eventually joining with his 20-year-old son, Matteo, he presents this piece as an answer to emptiness, longing and perhaps spiritual need and it is a constant reminder that LOVE is the answer. With Bob Ezrin’s music arrangement and Ano Great Big Wrld’s Ian Axel & Chad King at the helm, the collaboration is surprisingly remarkable, not too overpowering, but gloriously beautiful…Simply Poignant!
Link - Official music video, 2018.
204. BLACK (1991)
Vocalist: Pearl Jam (lead Eddie Vedder) / Mike McCready lead guitar / Jeff Ament bass / Dave Kruzen drums (Rick Parashar keyboards)
Writer/Composer: Eddie Vedder / Stone Gossard (1990)
This selection, now considered by many as one of the templates for the Grunge Rock movement in 1990s, is an important recording from their stellar Rock album Ten. This 6-man American Rock group from Seattle, Pearl Jam was one of the major players in the Grunge Rock era which basically extended the life force of Rock music for another decade, well into 2000s. This song expresses the pain and suffering of lost love and its devastation. Eddie Vedder’s voice has been described as a dense baritone with power, resonance and gravelly conviction, with a touch of vibrato. This offering continues to gather a cultlike following, and his vocal performance says it all…Unique and Unforgettable!
Link #1 Official music audio, video, 1991. Link #2 Live performance, 1992.
203. THE FIRST TIME EVER I SAW YOUR FACE (1972)
Vocalist: Roberta Flack
Writer/Composer: Ewan McCall (1962)
Here she is again with her 2nd entry on our list. She was the first and only singer to ever win a Grammy for two straight years, for song and record of the year. This song also captures the influence of her Gospel-training and classical roots. She encompasses Pop, R&B, Jazz, Folk and above all, Soul, with perhaps as much intimate feelings as any singer / performer in the 1970s. As she moves through this love ballad, she displays intimate, deliberate “hymnlike phrasing” especially noteworthy from her alto vocals. She really stands out as she delivers this selection with such unique sincerity and sophistication that is so rare in today’s 2020s music—No wonder one writer compared her beautiful voice to a viola! Her singing is imbued with substance and class…Beautifully Rapturous!
Link #1 Original receording, 1972. Link #2 Live performance, 1972,
202. TANGLED UP IN BLUE (1973)
Vocalist: Bob Dylan (“Blood on the Tracks”)
Writer/Composer: Bob Dylan 1973)
In his 2nd showing on our list, American singer / songwriter, Bob Dylan, comes through with this clever many-versed song about love’s expectations and failures. It’s definitely a stroke of genius, every verse rhymes and ends with, “tangled up in blue.” In this delivery he actually sings more than he narrates—this is considered by his legions of fans as one of his very best vocals. He sweeps us away with lines like, “I had a job in the great north woods / Working as a cook for a spell / But I never liked it all that much / And one day the axe just fell.” This we know; singing is not just about how great a voice is—It’s about communicating!…Simply Superb!
Link #1 Official recording, 1973.
201. EVERGREEN (Love Theme from a Star is Born) “A Star Is Born” (1976)
Vocalist: Barbra Streisand / Ian Freebairn-Smith arranger
Writer/Composer: Barbra Streisand / Paul Williams (1976)
This beautiful offering by Barbra gives us her a 3rd entry on our list. As one of the most beloved and respected singing artists from the 1960s and well into the 21st century, her heralded career has spanned all types of musical changes in the industry. From the very beginning, we’re captivated, “Love, soft as an easy chair / Love, soft as the morning air / One love that is shared by two / I have found with you.” She has mastered Pop / Theater / Movie / Blues / even Rock, with her multi-talented songwriting skills, millions of albums sales, her movie roles in acting, as well as producing. This is a clarion example of her smooth-sailing performance in low, heartfelt, breath-controlled moments to her slowly rising soprano finale…Pitch Perfect and Exquisite!
Link - Movie film clip from A Star Is Born, 1976.
